Here are some favorite destinations for family fun on the Peninsula.
Animals
Visit mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians at CuriOdyssey at Coyote Point in San Mateo. Observe daily otter and bobcat feedings. Attend a monthly Community Day for a day of fun and learning.
Explore Hidden Villa in Los Altos Hills on your own or sign-up in advance for a farm tour or kids’ workshop.
Art
The Cantor Arts Center at Stanford hosts Family Sundays each week with special tours and art projects. Admission is always free. Follow-up your museum visit with a stroll around this lovely campus.
Beaches
Enjoy wide, sandy beaches at Half Moon Bay State Beach. Stop for a pony ride at Lemos Family Farm or Pastorino Farms on the trip along Highway 92. Grab a snack in downtown Half Moon Bay.
Biking Trails
Canada Road in San Mateo is closed to motorized vechiles from Hwy 92 to Edgewood Rd. along Crystal Springs Reservior on most Sundays. Stop for a look down the Pulgas Water Temple. Tour the house and gardens at nearby Filoli Mansion.
Children’s Theaters
Youth in Palo Alto Children’s Theatre perform several major shows, weekend playhouse shows for young children and hot dog suppertime shows during the summer.
Culture
The Belmont Greek Festival features traditonal Greek music, dance, theater and food. Children enjoy special games, crafts and performers at this summertime festival.
Farms
Explore Hidden Villa in Los Altos Hills on your own or sign-up in advance for a farm tour or kids’ workshop.
Gardens
Filoli Gardens in Woodside has beautiful gardens and fun events, including spring and fall Festivals.
Historical Museums & Parks
The Museum of American Heritage in Palo Alto has well done, kid-oriented exhibits, workshops, special events and a holiday Lego display.
Visit the Pigeon Point Lighthouse and then stop in the quaint town of Pescadero for a piece of pie at Duarte’s Tavern.
Parks
Central Park in San Mateo has a train ride and a Japanese garden with koi feedings.
Science & Technology
Hiller Aviation Museum in San Carlos has very interesting vintage and experimental aircraft exhibits. Special programs include open cockpit day, preschool reading and crafts, and holiday events.
Specialty Museums
Burlingame Museum of Pez Memorabilia in Burlingame includes a classic toy museum and the world’s largest Pez dispenser.
Sports
Watch top notch men’s and women’s athletes compete in over 20 sports at Stanford University.
Zoos
Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo features a children’s museum and zoo with snakes, birds, bats, bunnies, and fish. Bring a picnic lunch and dine at nearby Rinconada park where you’ll find two nice children’s play areas. If it’s a warm summer day, bring your swimsuits and enjoy a swim at Rinconada Pool
