23 Family Activities in CALIFORNIA (Fun, Outdoor, & Lively)

Today’s hustle and bustle has drawn families in different directions, making it impossible to spend time together.

And family activities bring an opportunity to improve communication and strengthen the family bond.

Also, these activities help in sharing common interests and exploring new things. 

Silicon Valley provides many opportunities to glue families together and create shared experiences that hold families together.

It engages families in thrilling adventures and helps build these activities into family traditions.

So from the stunning beaches of the south to the breathtaking parks of the North, California is the Golden State with many opportunities.

Hereunder is a list of breathtaking ideas for family activities in California.

And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Family Resorts in California.

Family Activities in Sacramento, California

1. Take a Ride at FunderLand Amusement Park (Thrilling Adventures For All)

Plan your next family event at Funder Land because it provides vast fantastic options to accommodate everyone.

The park’s thrilling adventures will surely improve bonding and make your day an unforgettable memory.

FunderLand is a simple, old-fashioned amusement park perfect for all age groups.

You will fly with a flying dragon that will take all your stress away, and you will spend quality time with your family.

And it’s the best place to plan your special family events and make memories. 

When you enjoy yourself with your family, you fill yourself with all the love and care you need.

Moreover, the amusement park lets you enjoy and learn from your kids.

Address: 1350 17th Ave, Sacramento, CA 95822

2. Visit the Sacramento Zoo (Exciting Animal Encounters)

Sacramento Zoo offers the best exciting and thrilling attractions that will help you reconnect with nature.

Here, you will visit your favorite animals on the train rides, giving you a new experience. 

And your visit will become priceless when you plan to encounter with your family the giraffes. 

This wild and beautiful creature will let you feed, making your day a fantastic adventure. 

Furthermore, kids love dinosaurs, and dinosaur safari will take you to a live dinosaurs enclave, and their noises will make the children’s day.

These live animals offer a magical experience for families.

The easy hiking trail is another addition to viewing the animals from the hilltop, and it will improve communication.

Address: 3930 West Land Park Drive, Sacramento, CA 95822

3. Explore the SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity (Education & Curiosity & Creativity)

Education exploration becomes necessary to spark curiosity, intellectual growth, and love for exploration.

In a fast-changing world, families seek adventure in developing new things and sharing knowledge that helps strengthen bonds.

You are sparking your family with beautiful exhibits and libraries when visiting.

But it also provides learning opportunities where you can allow your kids to find answers in different ways.

And it is necessary to develop curiosity and creativity by offering them opportunities to explore themselves and learn new things.

This exploration will lead your family to experience the world’s wonders and learn about outer space.

Besides this, engaging the kids with art provides them with many learning opportunities and broadens their horizons.

Address: 400 Jibboom St, Sacramento, CA 95811

Also see our article on Family Vacations in California.

Family Activities in Los Angeles, California

1. Have Park Fun at Universal Studio Hollywood (Adventure With Famous Characters)

Universal Studios are often considered heaven for families because there’s always something adventurous going on here.

This studio has majestic rides and attractions that will give you a breathtaking experience.

After entering, the beautiful famous characters’ sightings will give you a sparkling look, and kids will enjoy seeing them.

And get yourself on a family-friendly dive where you can explore the park’s funny side from a different view.

When discussing Jurassic World, the scary image of dinosaurs suddenly comes to mind, but their sighting is worthy of the adventure.

You will get on a ride and have a closer underwater look at the dinosaurs. 

Furthermore, the shopping centers are the secrets to completing your visit and building stronger connections.

Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608

2. Go for an Ocean Walk at Santa Monica Pier (Oceanfront Culture & Family Fun)

The Santa Pier land has the most exciting and thrilling beauties where you can enjoy the immense culture.

It will help in emptying your mind and getting reconnecting with your family. 

In Santa Monica, you will feel that the Pacific Ocean has increased the beauty of the town.

Strolling on the pier, breathing the salty fresh air, and breathtaking ocean view will make this a unique experience.

Besides that, the Pacific Park will make this ten times more adventurous with its Ferris wheel.

Kids are the heart of the pier, and the majestic rides ensure kids have the most fun.

And the majestic merry-go-round ride is perfect for families, and riding with your family will strengthen the bond.

All of this adventure will help in building stronger connections and stronger bonds with shared interests. 

Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier, California 90401

3. Have a Family Adventure at Hollywood: Walk of Fame (Celebrities & Museums & Records)

Hollywood is the mother of adventures that will give you jaw-dropping experiences exploring this beauty.

