Kid-friendly summer activities near BART
Take advantage of the outdoor activities at the Salesforce Park this summer. Photo courtesy of the Salesforce Transit Center.
Finding family-friendly activities is all the more important in the summer when the kids are out of school. Whether you seek playgrounds or hiking trails, there are several great options near BART, from San Francisco to the East Bay.
Use BART's Trip Planner for detailed routes and transit options.
San Francisco:
Beat the heat at the Mission Playground Splash Pad. Photo courtesy of Mission Local.
Cool off at the Mission Playground Splash Pad
The Mission Playground Splash Pad includes fenced-in play areas, bright community murals, an outdoor pool and a splash pad to help beat the heat. It’s located just 0.5 miles from 16th St. Mission in San Francisco.
Enjoy the colorful ambiance at the 24th and York Mini Park. Photo courtesy of the SF Parks Alliance.
Have a picnic at the 24th and York Mini Park
This Mission District park features a giant mosaic serpent sculpture that winds through water spray zones. You’ll also find a small picnic area and park benches for relaxation. This neighborhood park is 0.6 miles from 24th St. Mission in San Francisco.
Enjoy the family-friendly activities that take place throughout the year at Salesforce Park. Photo courtesy of Salesforce Transit Center.
Stroll through the above-ground Salesforce Park
The Salesforce Park Playground in San Francisco is an urban outdoor space four stories above the ground. Stretching nearly 4 blocks, the 5.4-acre rooftop park includes a bamboo grove, a bus fountain, a children’s play area, a walking trail and special events throughout the year. The park is just a block from Embarcadero and Montgomery St. BART stations.
Hike uphill to see the panoramic views at the Bernal Heights Summit Trail. Photo courtesy of the Bold Italic.
Hike your way to scenic city views at Bernal Heights Summit Trail
The Bernal Heights Summit Trail is a steady, short uphill climb along dirt paths and paved roads that leads you to panoramic 360-degree views of the San Francisco skyline. The dog-friendly one-mile loop takes about 20-30 minutes and offers an off-leash area as well. It’s located approximately 0.8 miles from 24th St. Mission BART.
East Bay
Play your favorite sports at Ohlone Park. Photo courtesy of 510 Families.
Play ball or bike in Ohlone Park
Ohlone Park in Berkeley offers 9.8 acres of play areas, sports courts, lawns and an off-leash dog park. Whether you’re interested in biking or playing soccer, there is plenty of space to enjoy. The park also features a community garden. It’s just 0.1 miles from North Berkeley.
Spend an afternoon playing at Frog Park. Photo courtesy of Visit Oakland.
Swing and slide at Frog Park
Frog Park, also known as the Rockridge-Temescal Greenbelt, is perfect for family-friendly fun. With swings, slides, water features and an open field, it’s a great spot for an afternoon of outdoor activities. The park is located 0.4 miles from Rockridge BART in Oakland.
Check out the lakeside nature trail and water activities at the Lafayette Reservoir. Photo courtesy of the East Bay Municipal Utility District.
Enjoy a scenic walk around the Lafayette Reservoir
The Lafayette Reservoir includes a flat, fully paved 2.7-mile nature trail by the water. It offers a kid-friendly (or stroller-friendly) hike and ends right next to an on-site playground and picnic area. The reservoir is located about a mile from the Lafayette Station.
Take a family-friendly walk around Lake Elizabeth in Fremont’s Central Park. Photo courtesy of Parul Patel via 510 Families.
Enjoy a lakeside walk at Central Park in Fremont
Fremont’s Central Park encompasses 450 acres, including a paved 2-mile loop around Lake Elizabeth. The grounds include large playgrounds, picnic spots and the seasonal Aqua Adventure Waterpark. Central Park is located 0.8 miles from Fremont Station.
Where is your favorite summer activity near BART?
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