Discover 45 family-friendly activities, venues, and restaurants in Berkeley.
118 Upcoming EventsThe highest-rated places we recommend first — start here.
⭐ ActivitySather Tower, the iconic 307-foot Campanile at UC Berkeley, offers kids a thrilling elevator ride to the top for breathtaking 360-degree views of the Bay Area. Beyond the tower, families can explore the beautiful campus grounds, discover world-class museums, and relax at Memorial Glade,a sprawling green space perfect for picnics and letting kids run free.
🎨 MuseumThis hidden gem in Berkeley offers a unique cultural experience where parents can enjoy complimentary sake tastings while kids discover Japanese heritage through interactive exhibits and a serene koi pond. The small, free museum provides an authentic glimpse into sake-making traditions in a family-friendly setting that's educational without feeling overwhelming for young attention spans.
⭐ ActivityThe Berkeley Rose Garden is a magical terraced wonderland where kids can explore winding pathways through over 3,000 fragrant rose bushes while parents soak in stunning views of the San Francisco Bay. The amphitheater and spacious grassy areas make it perfect for letting little ones run free, having a family picnic, or even catching an impromptu performance.
🎨 MuseumStep aboard the USS Hornet, a massive WWII aircraft carrier turned museum where kids can explore a real Navy ship from bow to stern. With over 400,000 square feet to discover, families can climb into cockpits, check out restored aircraft, try flight simulators, and even explore the sleeping quarters where sailors once lived,making history come alive in the most hands-on way possible.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🎨 MuseumThe Exploratorium is a hands-on wonderland where kids can touch, experiment, and play with over 650 interactive exhibits that make science magical. From creating fog tornadoes to experimenting with sound waves and exploring the fascinating Tactile Dome, this waterfront museum keeps children engaged and learning without even realizing it.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🎨 MuseumThe Oakland Museum of California offers a triple treat for families: art, history, and natural science exhibits all under one roof, plus beautiful rooftop gardens to explore. The museum shines with its dedicated children's galleries and hands-on activities that make learning about California's past, wildlife, and culture genuinely fun for kids of all ages.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🎭 TheaterStep back in time at this stunning 1932 Art Deco movie palace that transforms a simple movie outing into a memorable family experience. The Alameda Theatre combines old Hollywood glamour with modern comfort, featuring plush seating, state-of-the-art sound, and a gorgeously restored interior that will have kids asking 'Are we in a castle?' The friendly atmosphere and family-focused programming make it a standout alternative to generic multiplexes.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🌳 ParkJoaquin Miller Park is a magical Oakland hillside retreat where families can explore towering redwood groves, discover a hidden waterfall on the Abbey Trail, and enjoy easy hiking paths perfect for little legs. With 500+ acres of trails, a historic amphitheater, and engaging ranger programs, this park offers the perfect escape into nature without leaving the city.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🌳 ParkLafayette Reservoir is a family paradise featuring a smooth, 2.7-mile paved loop trail that's perfect for strollers, bikes, and scooters. With sparkling water views, shaded picnic spots, playgrounds, and ducks to feed, this 137-acre recreation area offers the perfect blend of easy outdoor exercise and classic park fun that keeps kids entertained for hours.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
📚 LibraryThe Alameda Free Library is a welcoming community hub that goes far beyond books, offering robust children's programming that keeps young families coming back week after week. With regularly scheduled storytimes, hands-on craft activities, and an engaging summer reading program, this well-loved library provides free educational entertainment in a comfortable, air-conditioned setting perfect for those days when you need an indoor activity.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🌳 ParkLake Merritt is Oakland's crown jewel for family outings, offering a perfect blend of nature and play around a beautiful urban lake. With multiple playgrounds, paddle boat rentals, the beloved Children's Fairyland theme park, and a 3.4-mile walking path dotted with bird-watching opportunities, families can easily spend an entire day exploring this scenic oasis.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🌳 ParkWashington Park is a spacious community hub in Alameda that offers something for every member of the family. With well-maintained playgrounds, multiple sports courts, and wide-open grassy areas perfect for picnics and free play, it's an ideal spot for families looking to burn energy and enjoy outdoor time together. The park's variety of amenities means kids of different ages can find their own fun while parents relax nearby.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🎨 MuseumPerched atop the Berkeley hills, The Lawrence Hall of Science offers an incredible combination of hands-on science exhibits, a planetarium, and outdoor exploration areas, all with stunning panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay. Kids can engage with everything from earthquake simulators to live animals, making complex scientific concepts accessible and exciting through interactive play and discovery.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
