With low-cost airlines serving San Francisco and Oakland, northern California has several options for top-value family getaways within a short drive of either airport that feel like deluxe vacations.
Visiting the San Francisco Bay Area on business and need a relaxing weekend nearby? We’ve explored the San Mateo and Marin Counties, plus Carmel, Monterrey, Pt. Reyes, and Sacramento to find places where your family can afford two nights at a nice hotel without busting your vacation budget.
All around the northern part of California, there are fresh sightseeing, entertainment and lodging options that won’t completely empty your pockets, so read on!
San Mateo County, California Weekend Getaway
Including varied attractions such as Redwood City and Palo Alto, San Mateo County is south of the airport between San Francisco and San Jose. Hotel prices are cheaper than in the city, especially on weekends, and many fine museums, farms and small sights will keep the kids busy.
Get your bearings in the San Mateo County History Museum (2200 Broadway, Redwood City 94043; 650/299-0104), an interactive museum that is really kid-friendly. Housed in the former county courthouse, this impressive structure is on the National Historic Register of Historic Places and its exquisite stained-glass dome is thought to be the largest in a Pacific Coast public building. Exhibits include Nature’s Bounty exploring how early people used natural resources for day to day life and build San Francisco, and ;Journey to Work exhibit on how transportation transformed the county from a frontier into a suburb, an exhibition on the Immigrant Experience in San Mateo County. Keep an eye out for Ships of the World, a remarkable exhibit of over 20 meticulously crafted model ships created by a local ship enthusiast.
Don’t miss the Hiller Museum of Aviation (601 Skyway Road, San Carlos 94070; 650/654-0200). The museum more than 40 aircraft, exhibits, and interactive displays. It also showcases an extraordinary collection of “flying machines” beginning with an Avitor (the first controlled power unmanned aeroplane) dating from 1869, before the Wright Brothers ever dreamed of flying, to experimental robotic Blended Wing aircrafts. In fact, the museum is dedicated to “dreams of flight: past, present and future” with a focus on unique technological innovations and innovators.
The expansive Main Gallery is the heart of the facility, and several of the vehicles on display were designed and built by Stanley Hiller, Jr. who began his career as an entrepreneur at age 18 with the Hiller XH-44 “Hiller-Copter.” Other highlights of the collection include gliders dating from the early 1900s; an Aerocycloid (a cycle-like vehicle that attempted vertical lift) built in 1908; biplanes, wind tunnels; the Little Looper (the first American plane used for aerobatics) dating from 1914; a rotocycle and Hiller’s “Flying Platform,” among other antique crafts.
Some more contemporary pieces include the 1969 Lockheed Quiet Star, an early example of stealth technology and the 1988 super-secret Boeing Condor, a robotic flying aircraft. Exhibits on the future of aviation include information on “hypersoar” planes that will travel beyond the atmosphere into space at hypersonic speed, conserving fuel and decreasing flight delays. Sounds like an innovative idea, especially for all those stressed-out frequent fliers.
It’s worth stopping at the Burlingame Museum of Pez Memorabilia (214 California Drive, Burlingame 94010; 650/347-2301). This is the only place in the world where you can see over 500 Pez dispensers that have been produced since 1952 and the World’s Largest Pez Dispenser. Share your memories of these with your kids, and also introduce them to many of your favorite playthings including Mr. Potato Head, Tinker Toys, Lincoln Logs, View-Masters and Erector Sets on view at the adjacent Classic Toy Museum.
Discover a wide variety of lodging in the area. We stayed at the appropriately named Bay Landing Hotel (1550 Bayshore Highway, Burlingame 94010; 650/259-9000) which is a short van ride from the airport. A paved walkway around the grounds offers great views of the water and of the airport activity. The rooms are very comfortable and come equipped with a small refrigerator, microwave and coffee maker, as well as complimentary high-speed internet access. There is an on-site fitness center, and the plentiful complimentary buffet breakfast can be eaten in the dining area, or outside on a lovely terrace overlooking the bay. Rates for a family of four are $149/N for a room and $249/N for a suite depending on the season and promotion.
Other nearby hotels include the San Francisco Airport Marriott in Burlingame, the Sofitel San Francisco Bay in Redwood City, and the Four Seasons Palo Alto. The latter houses the very elegant Quattro Restaurant, a romantic spot for a date if you arrange for a babysitter.
