by Katherine Paulson


When exploring San Francisco, a family has a lot of varied choices for entertainment. While the weather and traffic of this fine city are infamous in their inherent challenges, if properly planned, this city cannot be matched for family fun. Popular attractions such as the San Francisco Giants Major League Baseball team (AT&T Park), Alcatraz, and the San Francisco Zoo have long been family favorites. But here are three attractions that while you might not have heard of, shouldn't be missed for your next family vacation to San Francisco.

Perhaps one of the most popular attractions within San Francisco is the Exploritorium, located in the Palace of Fine Arts at 3601 Lyon Street at Marina Boulevard. Complete with hand-on family activities that promote and entice children of all ages (adults included) in the exploration of science and scientific discovery. Test your kids at the the "quietness" test or watch their faces drop when they make their own real tornado in the tornado making machine. Test your sense with the optical illusions that are scattered throughout the venue and even incorporated into the very design of the building itself. With hundreds of different interactive exhibits, your entire family will thank-you again and again for one of the most memorable days to their San Francisco vacation. For general information, directions, and ticket prices call (415) 561-0360 and for Tactile Dome reservations please call (415) 561-0362.

Enjoy a wonderful short ferry service will take you to the family destination of Marine World/Africa USA. Complete with mechanical dinosaurs, petting zoo, killer whale and dolphin shows, and many more exotic animals, even the most energetic kids will find themselves getting sleepy after an amazing day exploring all of the wildlife exhibits. With all types of animals shows, including a Lion and Tiger show, Shark Experience, and Sea Lion show, the whole day will quickly pass with all that there is to see and do. There are even animal rides on exotic creatures such as elephants and camels, and the kids can gently stroke their favorite farm animals in the "Gentle Jungle". Whatever your family wants to do, you can find it here at Marine World/Africa USA!

Teddy bear lovers will be in heaven by this factory and store complex where you and the kids will see the interesting workshops that bring these cuddly companions to life. It is nearly impossible to leave the premises to without a new furry friend. Call (415) 626-0781 for a tour schedule and more information. The Basic Brown Bear is located South of Market at 444 De Haro St.

There is no doubt that the San Francisco Zoo, The San Francisco Giants, and Fisherman's Wharf are time-honored and popular family attractions. But on your next trip to San Francisco, why not try something a little different in between visiting these attractions? Bring home stories that are slightly different to your neighbors by visiting the mind-blowing Exploritorium, playing with the exotic wildlife at Marine World/Africa USA, or watch how a real-live teddy bear factory operates. With all that there is to offer, San Francisco has more than enough for an entire lifetime of family fun!




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