📚 LibraryBerkeley Public Library is a family-friendly gem that goes beyond books, offering an impressive children's section alongside interactive story times and creative programs for all ages. The surprise rooftop garden provides a unique outdoor escape, while the modern facility hosts engaging year-round activities that keep kids entertained and learning throughout every season.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🎢 Amusement ParkChildren's Fairyland is a whimsical, vintage storybook theme park that has been enchanting young children since 1950. This Oakland gem features fairytale-themed sets, gentle rides perfect for little ones, live puppet shows, and storybook characters that come to life, creating a magical first theme park experience without the overwhelming crowds or intensity of larger parks.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
118 upcoming family events in Berkeley
☕ CafeDiablo Foods is more than just a grocery store,it's a Lafayette community hub where families can grab delicious made-to-order deli meals, artisan sandwiches, and fresh prepared foods perfect for impromptu picnics or easy dinner solutions. The welcoming café atmosphere and kid-friendly menu options make it an ideal pit stop before heading to nearby parks or when you need a quick, quality meal without the restaurant wait.
🎭 TheaterTown Hall Theatre Company in Lafayette is a gem for families seeking quality performing arts experiences and education. This acclaimed community theater offers family-friendly productions throughout the year, along with comprehensive youth theater programs and performing arts classes where kids and teens can develop their talents on stage and behind the scenes.
🛍️ ShoppingPIER 39 is San Francisco's ultimate waterfront playground where kids can watch wild sea lions bark and lounge on the docks, ride a historic carousel with hand-painted animals, and be entertained by talented street performers. This iconic destination combines natural wildlife viewing with classic amusement fun, all set against breathtaking Bay views with Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance.
📚 LibraryThis award-winning library is a Lafayette gem that goes far beyond just books. With an extensive children's section, regular storytimes, hands-on craft programs, and welcoming community spaces, it's designed to spark curiosity and creativity in young minds while giving parents a comfortable, enriching environment to explore together.
🐠 AquariumAquarium of the Bay offers an unforgettable underwater adventure where kids can walk through crystal-clear tunnels surrounded by 20,000 marine animals native to San Francisco Bay. The thrilling experience of having sharks, bat rays, and shimmering anchovies swim overhead creates magical photo ops and lasting memories, while the touch pools let little hands get up close with sea stars and bay creatures.
🌳 ParkGiannini Plaza is a neighborhood gem in Daly City offering everything families need for a perfect park day. With a well-maintained playground, open sports fields for impromptu games, and peaceful walking paths, it's an ideal spot for burning energy while parents enjoy the quiet residential setting and convenient picnic facilities.
🕹️ ArcadeStep back in time at this wonderfully quirky free arcade museum featuring over 200 vintage coin-operated games, mechanical music machines, and antique attractions from the early 1900s. Kids are mesmerized by fortune tellers, laughing Sal, mechanical carnivals, and classic arcade games while parents enjoy the nostalgic trip down memory lane,all for just the cost of quarters.
🍽️ RestaurantCapurro's is a beloved family-owned Italian restaurant that's been welcoming San Francisco families since 1963. With generous portions perfect for sharing, a relaxed atmosphere where kids can be kids, and classic Italian-American dishes that even picky eaters will enjoy, this Fisherman's Wharf area spot makes family dining easy and enjoyable.
🛝 PlaygroundBuckeye Ballfields is a well-loved Lafayette neighborhood park that offers something for everyone in the family. With modern playground equipment, multiple baseball diamonds, basketball courts, and plenty of shaded picnic spots, it's an ideal destination for active families looking to spend a few hours outdoors while kids burn off energy.
🍦 Ice CreamThe Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience combines San Francisco's rich chocolate-making history with irresistible sweet treats that make kids' eyes light up. Located at historic Ghirardelli Square near Fisherman's Wharf, families can watch chocolate being made, sample free squares, and indulge in the famous hot fudge sundaes while enjoying stunning waterfront views of the bay.
