Discover 33 family-friendly activities, venues, and restaurants in Santa Cruz.
103 Upcoming EventsThe highest-rated places we recommend first — start here.
🧗 AdventureWest Cliff Drive is a stunning 3-mile coastal pathway that's perfect for families who want to combine outdoor activity with spectacular Pacific Ocean views. Kids can bike, scooter, or walk along the paved path while spotting sea lions, surfers, and maybe even dolphins, with several playgrounds and grassy areas perfect for picnic breaks along the way.
🌳 ParkHenry Cowell Redwoods State Park offers families an unforgettable walk among ancient giants, with towering redwoods that will leave kids (and adults!) awestruck. The easy, stroller-friendly boardwalk loop makes it accessible for even the smallest explorers, while the nature center provides hands-on learning opportunities about the forest ecosystem.
🌳 ParkLighthouse Field State Beach offers the perfect blend of educational and outdoor fun for families visiting Santa Cruz. Kids can explore fascinating tide pools teeming with sea creatures, learn about maritime history at the surfing museum housed in the historic Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse, and run freely on the expansive grassy bluffs perfect for picnics and kite flying. The dramatic coastal views and crashing waves provide a stunning backdrop for family photos and memorable sunset experiences.
📚 LibraryLos Gatos Library is a modern, welcoming community hub that goes far beyond books. With its exceptional children's section featuring interactive learning spaces, regular storytimes, and engaging educational programs throughout the year, it's become a favorite destination for local families seeking both entertainment and enrichment.
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🏛️ Community CenterAlmaden Community Center is a welcoming neighborhood hub in Almaden Valley offering an impressive variety of programs designed specifically for families with children. With its stellar 4.8-star rating from local parents, this rec center provides year-round youth sports classes, creative activities, and seasonal community events that bring families together in a safe, friendly environment.
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🌳 ParkVasona Lake County Park is a premier family destination offering something for everyone across its scenic 151 acres. Kids can burn energy on multiple playgrounds, families can rent paddleboards or pedal boats to explore the lake, and everyone can enjoy easy walking trails perfect for strollers. With expansive picnic areas, grassy fields for games, and even a miniature train ride (seasonal), it's an ideal spot for both active adventures and relaxed family picnics.
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🧗 AdventureAlmaden Quicksilver County Park offers families an incredible outdoor adventure across 4,163 acres of beautiful California wilderness. Kids will love exploring historic mercury mine sites, discovering wildlife along well-maintained trails, and learning about the area's fascinating Gold Rush-era mining history while getting plenty of fresh air and exercise.
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🐠 AquariumThis working marine research facility at UC Santa Cruz offers a perfect blend of hands-on learning and ocean discovery. Kids can get up close with sea stars and anemones in touch pools, marvel at the massive 87-foot blue whale skeleton, and explore aquariums showcasing local marine life,all while learning from real marine scientists.
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🌳 ParkOak Meadow Park is a Los Gatos treasure that combines old-fashioned charm with modern play amenities. The star attraction is the beloved Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad, a miniature train that delights kids of all ages, complemented by excellent playground equipment, shaded picnic areas, and a gentle creek perfect for wading and exploration.
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⭐ ActivityStep back in time at this charming vintage attraction featuring a real miniature steam train that chugs through the scenic Oak Meadow Park and a beautifully restored 1927 carousel. Operating since 1968, this beloved Los Gatos landmark offers affordable, old-fashioned fun that delights toddlers and nostalgic parents alike, with short rides perfect for young attention spans.
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🎢 Amusement ParkThe Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is California's classic seaside amusement park, offering the perfect blend of thrilling rides, beachfront fun, and nostalgic charm. This iconic oceanfront destination features the historic Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster, dozens of carnival rides for all ages, arcade games, and direct beach access where kids can dig in the sand between rides.
