In addition to the obvious choices, such as attending a summer camp or visiting Sequoia National Park, Northern California has a host of other activities specifically created to cater to children. These include museums and theme parks, some of which are non-profit and designed to promote learning. These facilities also have accommodations for birthday parties and groups.
The Pixieland Amusement Park, located in the northwestern suburbs of San Francisco, is a great choice for young children. Rides in the park include a miniature train, carousel, roller coaster, tea cups, airplanes and antique cars. Special deals include packages for birthday parties and school field trips. The days the park is open varies according to the time of the year, but it is almost always open - except for holidays - on Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to either 4:30 or 5 p.m. Its Kids Cafe serves a variety of food items, drinks and ice cream. Coupons are available and the Pixieland Amusement Park hosts special events, including a Halloween Spooktacular. Groups can also order speciality pizzas in advance.
Pixieland Amusement Park
2740 E. Olivera Rd.
Concord CA 94519
925-676-9612
pixieland.com
The Discovery Museum can be found in the northwestern corner of the state in the town of Eureka along the Pacific Coast. It is a non-profit museum for children with interactive exhibits and programs in the fields of science, art, culture and technology. The goal of the museum is to teach and promote a willingness for children to learn. Exhibits include the S.S. Discovery in which children become the captain of a tall ship. Another is a bicycle on which children pedal to the point they are able to light a street signal. Its Every Body Eats exhibit explains the science of making healthy food choices.
The museum has special accommodations for birthday parties and provides special programs for school field trips. It is open every day but Monday to either 4 or 7 p.m.
Discovery Museum
501 Third St.
Eureka, CA 95501
707-443-9694
discovery-museum.org
Fairy Tale Town is a non-profit organization and a two and a half-acre children's play park and outdoor museum located William Land Park in Sacramento, Opened in 1959, Fairytale Town has more than 25 colorful play sets with themes of many popular children's stories. Children can meet Peter Rabbit at Mr. McGregor's Garden or join Robin Hood's band of Merry Men in Sherwood Forest's large play fort. Fairytale Town's King Arthur's Castle also hosts birthday parties. Annual membership fees along with park discounts are available. It also hosts year-round special events and live theater performances. A special admission rate is available for field trips that come to Fairytale Town. The park is open from either 9 or 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., depending on the time of the year.
Fairytale Town
3901 Land Park Dr.
Sacramento, CA 95822
916-808-5233
fairytaletown.org
