5-day SF trip in April

Question

Hello.

Planning a 5-day trip with a middle schooler from LA to SF in mid April.

Thinking about visiting downtown SF, Alcatraz, Sausalito, Muir Woods, Googleplex, UC Berkeley

Any good iternary suggestions to bundle things together? Any other spots for us to consider?

Hotel suggestions are welcome as well.

Thank you!

Answer

For a 5-day trip to San Francisco with a middle schooler, it’s best to plan by neighborhoods and proximity to minimize travel time and maximize enjoyment. Here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Downtown & Waterfront

Explore Union Square for shopping and people-watching.
Walk through Chinatown and North Beach (Little Italy) for cultural experiences and snacks.
Visit the Ferry Building Marketplace for lunch and local treats.
Evening stroll along the Embarcadero and enjoy views of the Bay Bridge lights.

Day 2: Alcatraz & Fisherman’s Wharf

Take a morning ferry to Alcatraz Island (book tickets in advance).
After returning, explore Fisherman’s Wharf: Pier 39 sea lions, shops, and street performers.
Consider a quick visit to the Musée Mécanique for vintage arcade fun.
Enjoy clam chowder in a sourdough bowl for lunch or dinner.

Day 3: Sausalito & Muir Woods

Drive or take a ferry to Sausalito in the morning; stroll along the waterfront, check out galleries, and enjoy lunch.
Head to Muir Woods National Monument to walk among the giant redwoods (arrive early to avoid crowds).
Return to SF in the late afternoon and relax in the hotel or explore a local neighborhood.

Day 4: UC Berkeley & Googleplex

Drive to UC Berkeley in the morning, explore the campus, and check out the Lawrence Hall of Science if interested in interactive exhibits for kids.
Afterward, drive to the Googleplex in Mountain View for photos and a quick look at the campus (note: public access is limited, but the visitor area is fine for sightseeing).
Consider stopping at Stanford University campus on the way back for a brief visit.

Day 5: Golden Gate Park & Optional Activities

Visit Golden Gate Park: California Academy of Sciences, Japanese Tea Garden, and playgrounds.
Optional visit to de Young Museum or take a pedal boat on Stow Lake.
Afternoon drive across the Golden Gate Bridge and stop for photos at viewpoints such as Battery Spencer or Marin Headlands.

Other fun spots to consider if time allows:

Exploratorium – a hands-on science museum for all ages.
Ghirardelli Square for chocolate treats.
Coit Tower for panoramic city views.
Ride a historic cable car, especially from Powell Street to Fisherman’s Wharf.

Hotel Suggestions:

Downtown/Union Square: Hotel Nikko, Parc 55, or Hilton San Francisco Union Square – convenient for public transit and walking to shops and restaurants.
Fisherman’s Wharf: Hotel Zephyr or Holiday Inn Express – great if you want to be near the waterfront and Alcatraz ferries.
Marina District: Argonaut Hotel – boutique feel and close to Golden Gate Bridge views.

Tips:

San Francisco traffic can be heavy; consider using public transit (MUNI, BART) where possible.
Book Alcatraz tickets and Muir Woods parking in advance.
Layered clothing is essential in April due to varying microclimates.

This itinerary balances sightseeing, nature, and interactive activities, keeping the trip enjoyable for a middle schooler while allowing the adults to see the city’s highlights.

5-day SF trip in April

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