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⭐ ActivityThe Santa Cruz Wharf is a must-visit coastal attraction where kids can watch playful sea lions barking beneath the pier, try their hand at fishing, and enjoy fresh seafood while taking in stunning Monterey Bay views. This historic half-mile wooden pier offers the perfect blend of wildlife viewing, dining, and souvenir shopping that keeps families entertained for hours without requiring tickets or admission fees.
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🎢 Amusement ParkRoaring Camp offers an unforgettable steam train adventure through towering redwood forests that transports families back to the 1880s. Kids will be thrilled by the authentic steam engines, the chance to pet farm animals, and the option to ride the scenic Beach Train down to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, making it easy to combine two attractions in one day.
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⭐ ActivityTwin Lakes State Beach is a hidden gem for families with young children who want beach fun without the intimidating waves. The protected waters of this Santa Cruz harbor beach create a calm, lagoon-like swimming area perfect for toddlers and early swimmers, while the on-site playground and picnic facilities make it easy to spend a full day without leaving the sand.
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🌳 ParkHistoric Saratoga Village offers families a charming slice of California history combined with modern play amenities in the heart of downtown Saratoga. This well-maintained park blends playground fun with open green spaces perfect for running around, plus it's a hub for community events that bring neighbors together throughout the year.
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103 upcoming family events in Santa Cruz
🌳 ParkWildwood Park is a well-loved Saratoga neighborhood gem that delivers all the essentials for an active family day out. With multiple playgrounds to suit different ages, sports courts for energetic kids, and shaded picnic areas perfect for lunch breaks, it's the kind of versatile park where families can easily spend a whole morning or afternoon without anyone getting bored.
🌳 ParkHakone Estate and Gardens offers a serene escape into authentic Japanese culture right in the Bay Area. Kids will delight in spotting colorful koi fish in tranquil ponds, crossing traditional bridges, and exploring winding garden paths through bamboo groves and carefully manicured landscapes. It's an excellent opportunity to introduce children to Japanese aesthetics while enjoying peaceful outdoor time together.
🍽️ RestaurantWhile Plumed Horse itself is an upscale fine dining establishment best suited for adults, the Big Basin Way corridor in charming Saratoga offers families numerous kid-friendly dining alternatives. This picturesque downtown area features a wonderful variety of casual restaurants spanning Italian trattorias, Asian eateries, and American classics,all within easy walking distance and much more accommodating to children's tastes and energy levels.
🍽️ RestaurantBig Basin Cafe is a welcoming downtown Saratoga breakfast and lunch spot that makes dining out with kids easy and enjoyable. With a casual atmosphere where families feel comfortable, plus a diverse menu spanning hearty breakfasts, fresh sandwiches, and kid-pleasing favorites, it's a reliable choice when everyone in the family has different cravings.
🌳 ParkGuadalupe Oak Grove Park is a gem in Almaden Valley that delivers everything families need for an active outdoor day. With well-maintained playgrounds for multiple age groups, expansive grassy sports fields, and plenty of shaded picnic spots under mature oak trees, it's the perfect neighborhood park for both planned outings and spontaneous afternoon play sessions.
⚽ SportsAlmaden Valley Athletic Club is a full-service family sports facility that keeps kids active year-round with its swimming pools, tennis courts, and dedicated junior programs. With highly-rated coaching staff and youth-focused activities, it's an ideal spot for families looking to introduce their children to new sports or maintain an active lifestyle together in a welcoming community atmosphere.
