From malls and parks to drive-worthy experiences, here are the best places to take photos with Santa in San Diego—some will even pose with your pet
There are so many fun, family activities happening this time of year, whether you’re shopping for your Christmas tree in San Diego, wandering around town to catch all the must-see holiday lights nearby, or seeing which favorite holiday show should be on your wish-list this year. Of course don’t forget to make time to mingle with good ole St. Nick. The sun might be out (with no snow in sight) but Santa Claus is coming to town, and chances are, you’re looking for some memory-making photo ops. From malls and parks to an entire village dedicated to the man, we’ve rounded up our must-go spots to see Santa near San Diego.
If you haven't ever done it, we definitely recommend heading up to SkyPark at Santa’s Village, at least once in your lifetime. The whole village comes into its own and lights up for a jolly good time. From breakfast with Santa to tea with Mrs. Claus, you can get as little or as much Santa in your life as you want. For photo-ops, make a reservation online to save your spot and prevent disappointments. Of course, that’s not all—there’s ice skating and a dazzling light show that takes place at the park as well. You might even get snow while your here—a true Christmas miracle for SoCal residents.
Capture the magic of the holiday season in a photo with Seaport’s resident Santa Claus in a delightful San Diego waterfront setting on the harbor. Families can strike a pose with jolly Kris Kringle—in front of the Chris Harvey Gallery—no appointment necessary. This spot also has 54 retail shops—get your Christmas shopping done while you're here.
The San Diego Zoo's holiday celebration, Jungle Bells (Dec. 9-Jan. 1), has all the Christmas fixings you might be looking for: holiday photos with Dr. Harry Lion, Churchill Polar Bear, and Sydney Koala, a juggling Jack Frost, live holiday music, acrobatic elves, strolling Holiday Troubadours, and, of course, photos with the big guy. You'll find Santa (and his factory), in the Lost Forest—at the Price Education Center, to be specific.
Dates: Nov. 25-27, Dec. 3-4 and 24; 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., Dec. 9-23, 25; noon-8 p.m.
Skip the lines and spend some quality time with Mr. and Mrs. Claus in their treehouse. In addition to the professional photo session with Santa, kids will have time to chat about what's on their wish lists, tour the tree house, sit by the fire place, and even have a seat in the big man's chair. Claim your spot at this popular event—offered by reservation only.
Good to Know: This is a fundraising event so the proceeds help sponsor families in need.
Dates: Reservations are now open. Photos take place Sat. & Sun only beginning Nov. 26-Dec. 18
Old St. Nick is ditching the heavy red suit and will be breaking out his board shorts and Hawaiian shirt for the 15th annual Surfin’ Santa celebration at Seaport Village. If your family would like to take some not-so-wintery photos with the jolly surfer himself, he'll be hanging in his lifeguard tower, ready to snap a few poses. Photos with Santa start at 1:45 p.m. Named one of the 10 best Santa sightings by USA Today, the event begins at noon with live music and entertainment
Every Sat. and Sun. through Dec. 18, you can stop by to see Santa at The Forum Carlsbad. Find St. Nick in the Garden Area between YETI and Allbirds, and bring your camera. Visits are complimentary. Guests can also enjoy holiday characters on Sat. and strolling carolers on Sun. from 1-4 p.m.
Children within all spectrums of special needs and their families are welcome to visit Santa during Santa Cares Day at The Shoppes at Carlsbad. The event takes place before the mall opens on Dec. 4 for a sensory-friendly, less hectic event to experience the time-honored tradition of a visit and photos with Santa. This unique opportunity is specially designed to create a comfortable and inviting environment so all children can feel comfortable with Santa. Reservations are encouraged.
Santa is available for photos throughout the month (beginning Nov. 17-Dec. 24) but on special nights, he'd love to meet your favorite four-legged pal. Westfield UTC invites families to enjoy the the special Santa Paws Pet Night, a fun, furry twist on the time-honored tradition of taking photos with the man in the big red suit—although everyone is welcome, even without pets. The mall will also collect donations these evenings on behalf of The Humane Society. Reservations recommended.
Dates: Dec. 5, 12, and 19; 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
4545 La Jolla Village Dr., Suite E-25 San Diego Online:westfield.com
If you are looking for a more refined setting to meet with Old St. Nick this holiday season, visit him at the sprawling Hotel Del Coronado. Here you can take a picture with him in the charming Garden Patio that sits in the central courtyard of a majestic Victorian building. For those that simply can't wait to see the big guy, head over to the hotel's holiday festival on Dec. 7. Online reservations required.
Don’t miss your chance to visit with Santa at Old Poway Park. This free event will take you back in time with caroling, live music, and horse-drawn hayrides. You can also purchase holiday treats, shop at the craft boutique, or board the Poway Midland Railroad for a night-time ride around the park. Free shuttles to and from the event will be available from two locations: Poway City Hall parking lot and Poway Adult School parking lot.
Dates: Dec. 9; 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., and Dec. 10; 3:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
From spectacular Santa experiences to low-key Santas in a mall, we’ve got all the details on the best places to take photos with Santa in LA all month long
Your holidays are in full swing: You’ve picked out the perfect Christmas tree nearby, gone to see the best holiday lights in Los Angeles, and you’ve started shopping for presents at the best toy stores in LA. What’s left to do but take some photos with Santa? Ok, yes, you can still catch a showing of The Nutcracker or start some holiday cooking, but before you hit the theater or the kitchen, check out these memory-making spots to take photos with Santa in LA. While a snowy holiday isn’t likely here, having a cool picture with the big guy himself will certainly get you in the Christmas spirit.
For an all-out festive affair, head up to SkyPark at Santa's Village where the whole village comes into its own and lights up for a jolly good time. From breakfast with Santa to tea with Mrs. Claus, you can get as little or as much Santa in your life as you want. For photo-ops, make a reservation online to save your spot and prevent disappointments. Of course, that's not all—there's ice skating and a dazzling light show that takes place at the park as well.
Visiting Santa at the ocean-adjacent Santa Monica Place’s Center Plaza is a great excuse to not just get that priceless photo-op but also the chance to finish some last-minute holiday shopping and hit up one of our favorite museums for kids in LA—Cayton Children's Museum. Photos with the big guy require reservations but are free—although photo packages are available for purchase.
For this extra-special Santa visit, kids will embark on a journey to the North Pole, where they'll help Santa plan his big trip, check out Santa's carriage, head to Mrs. Claus' bakery (sweet treat included) and then finally, over to Santa's Bungalow for a private, one-on-one photo session in his living room.
