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San Francisco day trips offer numerous options in and around the Bay area for unique and entertaining adventures. Walter Cronkite once said leaving this city is like “Saying goodbye to an old sweetheart. You want to linger as long as possible."" And linger you will, with day trips being the better option. The San Francisco Bay area is one of the most beautiful places in the states and offers numerous short adventures and cultural excursions for families including:
Golden Gate National Recreational Area Of course you will visit one of the most signature sites in San Francisco, if not the United States. Families can spend a good day visiting the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
The park contains numerous historical and cultural resources, including Alcatraz, Marin Headlands, Fort Mason, as well as Muir Woods National Monument, Fort Point National Historic Site and the Presidio of San Francisco. Don’t forget to walk across the Golden Gate Bridge for a spectacular view of the Bay, the wind blowing in your face, your mind free and clear.
Sausalito and Tiburon
Sausalito and Tiburon are short day trips into San Francisco surroundings on opposite sides of Richardson Bay. They each have unique beauty, world-class dining and shopping and great sailing opportunities. Sausalito is very Mediterranean in nature; its beauty wrapped in European design. Located just eight miles north of San Francisco, Sausalito is easily reached by car, bike or ferry.
Tiburon resembles an authentic New England seaport and is located only twenty minutes away. Today its main street offers many unique shops and dining experiences in which the whole family will love. To top it off, the views of San Francisco are amazing. Pier 41 in San Francisco has daily ferry services to both locations.
Wine Country
We have all heard of the wonderful wineries that exist in Northern California – with Sonoma and Napa Valley being the most recognized. Sonoma is the home of the original wine producing vineyards and offers families a variety of options. Parents can enjoy the wonderful tastes of California’s finest wines. But the kids are not forgotten – the winding Russian River waits as well as dramatic coastline walks and old growth redwoods to run around. Great views of the valley can be seen from Gloria Ferrer and Paradise Ridge Wineries. There are numerous tours that can be arranged in San Francisco on short notice or well in advance.
Napa Valley has been settled since the 1830’s and been producing wine since 1884. This has led to the growth of some of the world’s best wineries, many with European flair and sophistication. Parents will love the selections and kids will enjoy the Napa Valley wine train. The Society of International Railway Travelers calls it “One of the top twenty railways in the word”. Wonderful views and superb dinners are on offer. All aboard!
Geyser Tour
A two hour drive from San Francisco on a day trip and you reach “The Geysers”, an innovative project in which wastewater is turned into electricity. This tour is more informative than most listed. Visit the Calpine Geothermal Visitor Center in Middletown, for example – where you will learn about the geothermal wells and how wastewater is being reinvigorated into steam powered electricity.
Yosemite
Finally, let’s not forget Yosemite – one of America’s most beautiful natural parks. Families can enjoy numerous activities and can even make a long weekend of it. Hiking, camping, rafting, canoeing and climbing are all on offer. Package tours are available from most travel agents in San Francisco, but driving yourself gives you greater freedom. It is best to contact the park ranger and buy a map. It is a big stretch of beautiful land, read up about it and enjoy nature as it is meant to be – wide open!
Families have numerous options in and around the Bay area for unique and entertaining day trips in San Francisco. Stay in the city for a bit of shopping on Union Street, explore the Fisherman’s Wharf area or relax on a rooftop sipping a nice cup of coffee. Those looking to get out of the city can explore the local parks, bayside communities or grand national parks. Get out there and explore – a wide range of destinations are available. Happy travels!
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San Francisco for Families Travel Guide
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GOT TEENS?:
San Francisco for Teens Travel Guide
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