Mike Broermann

Leave the work of planning an all-inclusive tour of San Francisco to the experts at San Francisco Comprehensive Shuttle Tours. This tour is regarded by many visitors as one of the best deals in town as it is the only small group shuttle tour that provides a separate tour guide (not the driver) to point out areas of interest and to answer your questions. Their two most popular packages are a 5-hour comprehensive tour with ferry cruise that includes such sites as Grace Cathedral, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Chinatown; and a two-hour tour that drives by the famous sites with no stops and includes views of Coit Tower, Crissy Field, and the financial district. Either way, you're sure to see it all without the stress of having to get there yourself!

The California Academy of Sciences is located in Golden Gate Park and offers the whole family a chance to learn about science in a new and entertaining way. Among the many popular exhibits and attractions are those focused on various types of fish and other aquatic life, the rain forests of the world, and the newly added roof garden. The spirit of scientific discovery is very much alive here, and that pursuit of knowledge will no doubt inspire your kids to not only ask more questions, but find the answers in this highly regarded facility.

If casting your fishing line out and nestling in a comfortable chair to wait for the big catch sounds like a great way to spend an afternoon, then make your way to the San Francisco Municipal Pier. This site not only offers good fishing, but better than average results await if you go crabbing for rock crabs. Bring a jacket as the winds are chilly on the pier no matter what time of year it is.