Dates: Nov. 25-Dec. 24 (Fri.-Sun. until Dec. 18, and then daily Dec. 19-24); Times vary
If you're searching for a live Christmas tree, why not get a two-for-one by heading to Underwood Family Farms where Santa makes a special appearance over four weekends this year. Not only that, admission includes tractor rides, animal shows and holiday photo ops. Plus, they've added reindeer to the mix and make their special appearances on Dec. 10, 11, 17 and 18.
Of course The Grove has a gorgeous tree covered with thousands of twinkling lights and a nightly "snowfall" at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m., but you can also book a meet-and-great with Santa (and get those professional photos to boot). Don't miss some of the fun shopping pop-ups happening here as well—The Netflix Store is a must for superfans of Stranger Things, Bridgerton, Emily Goes to Paris, Enola Holmes 2, and more.
Breakfast with Santa Benefitting St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital
Head to the Food Court in Santa Monica place for a special, family-fun event filled with kid-friendly activities including crafts, face-painting, special musical performances, and snacks along with an appearance by Santa Claus. A reservation will be required for this event.
Good to Know: In lieu of ticket sales they are asking for a $5 donation to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital per child (over the age of 1) for attendance.
Did you know that Santa is a avid scuba diver? When the holiday season rolls around, he can be seen swimming with the sea life (and feeding them treats) inside exhibits at the Aquarium of the Pacific. That's right: Jolly Old Saint Nick puts on his flippers and gets aquatic for Christmas, and you can pose for pictures with him while he's underwater. Check with the aquarium about the times he's expected to appear.
This breakfast buffet is full of jolly good times thanks to Santa and his elves creating a festive atmosphere that's hard to beat. In addition getting your photo with the big guy, you'll feast on a breakfast buffet that will leave you as puffed as the big guy, plus a reindeer antler making station for a fun takeaway. Check out why our editor's love spending a weekend here during their Holiday Happenings!
Make a fun day out getting your yearly Santa photo in LA at an outdoor party where carolers and singing madrigals roam the grounds and people tell winter holiday stories from a variety of traditions including Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanza. In the midst of the holiday festivities at Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum's second annual Holiday Family Faire, Santa and Mrs. Claus will appear for family photo ops. Enjoy Yuletide entertainment and shop for holiday gift and crafts at the artisan marketplace while you wait your turn to pose.
Date: Dec. 10; 11-5 p.m.
1419 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd. Topanga Online:theatricum.com
Have your pictures with Santa and eat with him, too. He'll visit from the North Pole to enjoy a magical breakfast in the ballroom of the Terranea Resort offering a kids buffet, various hot food, bakery and waffle stations. If that's not enough, there's also festive crafts to keep your hands busy while you wait for your photo.
Date: Dec. 17; seatings at 9 a.m., 9:30 a.m., and 10 a.m.
100 Terranea Way Rancho Palos Verdes Online: terranea.com
Hiking with Santa: Family Christmas Hike
If the thought of waiting in another long mall line with wiggly wee ones to get a picture with St. Nick isn't a jolly one, try an experience that is a bit more off the beaten path. Join Santa and his helpers on a 2.5-mile family Christmas hike around Ascott Hills Park, which is just east of DTLA. Here you can get some photos of your brood with the big guy against a Los Angeles city backdrop while getting some fresh air and exercise to boot. With free parking, free admission and views for days, this could be that unique holiday event you and the fam have been craving. There are limited spots available so make sure to reserve your spots sooner than later.
Autism Speaks invites all children within all spectrums of special needs and their families to gather before the mall opens for a sensory-friendly event to experience the time-honored tradition of a visit and photos with Santa. Reservations recommended.
Date: Dec. 4; Times vary but most start at 9 or 9:30 a.m.
Need a little help with your holiday shopping for kids? These local toy stores in Seattle are here to help
The holidays are right around the corner, and for many parents that means finding gifts for your kids. That’s no easy feat when there are so many amazing gifts for kids to choose from out there. That’s where our favorite Seattle toy stores come in. Not only do they have the toys your kids want, they’re staffed by folks who are in the know so you don’t have to be. If you’re still looking for that perfect gift, try one of these shops that offer all kinds of interesting and unusual toys, games, books, and more that you won’t find anywhere else.
The original Snapdoodle Toys & Games opened in Kenmore back in 2008. Now this local toy shop that could has six different locations across the Seattle metropolitan area. Kids love visiting because of the play tables and trial games, and parents love the expert suggestions they get from staff when they need to find the perfect gift. For quick ideas you don't even have to head to the store to find, check out Snap Picks, curated gifts sorted by age. You'll find everything you need, from babies thorough big kids, including books, at this local favorite.
Good to Know: The Seattle location also has a kid's salon for the next time you need a haircut.
Locations in Seattle, Bellevue, Issaquah, Kenmore, Redmond & Totem Lake
You'll find this whimsical shop in the heart of Pioneer Square. It's filled from floor to ceiling with so many colorful options, even parents will feel like a kid in a...well...toy store when they walk through the doors. You're bound to find that just-right gift for whoever is on your list with two floors of educational toys, games, puzzles, and dolls to choose from. And while they definitely carry your favorite toy brands, expect a few you haven't heard of yet. The store takes pride in the humorous, witty toys and books they carry that adults may appreciate more than their kids do. Once you've shopped 'til you've dropped, head outside to climb and jump around the Occidental Square playground.
Self-described as "Seattle’s Most Charming Toy Store," this Ballard shop is a favorite of little and big kids alike. Creaky wood floors and big front windows surround a slew of giftable toys, games, and costumes. Clover also boasts a bunch of pint-sized instruments and a large selection of natural items, including colorful stacking shapes from Wooden Wagon. Filled from floor to ceiling with unique products, and lots of local brands too, it's a great place to shop for kids no matter what the ocassion
Insider Tip: Want to make your shopping a bit easier? Order online and pick up in store when you've got time.
Good to Know: Clover Toys will be moving from their current location into the Ballard Blocks Building sometime in late November or early December of this year. But have no fear, both stores will be open as they make the transition so you can always find what you need.
This adorable little toy shop in Madison Park opened its doors back in 2009 and has been charming shoppers ever since. For parents its location is ideal. Because not only will you find the cutest toys around, including great brands you love, but the shop is close to play date favorites like Madison Park playground and the nearby beach on the shores of Lake Washington. Throw in a trip for ice cream at the Scoop Du Jour or a cookie from Madison Park Bakery and you've pretty much got a perfect shopping excursion planned.
