Alta Plaza Park
This hilltop park has a well-loved playground, terraced lawns and wide city views, plus tennis courts and grassy slopes. It’s a short stroll from the Fillmore Street shops.
Lafayette Park
This hillside park has a fully fenced playground with five slides and a water feature, sunny lawns and bay views from the top. A peaceful break in the middle of Pacific Heights.
Salesforce Park
This 5.4-acre rooftop park has walking trails, gardens, a play area and a bus-activated fountain, and a free gondola takes you up. It’s free and hosts lots of free family programs.
Moscone Recreation Center
This large neighborhood rec complex has children’s play areas, ball fields, tennis and basketball courts, and open lawns, plus youth classes and sports. A Marina go-to for playdates.
South Park
This oval park tucked between 2nd and 3rd Streets was redesigned with playful seating, a small play area and shaded paths. It’s a peaceful break from busy SoMa, with cafes nearby for picnic supplies.
Yerba Buena Gardens
This green space in the middle of downtown has a children’s garden, a playground, a vintage carousel and lawns for picnics. The free festival season brings family shows and music, and several museums are a short walk away.
Mission Dolores Park
Sloping lawns give kids plenty of room to run, and the skyline views are big. Families head for the Helen Diller Playground, which has a tall curving slide, climbing structures and sand play. It’s also a favorite spot for weekend picnics.