Playground Review: Elinor Friend Playground at San Francisco Zoo

Elinor Friend Playground

Sloat Blvd & Great Hwy, San Francisco, CA 94132

Pros:

• Separate areas for toddlers, preschoolers, and older children
• The toddler section is fenced in
• Infant swings are available in both the toddler and preschool sections
• Lots of fun themed climbing structures
• Adults can play with their toddlers on the preschool section climber and on larger slides

Cons:

• Even on sunny mornings the playground equipment can be very wet
• A lot of the area is unshaded
• Some small structures seem like they should have movement but don’t

Family Outing: Exploratorium

Exploratorium

Pier 15, The Embarcadero & Green St.

Visiting the Exploratorium is a great outing for San Francisco families with kids of various ages. It doesn’t really have enough activities targeted at the smallest tiny humans to recommend it as a typical toddler outing, but if you are taking a group of kids, here are the best suggestions for what to do with a toddler while there.

Neighborhood Spotlight: Inner Sunset

The Inner Sunset is a great neighborhood to explore with tiny humans of all ages!

Here is a breakdown by stage of some of my top picks in the area:

Play Space Review: Recess Urban Recreation

Recess Urban Recreation

470 Carolina St, San Francisco, CA 94107

I first took my tiny human to Recess when he was 8 months old. I visited as part of the Golden Gate Mother’s Group (GGMG) monthly weekend free play. I have returned for many similar visits as he has become a young toddler.

Pros:

• Separate gated space for crawlers and new walkers
• Large variety of age appropriate toys and activities
• Offers a variety of classes and other services for parents
• Has toddler friendly snacks for sale

Cons:

• Layout of the larger section can create trip hazards
• It would be hard to watch kids in both sections at the same time
• Membership or day pass typically required for entry
• Sensory lab not open during GGMG weekend play hours