One of two local toy stores under the Calico Toy Shoppe brand, Curious Kidstuff has been a favorite with West Seattle families since it opened. Once you walk through the doors you'll realize why kids are always begging to visit again and again. Many toys are out to "test" and there's something new and exciting lurking around every corner. All toys, books, music, art supplies, and other fun stuff are non-violent and geared towards infants through tweens. You’ll find "green” toys as well as some toys that are still made out of wood and still just as much fun as you remember.
If it’s a game, Blue Highway has it. Located on Queen Anne, this shop carries all kinds of games that are appropriate for families and kids. From thought-provoking strategy games to the silly, and from classics like Boggle and Bananagrams to new ones like A Fistful of Penguins and Click Clack Lumberjack, you’ll find them here. Psst...you'll also find lots of vintage and card games, too.
Good to Know: We love the kid and family game events held at the store. In addition to the Family Game Day (second Sunday of each month), kids will love the Preschool Game Hour held monthly that includes a story.
Pronounced “Bo-ba-kaan,” this Everett store is named after Boba Fett from Star Wars and the evil Khan from Star Trek. While most kids won’t truly understand why they love this store so much, bigger kids (and parents) definitely will. Expect to find a selection of new toys, action figures, and pop culture icons in addition to vintage antique toys. So, while some may come in looking for toys to play with, others will be looking for obscure characters to collect. Psst...don’t be surprised if your kids end up dragging you out of the store to go home.
500 S.E. Everett Mall Way, Ste. A 1 Everett, WA Online:bobakhan.com
Lakeshore
8. Lakeshore
Popular in different parts of the country, the only Lakeshore store available in Washington state is located in Bellevue. Since 1954, Lakeshore’s goal has been the same: providing innovative education products "that spark young imaginations, instill a sense of wonder and foster a lifelong love of learning.” Their toys and games are designed for children as young as infants all the way up to 6th grade.
While you can shop Archie McPhee online, why would you want to? You’ll want to see the odd and strange finds up close and in person. Where else are you going to find the Nancy Pearl Librarian Action Figure, a Punching Nun puppet or The Crazy Cat Lady Game? Since 1983, Archie McPhee has proudly sold some of the weirdest stuff out there, and while younger kids may not "get it” you can be assured that your older kids will.
Who would have thought a store dedicated to inspiring kids to love math would become a staple toy store for north end families? Whether you're looking for a LEGO set or an educational game or puzzle, this is your spot to find it. It's the place to go for brain teasers, building toys, and other fun items that make you go "hmmm..." The fact that it's just up the street from the Maple Leaf playground? Well, that's just a bonus.
If you have been affected by Hurricane Ian, these groups are offering help and assistance to Florida residents.
Resources for Residents of Florida Affected by Hurricane Ian
Disaster Distress Helpline: This 24/7, 365-day-a-year hotline offers counseling and support for people dealing with emotional distress related to natural or human-caused disasters. The hotline is multilingual and confidential. 1-800-985-5990
FEMA: FEMA is offering individual assistance in the following Central Florida counties as of now: Flagler, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Seminole and Volusia. To apply for assistance, go to disasterassistance.gov, or call 800-621-FEMA (3362).
American Red Cross: If you need a place to stay, contact the American Red Cross at 800-RED-CROSS (733-2767), or find an open shelter online.
Heart of Florida United Way: Heart of Florida United Way is available to connect people to resources, including supplies, food, clothing and hygiene locations, etc. To connect to United Way’s call centers, dial 211.
Shelters: Florida residents who did not evacuate but now need to leave their home can visit floridadisaster.org/shelter-status for open general and special needs shelters in Florida. If you do leave your home, do not leave pets or animals behind. You can also register other members of your household and your pets on Shelter in Place Survey (arcgis.com) to help local first responders locate you.
Second Harvest Food Bank: Second Harvest Food Bank supplies food to food banks across the area. It has a list of community resources on its website, as well as a food locator tool.
The Sharing Center: Provides a food pantry, showers and laundry. 600 N. 17-92, Longwood. Call 407-260-9155.
UHaul: UHaul is offering 30 days of free storage and U-Box container usage at 43 locations across Florida.
Government Phone Numbers
Florida Department of Emergency Management: 1-850-815-4000
Flagler County: 800-451-1954
Orange County: 311
Volusia County: 866-345-0345
Orlando: 407-246-4357
Lakeland: 863-401-2234
Phone & Internet Services
AT&T: AT&T customers will waive talk, text and data overage charges for customers in impacted areas through Oct. 28.
SPECTRUM: Spectrum is opening Out-of-Home WiFi access points. Indoor and outdoor WiFi spots can be found at locations across Central Florida. Head to the Spectrum website to find one near you.
T-MOBILE: T-Mobile customers affected by the storm who do not have unlimited talk, text and data will have it through Oct. 3.
VERIZON: Verizon customers living in affected zip codes will have unlimited domestic talk, text and data through Oct. 4. Verizon is also working to set up Wi-Fi hotspots, free charging stations and other services.
Small Business Administration
SBA disaster loans are now available to businesses and residents in Florida following the Hurricane Ian disaster declaration. Applicants may apply at disasterloanassistance.sba.gov under declaration #17644. For help, call 800-659-2955 or email DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov.
“Anybody have a really good babysitter you can recommend? Available at the last minute?” This group text popped up on a Friday afternoon and was quickly drowned in a sea of “nopes!” and “good lucks!” and teary emojis from unrecognized numbers. No one lets go of that number lightly. None of these people, other than the sender, were in my contacts. None of these people, including the sender, will get a response from me.
I could say it’s because this person wasn’t a close friend or that I didn’t have the time while hauling my kids around in the sub-freezing darkness that January evening. But the truth is, I just cannot give it up. Because I only have one number.
Other than family, I have one number, one person, I can call to babysit my children. I’m not being picky; I am being deadly serious. I have a five-year-old with cerebral palsy whose 40 pounds might as well be 100 when you’re carrying him up the stairs or lifting him out of the van and into his wheelchair or changing a diaper on the floor. He also has limited speech, so you must be part psychic, part lip reader, to intuit his needs. His babysitter is an employee at his preschool and has known him since he was two. I can’t afford to give away the one person I trust.
I know it’s tough to find someone older than 14 and responsible and available and consistent and friendly and cheap-ish to watch your kids. But for us, it is so much more than that. It takes a background in working with children with disabilities, a secret handshake, a personality test, and some serious magic for me to feel comfortable leaving my children in the hands of someone I’m unrelated to.
That number on my phone with “babysitter” in parentheses is sacrosanct. The days of protecting it began in infancy. When we first brought our son home from the hospital, he came with a tracheotomy, suction machine, oxygen monitor, and g-tube. I barely left the room, much less the house. Date nights were not a priority.