🌳 ParkLafayette Community Park is a beloved neighborhood gem that combines classic play structures, wide-open green spaces, and year-round family programming. With its well-maintained facilities and central location, this park serves as the heart of Lafayette's family community, offering everything from casual picnic outings to structured seasonal events that bring neighbors together.
🎨 MuseumThe Children's Creativity Museum is a tech-forward wonderland where kids don't just observe,they create! This hands-on museum lets children design their own animations, produce music videos, and explore digital art through interactive technology stations. It's the perfect rainy-day destination that channels screen time into creative, imaginative learning experiences.
🧗 AdventureThe Lafayette/Moraga Regional Trail is a family-friendly gem offering 7.6 miles of flat, smooth pavement ideal for bike rides, stroller walks, and teaching little ones to ride without training wheels. This scenic trail connects Lafayette and Moraga through beautiful landscapes, providing a safe, traffic-free environment where families can enjoy outdoor exercise together at their own pace.
Springhill Park is a charming neighborhood park in Lafayette that's perfectly sized for young families seeking a low-key outdoor outing. With its dedicated tot lot designed for little ones, open grassy areas for running around, and shaded picnic spots, it's an ideal spot for toddlers and preschoolers to burn energy while parents enjoy the peaceful, community atmosphere.
⭐ ActivityThe Waters Edge Hotel sits along Tiburon's charming harborfront promenade, offering families a picturesque waterfront experience with sweeping San Francisco Bay views. Kids can enjoy leisurely strolls along the pedestrian-friendly walkway, stopping for ice cream while watching sailboats glide by and spotting Angel Island across the water.
🌳 ParkMain Street Tiburon offers families a perfect blend of small-town charm and waterfront beauty. This inviting downtown park provides a peaceful green space where kids can stretch their legs before exploring the adjacent shops and waterfront, all while taking in stunning views of the San Francisco Bay. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely family outing that combines outdoor play with casual dining and browsing.
🧗 AdventureOld St. Hilary's Preserve offers families an easy, rewarding hike through one of the Bay Area's most beautiful wildflower meadows, culminating in breathtaking 360-degree views of San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Mount Tamalpais. The gentle trails are perfect for little legs, and kids love spotting colorful wildflowers in spring while working their way up to the historic church at the summit.
⭐ ActivityThe California Street cable car line offers one of San Francisco's most thrilling rides for kids, climbing steep hills from the Financial District to Van Ness Avenue. Children will be mesmerized by the vintage wooden cars, the clanging bell, and the gripman manually operating the cable system while enjoying spectacular city views along the route.
Jack London Square invites families to take selfies with the Easter Bunny from noon to 4 p.m. on March 28th, 29th and April 4th During each event, held in the space next to Farmhouse Kitchen Thai…
via Google Events
KPOP themed skating night event
via Eventbrite: SF Anime
Join us in store for a 'Star Wars' themed LEGO Build event. This event is perfect for LEGO enthusiasts that are 10 years of age and older but all guests are welcome. If this is an event that you…
via Google Events
Youth Baseball Days
via San Francisco Giants
Teen and senior showcase performance
via Eventbrite: SF Family Performing Arts
Ticket Information: Early Bird: $20, Gen Adm: $25, Door: $30 Tree of Dreams is an intimate, cinematic theatre experience blending live music, object storytelling, shadow play, and projection…
via Google Events
Submitted by the Event Organizer“BLOCK FEST” TENDERLOIN ARTS FESTIVAL & Free Art MAKING | SF COUNTERPULSE Every first and third Friday of the month, locally sourced Artist Activators offer up free…
via Google Events
Welcome event for new families
via Eventbrite: Oakland Family
Family-friendly pet event
via Eventbrite: Oakland Family
Annual Mother's Day celebration event
via Eventbrite - San Francisco Family Events
Family day event at Mahogany Homes
via Eventbrite: Oakland Family
Bring out the kids and friends to enjoy our annual festival offering many fun games and prizes, craft activities, bounce house, and cultural and live stage performances for the community to enjoy.
