San Francisco is a city of contrasts, where architectural structures and museums fit seamlessly into the modern setting of glittering skyscrapers. It offers many miles of beautiful streets to explore, scenic bay scenery, and a host of exciting activities that make the perfect combination for an exciting family trip.
Yes, traveling to SF with kids is a unique experience, and you’re sure to have a lot of fun exploring the diverse attractions around. However, the weather in San Francisco is no less diverse. In the morning you can swim in the warm sunshine and plan your route, and in the afternoon fog and light rain will make adjustments to your schedule.
Fortunately, there’s no need to change your plans! San Francisco is so multifaceted that you will find something interesting indoors! Whether these are family-friendly theaters, shopping complexes, or art studios and workshops, you will have a great time together. Below, check out the several lovely leisure options to enjoy in SF when it’s raining outside.
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Aquarium of the Bay
This small but amazing aquarium is available on the waterfront in the building of the famous PIER 39. Its main feature is an underwater tunnel where children will see 20,000+ marine animals and plants from nearby bays and the ocean. An impressive collection of sea creatures includes sharks, jellyfish, octopuses, crabs, crayfish, starfish, and oysters.
Aquarium staff hold a daily penguin feeding show and allow those who wish to dive into the coral reef pool. Some marine creatures can even be touched and fed. This is an amazing and interactive way to get to know the waters surrounding the city.
Address: The Embarcadero at Beach Street
Madame Tussauds Wax Museum
It’s just a perfect place on Fisherman’s Wharf to visit with kids, as they’ll encounter realistic celebrity wax figures. Your child can touch, hug, and take a photo with an idol.
For young children, the museum offers an interactive experience of trying on costumes and posing next to wax figures. At the same time, older children can take part in the Star Wars exposition with their favorite characters.
Address: 145 Jefferson St Suite 600
California Academy of Sciences
If you want to advance your kids’ intellectual thinking, take them to the Academy of Sciences in SF. Yes, this fascinating complex consists of an aquarium, a planetarium, and a science museum, which together will keep your whole family busy for 2-3 hours.
Start with “Rainforests of the World”, an exhibition that introduces you to the fascinating world of the jungle with tall palm trees, lush pine trees, and rich wildlife. Then, you can visit the turtle exhibition to learn more about these little shelled creatures. Also, the employees of the academy allow you to play with turtles to have fun and consolidate your knowledge in practice. In general, you will spend time usefully for little money. Also, you can further save on tickets with the CityPASS city tourist card.
Address: 55 Music Concourse Dr
The Walt Disney Family Museum
The kind world of Uncle Walt will appeal to children and adults who grew up on his colorful cartoons. The family museum in the famous Presidio Park was opened by the daughter of the well-known animator Diana Disney. It contains real artifacts from the life and work of Walt Disney.
Go inside to see a miniature replica of Disneyland. At the same time, your kids can meet iconic cartoon characters including Mickey Mouse, Goofy, and Daisy Duck. Also, the museum often puts on cartoon screenings and interactive exhibits, so you’ll have a fun-filled time while waiting for the sunny weather..
Address: 104 Montgomery St
Exploratorium
Exploratorium is an excellent alternative to indoor play spaces. Why? Because this science museum both entertains and captures the imagination of all family members, especially children. Kids can try on the role of a scientist, create their own experiments and solve scientific riddles.
In addition, the Exploratorium has many galleries dedicated to space, technology, health, ecology, and other important themes. This means your children will both have fun and replenish their knowledge base.
Address: Pier 15 Embarcadero at, Green St
Coit Tower
The 210-foot-tall Coit Tower appeared in the Telegraph Hill area between 1932 and 1933. It was named after Lilly Hitchcock Coit, a wealthy and eccentric woman who was the patron saint of San Francisco volunteer firefighters and a sponsor of the tower’s construction.
Today, the Coit Tower is a unique historical monument of the American Great Depression and an excellent observation platform. So, take the whole family to the top for stunning panoramic views of the city and the bay!
Address: 1 Telegraph Hill Blvd
How to cruise around SF in rainy weather?
As you can see, SF is full of wonderful indoor spaces for family-friendly fun and entertainment. However, you may not feel comfortable on a bus or subway while getting to your desired destination with an umbrella in hand. Luckily, we have a great solution!
Pick up 12 passenger van rental in San Аrancisco to move freely from place to place and not get wet in the rain. Travelers often benefit from rental cars regardless of the weather. Moreover, a spacious 12 seater car rental provides enough space for each family member. So, make a reservation and start planning your trip with our informative guide in mind just in case.
Melvin is a passionate traveler looking for sustainable ways to make every trip better. Drawing on years of experience and cutting-edge digital technology, he shares his advice for the benefit of society and aspiring adventurers.