Get ready for an unforgettable animal adventure! Join our dedicated animal care team and dive into the excitement of feeding our delightful farm friends: goats, chickens, rabbits, sheep, and…
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San Jose Giants vs Inland Empire 66ers at Excite Ballpark.Ticket prices range from $8-$41 per seat. See the stars of yesterday and today for $8 or free! The San Jose … Continue reading "San Jose…
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Celebrate the American mosaic of cultures at this free festival, organized by Mosaic America in partnership with History San José Experience the diverse cultures from our very own neighborhoods…
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Disneyland and LEGO® Race...super fun!! In the morning, go on an adventure in engineering as you learn to construct an amusement park with LEGO® technic bricks, motors and more STEM materials…
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Internet Registration has not begun yet. Check Registration Dates in details. Step back in time in this LEGO® Dinosaur Exploration camp! Kids will build detailed dinos, prehistoric…
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Hosted by the Mt. Pleasant Branch Library. Here’s a chance for you to get up close and personal with farm animals such as rabbits, chickens, ducks, a pig, alpacas, goats, and sheep! You’ll get to…
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Juneteenth is a special day for anyone who believes in freedom and equality for all people. Attend and enjoy music, poetry, dance, delicious soul food, arts & crafts, basketball skills …
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Robotic, Coding, and Animals...yes! Learn how to build robot creatures and program them to come to life using coding. From dogs to dinos, gorillas, dolphins, and more. Campers will…
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Internet Registration has not begun yet. Check Registration Dates in details. On your mark, get set, go! We are off on an Amazing LEGO® Race around the world this Summer! Campers will…
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Do you think you can build the strongest robot to win a head-to-head combat mission? Let's find out in Snapology's Robot Olympics Camp! Campers will learn engineering strategies for…
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FEATURING VENDORS, ARTISTS, FOOD TRUCKS AND MORE (Slots Available)
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We're hatching something new this spring. Guest educators from 4-H Youth Development, University of California are taking over one Saturday a month for a six-session series exploring science…
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San Jose’s monthly market, with 50+ vendors, delicious food, shopping, music, cultural entertainment, and FREE admission and parking. Join 365 Night Market on June 26-27 (4-10 PM) at Grand Century…
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Foodieland is coming to Santa Clara County Fairgrounds in San Jose, CA for an unforgettable event
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Storytellers Kid’s Theater Camp Instructor: Liam Kuhn Age 5-10 Times: 10:00 - 3:30 Tuition: $440 Explore the art of children's theater in this fun and playful week-long camp! Students will engage…
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Game Over details on Jun 27-28, 2026 at - Santa Clara , San Jose, CA
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Classic cars and coffee every Saturday morning, in East Lake Village Shopping Center. It doesn't get much better. Come walk around the expansive parking lot, look at some beautifully restored…
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Meeting Dates From Jul 06, 2026 to Jul 10, 2026 Each Monday from 09:00 AM to 04:00 PM Each Tuesday from 09:00 AM to 04:00 PM Each Wednesday from 09:00 AM to 04:00 PM
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Robotic, Coding, and Animals...yes! Learn how to build robot creatures and program them to come to life using coding. From dogs to dinos, gorillas, dolphins, and more. Campers will…
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Taste Of India is a vibrant celebration where the rich tapestry of culture unfolds. Beyond a festival, it’s a sensory journey featuring traditional dance, music, and cuisine. The event transforms…
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Bloom Energy & Tarana Wireless Stars and Strides 5K-10K Run/Walk & Kids Fun Run Discovery Meadow, Woz Way, San Jose, CA, USA - The Bloom Energy and Tarana Wireless Stars and Strides… - July 11, 2026
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Saturday, July 11, 2026 - Jul 12, 2026 ( 2 days ), Los Altos , United States
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Dive Into a World of Anime Awesomeness at ANIME Impulse™! Prepare for the ultimate weekend of anime and pop culture magic—a one-of-a-kind ce
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“Give Your Kids Wings to Fly” Saturdays 4-6pm Join this fun and interactive 2-hour workshop with your kids (ages 8–12) and watch them soar as high as their creativity and …
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San Jose’s monthly market, with 50+ vendors, delicious food, shopping, music, cultural entertainment, and FREE admission and parking. Join 365 Night Market on July 24-25 (4-10 PM) at Grand Century…
