Skip to content

Don Edwards SF Bay National Wildlife Refuge

ExploreFremont, East Bay4.3/5

About This Place

The largest urban wildlife refuge in the US with easy trails for bird watching, salt marsh exploration, and nature education. The visitor center has great exhibits about the Bay ecosystem. Perfect for introducing kids to wetland wildlife.

Info

Age Range

All Ages

Venue Type

Outdoor

Price Level

Free

Best Time

Morning for bird watching, fall and winter migration season

Parking

Free parking at the visitor center on Marshlands Road.

Tips

Bring binoculars for bird watching. The Tidelands Trail is an easy 1.3-mile loop. Guided walks on weekends are free.

Stroller FriendlyChanging StationDining On Site--Reservation Needed--

Tags

wildlifebirdsnaturefreewetlands
Official Website

Location

Fremont, East BayGet Directions

Similar Places

Muir Woods National Monument

explore
Mill Valley4.8

An awe-inspiring old-growth coastal redwood forest just 30 minutes from SF. The main boardwalk trail is flat and stroller-friendly, winding through towering 250-foot trees. A must-do Bay Area experience for families.

All AgesOutdoor$
natureredwoodshikingnational-monumentscenic

Monterey Bay Aquarium

explore
Monterey4.8

One of the world's best aquariums with breathtaking exhibits including a massive kelp forest, sea otter exhibit, and Open Sea tank. The Splash Zone area is designed specifically for toddlers with touchpools and interactive play.

All AgesIndoor$$$
aquariumoceanottersday-tripworld-class

Point Reyes National Seashore

explore
Point Reyes Station4.8

A stunning coastal wilderness with tide pools, elephant seals, whale watching, and the iconic Point Reyes Lighthouse. The Bear Valley Visitor Center has junior ranger programs. Drakes Beach is calm and perfect for families.

All AgesOutdoorfree
naturebeachwildlifelighthousehiking

Crissy Field & Palace of Fine Arts

explore
San Francisco4.7

A gorgeous waterfront promenade with stunning Golden Gate Bridge views, a sandy beach, marsh, and the majestic Palace of Fine Arts. Kids love flying kites, feeding ducks at the Palace lagoon, and playing on the beach. Free!

All AgesOutdoorfree
beachgolden-gatefreewaterfrontpalace