Families in the Bay Area have many fun activities to enjoy with their children. One place my children have loved over the years is the Bay Area Discovery Museum in Sausalito, California.
The museum sits in old military buildings at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge. From the parking area, you can enjoy a beautiful view of San Francisco and the bridge. Many families stop for photos with this famous landmark in the background. It is also a great spot for holiday pictures!
A Museum Made for Kids
The Bay Area Discovery Museum is a special place for young children. It focuses on creative play, learning, and discovery. The museum has interactive exhibits that encourage children to explore and use their imaginations.
Each building has different exhibits. Some are made for babies and toddlers, while others are better for older children. The museum has seven galleries and more than 500 exhibits.
There is plenty to explore. Highlights include a two-story treehouse, an Engineering and Design Lab, a Maker Studio, and outdoor play areas. The museum is mainly designed for children ages 6 months to 10 years. However, older kids can also have fun when visiting with younger siblings.
Learning Through Play
One thing I love about the museum is how it makes learning fun. Children can touch, build, create, and explore as they move from one exhibit to another.
The museum also offers activities, events, and programs for families. Many exhibits focus on STEM, which stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. As a result, children can learn new skills while having fun.
Families in the area can also sign up for summer and holiday camps. The camps are grouped by age and offer many activities. Depending on the program, children may learn robotics, coding, cooking, painting, and more.
Indoor and Outdoor Fun
I recommend visiting on a dry day. Most exhibits are indoors, but you need to walk outside to get from one building to another.
Because the museum is next to the Golden Gate, the weather can be cool and windy. Fog is also common near the bay. Therefore, dress your children in warm layers.
There are also many outdoor exhibits. Kids can run, climb, and play while enjoying the fresh air. If they have lots of energy, the outdoor area is a great place to let them move around.
The Crab Boat Is a Favorite
My children’s favorite exhibit is the room with the crab boat. It has two levels and plenty of hands-on activities.
Kids can climb onto the boat and use the pulley system to move toy crabs. They can also use fishing poles to catch toy fish. Children often work together by passing crabs and helping each other with the fishing games.
It is fun to watch and encourages teamwork and pretend play. On the lower level, children can also explore a toy crane, a large train table, and a tunnel.
A Treehouse for More Fun
Another favorite is the outdoor park and its two-story treehouse. The museum covers 7.5 acres of National Park Land, so children have plenty of space to run and explore.
The location near the Golden Gate can make the outdoor area chilly. However, proper clothing makes a big difference. Once the kids start playing, they may not want to go back inside!
Explore Sausalito
If you are visiting from out of town, consider staying in Sausalito for a night or two. The town offers beautiful bay views, beaches, parks, shops, and restaurants.
There are many activities to enjoy. Families can go sailing or kayaking, visit local wildlife areas, or explore downtown Sausalito.
You can also visit nearby Tiburon and take a ferry to Angel Island or San Francisco. In addition, Muir Woods National Monument and Stinson Beach are great options for a day trip.
Plan Your Visit
Even if you cannot stay overnight, the Bay Area Discovery Museum is worth a visit. Give yourself plenty of time to explore the exhibits and outdoor areas.
Before visiting, check the museum’s current schedule, admission prices, and transportation information, as these details can change.
The museum is a wonderful choice for families looking for a fun and educational day out. With hands-on exhibits, outdoor play, and beautiful views of the Golden Gate Bridge, it offers something special for both kids and parents.