Learn more in FTF’s Guide to San Mateo County. For more information on activities, restaurants and lodging, including pet-friendly hotels, parks, restaurants, beaches and nature trails, log on to www.VisitSanMateoCounty.com.
Carmel & Monterey Peninsula, California Weekend Getaway
Located south of Santa Cruz, this peninsula is one of the most beautiful, family-friendly regions in northern California, where fall and spring bring the lowest rates. Go on a picnic with seals and otters at the Seal Rock Picnic Center (17 Mile Drive, Pebble Beach 93953), ride a paddle boat at the Dennis the Menace Playground (Pearl Street, Monterey 93940) or leave on a whale-watching cruise from Fisherman’s Wharf (Old Fisherman’s Wharf, Monterey 93940).
While you’re there, you can also stop by the Point Pinos Lighthouse (Asilomar Avenue, Pacific Grove 93950) to learn how lighthouses are kept. For activities away from the water, you can visit the interactive M.Y. Museum (425 Washington Street, Monterey 93940; 831/649-6444) for children or go horseback riding in Carmel Valley.
The kids will love the refurbished Monterey Bay Aquarium (886 Cannery Row, Monterey 93940; 831/648-4800) featuring 200 galleries and over 35,000 animals. The aquarium celebrates its 30th Anniversary in 2014, and in recent years was voted the #1 aquarium for kids in the U.S. by Parents Magazine. Here your kids can touch various animals (all safe to be handled) at the Touch Pool and explore the “Splash Zone,” the first-ever children’s museum inside an aquarium. Other special exhibits open regularly and feature particular species — such as sharks — or habitats.
For more out-doorsy types with easygoing hikes and breathtaking view, Point Lobos State Reserve (Route 1, Carmel 93923; 831/624-4909), is located within a short driving distance. Golf and tennis buffs in your group will enjoy a drive inland through upscale Carmel Valley. This Old World town has absolutely no traffic lights, but boasts a world-class Bach Festival each summer.
The Four Sisters Inns operates two affordable and lovely B&Bs in the Monterey area. The Green Gables Inn (301 Ocean View Boulevard, Pacific Grove 93950; 800/722-1774), which claims to be California’s most famous inn, offers rooms with a view of the bay, a king bed, pullout sofa, and a futon mat on the floor. It was recently voted as one of the “Top 50 Small Hotels in the US” by readers of Conde Nast Traveler. There’s also the cozy Gosby House Inn, which is more for romantic getaways. Another option is The Hotel Carmel (Corner of 4th & San Carlos Street Carmel 93921; 855/622-7635) with rooms beginning at around $200/night. Amenities include fireplaces in some rooms, flat screen TVs, heated swimming pool and Continental breakfast delivered with the newspaper to your door.
Traveling with multiple generations? FTF’s North Coast Reunion: Carmel & Monterrey outlines the region’s attractions in detail. For further information log on to Monterey Peninsula Visitors and Convention Bureau (888/221-1010) and the Carmel Chamber of Commerce.
Point Reyes, California Weekend Getaway
At Pt. Reyes (1 Bear Valley Road, Point Reyes Station 94956; 415/464-5100), hike along beautifully maintained trails, go whale watching, see wild elk, play on the beach, horseback ride, and visit the many quaint little towns nearby. Pt. Reyes receives lots of visitors from the Bay Area, and it is no wonder why.
Its proximity, wealth of free outdoor activities, great restaurants, and affordability make it the perfect candidate for a weekend getaway. It wasn’t the setting for the popular film Sideways, but the caliber of fine dining and wining in this area will startle and delight parents. Best yet, it’s such a casual place that kids are welcomed to participate at many of the best restaurants.
At Hostelling International-Pt. Reyes (1390 Limantour Spit Road, Point Reyes 94956; 415/663-8811), a family room sleeping five is available for a minimal cost. This youth hostel is located in the center of the park, so families can hike right out the front door. Families looking for more service can contact Point Reyes Lodging (800/539-1872) for B&B’s in the walkable hamlet of Pt. Reyes Station or neighboring towns. Family oriented cottages have a price range of $165 to over $300/N. Prices vary between different seasons.
For an in-depth look at the region, check out FTF’s Guide to Pt. Reyes National Park, California.