via Google Events
Home » *Top Pick* , Art & Museums , Downtown San Francisco , Fairs & Festivals , Holiday Shopping , In Person , Shopping & Fashion The Box SF “Eat Me!” Artisan Food Fair (2026) Saturday, May 2…
via Google Events
Two day workshop
via Eventbrite: SF Family Performing Arts
Guided nature walk on Treasure Island
via Eventbrite: SF Nature
Vendor market at SPARK Social SF
via Eventbrite: SF Farmers Markets
Ticket Information: Early Bird: $20, Gen Adm: $25, Door: $30 Tree of Dreams is an intimate, cinematic theatre experience blending live music, object storytelling, shadow play, and projection…
via Google Events
Kids and parents learn to make pavlovas and decorate your own in this hands-on pastry workshop.
via Google Events
Back by popular demand, Saint Mary’s Dante Club will be hosting the second annual Viva La Velocità Car Show, free to SMC Students and to the Lamorinda area! Admission is free, with a $10 cash-only…
via Google Events
Theater performance for families
via Eventbrite: SF Kids Events
You're all invited to attend our FREE Starlight Movies in the Park! This fun-filled event will start at 6:30 p.m. with pre-show festivities including games and crafts for kids. Our featured movie…
via Google Events
Matchup between Pirates and Giants on May 08, 2026
via Google Events
Giants start 3-game series as they host Pirates
via Google Events
Comic Con Oakland is descending on the Bay Area at the Oakland Convention Center! We'll be bringing you a cool lineup of comics creators, collectibles and so much more! Get ready to Geek Out, Oakland!
via Google Events
5k run celebrating AAPI Heritage Month
via Eventbrite - San Francisco Family Events
AAPI families wonderfest event
via Eventbrite - San Francisco Family Events
Season opener music festival
via Eventbrite: SF Family Festivals
Family Story Time at Rockridge Branch Library, every Thursday at 10:30am Children of all ages are welcome; content geared toward ages 1 to 5 years.We usually meet indoors in the Upstairs Meeting…
via Google Events
Which insect can flap its wings 200 times per second? Learn about many different types and very important role they play in our world. Bugs, Butterflies, and Bees Which insect not only provides…
via Google Events
Bring the family, a picnic, and a blanket for a fun evening of film under the stars at Memorial Park. The City of Albany’s Movie in the Park is a free outdoor film series where the community…
via Google Events
MoAD: Museum of the African Diaspora Free Museum Day (SF)MOAD MoAD, a contemporary art museum, celebrates Black cultures, ignites challenging conversations, and inspires learning through the…
via Google Events
Two Stages! Eight Bay Area bands! Food Truck! Small stage shenanigans. K.S. introduces his novel 'Imagine My Surprise!'
via Google Events
Mother's Day market event at The Jay Hotel
via Eventbrite: SF Farmers Markets
Giants play host to Pirates in series finale
via Google Events
Monthly chocolate exploration event
via Eventbrite: SF Farmers Markets
A live solo performance by Laurie Berkner! Laurie’s solo show features popular hits like “We Are The Dinosaurs,” “Bumblebee (Buzz Buzz),” “Victor Vito,” "Waiting For The Elevator", and "Chipmunk…
via Google Events
Which insect can flap its wings 200 times per second? Learn about many different types and very important role they play in our world. Bugs, Butterflies, and Bees Which insect not only provides…
via Google Events
Join the SFIAC and the Alfa Romeo Association for the 5th Annual Alfa Romeo Car Show and Luncheon on May 16, 2026.
via Google Events
Celebrate the installation of new artwork in the park.
via Presidio Events
Farmer and flea market at African American Art & Culture Complex
via Eventbrite: SF Farmers Markets
Family Story Time at Rockridge Branch Library, every Thursday at 10:30am Children of all ages are welcome; content geared toward ages 1 to 5 years.We usually meet indoors in the Upstairs Meeting…
via Google Events
Carnaval San Francisco brings 500,000 people to our annual celebration, making it the largest multicultural festival in the West Coast. Our mission is to educate people on the Latino, Caribbean…
via Google Events
On Sunday, May 24, 2026, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art opens its doors for Free Community Day, giving visitors full access to the entire museum, including the exhibition Matisse’s Femme…
via Google Events
White Sox travel to face Giants in series finale
via Google Events
Join the ABADÁ-Capoeira San Francisco parade! Celebrate with us at Carnaval San Francisco, the city’s premier multicultural extravaganza that brings...
