Kid-friendly landmarks

AT&T Park

Young baseball fans will love getting behind the scenes here, where they'll get to visit the dugouts, the batting cages, and press box, among other off-limits areas. Tours daily at 10:30 and 12:30. Ask about private tours if those times don't work for you.

Cable Cars

Kids will love the thrill of descending the Hyde Street hill, and parents can enjoy the stupendous bay views. To avoid the lines, avoid catching the cable car at either end of the line--just hop on at a stop midway. Real cable car buffs should make a detour to the Cable Car Museum to see the cable system at work and discover the full story (1201 Mason St.; 415-474-1887; www.cablecarmuseum.org).

Alcatraz

Indulge your kids' fascination with the dark side with a visit to this island prison. Parents will also find it surprisingly interesting. Note: Though older kids will love the stories about Al Capone and the Birdman of Alcatraz, the audio-guide's embellishments--clanking chains, yelling, alarms--may frighten young children.

Hyde Street Pier

If your little one is an aspiring pirate, then pop over to the Hyde Street Pier, where they can check out some impressive historic ships up close.

Marina Green

This vast stretch of grass by the bay is prime kite-flying, soccer-kicking, frisbee-throwing, cartwheeling land. Admire the boats in the nearby harbor, then stroll a few blocks up to Chestnut Street for a snack. Bring a sweater because the wind can really pick up here.

Fort Point

Kids can enjoy playing soldiers in this Civil War-era fort, watch cannon-loading demonstrations and learn about the life of a soldier way back when. Grab a snack for your hungry little soldier just down the road at the Warming Hut.

San Francisco Zoo

Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! But also tottering baby giraffes, a gorilla preserve, a children's zoo, and plenty of other creatures that will captivate young children.