And just before I went back to work, we said goodbye to the daycare we had lined up a year in advance. How could we ask them to hook him up to a feeding pump or suction out the snotty gunk from his trach hole? Not to mention pitting him against the invariable sicknesses that pass from kid to kid. A registered nurse or my mother watched him instead.
Thankfully, the trach and the g-tube and all the most precarious of his medical issues faded away with age. We no longer need a nurse. But we do need someone physically strong enough and trained enough to meet his needs.
And did I mention I also have twins? They are insane, in all the natural ways threenagers are, and require just as much eyes-on time—if not so much hands-on time—as their older brother. They will empty the entire roll of toilet paper into the toilet and lock themselves in the bathroom in under 30 seconds. Date nights are happening again, but they are still rare enough to make me feel giddy just backing out of the driveway.
This is why I let the text go unanswered. This is why I let someone else fill in that blank. Our family situation calls for a very particular set of skills. We need the Navy SEALs version of babysitters. And I don’t know another mother with a child with special needs who doesn’t feel the same. We already get less free time, much less time away without worry over our children’s safety. We can’t afford to hand out freebies.
It’s nothing personal. It’s business, the business of running our family. We need the people we trust. And so we keep them close.
This post was originally published in January 2018.
Jamie Sumner is the author of the book, Unbound: Finding Freedom from Unrealistic Expectations of Motherhood. She is a writer for The Washington Post, Parenting Special Needs Magazine and Scary Mommy, and an editor for Literary Mama. She is mother to twins and a son with cerebral palsy.
These families really know what it means to get out into nature and we know you’ll be inspired by them to plan your next adventure
Want to try kayaking, hiking, or mountain biking as a family? Or are you up for bigger thrills in faraway places? It’s time to get your outdoor adventure on and get out into nature. Whether it’s in your own backyard or Bali, follow in the footsteps of these families and their kids’ adventures in the wilderness, and get ready to be inspired! We hope that the diversity of these families helps all kids to really see themselves getting out and making outdoor spaces their own.
National Park Capable Amanda is a mom with Cerebral Palsy and an avid hiker. She explores National Parks and advocates for more accessibility. She also gives tips for those with mobility issues and moms of toddlers.
Local Passport Family Headed up by mom Preethi, this family of eight—yes 8!—has been to 43 countries and all but one of the national parks. Their Instagram is full of iconic mountaintop shots of their family adventures, tips on hiking and road trips, and advocacy for AAPI representation.
Colin and Meg Colin and Meg are a lesser-known, beautiful Instagram couple with two kids. This family does outdoor adventure in a more relaxed style with a focus on culture and people. They love beaches and all things water—out on the ocean, in a kayak, snorkeling, and swimming.
The Mom Trotter Taking the family on the road, mom Kay and dad (@thedadtrotter) homeschool their nine-year-old son nicknamed A while living in an RV. These parents take a gentle parenting approach that we absolutely love. This couple founded @blackkidsdotravel and their posts also dip into budget travel and financial literacy.
The Traveling Twin Mama Marquita has twin toddler boys and, yes, she has traveled solo with them before! Her account is about trying new things with her family from hikes to helicopter rides and long-haul flights.
Adventure Mamas This collaborative Instagram account showcases mamas who love adventure travel and supports their mental wellness on their trips. Aside from the usual travel content, this Instagram also showcases resources and workshops for mothers.
Down with Adventure Melody and her family hike the rugged UT wild and they are big national parks fans. They are also advocates for trisomy 21 because seven-year-old daughter Ruby has Down Syndrome. She comes along on the adventure alongside her two older brothers.
We Chose Adventures Jessica and her three “wilds” (as she calls her kids) love to hike and camp. Their outdoor family adventures have them roadtripping and “wildschooling” across the US.
Pato and Lola Pat and Lola are another van-life family with two toddlers, Marcus and Mila. They travel in a 4×4 sprinter van from Cancún to Alaska. What may be the best part is their content is in Spanish!
The Bucket List Family Maybe the most well-known adventure travel family, this family of five set out to be nomads after dad Garrett sold his iPhone app to Snapchat. Like their namesake, they have been checking things off their bucket list ever since.
Real World Mami Rocio describes herself as a mami to two boys, based in California. She focuses on her Peruvian culture, outdoor California travel tips, and their family’s adventures.
Day Trips LA Dad Ralph takes his two kids to on day trips out West, escaping their Los Angeles home. No matter the weather this family is out hiking, skiing, and exploring.
2 Travel Dads Calling themselves the original LGBT Family Blog, these two dads like to explore with their two kids on paddleboards, hikes, and road trips. Chris and Rob live in North Florida and they do a lot of outdoor excursions in the area as well.
No Back Home Mom Karilyn and son Cian make the most adorable travel duo and you’ll love following them on their national park adventures and all across the world. Looking for info on how to expand your travel adventures by homeschooling your kids? This account is for you!
My kids and I took a trip to San Antonio recently. We live in Dallas, but we aren’t native Texans, so all we’ve managed to do up to this point is drive through it a few times. Since we’d heard so much about the city, we were excited to hit the ground running. After spending three whirlwind days scoping out hot spots and discovering hidden gems, there’s one thing we all agreed on: the food in San Antonio is fantastic. It wasn’t our intention to eat our way through the city, but we sure felt like we did. My kids were enthusiastic about trying new things (maybe there’s something in the water?), and I was thrilled to be able to introduce them to cuisine we don’t often try at home.
Did we have to hoist ourselves out of our chairs after each meal? Yup. Did we have a blast exploring local sites and attractions before and after each restaurant? You bet. If you want a place with culture, history, and some of the best food in Texas, head for San Antonio as soon as possible. To help you plan your trip, I’ve highlighted the spots we tried and what to eat once you sit down. And, when you’ve paid the bill and need to explore, the best things to do with kids in San Antonio while you work up an appetite (again.)
Downtown San Antonio
The pool area at Omni La Mansión del Rio
We stayed downtown at the Omni La Mansión del Rio. The hotel backs up to the Riverwalk; you will have direct access to the walkways from the back of the hotel. It’s a designated historic landmark, and you’ll find Spanish and Colonial influences everywhere. The charming pool area is in the very center of the property, and you’ll catch yourself admiring the dark wood, archways, and tile found everywhere. Depending on the length of your stay, you can opt for valet parking; it’s a nice perk when you come in late from your adventures.
Pan dulce and other pastries from La Panaderia
Since we were downtown, we spent time eating here. If you plan on having breakfast, try La Panaderia. It’s a couple of blocks from The Riverwalk, and be prepared; when we arrived, there was a line out the door. It’s a fast-casual concept, and once we got an eyeful of the Mexican pan dulce (think conchas, orejas, peineta, and just about every other pastry you can imagine), we were eager to get our order in. We tried different baked goods, the egg croissant sandwich and the avocado toast accompanied by pinto beans.