You will experience the most significant wax that hosts celebrities’ wax mummies, and kids will enjoy seeing their heroes.

Besides that, you will also feel like a celebrity when walking on the red carpet and taking pictures.

In addition, the Madame Tussauds Museum is also for history lovers to see their favorite scientist wax mummies.

And the Guinness World records museum will take your breath away by seeing the unbreakable records of geniuses.

The favorite thing that the family enjoys is measuring their height and weight with the world’s famous record makers.

Along the walk of fame, give your family a chance to soak in the art of Dolby Theater because art fills life with beautiful colors.

Address: Hollywood Boulevard, Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90028, United States

4. Enjoy a day out at Six Flags Mountain (Thrilling Rides & Family Memories)

Six Flags is undoubtedly the mountain and beacon of adventure and fun with its thrilling rides and attractions.

Naturally, everyone wants to race, and the pacific speedway, with its formula cars, has turned this dream into reality.

You can drive your go-kart and race against your family, giving you a blast with the kids.

And if you are not a crazy car lover, enjoy the indoor classical bumping cars and the collision with other vehicles.

Another amazing adrenaline-fueling adventure is the jet stream and enjoying the scenic beauty.

Moreover, riding the roaring rapids, which are family-friendly, where you have to flow in the unpredictable currents.

The best thing is that you can make unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

Address: 26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Valencia, CA 91355

Also see our article on Dog-friendly Activities in California.

Family Activities in San Francisco, California

1. Visit the House of Air Trampoline Park & Café (Flight Experiences For Everyone)

Everyone desires to fly, and House of Air will give you the adrenaline-pumping flight experience you will get addicted to.

It’s a place where everyone can enjoy the beautiful ride, and you will get to learn how birds fly.

The one jump is the main attraction, where you jump and bounce on multiple trampolines surrounded by trampolined walls.

And the junior air flights where your kids can fly like an angel will make them happy.

You will also experience the best trampoline dodgeball game, where you have to claim your spot.

Besides that, you will get to learn climbing and improve your flying skills with high-performance beds.

Moreover, run, fly, or play; the trampoline will give you the most adventurous journey.

Address: 926 Mason St, San Francisco, California 94129, United States

2. Have Fun at The Walt Disney Museum (Discovering Disney’s Legacy)

You will fall in love with this majestic place; having extra space in your heart is crucial before visiting it.

Because here, you will get to know your favorite animated character, Mickey Mouse, and the creator of it, Walt Disney. 

And you will feel elevated seeing the original designs of Mickey and how they transformed your childhood.

Enjoy the beautiful galleries to gain insight into Disney’s legacy and his contributions to the kids and families.

Also, tour the museum exhibitions where the most famous art and other notable artists are displayed.

These arts give kids new ways of learning, and they will fill their hearts with love and joy.

The museum also offers virtual tours where anyone can look into the man’s life.

Address: 104 Montgomery St, San Francisco, California 94129

3. Go for Art Visit at the California Academy of Sciences (Nature & Evolution & Wild Photography)

Nature heals and restores love and improves bonding, but learning and understanding nature is essential.

You will experience life-changing moments by visiting the museum that hosts the aquarium and land nature under one roof.

The iconic Steinhart Aquarium Exhibition is where you will get close to the world’s venomous fish and bugs.

But you will love nature seeing the Osher Rainforest, which hosts plenty of butterflies, free-flying animals, and reptiles.

It is also home to many flora species, and this rainforest sparks curiosity about seeing these beautiful species.

Moreover, evolution has always been a significant concern, and visiting the water plant will help us understand animal evolution.

And the fantastic exhibition of wild animal photography is enjoyable.

Also, sharing common interests make beautiful memories and rebuilds the family foundation.

Address: 55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118, United States

4. Go for a Picnic at Golden Gate Park (Scenic Beauty & Diverse Attractions)

With its beauty and mesmerizing attractions, Golden Gate Park always has something unique to offer which makes you believe in love.

The sight of the stow lake offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean from the strawberry hills.

And going down the island, the historic botanical garden with its ancient species boosts the mental growth of kids. 

In addition, the Japanese tea garden and unique tea house will take your breath away.

Moreover, family growth depends on children’s mental and physical development.

Also, the Koret playground is full of adventures for the kids to explore and help them learn new things.

Besides this, with its creative artwork, de Young Museum ignites the kids with curiosity and creativity.

Address: Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, California

Also see our article on Indoor Activities in California.

Family Activities in San Diego, California

1. Take a Family Tour of Belmont Park (Beachfront Park With Giant Rides)

The premium amusement beachfront park is full of attractions and gigantic rides that will give an adrenaline-pumping adventure.