Marin County, California Weekend Getaway
Another beautiful — nearby but less expensive — location is San Rafael, where you can stay at the newly renovated Four Points Sheraton (1010 Northgate Drive, San Rafael, CA 94903; 866/716-8126). It offers a good base for San Francisco city sightseeing, and an affordable alternative for families. This hotel is situated in the center of the city, near San Francisco and attractions such as the Civic Center designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and the Mission San Rafael Archangel. As a guest you can enjoy the amenities offered, which include babysitting services, a pool, rooms featuring 32-inch LCD HD televisions, bathrooms with granite topped sinks, and laundromat and dry cleaning services. The hotel is also home to the new restaurant Marin Steak & Spirits Company, where guests can dine inside or outside, depending on the weather. Check out their rates starting around $150/N. They have special offers as well, including discounts for AARP and AAA members.
An FTF Blogger reports on his family visit to San Marin, California here. To find out more about the attractions and accommodations in Marin County visit the Visitors Bureau.
Sacramento, California Weekend Getaway
The state capital of Sacramento is especially fun for families traveling with infants and toddlers, as reported by busy grandparents Mel and Ronnie Greenberg in FTF’s Guide to Sacramento, California.
Year round, families can visit the Governor’s Mansion (1526 H Street, Sacramento 95814; 916/808-7000), the impressive California State Railroad Museum (Second and I Streets, Sacramento 95814;916/445-6645), the Crocker Art Museum (216 O Street, Sacramento 95814; 916/264-5423), and the Aerospace Museum of California (3200 Freedom Park Drive, McClellan 95652; 916/643-3192). Sacramento is also known for its many professional and semi-professional theater groups and arts presentations.
What about the Gold Rush? It’s been over 150 years since fortune hunters came in search of the elusive metal, but with few reminders of this storied past, the city offers savvy travelers its Sacramento Gold Card. Exclusively for registered hotel guests, the free discount card uses smart card technology to provide special offers at dozens of participating restaurants (including the Hard Rock Cafe), attractions (like the Railroad Museum) and retailers (such as the Westfield Shoppingtown Mall).
For a great hotel to check into, try the Best Western Sutter House (1100 H Street, Sacramento 95814; 800/780-7234, 916-441-1314), convenient to sightseeing at Sutter’s Fort and the Governors Mansion. This AAA-three-diamond-rated hotel offers a double with two queen beds, free breakfast, a pool, and Internet access, with rates from $132/N depending on the season. Kids 17 and under stay free.
Annually from mid-August to early September, the town goes all out for Cal Expo (1600 Exposition Boulevard, Sacramento 95815 916/263-FAIR), the California State Fair and the state’s biggest dining and entertainment bargain. Major artists, nightly performances, fabulous cooking, lots of 4H shows, what more could a family need? Check out the Sacramento C&VB site for more information.
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Dr. Artinian, thank you so much for posting that memory. How exciting it must have been, to share the skies with Apollo 11. I agree that today it seems like a remarkable achievement but of course we have not worked together, so hard for so long, on other projects that really need to be addressed. Education is one place to start!
The Lunar Landings
As I was landing in the northern desert of Saudi Arabia in a DC3 plane on July 20, 1969, the Americans were landing on the moon. That evening, the staff of Badana Base Hospital, that belonged to the Trans Arabian Pipeline Company (Tapline), were listening to the news, (Television was not available in the desert). They welcomed me as the new Internist at the hospital.
Soon I learned that the Saudis found it hard to believe that human beings could defile the moon by landing on it, which could have initiated the moon landing conspiracy theories, that persist today.
Now, 50 years later, the lunar landings were, and remain, the greatest achievement of humanity since the birth of intelligence on earth!
Boghos L. Artinian MD
Great information while traveling with children. Children safety first.
I want to do a car trip with my infant child and wife. But, I was afraid how can I travel with my infant child. After reading your blog I got some courage. Thanks for sharing such information. Thanks a lot.
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CORNING MUSEUM OF GLASS, NEW YORK
The Corning Museum of Glass – the world’s largest collection of glass – is showing “Journey to the Moon: How Glass Got Us There” and actual glassy pieces of moon meteorites to touch and see. For scavenger buffs, visitors to the museum can test their super-sleuthing skills and see if they can find the glass-tronaut hidden amongst the galleries.
Awesome Article!
Thanks for sharing..
