Family & kid-friendly

Some places are made for kids. Places to explore, discover new things and ideas… discover

Experience ocean life up close

Monterey Bay Aquarium
Entering the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a stunning experience. More than 35,000 creatures representing over 550 species fill 34 major galleries. With nearly 200 exhibits in all, the Aquarium is a window to the wonders of the ocean and the Monterey Bay.
886 Cannery Row, Pacific Grove

Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center
Located just steps away from the ocean and the Santa Cruz Wharf, the center features state-of-the art exhibits and interactive displays highlighting the sanctuary and its incredible underwater environment.
35 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz (831) 421-993 Open Wednesday-Sunday 10-5pm

Seymour Marine Discovery Center
This breathtaking seaside center brings the adventures and explorations of ocean science to life. Powered by the Long Marine Laboratory, a world-renowned university research facility, the Seymour Center offers hands-on immersion into the world of ocean exploration and discovery. Touch a shark, explore the latest discoveries in ocean science, and take in the spectacular Monterey Bay.
100 Shaffer Road, Santa Cruz (831) 459-3800 Open Tuesday-Sunday 10-5pm

Science Sundays
Join this public lecture on the third Sunday of every month (except December) from a marine scientist who presents current research and topics in an entertaining and easy-to-understand format. Recommended for ages 10 and older. 1-2:30pm
Seymour Marine Discovery Center. 100 Shaffer Rd, Santa Cruz (831) 459-3800

Learn what life is like on the farm

2nd Saturday on the Farm
On the second Saturday of every month, the Agricultural History Project Center & Museum in Watsonville (at the entrance of the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds) hosts a family event that focuses on a particular area of agriculture. Learn to milk a life-size wooden cow with rubber udders, sit in the seat and control the steering wheel of a John Deere tractor. 11-3pm
Watsonville Fairgrounds, 2601 East Lake (831) 724-5898

Wilder Ranch Tour
Discover California’s early ranching history and experience what life was like a century ago on this former dairy ranch. Explore the 1897 Victorian home, 1859 Gothic Revival farmhouse and an 1896 water-powered machine shop. Bring a picnic to enjoy on the front lawn, and visit the farm animals. With more than 35 miles of trail, you can adventure into the Santa Cruz Mountains or walk along the coastal bluffs.Santa Cruz County residents voted to protect the ranch from development in 1969 and it became a state park. Hour long tours on weekends at 1pm. Call co confirm (831) 423-9703

Take a guided family hike in the redwoods

Big Basin State Park
The California Department of Parks and Recreation hosts a series of guided hikes that are great opportunities for you and the kids to enjoy the wonders of nature.
20580 Big Basin Highway, Boulder Creek

Henry Cowell Redwoods
Take a fun and informative stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree.
Henry Cowell Redwood Park

See more Guided hikes
And Walking paths

Explore nature & history

Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History
The Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History has connected people to nature for over 100 years. Located above Seabright Beach, the museum highlights the region’s diverse plant, animal, and human communities. Exhibits, workshops, summer camps. 1305 East Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz (831) 420-6115

Science Saturday
Family friendly events that have a variety of hands-on science activities for guests of all ages to participate in. Admission for all is FREE on Science Saturdays, the last Saturday of the month, during the school year. 10-3pm
Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History 165 Forest Ave (831) 648-5755

Creative play

Santa Cruz Children’s Museum of Discovery
The MOD is made for kids. It is dedicated to educational activities that are fun and inspirational. The exhibits and play areas are designed and using STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math). MOD offers classes, workshops and special programs.
1855 41st Ave, Capitola (In the Capitola Mall near the food court. (888) 424-8035

Sunday Seaside Crafts
Every Sunday, create and take home a fun souvenir. 1-3pm
Seymour Marine Discovery Center. 100 Shaffer Rd, Santa Cruz (831) 459-3800

Eco-guide to living lighter

Family adventures

Family adventures

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