Vacationing with Teens and Tweens in San Francisco

Golden Gate Bridge

Rent bikes through Blazing Saddles to ride across the Golden Gate Bridge. Enjoy beautiful sights and views as you bike across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Depending on your fitness and adventure level, you can bike part way or all the way across the bridge to Sausalito and take the ferry back. If you choose to go into Sausalito and take the ferry back to San Francisco make sure you speak to Blazing Saddles about the ferry schedule and the process to get on the ferry. The Golden Gate Bridge can get quite congested at times with people biking and walking across so the best time to go is earlier in the morning.

Alcatraz

Visit Alcatraz to learn about the history of the island and stories of the notorious criminals incarcerated there.

City Lights Bookstore

A legendary bookstore for avid readers and literary enthusiasts. Wander aimlessly through the aisles and learn about the crucial role the bookstore played in the cultural and literary history of San Francisco.

Musée Mécanique

Visit Musée Mécanique a fascinatingly unique attraction that includes one of the world’s largest privately-owned collections of antique arcade games and vintage coin-operated games.

Umbrella Alley

Take a moment to explore Umbrella Alley in Fisherman’s Wharf. It features standout murals and imaginative artists installations. It’s a brilliantly colorful and creative street art destination.

Pier 39

Take a stroll through Pier 39 to see the world-famous sea lions, stunning views of San Francisco Bay and enjoy a wide range of entertainment, shopping, dining and attractions.

Chinatown

Visit San Francisco’s Chinatown which is one of the largest Chinatowns in North America and is a living testament to Chinese culture and heritage. Here you will find authentic Chinese food, shopping, markets and traditional architecture. The bustling streets make for a very enjoyable time exploring this area.

The Painted Ladies

Make a point to see the Painted Ladies, an iconic area referring to a row of Victorian and Edwardian homes located at 710-720 Steiner Street. They are known for their architectural beauty, intricate detailing, bright colors and elaborate facades. The famous intro to the hit TV show Full House features the Painted Ladies in the background.

Giants Game

Sports enthusiasts should get tickets to a San Francisco Giants baseball game if one is taking place while you are in town. No better way to spend time than rooting on the local team!

Lombard Street

A visit to San Francisco isn’t complete without a trip to Lombard Street, also known as “the crookedest street in the world.” It’s such a picturesque location and an iconic symbol of the city.

WaterBar is optimally located on the waterfront of San Francisco’s Embarcadero and boasts gorgeous views of Bay Bridge. The seafood is fresh and delicious and the oysters are not to be missed! Be sure to make reservations ahead of time.

Radhaus is an alpine beer hall and restaurant. It's completely casual and relaxed environment plus location makes it a great stop after biking the Golden Gate Bridge. Don’t miss out on the pretzel with Bavarian cheese spread.

Hang Ah Tea Room is the oldest dim sum restaurant in America and was founded in 1920. It is tucked away in a hidden alleyway but you can’t miss it with the signage. Enjoy this deliciously authentic Chinese dim sum with a long history in San Francisco’s Chinatown.

With over 80 years of serving Italian in San Francisco’s North Beach neighborhood, Tommaso’s Ristorante Italiano is a great spot for delicious Italian and is a quick two-minute walk from City Lights Bookstore. No reservations - walk-ins only.

NOPA is a remarkable option for foodies in your travel group. With daily menu changes using ingredients that are locally sourced, the plates are fresh and flavorful. Reservations are highly recommended (and frankly, they are needed). NOPA is a good choice if you have foodie lovers and adventurous eaters in your family. This is not a good choice if you have a picky eater in the pack.

After you go check out the Sea Lions at Pier 39, pop in to Boudin Bakery Cafe. Get the clam chowder in the sourdough bread bowl! So tasty!

San Francisco Brewing Co. is a great spot in Ghirardelli Square for hand-crafted beers and San Francisco-inspired pub food. The outdoor beer garden is an especially fun, laid-back atmosphere with games and a very chill vibe.

Stop in to the Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience to enjoy sundaes, shakes, hot cocoas and more. It’s also a great place to pick up tasty chocolate souvenirs to bring home.