DOUBLETREE BY HILTON TO TEST CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE DOUGH IN SPACE OVEN
In a partnership with Zero G Kitchen which is supplying a prototype space oven, and NanoRacks, a commercial space station company, Hilton’s DoubleTree brand is aiding efforts to bring freshly cooked food to the International Space Station. Some time in late 2019, their cookie dough hopes to be the source of the first fresh-baked chocolate chip cookie in space. Here’s more info about this and a cool student competition sponsored by Scholastic.
ok, thanks for the reply!
Thanks for sharing this! you’ll be able to do good as well as have fun and make a difference in the world. Whereas volunteer is always appreciated by all people.
Indeed, a good list. Everyday. At home or on the road.
hi Heather,
Thanks for your comment. We checked on those images and you’re right, that one with the pirate ship in the pool is not from the Bahia Resort. We removed it and checked the others, and the Bahia still has their famous Moorish style pool and pretty beachfront. Hope you have a great trip there.
Thank you Lisa d. So glad that Laura’s review of both Fairmont resorts helped you to make a choice, especially since you can’t really go wrong in Bermuda.
thank you I have been deciding between the two properties and your post was very helpful in my decision.
One of the pictures with a slide doesn’t look like the pool I remember seeing at the bahia. Did they add a new pool?
Dubai is an amazing destination for tourists from across the world. The city tour, desert safari and dhow cruise are among the most famous things to do in Dubai.
Thank you for sharing a really useful and informative article. The way you have detailed and described is really helpful. Hope to see more amazing articles like this. Keep it up to the good work!
Spring Break in Dubai is more exciting with Adventure Plus Desert Safari Dubai tours in Dubai
Great suggestions! The only action item Id say “Oh Hayyllll Nawww” to would be horse-drawn carriage rides. Check out the internet and youll see whats going on with those poor horses. But your other ideas for educational and just-plain fun – really excited to try them out with the family! Thank again.
Hello Omar and Katie,
The Scholasrship Submission form is working again, please revisit the page: https://myfamilytravels.com/Teen_travel_writing to apply for the 2019 Teen Travel Writing Scholarship.
Thanks and good luck!
I would love to participate but I keep getting page not found
Hello Omar, thank you for your note. We have noted this error and our web development team is working to fix it right away. We will let you know when it’s working again. Good luck!
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I am very interested in participating in this scholarship opportunity. However, every time I click on the essay submission form, it takes me to a ‘Page not found’ link and says that there is an error with the link. Is there another link that I could possibly submit my essay and photos?
I had a travel blog in the past. But I was going through a rough phase so I shut it down. This article has inspired me to start once again.
SCHLITTERBAHN OPENS INFINITY RACERS, A MAJOR SPACE-THEMED WATERSLIDE
June 7, Colonel Terry Virts, a U.S. Air Force test/fighter pilot and NASA veteran of two spaceflights, will dedicate the newest, only one of its kind, 8-story-tall waterslide at Schlitterbahn Galveston. Infinity Racers is a pair of space-themed, racing head-first mat slides that race through enclosed colorful tubes as long as three space stations.
Nice Post. Thanks for Sharing with us……
Right?? It’s like a dream. I really didn’t believe them at all when I heard that, but looked it up, and sure enough, it’s really that sunny! I can’t wait to head back to the area.
I’m not sure as the rates tend to vary depending on the season. It’s probably best to contact them directly – (727) 363-5100. If you’re curious about their overall rates, I would ask if the rate changes depending on the season, and when their high and low season is. Hope that helps!
I remember visiting KSC during my school days with my friends where we got to learn a lot of interesting things related to space and comsos.
My husband and I are actually scheduled to stay at the Sirata Resort, in just a few days. I was wondering, if you happened to know the cost for the Private Cabana Rentals, you mentioned in your article?? Thank You!!
great useful info you have shared , being a traveler i need it most and it’s really helpful for the first time travelers. thanks for sharing.
I think curious teens would love this road trip. If you schedule enough time for Santa Cruz — which has a great amusement park and places to take surf lessons, that could be a 2-3 day stay for you. Going south, the Hearst Castle with all its tales of intrigue and the story of William Randolph Hearst’s life… it’s pretty fun as house tours go.
The scenery along the Pacific Coast Highway is beautiful, too, if you think your son would enjoy that. At many points, he can look out and see surfers! Towns like San Luis Obispo (now hip enough that locals call it SLO) have become destinations for wine and craft beers, so there are lots of cafes with young people that are fun, even if you’re not drinking.
