Things to Do with Grandkids in San Francisco: Fun Activities for All Ages

Written By: Sagebrook
Things to Do with Grandkids in San Francisco: Fun Activities for All Ages

According to the San Francisco government, nearly 25 million people visit the city every year. It's a wonderful place, so if you live here, it shouldn't be difficult to convince your loved ones to come for a visit.

Now that you're older, though, it can be challenging to keep up with them, especially if they're rambunctious children. So thinking up activities to do with them may take some effort.

If you need ideas on things to do with grandkids in San Francisco, then keep reading. We'll give you several fun suggestions that won't be too taxing for anyone!

Go to the Exploratorium

The Exploratorium is an interactive science museum that allows all visitors to touch, play, and experiment with the exhibits. Not only can children do this, but so can adults, so indulge in some intergenerational fun!

You and your grandchildren can spend a few hours walking through the Exploratorium doing things like creating giant bubbles and seeing how light and sound work. You can go at your own pace and even sit on the side while the little ones run around.

Ride a Cable Car

You may already go for plenty of activities and events with your community for assisted living in San Francisco, California, but there's nothing that'll beat riding a cable car with your grandkids. The cable cars are perhaps one of the biggest San Francisco attractions, so you won't want the kids to miss out.

Get on early in the day to avoid the long lines and crowds, and the best spot is in an open-air seat. As you and your grandkids ride around, you'll navigate the city's steep streets without exerting yourself. Make sure to point out all the great views of the Bay and Lombard Street.

Spend an Afternoon in the Golden Gate Park

The Golden Gate Park is full of family-friendly activities, plus everyone will get some fresh air.

This massive park has playgrounds where your grandchildren can tire themselves out with fun, as well as the Koret Children's Quarter, which has a huge concrete slide and climbing structures. In addition, there are beautiful gardens to stroll through and even a carousel for a special treat.

If you're feeling up to it, you can rent bikes and ride along the peaceful trails or take a paddle boat to Stow Lake. It'll certainly be an afternoon to remember!

Visit the Aquarium of the Bay

The Aquarium of the Bay is home to over 24,000 marine animals, so it's one of the best places to visit with grandkids. The little ones will be entranced with each exhibit as they gaze upon creatures they can't even conjure up in their imaginations.

There are also interactive tide pools where children can touch sea stars and other marine animals. Getting up close and personal will help everyone learn about these special organisms.

And since this aquarium is located right on Pier 39, you can walk out afterward to see the famous sea lions lounging out there. It'll make for cute pictures!

Go on an Alcatraz Island Tour

If you have older grandchildren, then an Alcatraz Island tour can be a great adventure that's educational too. Just make sure to book tickets weeks in advance, as they sell out fast.

When you journey out to the island, you'll already start out with an exciting ferry ride. Then, you'll walk through the prison in wonderment as you listen to the audio tour, which shares fascinating stories about the prison's history (including famous escape attempts!).

Take a Ferry Ride to Sausalito

Speaking of ferries, if your grandchildren enjoy being on the water, then a ferry ride to Sausalito should be on the list. This relaxing ride across the bay will give you amazing views of the Golden Gate Bridge, especially if you sit outside.

Once you're in the charming town of Sausalito, you can take your grandkids for a walk on the waterfront. For a break and a treat, there are amazing ice cream parlors to stop at.

If you have the time and energy, you can also bring everyone to the Bay Area Discovery Museum. This is another hands-on museum that allows your grandkids to explore and sate their curiosities.

Play Games at Musee Mécanique

At Fisherman's Wharf is Musee Mécanique, a delightful vintage arcade that's sure to capture any child's attention. Gather up your quarters, as we're certain your grandkids will want to slot them into all the coin-operated games in this venue.

Not only can visitors play retro games, but they can also interact with old-school fortune tellers and look at mechanical dioramas. This blast from the past may even have you reminiscing on outstanding stories with your loved ones.

Go to the Ghirardelli Square for Ice Cream

Your grandchildren will feel like they're in paradise when you take them to the Ghirardelli Chocolate Shop. The Ghirardelli Square already contains a grand building, and when you step inside, you'll be in awe of the decor. Make sure to grab a free chocolate sample at the entrance too!

More importantly, this is one of the most delicious senior-friendly outings you can go on since you'll get to treat the entire family to world-famous sundaes here. Watch the chocolate-making process while you wait, and then sit down for a saccharine sweet sundae that'll put everyone in a satisfying food coma.

Try These Things to Do With Grandkids

Every visit your loved ones make is to be treasured, so make every minute count. Yes, you may be content to spend time with them in your cozy San Francisco assisted living apartment, but they may get restless and want to go out.

Now that you have a list of things to do with grandkids in the city, you'll be prepared. Not only will you have unforgettable times with them, but you may even discover things you never knew before.

Are you looking for assisted living in San Francisco? Then contact us today to schedule a tour. Sagebrook Senior Living is conveniently located and has top-quality senior living in San Francisco.

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