An excellent place for an upscale lunch or dinner is Boudro’s. Located on the Riverwalk, it’s a cozy spot with tables inside and out. Led by executive chef Danny Ibarra, the menu is inspired by the history and traditions of South Texas. They have a wonderful Ceasar salad with a subtle Chipotle dressing, tableside guacamole, blue crab tostadas, black and white soup, and impressive entrees like blackened Gulf fish fillet, shrimp, and grits, and various cuts of steak.
Exterior view of The Alamo
After checking out the food options, there are plenty of ways to spend your day. The Alamo is a short walk from the Riverwalk, and you won’t be sorry you booked that audio tour. You can take a cruise to learn the history of the Riverwalk or wander through the historic Market Square. If you want something fun, check out El Camino Food Truck Park, where you’ll find rotating food trucks, a colorful assortment of picnic tables, and great drinks. Go to SEALife Aquarium at the Rivercenter for a break from the sun. That’s where you’ll find San Antonio’s only underwater tunnel, the Shipwreck exhibit filled with colorful fish, coral, and eels, and of course, don’t leave without getting up close and personal at the Rockpools.
For more food fun, head for The Pearl District. A short car or rideshare away from the heart of San Antonio, you can find everything from pizza to ramen, seafood, Caribbean street food, French comfort food, and even Peruvian-Asian fusion.
Raw oysters at Southerleigh
One that should be at the top of your list is Southerleigh. Located on the bottom floor of the historic Pearl Brewery, Chef Jeff Balfour perfectly blends his coastal upbringing with comfort food, creating a delightful menu. Start with a selection of raw oysters, order the watermelon salad for a fresh, tangy starter, and then order both the pressure-fried chicken (brined for 24 hours) and the cracker-crusted Gulf redfish because it’ll be impossible to decide between the two. Did we mention the cornbread side? Go ahead and get one of those too. Our only regret was that we didn’t have a chance to try everything on the menu. They have a lengthy wine menu but also offer beer brewed on-site.
For some of that French comfort food we mentioned, try Brasserie Mon Chou Chou. Their new breakfast options include le petit déjeuner français (French breakfast consisting of bread, jams, pastries, etc.), a delicious Croque Madam (classic French ham and cheese sandwich), fresh berries and cream, and perfectly cooked bacon. The all-day menu has things like lobster bisque, a charcuterie board, steak frites, and croquant de brie.
Something to know about San Antonio is that you don’t have to stick close to the city center to enjoy good food.
Trying all the things at The Jerk Shack
If going to Fiesta Texas, Sea World, or Aquatica, save yourself from amusement park food and stop at The Jerk Shack before or after your day. This Caribbean restaurant has won countless awards since it opened its doors. Owned and operated by Chef Nicola (who also owns Mi Roti in the Bottling Dept. Food Hall in the Pearl District), it was hard to choose between the curry plate and the jerk chicken, but take our advice and order the jerk chicken. Chef Nicola developed her recipe after visiting family in the Caribbean, and after multiple tries, she got the spices just right. Load up on sides like masala fries, greens, plantains, homemade mac and cheese, and honey butter rolls. Trust us (or my kids), The Jerk Shack is one of the best places to eat in San Antonio.
Another great spot is Gold Feathers Birds + Beer, a locally-owned spot with a casual vibe, and the first thing you need to know is that the chicken and waffles are a must-try. I also liked the way I was able to customize my chicken wings to my palate. You can choose to have them dry or with a rub, and then pick your sauce from an impressive list: honey bbq, parmesan garlic, midnight cowboy, and the samurai jack are only a few. They have handheld sandwiches like the classic chicken fried sandwich, the Bun Mi, the Good Morning American, and the Spicy Tatanka. There’s a great list of microbrews, many of which are local and Texas-brewed beers.
Where to Walk It Off
Eat as much good food as we did, and you’ll need a place to recover between meals. San Antonio has great attractions for families with kids of all ages, and our favorite spots were all within a mile of each other.
Creating our cities in Megalopolis at The Doseum
For curious kids, be sure to spend some time at The Doseum. A hands-on science museum just for kids, enjoy exhibits like Megalopolis, where you can build your own “city,” play with light and sound in the sensation studio, and take little ones ages five and under Little Town or out to the wooden playground. Our favorite thing about The Doseum was Spy Academy. We got to pick our mission and had fun solving puzzles, collecting clues, and learning espionage skills.
The Witte Museum made it to the top of our list of favorite things to do with kids in San Antonio. The McLean Family Texas Wild Gallery features every natural region of Texas, complete with a Texas thunderstorm. We loved learning about the animals and plants in the Panhandle Plains, the East Texas Piney Woods, the Rio Grande Valley, and more. There are plenty of fossils in the Naylor Family Dinosaur Gallery for budding paleontologists, and the Texas Heritage Center has artifacts that span over 100 years of Lone Star State history. If you head outside, there are gardens, a treehouse, a waterworks station, and a view of the San Antonio River.
Making rock cairns in the Family Adventure Garden
The San Antonio Botanical Garden is a special place. Not only is it home to Hardin, a restaurant that has small plate offerings like grilled cheese sandwiches, white cheddar stuffed dates, and deviled eggs, but the grounds themselves are worth a whole afternoon of exploration. Head straight for the Family Adventure Garden, where you’ll find stick huts, shaded benches, a shallow creek that winds through a limestone valley—this was my kids’ favorite place to cool off—and opportunities to make rock cairns. You can wander through the Kumamoto Garden to admire the koi fish and other traditional Japanese garden features. Beyond the garden is a sprawling lawn with Adirondack chairs placed under Hill Country live oak trees; a perfect place to relax while the kids play. We also loved the Texas Native Trail featuring three different ecological regions of the state: Hill Country, East Texas Pineywoods, and South Texas.
As we were pulling onto the highway after our whirlwind trip, my kids asked when we could come back. My answer? As soon as possible.
We are so happy that museums are now open and ready to greet families back into their exhibits all over the Bay Area to explore and discover more about the world around us as well as learn more about themselves. As one of our favorite ways to spend the day with our kids—you really can’t beat the educational programming, play areas, creativity workshops and events galore. And, really, they’re just plain fun to boot. To really maximize the day, we’ve pulled together our ideal itineraries including, must-eat neighborhood restaurants and cafes to visit before the museums open, as well as a must-go playground to take the kids post-museum exploration to get any lingering wiggles out before bedtime.
