Kid Museums North Bay

The Bay Area Discovery Museum in Sausalito is a premier hands-on museum for young children, set in a stunning location overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge. Designed to inspire creativity and curiosity, it features interactive indoor and outdoor exhibits that encourage exploration of art, science, nature, and imaginative play. Kids can climb, build, experiment with water, and engage in sensory-rich activities, while the expansive outdoor spaces include a tidepool-inspired play area and nature trails. With its focus on learning through play and discovery, the museum provides a fun, engaging environment that nurtures curiosity, problem-solving, and a love of the natural world.

The Children’s Museum of Sonoma County in Santa Rosa is a playful, hands-on museum designed to spark imagination and learning through exploration. Kids can climb, build, and create in exhibits that blend science, art, and nature, from the interactive Science & Imagination Gallery to the outdoor garden and play spaces. Highlights include the Water Works area, where children experiment with flowing water, and Mary’s Garden, a vibrant outdoor space that connects kids to the natural world. With its focus on discovery through play, the museum offers a welcoming and engaging environment for families to learn and explore together.

The Bay Model Visitor Center in Sausalito is a fascinating educational facility that showcases a working hydraulic scale model of the San Francisco Bay and Delta. Operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the model demonstrates how tides, currents, and water flow affect the Bay’s complex ecosystem. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, watch detailed demonstrations, and learn about water management, environmental conservation, and the region’s maritime history. With its unique combination of hands-on learning and real-world engineering insight, the Bay Model Visitor Center offers an engaging experience for families, students, and anyone curious about the science behind the Bay Area’s waterways.

The Charles M. Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa celebrates the life and work of the beloved “Peanuts” cartoonist. Visitors can explore original comic strips, sketches, and rotating exhibits that highlight Schulz’s creative process and the enduring legacy of his characters, from Charlie Brown to Snoopy. The museum also features a sculpture garden and interactive spaces where children can draw and engage with the art of cartooning. With its mix of history, art, and playful inspiration, the Charles M. Schulz Museum offers a fun and educational experience for fans of all ages, capturing the heart and humor of Schulz’s iconic work.

Sonoma TrainTown Railroad in Sonoma is a family-friendly miniature railroad park that brings the magic of trains to life. Featuring a quarter-scale steam train that winds through scenic gardens, tunnels, and bridges, the park delights children and adults alike. With additional attractions like a petting zoo and carnival rides, TrainTown offers a fun and memorable day of hands-on entertainment for the whole family.