California

San Francisco With Kids: 5 Hotels With Activities for the Whole Family

Exciting San Francisco offers a fun-filled West Coast getaway, with plenty of family-friendly accommodations

Don’t call it San Fran or Frisco. The City by the Bay is simply San Francisco, a popular vacation spot in California, perfect for families who want to have a fun weekend getaway with kids of all ages. Its small size makes it great to explore on foot, although you’ll want to ride the cable cars when visiting some of the hilliest areas.

In addition to its famous hills and steep streets, San Francisco is best known for its proximity to the bay and ocean. From family-friendly Ocean Beach to Golden Gate Park, Chinatown to Fisherman’s Wharf, there is plenty to see and do for adults and children. So, here are our accommodation tips for enjoying San Francisco with kids:

1. A Modern Hotel in San Francisco for Families with Kids

If you’re looking to splurge, look no further, The Four Seasons will satisfy even the pickiest child or parent. Stays are personalized to meet your family’s needs: rooms can be baby-proofed for infants, while younger children get special kid’s duvets, blankets, and even a small in-room play tent. On arrival, children get kid-sized robes, slippers, sunglasses, and pint-sized toiletries. Parents with babies receive cribs, diapers, baby wipes, and anything you might have forgotten.

But that’s just the beginning. There are a slew of activities inside the hotel, and outings that the concierge can book. After a day of sight seeing, families can spend time playing ping pong, Jenga, or chess on the outdoor Veranda Terrace. In the summer, the hotel screens family movies each Saturday night and provides popcorn.

The 277 rooms and suites come with floor-to-ceiling views of Yerba Buena Gardens or downtown, and are tastefully decorated with contemporary art and furnishings. Located on floors 6 through 17 of a skyscraper, the rooms feel like a modern oasis far above the bustling streets below. Rooms are large, as are the bathrooms, that come with deep soaking bathtubs and separate glassed-in showers.

For a bit of privacy, consider one of the 11 rooms that connect with a kids’ room with two queen beds. Adults can enjoy a drink or meal at the onsite, buzzy MKT restaurant. You’ll also have access to an Equinox’s gym and indoor junior Olympic pool for a workout.

Four Seasons San Francisco

Top rated
San Francisco
9.4 Excellent (1066 reviews)

2. A Playful Stay Near Fisherman's Wharf

Hotel Zephyr is the kind of hotel kids dream about. And with unobstructed views of the bay, parents will be happy, too. Located in popular Fisherman’s Wharf, the hotel distinguishes itself with The Yard—a one-of-a-kind, 8,000 sq. ft outdoor play area featuring oversized games, Instagram-worthy sculptures, a food truck and four fire pits —where you can make s’mores. Grab food for the kids here, and beer for you.

All 361 rooms have either a king size bed or two double beds and are decorated with a fun, maritime theme, a nod to Fisherman’s Wharf. Besides all these cool hotel amenities, younger kids and teens will enjoy exploring Pier 39 and Ghirardelli Square.

Hotel Zephyr San Francisco

Top rated
San Francisco
8.7 Excellent (3368 reviews)

3. A Nautical Themed Hotel in a Central Location in San Francisco

Another great option for the weekend near Fisherman’s Wharf is the Argonaut HotelLike Hotel Zephyr, the Argonaut has a maritime theme. Located in the historic, red brick  Haslett Warehouse (circa 1907), the hotel is oozing with history from the Gold Rush era. Guest rooms also have exposed brick and great views of the bay and Golden Gate Bridge, plus it’s across from Hyde Street Pier.

The staff here are friendly and quite knowledgeable. Ask about bike rentals for the family and directions to the nearest In-N-Out burger. The kids will love it. To learn more about San Francisco’s seafaring ways, check out the popular Maritime Museum and Visitor’s Center and enjoy the natural beauty of the Maritime National Historic Park.

Argonaut Hotel

Top rated
San Francisco
9.4 Excellent (9721 reviews)

4. A Friendly-Family Hotel With a True California Vibe

Hotel Del Sol is a funky, refurbished 1950s motor lodge in the Marina District waterfront area. And don’t forget to pack your swim suits: There’s a true California vibe here, complete with palm trees and a swimming pool. It’s both family and pet-friendly, and the rooms and suites can be configured for families of all sizes.

The 17 colorful rooms and suites are painted bright orange and created with kids in mindthey are also on the small size, as you might expect from a former motor inn. But the price is right and the most affordable option on the list. All stays come with breakfast and afternoon cookies and milk.

Adults will be happy to find it located near a shopping district. Kids will love its proximity to the Walt Disney Family Museum and Fort Mason arts and culture center.

Studio In Malaga 101425

Málaga

5. A Neighborhood Hideaway in Pacific Heights

Hotel Drisco is best suited for families traveling with older children looking to stay away from the crowds. Located in the Pacific Heights neighborhood, you’ll find this elegant, small hotel includes lots of complimentary perks that will make your trip memorable. It offers a massive breakfast buffet, an evening wine reception, and chauffeur car service in the mornings. Ask the concierge to help you create an itinerary your children will love.

The impressive breakfast features fruit, bagels and lox, gourmet juices, oatmeal, scones with clotted cream, a variety of fresh breads, croissants, locally made granola, local yogurt, and a selection of cold meats and cheeses. In the evenings, sample California wines while the kids snack on hors d’oeuvres.

It’s easy to get a good night’s sleep on account of the hotel’s extensive pillow menu, luxurious king-sized beds, and in-room, noise cancelling, sound machines. Rooms are spacious, clean and decorated in muted white and cream colors. This is one vacation you’ll never forget.

Hotel Drisco

Top rated
San Francisco
9.8 Excellent (975 reviews)