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Enjoy free fireworks after the San Jose Giants game at Excite Ballpark. Ticket prices range from $8-$41 per seat. Great family fun with baseball and fireworks after San Jose Giants Friday night…
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Fascinated on how to hang, program and rig lights, learn how to set up, EQ and run a Yamaha sound board? Have you always wanted to be behind the scenes, stage manager, working stage crew, mic crew…
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Free Admission - Open to all ages. Live music, great food, kid's zone, cultural exhibits, Arts & Crafts Vendors. Presented by the Italian American Heritage Foundation Saturday, 11:00 am to 7:00 pm…
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Who’s Hoopin details on Jul 25-26, 2026 at - Santa Clara , San Jose, CA
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View the San Jose Earthquakes vs. Los Angeles Galaxy game played on July 25, 2026. Box score, stats, play-by-play timeline, highlights, odds & more
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Celebrate sunny skies, warm Summer days, and inspiring Bay Area creatives at the Makers Market™ Local Artist Fair! Meet makers, artists, crafters, and designers, and shop unique handmade goods at…
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Start your engines! In this high-speed LEGO® robotics camp, young builders will design, code, and race their own robotic vehicles. Working in pairs, campers will build with LEGO® kits and program…
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During the LEGO® Robo Battles classes students create, program, and control robots designed to perform challenges such as the SumoBots, Jousting, and a Catapult Challenge. Students…
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Join us for Sunset Cinema at Earl Carmichael Park, 3445 Benton St. The movie will begin at dusk. Parking may be limited. Carpool and alternative transportation are encouraged. Featured Movie…
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The entire family is invited to watch movie under the stars. We are excited to be showing The Super Mario Galaxy at Columbia Park (rated PG)
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Ticket listings for Tacoma Defiance at San Jose Earthquakes II at PayPal Park (formerly Earthquakes Stadium & Avaya Stadium) in San Jose, California on 05/09/2026
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“Give Your Kids Wings to Fly” Saturdays 4-6pm Join this fun and interactive 2-hour workshop with your kids (ages 8–12) and watch them soar as high as their creativity and …
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Football - San Jose State vs. Fresno State sjsuspartans.com/boxscore/8435 Event Details
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View the San Jose Earthquakes vs. Los Angeles FC game played on September 19, 2026. Box score, stats, play-by-play timeline, highlights, odds & more
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Come join the fun in Downtown Los Altos as Corvettes are on display over the full length of Main Street. Santa Clara Corvettes (SCC) hosts the 2026 Corvette Spectacular car show on Sunday…
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Join us on the green at the historic Roaring Camp. Enjoy showing your classic car at a wonderful venue! Join us for a fantastic day on the green at the historic Roaring Camp in Felton. This event…
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The 44th Annual Art & Wine Festival is two days of family fun featuring crafts booths, delicious food in Food Alley, fine wine, live bands and community entertainment, ice cold beer and much more…
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“Give Your Kids Wings to Fly” Saturdays 4-6pm Join this fun and interactive 2-hour workshop with your kids (ages 8–12) and watch them soar as high as their creativity and …
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“Give Your Kids Wings to Fly” Saturdays 4-6pm Join this fun and interactive 2-hour workshop with your kids (ages 8–12) and watch them soar as high as their creativity and …
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Diwali, also known as the festival of lights, is one of the major festivals celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and some Buddhists worldwide.
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Visit the Computer History Museum free today in Mountain View. Free today with an active Bank of America, Merrill or Bank of America Private Bank (U.S. Trust) credit or debit card with photo ID.
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Get ready for a season of gratitude, gathering, and thoughtfully crafted goods made with heart in the Bay Area! Shop distinctive, handcrafted treasures, ideal for host gifts, seasonal décor, and…
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Enjoy the Downtown Santa Cruz Makers Market every THIRD Sunday in 2026! Featuring 40+ local makers & artists, this market hosts a wide range of locally handmade goods. Find some …
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Enjoy the Downtown Santa Cruz Makers Market every THIRD Sunday in 2026! Featuring 40+ local makers & artists, this market hosts a wide range of locally handmade goods. Find some …
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Showing 103 events in and around Santa Cruz