Where to Eat near The Children’s Creativity Museum: Mel’s Diner is open as early as 7 a.m. (a godsend for early risers), but it’s a great spot to grab some breakfast before the museum opens. Our picks? The Weiss Watermelon juice from Erik’s Juice and Smoothie Bar—kids big and small will love the combination of watermelon, apple, mint and lime. And to eat? Kids will love the biscuits and gravy, diced ham and eggs, or the traditional short stack of pancakes.
What to See & Do at The Children’s Creativity Museum: Located in SOMA, this must-go museum is ideal for kids ages 2-12. With a mission to nurture creativity and collaboration, the highly interactive exhibits encourage kids to make music, animate, innovate, build and learn in order to develop creative confidence. Of course the LeRoy King Carousel is a must stop for everyone in the family.
Don’t Miss:XOXO: An Exhibit About Love & Community—an exhibit where everyone works together through a series of activations like seesaws to create balance, building blocks that showcase facial expressions and discover hidden messages.
Hours: Thurs.-Sun. 10:00 a.m-4:00 p.m Cost: $20 for everyone ages 1 and up. Free admission is available for EBT and MediCal cardholders through the Museums for All program. Purchasing tickets ahead of time is encouraged although walk-ups are welcome.
Our Favorite Playground near The Children’s Creativity Museum: If your kids still have energy after all that exploring and building, head over to the Yerba Buena Children’s Garden. It’s just a short, 2-minute walk from the museum and with a 25 ft. long tube slide, sand area, climbing wall, and jungle gym, it’s surely enough to tire little ones before heading home. If you have extra time, or stroller nap in the making, we recommend strolling through the gardens to watch the butterflies and hang out on the esplanade.
Where to Eat near The Children’s Discovery Museum: The FoodShed, located inside the museum is usually a great choice for healthy food and convenience, but it’s temporarily closed. Luckily, iJava, located just a 4-minute walk away, is a great cafe offering a ton of breakfast options including crepes, breakfast sandwiches, smoothies and that much-needed coffee as early as 8 a.m. Looking for a lunch spot to visit after your museum visit? An easy, 5-minute walk gets you to Eataly, the famous and new to our area Italian restaurant and market with amazing pizza and gelato. Grab lunch, then stroll through the market for fresh pasta and authentic olive oil.
What to See & Do at The Children’s Discovery Museum: Designed to inspire creativity, curiosity and lifelong learning, the Children’s Discovery Museum (a.k.a the Purple Museum) is always a fun place to take the kids. Indoor and outdoor activities include a 2-story air maze, a bubble creation station, a Discovery Duck scavenger hunt and a really great water play station that is especially fun for toddlers. The play kitchen and farmers market is a hit as well, with the
Don’t Miss: The exhibit “Potter the Otter” is all about heathy eating and being active—all of which help Potter achieve his goals of joining the water polo team. Don’t miss Bill’s Backyard—it was recently renovated and is a great spot to connect play with nature.
Hours: Open Wed.-Sun. in two play sessions: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Reservations for non-members are required. Cost: Admission is $15 for ages 1-59, $14 for seniors, and free for infants under 1.
Our Favorite Playground near The Children’s Discovery Museum: A 7-minute drive will get you to Rotary Play Garden, an inclusive play space for kids of all abilities, with a focus on children with special needs with adaptive swings and wheelchair-accessible merry-go-rounds. There are plenty of slides, swings and climbing structures for all kids to play on in this beautiful space. The park is open Thur.-Sun. until 6:30 p.m., and (good to know) an ice cream truck is usually parked outside on your way out.
Where to Eat near the Bay Area Discovery Museum: Bean Sprouts Cafe is an on-site restaurant and opens at 9 a.m. and hang out until the museum opens at 10 a.m. (members can enter as early as 9 a.m.). We especially like the Pancake Puffadoodles with Dippers. If hanging out in the cafe until the museum opens is too tempting for your kids, check out Bayside Cafe which serves breakfast all day. Our picks? The Tooty-Frutti Platter with fruit-stuffed pancakes or the breakfast tortilla.
What to See & Do at The Bay Area Discovery Museum: Located at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge and set on 7.5 acres of National Park land in Sausalito, this space is dedicated to imagination and where kids are encouraged to run wild. Perfect for kids 6 months-8 years old, it’s a kid paradise with so many things to discover and interact with. Check out the “tot spot” designed especially for little ones, as well as the free STEM and art programs offered free to visitors (we especially like the soft foam tiles Imagination Playground that is finally back!).
Don’t Miss:Los Trompos is currently on display, featuring life-sized spinning tops with colorful textiles, a must-see.
Hours: Wed.-Sun.: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Cost: $18 for ages 1-64, $16 for seniors, and $15 for babies aged 6 months to 1 year. $1 admission is available for EBT cardholders through the Museums for All program. Purchasing tickets ahead of time is encouraged although walk-ups are welcome.
Our Favorite Playground near The Bay Area Discovery Museum: While you can spend nearly all day at the Bay Area Discovery Museum, sometimes a change of venue is in order after a couple of hours. Our pick is Southview Park. This newly renovated playground sits on a hill with incredible views of Sausalito and SF Bay. It’s a bit of a climb, but a hidden gem definitely worth checking out.
Where to Eat near Children’s Fairyland: A Bay Area favorite, Arizmendi Bakery in Oakland is the spot to grab a scone, muffin, croissant, or any of their other freshly baked goodies. Their pizza is spectacular and changes daily, so it might be worth getting a slice on your way home from the museum. They open at 8 a.m, just in time to get that coffee going before enjoying a day of fun. Note that the bakery is closed on Wednesdays, so make sure to plan ahead!
What to See & Do at Children’s Fairyland: With close to 60 storybook sets, friendly animals, and 10 acres of gardens, this park is designed to delight visitors of all ages. Kids can slide down Jack and Jill’s Hill with cardboard squares, walk through the Queen of Hearts Maze from Alice in Wonderland, and the famous Magic Key which unlocks stories and interesting facts around the park.
Don’t Miss: There is always awesome programming and events happening every day at this magical park but we especially love the puppet shows and toddler story time.
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (weather permitting). Cost: $15 for visitors aged 1 and up, free under a year. Purchasing tickets ahead of time is encouraged although walk-ups are welcome.
Our Favorite Playground near Children’s Fairyland: Right across the street from Lake Merritt and just a 7-minute walk from the museum is Snow Park.With a designated enclosed tot lot, it has enough play structures to tire little ones out, while older kids can explore and play on structures made just for their age.
