10 Last-Minute Summer Kids Activities to Enjoy in the Bay Area Before School Starts

Summer always feels too short — especially when you’re a parent juggling work, camps, and the occasional “I’m bored” from the backseat. But there’s still time to squeeze in a few more memory-making adventures before the first bell rings.

Whether you’ve got a free afternoon or an open weekend, here are 10 fun, family-friendly kids activities in the Bay Area to wrap up summer on a high note.

1. Ferry Ride to Angel Island

Skip the traffic and take the ferry from Tiburon or San Francisco to Angel Island. Pack a picnic, rent bikes, or explore historic sites. The views of the Bay are breathtaking — and the ferry ride itself is half the fun.

2. Outdoor Movie Night at a Local Park

Cities like San Jose, Oakland, and San Francisco are still hosting free outdoor movies through August. Bring blankets, popcorn, and let the kids stay up a little later than usual.

3. Beach Day at Half Moon Bay

The weather’s warm enough for sandcastles and tide pooling. Bring a kite and make it a full day. Just remember — even in August, the Pacific is brisk!

4. Paddle Boating at Lake Merritt

Rent a paddle boat or kayak and enjoy a lazy afternoon on the water in the heart of Oakland. Bonus: the kids will sleep well after.

5. Explore the Randall Museum in San Francisco

Free admission, hands-on science exhibits, live animals, and panoramic city views — it’s a gem that even locals forget about.

6. Take a Day Trip to Santa Cruz

Boardwalk rides, arcade games, beach fun — this one’s a summer classic. Pro tip: go mid-week to avoid the biggest crowds.

7. Hike to Cataract Falls on Mt. Tam

Even in late summer, this shady trail is a kid-friendly adventure with plenty of spots to splash in the creek.

8. Picnic at Crissy Field

Watch the Golden Gate Bridge glow in the afternoon light while the kids play in the sand. It’s also a great kite-flying spot.

9. Ride the Tilden Park Steam Trains

For little train lovers, this is pure magic. Afterwards, explore the nearby carousel and Little Farm.

10. Ice Cream Crawl in Berkeley

From Ici to Tara’s Organic to Almare Gelato, pick three spots and let the kids “vote” on their favorite scoop.

Make Kids Activities Easy: Get More Local Ideas in One Tap

Finding last-minute adventures shouldn’t mean scrolling for hours. The Things to Do with Kids app has hundreds of Bay Area activities, updated daily — from hidden gems to big events — all in one place.

🎯 Download on the App Store🎯 Get it on Google Play

Spend less time searching and more time making memories before the school year starts.