Enjoy the giant roller coaster ride with a speed of 48 mph and different turns to make you fly like an eagle.

Moreover, kids enjoy the best of their time when allowed to control their speed and directions.

And park offers rides that let the kids enjoy as much as they like.

Besides that, ziplining offers to enjoy the stunning park views while you fly over the park.

In addition, the rock wall and sky ropes are beautiful additions to your memory and help you prepare for struggle. 

Overall, Belmont Park is full of activities and attractions that help kids to grow mental and physical health.

Address: 3146 Mission Blvd, San Diego, California 92109

2. Go for San Diego Whale Watch (Educational Whale-Watching Tours)

Whale watching is a desire that grows in the hearts of everyone, but now it’s time to turn this desire into a beautiful memory.

San Diego Whale Watch offers unique opportunities for families and students to learn about the marine ecosystem.

You can enjoy watching the whales on a three-hour trip, and the marine biologist will educate the students about them.

And whales of different species admire you all year.

Make this adventure a memory by getting on the private boat and getting close to the whales and dolphins.

During whale watching, you can also enjoy the catering making this a mesmerizing experience.

Planning a private whale-watching tour with your loved ones will spark a sense of happiness and further strengthen the families.

Address: 1380 Harbor Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92101

3. Visit the Old Town San Diego (History & Shopping & Dining)

Old Town San Diego is known for its history and rich culture, which admired the wanderers for centuries.

You can immerse yourself in the mesmerizing adventures the park has to offer.

Enjoy live entertainment with your family at the old town theatre and classical and musical plays.

And there’s the Wells Fargo Museum which contains several historical artifacts and information about the stagecoach.

Besides this, the families love shopping in the most historically admired park.

Although the buildings look old, it is still a jewel for families looking for adventure. 

Moreover, the park also provides some classical dining options, making this adventure unforgettable.

Address: 4002 Wallace St, San Diego, California 92110

Also see our article on Outdoor Activities in California.

Family Activities in Oakland, California

1. Spend Family Time at Oakland Zoo (Interactive Zoo For Family Fun)

Oakland Zoo provides breathtaking attractions for the kids, which are essential for the health and nurturing of the family.

And Wayne and Gladys Children’s Zoo encourages and boosts their confidence to help learn through exploration.

It also offers different educational classes to kids and lets them have a close encounter with animals.

Also, riding the spectacular zoo will be a thrilling adventure.

You can also enjoy the breathtaking tropical rainforest and wildlife views with your family.

Besides this, having a picnic at the zoo makes this visit complete.

Oakland Zoo offers Snow Building a spectacular bay view, perfect for family get-togethers and special occasions.

Address: 9777 Golf Links Rd, Oakland, CA 94605, United States

2. Have Science Fun at the Chabot Space & Science Center (Astronomy & Family Events

It’s a common desire to know space’s hidden truths, and everyone strives to get the complete knowledge they can.

And Chabot Space is the platform that offers learning and growing opportunities to students and families.

The Planetarium will make you fly to the upper atmosphere or far beyond the stars, or you can see the pure night sky.

Chabot’s Planetarium will make you see the beauty of the Milkyway and surrounding galaxies.

In addition, NASA Ames Center challenges kids’ abilities and provides them with new learning opportunities.

Besides that, the telescope viewing of the night sky will elevate your soul.

Along with this, it also hosts family events to make them learn new things and will broaden their horizon.

Address: 10000 Skyline Blvd. Oakland, California 94619

3. Go for a Picnic at Tilden Regional Park (Picnics & Hiking & Merry-Go-Round)

Tilden Regional Park offers the best places to enjoy fun and beautiful days with families.

Here, the kids will enjoy feeding the historical farm animals.

And the mesmerizing attractions of the botanical gardens made it a “living museum” because it offers native plant species.

Also Environmental Education Center exhibits the history and culture of the park, and you will feel elevated.

The park also offers family-friendly hiking trails to the park hill areas to make your journey worthwhile.

Furthermore, the sandy beaches, swimming in the prestigious Lake Anza, and breathtaking views will make this adventurous.

Another thrilling attraction is the park’s antique merry-go-round that will make you feel complete.

Address: 2501 Grizzly Peak Blvd, Orinda, CA 94563

Also see our article on Kayaking in California.

Family Activities in San Jose, California

1. Develop Curiosity at Children’s Discovery Museum (Hands-On Learning & Creativity)

Children are full of ideas and creative thinking, and their implementation sparks a sense of curiosity and critical thinking.