Where to Eat near the California Academy of Sciences: There are so many places to eat near The California Academy of Sciences, it’s all about what you’re in the mood for! For ultimate convenience, the Academy Cafe is the museum’s on-site cafe and has a variety of grab-and-go favorites like turkey and cheese sandwiches and pizza, as well as a plant-based taqueria. If looking for something outside of the museum, we love Crepevine for its extensive menu, early morning hours (opens at 8 a.m.), and kids menu. At only a 4-minute drive, and is an easy, no-fuss way to start the day.
What to See & Do at The California Academy of Sciences: The mission of the California Academy of Sciences is to regenerate the natural world through science, learning and collaboration. Families with kids of all ages can explore a real-life, man-made rainforest, aquarium, and planetarium.
Don’t Miss: If your kids love bugs, they’ll adore the Bugs Exhibit, open now through Jan. 2023.
Hours: Mon.-Sat., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: Tickets range from $35-$45 for all visitors over age 2 depending on the day and time of visit as well as group size. Admission for visitors under 2 is free. Purchasing tickets ahead of time is recommended.
Our Favorite Playground near California Academy of Sciences: An easy 5-minute walk from the museum is the SF Botanical Garden, one of the most beautiful and most visited places in San Francisco. After a day of exploring, learning and stimulating those brain muscles, this is a great spot to take a moment to stop and smell the roses. For parents, it’s a beautiful way to take in nature, revel in some quiet time and let the kids run around before heading home.
Where to Eat near Chabot Space and Science Center: We recommend having breakfast at the local cafe, L’acajou Bakery and Cafe. And if you’re running late, you can order ahead and pick up—one of the most convenient ways to grab some food before getting to the museum.
What to See & Do at Chabot Space and Science Center: Chabot features a full dome planetarium, interactive and hands-on exhibits, space artifacts, and a giant screen theater. It also is the proud owner of the largest research-level observatory complex, featuring three large-scale telescopes, regularly available to the public, so you can bring the whole family to look up at the stars. Chabot is also an official visitor center for NASA’s Ames Research Center, so little ones can bring all their questions about space, science and stars to the right place.
Don’t Miss: Touch the Sun exhibit where you’ll experience “a near-real-time interactive full color extreme ultraviolet animation of our dynamic and stunning star, Sol.” Yes, please! Also, if you’re kids stay up late, First Fridays are back and include after-hour access to exhibits and planetarium shows.
Hours: Wed.-Sun., 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Cost: $19 for children aged 2-12 and seniors aged 65+, and $24 for adults aged 12+. Purchasing tickets ahead of time is encouraged and walk-ups are welcome.
Our Favorite Playground near Chabot Space and Science Center: Located just a half-mile away, the Roberts Regional Recreation Area is a large area that charges $5 for parking (but free if you decide to walk from the museum!) that has beautiful redwood trees, picnic areas, a pool (although closed for the remainder of 2022), and a playground with swings, climbing structures and slides.
Where to Eat near Lawrence Hall of Science: The museum is super close (just a 5-minute drive) to the beautiful UC Berkely, and as such, plenty of restaurants to check out on the way to the museum. If you’re in the mood for breakfast, Northside Cafe will give you all the college feels with delicious breakfast bowls, plates and sandwiches. If looking for a superb lunch spot, we love Angeline’s Kitchen which serves up Louisiana comfort food like Creole BBQ shrimp and authentic beignets.
What to See & Do at The Lawrence Hall of Science: As UC Berkeley’s public science center, The Lawrence provides a window into cutting-edge research at the university and beyond. Featuring a breathtaking panoramic view of the San Francisco Bay, families with little scientists can learn and explore with hands-on, brain-on programs.
Don’t Miss: Check out the latest addition to the museum—the outdoor nature lab, where kids can explore the outdoors just like a scientist would!
Hours: Tues.-Sun., 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Cost: $20 for visitors aged 3+, and free for visitors under 2. Free admission is available for EBT cardholders through the Museums for All program. Purchasing tickets ahead of time is encouraged and walk-ups are welcome.
Our Favorite Playground near Lawrence Hall of Science: If you’d like to extend your trip with a fantastic park with things to do until sundown, head over to Tilden Regional Park.Just a 4-minute drive away, this large park has a botanical garden, nature area, steam train and even a merry-go-round.
Where to Eat near The Tech Interactive: Whispers Cafe and Creperie is our pick for a stop before heading over to the museum. Not only is the menu extensive with breakfast staples and offers a good kids menu, but it opens at 8 a.m, giving you plenty of time to sit down and eat before the fun begins.
What to See & Do at The Tech Interactive: This family-friendly science and technology center, in the heart of downtown San Jose, has loads of hands-on activities, experimental labs and design challenge experiences to empower kids of all ages to innovate with creativity, curiosity and compassion. With interactive exhibits like Body Worlds, Space Exploration and the newest one, Solve The Earth, which focuses on how to live sustainably, it’s bound to encourage conversation and learning.
Don’t Miss: For those looking to tinker, make sure to visit the STEM-designed Tech Studio and BioTinkering Lab where kids can work with their hands and build. And of course don’t miss viewing a show on the largest IMAX in the West!
Hours: Tue.– Fri., 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Sat., 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Cost: $27 for adults 18+ and $22 for children under 17, students, and seniors (admission to attractions is not included). Tickets can be purchased ahead of time.
Our Favorite Playground near The Tech Interactive: The Rotary Play Garden is a short drive from the museum, and with tons of slides, swings, climbing structures and things that spin, your little ones are bound to release all that lingering energy. If looking for something you can walk to, John P. Mcenery Park is a quick 7-minute walk and has playgrounds designated for ages 2-5 as well as one for ages 5-12 plus cool water features.
Imagine being a little kid in the hospital. You’re sick, miserable, scared—and then you look out your hospital room window and see Iron Man waving hello to cheer you up. That’s just what happened for young patients at one Kentucky hospital, thanks to the help of a local company.
The super cute event went down at Norton Children’s in Louisville. A company called Pro Clean International was set to wash the hospital’s windows, but they didn’t do it in plain old clothes. Adorable pictures and videos shared by the hospital on social media show the workers suited up as various Marvel and DC Comics heroes. Iron Man was on hand, as well as Captain America, Superman, and Spider-Man. A news helicopter circled overhead to capture the entire crew in action scaling the side of the building in a moment that had to have been absolutely magical for any kid who caught a glimpse.
The kids featured in the photos look absolutely thrilled to see their new super friends. Any parent who’s had a sick child to take care of knows smiles that big don’t come easily in a hospital setting. The window washing company’s CEO knows that, too, from personal experience.