via Google Events
Spring edition event
via Eventbrite: SF Family Performing Arts
Run, walk, or stroll a 5K in a flat loop course circling Albany CA's Memorial Park and Albany High School while listening to live music from multiple bands in the fifth annual Move'n'Groove on…
via Google Events
The Box SF “Eat Me!” Artisan Food Fair (2026) The Box SF The Box SF presents EAT ME! , a monthly artisanal food fest , kicking off on January 10-11, 2026! Enjoy a flavorful weekend at The Box SF…
via Google Events
Visit the cute and cuddly animals from the Little Explorers Petting Zoo. This is a popular event for the whole family. * Be prepared to wait in line!
via Google Events
Admission is free for all visitors on the first Thursday of every month (except Jan 2026). No tickets are needed but visitors can RSVP here. Please double-check the event information … Continue…
via Google Events
Union Street festival
via Eventbrite: SF Family Festivals
Spring concert event
via Eventbrite - San Francisco Family Events
Visit the cute and cuddly animals from the Little Explorers Petting Zoo. This is a popular event for the whole family. * Be prepared to wait in line!
via Google Events
Festival with live music, KidsZone, and fashion. Free RSVP required.
via Eventbrite: SF Food Trucks
View the Oakland Roots SC vs. Miami FC game played on June 13, 2026. Box score, stats, play-by-play timeline, highlights, odds & more
via Google Events
Black family reunion event
via Eventbrite - San Francisco Family Events
Gear up for the Tiburon Classic Car Show with a look at how cars shaped American society — especially teenage culture — after World War II and through the 1950s, ’60s, and ’70s. This program isn’t…
via Google Events
Minnesota Lynx vs Golden State Valkyries Jun 19, 2026 game result including recap, highlights and game information
via Google Events
Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture (FMCAC), in partnership with Off the Grid, Stern Grove Festival, and West Coast Craft, is pleased to announce the return of its Fort Mason Night Market…
via Google Events
San Francisco is a world-class city and a premier global destination for Juneteenth festivities, including the main event: a flagship parade in the heart of the City that engages, inspires, and…
via Google Events
Native contemporary arts festival
via Eventbrite: SF Family Festivals
The Tiburon Classic Car Show (TCCS) is a wonderful community event, held annually in Tiburon near the ferry boat landing, against the beautiful backdrop of the Tiburon Waterfront Park. The show…
via Google Events
Matchup between Dream and Valkyries on Jun 26, 2026
via Google Events
FREE Starlight Movies in the Park will continue this summer for all families to enjoy. This fun-filled event will start at 6:30 p.m. with pre-show festivities including games and crafts for kids…
via Google Events
Sunday, June 28 SF Pride Grandstand seating provides a comfortable viewing area to enjoy the San Francisco Pride Parade. Grandstands are located on the north side of Market Street between 7th and…
via Google Events
Murphy (hip) could begin a rehab assignment with High-A Rome later this week, Grant McAuley of the Marietta Daily Journal reports. Strider (oblique) will travel with Atlanta on its road trip, but…
via Google Events
The Oakland Ballers bring high-energy, community-driven baseball to Oakland as they take on Boise Hawks in an exciting 3-game series matchup filled with hometown pride. Catch the Ballers in action…
via Google Events
FREE Starlight Movies in the Park will continue this summer for all families to enjoy. This fun-filled event will start at 6:30 p.m. with pre-show festivities including games and crafts for kids…
via Google Events
The traditional kickoff for the Pistahan weekend. The largest Filipino parade on the West Coast, dancing in the streets of San Francisco.
via Pistahan Festival - Civic Center
Free 2-day outdoor festival fun for the entire family featuring world-class entertainment on the main stage including dance, hip-hop, jazz, martial artists, hands-on and authentic cultural experiences in 8 pavilions: Art, Culinary, Dance, Health, Heritage, Innovation, Sports and Tavern. Showcase of folk dance groups, variety entertainers, emerging talents and headline artists. Features local artisans, food vendors, entrepreneurs, and opportunities to discover Philippine history, heritage and traditions.
via Pistahan Festival - Civic Center
Ticket listings for Wake Forest Demon Deacons at California Golden Bears Football at California Memorial Stadium in Berkeley, California on 10/17/2026
via Google Events
The San Francisco Standard is pleased to announce the return of Sundown Cinema, a free outdoor movie series spread across iconic San Francisco parks. Sundown Featuring a curated lineup of films…
via Google Events
Showing 118 events in and around Berkeley