At Children’s Discovery Museum, they gain hands-on learning experiences to discover new things or find scientific solutions.

It’s an excellent opportunity for families to ignite curiosity and problem-solving skills in children with fun.

Also, it gives the children free hands to develop thoughts and create the art of their beautiful minds.

And the rainbow market will fill these beautiful minds with colors, which helps develop creativity and cognitive skills. 

Besides this, outdoor activities engage the children through climbing, digging, and developing a bridge with nature.

Furthermore, the museum also arranges special events for exceptional children or those with autism.

Address: 180 Woz Way, San Jose, California 95110

2. Go for Water Park Fun at Raging Waters (Waterpark Adventures For Families)

The state-of-the-art waterpark’s vast rides and attractions will give a thrilling adventure. 

Raging Waters offers families an interactive water play area, the ultimate joy for the whole family.

Your kids need adventure, and wacky water is the place that allows them to splash in the water and make beautiful memories. 

Along with this, the swirly serpent rides from seven stories will give you an adrenaline-pumping adventure.

And riding with kids allows one to feel the same love and happiness.

Furthermore, another fantastic ride is the white shark, where you get out of the shark’s jaws and splash into the river.

Make it more adventurous by leisurely floating on the calm rivers, and you can relax with your family.

After endless adventures and making memories, fuel up with great raging water dining options.

Address: 2333 S White Rd, San Jose, California 95148, United States

3. Have a journey to the Winchester Mystery House (Mysterious Exploration & Activities)

Winchestor’s Mysterious House, with its history and architectural wonders, is an excellent site to explore its hidden wonders.

Inside the house, you will have the chance to walk with spirits and encounter the darkest secrets of the house.

Besides this, the breathtaking Victorian Gardens, with their hundreds of plant species and statues, are truly admirable.

The beautiful nature of the garden will bring families together and restore the bond.

And axe throwing is another recreational activity; getting into the competition will make you know your strengths and weaknesses.

Moreover, you can also aim for the bullseye with a shooting club, where antique guns will test your skills.

It’s a universal truth that families nurture when given unexpected happiness, and a mysterious gift shop offers to bring this joy.

Address: 525 S Winchester Blvd, San Jose, CA 95128

Also see our article on Safari in California.

Family Activities in Fresno, California

1. Go sightseeing at the Fresno Chaffe Zoo (Animal Encounters & Attractions)

Fresno Chaffee Zoo is the ultimate place for animal lovers, where you can encounter friendly-natured animals.

You will get to know vast animal species here, and seeing these unseen creatures will take your breath away. 

Children are good listeners and absorb things efficiently; learning about their favorite animal will spark curiosity.

The worth seeing sight is the sea lions clove, how fast they are inside the water and how slow they are out of water.

This unique behavior has made them distinct from other marine animals.

Besides this, it allows you to arrange your special gatherings with nature.

Another great attraction is wilderness falls, where children can enjoy a splash in the waterfall.

Address: 894 West Belmont Avenue, Fresno, California 93728

2. Visit the Forestiere Underground Gardens (Hidden Gem With Unique Plants)

Explore the hidden gem soaked in rich history and get goosebumps seeing this beautiful garden.

This unique garden and its interior were hand-crafted and without design.

You will enter a new world of creativity and beauty that will take your breath away.

And due to the Roman Architectural style, you will experience the sudden variation in temperature.

Moreover, the centuries-old unique fruit-producing plants add to the garden’s beauty.

Inside the gardens, you will also have the chance to for a Wonderland Easter celebration.

Forestiere Underground Garden is the perfect place to spark creativity and self-belief in the kids. 

Address: 5021 W. Shaw Ave, Fresno, CA 93722, US

3. Have Fun at Blackbeard’s Family Entertainment (Pirate-Themed Adventures & Fun)

Blackbeard’s is the place for thrilling adventures and offers a wide range of attractions with a pirate twist.

Ride with your family on the majestic bumper boats and experience the fun of crashing and splashing in the river.

And the long twisted water slide is the perfect source to eliminate stress and fill your heart with beautiful memories.

Furthermore, play an advanced level hide and seek with laser tag technology where you team up and learn new ways of having fun.

Also, there is an additional picnic area to gather to enjoy precious moments with your loved ones.

The unique adventurous miniature golf course will indulge kids and adults in its beauty.

Moreover, Blackbeard will make your day a loving memory.

Address: 4055 N Chestnut Diagonal, Fresno, CA 93726

If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Attractions, Amusement Parks, and National Parks in California.

Looking beyond California? Check out our article on the best Family Activities in Florida and Texas.