“I have a special needs child that was born blind,” Joe Haist told local TV station WLKY. “I know that sometimes you go to the hospital, you’re there for a long time, and there’s not a lot to see or do, and there’s not a lot of happiness. So it’s really a great moment to really kind of bring people some happiness.”
It’s something the company has done for a few years now, and families just love it. One woman shared on the hospital’s Facebook page that seeing the superheroes outside was simply “pure happiness” for her children and a much-needed break from the reality of why they had to be there in the first place.
The sweet window washing crew doesn’t need those costumes to be superheroes in our eyes—and the brave kids inside the hospital don’t either.
Let’s face it, the one-size-fits-all approach does not work for kids. Not for parenting and certainly not for play but we do know all kids need to play. We’ve gathered up a list of Bay area playgrounds where children with sensory needs and physical challenges can play along with their peers. These all-abilities playgrounds are definitely worth the drive, no matter where you live in the Bay Area!
All-Ability Playgrounds in San Francisco
SF Rec Park
Mountain Lake Park: This recently-renovated city park sits just south of the Presidio. The under three set can play in their own self-contained toddler area that only has one gate to enter and exit (essential for toddler containment). Big kids will enjoy using the stairs or the climbing wall to reach the top of the cement slide and then grabbing a buddy to slide down together. There's also a great rope climbing area with gorgeous views of nearby Mountain Lake. The cushy ground and ramps make it accessible for all.
One 11th Ave. San Francisco, CA Online: sfrecpark.org
Helen Diller Civic Center Playgrounds: Head to the Civic Center for a two-for-one playground combo that opened in early 2018. These two massive climbing structures boast innovative design and cushioned artificial turf for children to play. Multi-sensory areas and traditional swings provide kids with different ways to move their bodies. The park even has elements that allow children in wheelchairs to swing and play. Read all about them here. Bonus: Bi-rite set up shop in the plaza so you can get your pre-playground coffee fix!
Mia's Dream Come True Playground: A project many years in the making, Mia is a 13-year-old with severe cerebral palsy whose parents came up with a dream to build an all-access playground for their daughter and community to enjoy, located in Tennyson Park. The one-acre playground is almost entirely wheelchair accessible and boasts an actual Hayward Fire department fire truck and all-ability swings among many other play options. This playground is a dream for all!
Matteo's Dream Playground: This wonderful playground in Concord was spearheaded by mom Liz Lamach for her son Matteo who used a wheelchair due to a number of disabilities. Matteo's Dream has wide ramps to provide access to people in wheelchairs, along with many other features like a sensory garden, high-back swings and areas for spinning.
Heather Farm Park Playground: Walnut Creek’s All Abilities Playground is 30,000 square feet in size and was designed to fully address the needs of the whole child by intentionally addressing the physical, cognitive, communicative, social/emotional, and sensory needs of all children. The playground has the following features: shock-absorbent, resilient-surface pathways and flooring beneath all play equipment, structures and equipment with wider ramps, ground-level play opportunities, swing set zone with tot swings and high-back special-needs swings, sound and sensory equipment throughout, shaded play structures, providing more protection from heat and sun, and benches within the play zones, so parents can sit close to where children play
Athan Downs Park: Opened in 2013, Athan Downs was designed to bring kids of all abilities together to play and create memories and friendships. The playground includes many accessible and sensory-rich activities. Plus, with the extensive ramping system, kids using mobility devices will be able to get to the center of the playground action.
Roberts Regional Recreation Area: This East Bay gem near the Chabot Space & Science Center has an extra-large playground that all kids can enjoy. Fully wheelchair accessible, the structure has lots of educational stations: a map of the United States, tracing games and name that vegetable—all really great opportunities to engage with your child through play.
Imagine Playground: The City of Dublin has opened its new all-abilities playground, Imagine Playground at Dublin Sports Grounds. The playground was designed with the intent to provide a play structure and facilities that can be enjoyed by people with all kinds of special needs. Kids will love the music-making opportunities, swings, slides and more.
All-Ability Playgrounds in the Peninsula & South Bay
Magical Bridge
Magical Bridge Playground Palo Alto: Touted as one of the nation's most inclusive playgrounds, the Magical Bridge opened its Palo Alto location in April 2015 to pleased children and parents alike. With five different "play zones" to choose from, kids can swing, sway, spin and slide to their heart's content. The music zone was provided to motivate interaction, facilitate socialization and improve social skills among children. Pretend play is encouraged throughout the playground but especially in the two-story playhouse that is fully accessible to all children via ramps and bridges. Read more about the park here.
Good to Know: New Magical Bridge all-abilities playgrounds are in the works for Santa Clara, Morgan Hill and Mountain View!
Magical Bridge Playground Redwood City: Parents were thrilled when this all-abilities Magical Bridge Playground opened in Red Morton Park at the end of 2020. You'll find all the elements of the Palo Alto playground that you love, plus more. Kids can head to the Innovation Zone to play the magical musical harp, and then head over to the tot zone area for some water play. Climb up the King Kong climbing ropes and slide down one of the various slides. Accessible swings, spinners for kids in wheelchairs and tons of other thoughtful features make this a great playground for all kids.
Magical Bridge Playground Sunnyvale: The newest Magical Bridges playgrounds is now open in Sunnyvale! Modeled after the other two Magical Bridges playgrounds, this site invites multi-generations and all-ages to gather at the playground. A sensory spin zone, Innovation Zone, wheelchair accessible swings and treehouse welcomes all abilities and all kinds of play. During the warmer weather months, water play will keep the kids cool while Hideaway Huts are perfect for anyone who needs a breather for a quick escape.
LEO's Haven: LEO’s Haven in Santa Cruz is an inclusive playground for children of all abilities. You'll love the swings, spinners and tractor slide—all with a farm theme. From its rubberized surfacing, adapted swings, and tactile features to its wheelchair accessible play structure and quiet entryways for those with sensory difficulties, LEO’s Haven was designed to be accessible and enjoyable for children of all abilities.
Rotary Playgarden: Donated by the Rotary of San Jose in 2015, this playground located within Guadalupe River Park aims to enable children with special needs to play alongside their siblings and friends. Right near the airport (with loads of planes flying overhead!), the park offers a wheelchair accessible merry-go-round (moved by kid power!), slides, swings and all sorts of kinetic art to get kids exploring. The entire play area is fenced for safety but there's not a ton of shade there so go on a cloudy day. Read more about our visit here.
John D. Morgan All-Inclusive Playground: Located on the Budd Ave side of the park, this newly opened all-inclusive playground is designed so that the sensory and physical needs of all kids can be met. A splash pad, diecast car race track, spinners, auditory play features and small climbing wall will delight all ages so pack a picnic and make a day of it!