The whole California coast is special, so ask your son to do some research and pick out spots that interest him, then incorporate them into your itinerary. That way, he’ll have a vested interest in making sure the trip is fun.
Do you think a 13 yr old would like this trip?
MALDIVES AND THE MOON FOR OUR PACIFIC FRIENDS
This just in from the Maldives:
Anantara Kihavah Villas in the Maldives has the largest telescope and observatory in the Indian Ocean so it’s slated as one of the best places in the southern hemisphere to observe and study the stars, planets and the moon. And it’s the moon that is taking centre stage for festivities on July 20th as Anantara Kihavah commemorates the 50th anniversary of man’s landing on the moon. To celebrate, Anantara guests are invited to join Shameem, the islands’ resident Star Guru for a ‘Star Gazing’ breakfast. Lay back to gaze at the stars that glitter overhead, and be regaled by Shameem’s knowledge as he takes you on an intergalactic journey before taking a look through the powerful telescope at the craters on the moon that still amaze people 50 years after the first landing.
For guests who like a later start to the day the SKY Bartenders at Kihavah have created a complimentary cocktail for all guests to mark the occasion – The ‘Buzz’ Aldrin ……
Dubai is an awesome place to spend a great time with the loved one or alone be experiencing the local attractions. Thanks for the details, i have missed the dinner night which i will surely book this time and experience it. Keep posting!
I would definitely go for JURASSIC DINOSAUR DIG. Thanks for suggestions
So many good suggestions! It will be hard to choose but surely through these we will have the most beautiful memories in this summer vacation!
361 days of sunshine a year? Wow! It looks like it’s a perfect destination for families! I’ll be more interested in this place!
Glad that you have a great time and a better idea of Vietnam. If you came back, consider visiting Ninh Binh
We are a family who likes to travel and volunteer where possible. We give gifts of time and service. We find that finding small grass roots organisations when on the ground or at your destination creates the best win-win for all concerned. For example we taught English in a small village in Indonesia – https://sabretoothedchickenstour.wordpress.com/2016/01/09/it-takes-a-village/
In the end it is not the actual work you do as a volunteer that is of the greatest impact but the stereotypes you breakdown and the connections made 🙂
Camping holidays in France are extremely popular and you’ll find some fantastic family friendly campsites with a whole host of activities including some brilliant swimming pools.
NEW YORK HALL OF SCIENCE SUMMER MOON FESTIVAL
We’ve just heard that the New York Hall of Science (NYSCI) is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission with a summer filled with flight and space-themed exhibits, workshops, demonstrations, installations and a new film. The celebration kicks off on May 17 with Apollo 11: First Steps Edition, a film with never-before-seen footage and audio recordings of the historic mission. Other highlights include NYSCI’s summer exhibition, Above and Beyond – The Ultimate Flight Exhibition, and Apollo, A Party!, an evening event celebrating the Apollo 11 lunar landing. Check out their schedule for tons of workshops and special family events and go in to see a real Saturn V rocket like the one that took Apollo to the moon.
Man on the Moon in Zurich
The art exhibition “Fly Me to the Moon: The Moon Landing 50 Years On” will be featured at Kunsthaus Zurich in Switzerland, from May 4-June 30. The art show examines how the moon landing, and seeing images of the Earth from far away, changed man’s perception of his place in his environment and the universe. Look for moon works by artists John Russell, Rene Burri, Rene Magritte, Andy Warhol and many more.
Moon Walk Celebration in Ohio!
In southeast Ohio’s Hocking Hills region, the John Glenn Astronomy Park (JGAP) is celebrating its first birthday, while marking the 50th anniversary of the first lunar landing. The observatory has 12 telescopes that offer dark sky views due to a lack of light pollution, allowing visitors to discover a distinct view of the moons, planets, stars and galaxies at each visit. The #Apollo50 events begin at 4 p.m. EDT July 20, 2019 and end at 1 a.m. July 21, 2019.
Nice post. I am traveler and I like adventure trips. Its really amazing. I wish to go there one by one. Thanks for sharing about these parks.
Thank you for useful information. It is very detailed.
Traveling with kids is fun but also very tired as we have to take care of them and don’t have much time for ourselves. Sometime I prefer traveling alone.