3 Ways to Spend a Rainy Day in San Francisco: How I Keep My Kids Busy (and Sane)
While I’m a family photographer, I’m also a mom and in a previous life, I was a teacher. Between years of parenting, working in the city, and raising kids in San Francisco, I’ve quietly been collecting activities, tips, tricks, and experiences on my phone for years.
And recently, I had a thought:
Why am I not sharing this information with the world?
My photography business is based in San Francisco, the place my family and I call home. Because of that, I get the privilege of being a tourist in my own city, soaking in all the magic, quirks, and family-friendly gems this place has to offer.So welcome to this new corner of my blog, where I’ll be sharing my favorite San Francisco spots and ideas from a parent’s point of view. To kick things off, let’s talk about those rainy city days—and how to keep your family busy without losing your mind.
Visit the California Academy of Sciences
The California Academy of Sciences is one of my favorite rainy day staples. We have a membership, so popping in for a couple of hours feels easy and low pressure. Even before we had a membership, I usually had a friend who could get us in, which is very on brand for San Francisco.
When my kids were toddlers, we spent a lot of time in the playroom. Now that they’re older, I let them choose one or two sections to explore and we really take our time. It never feels rushed and there’s always something new to see.
Plus, my four year old fully associates the Academy with mac and cheese for lunch, so it can easily turn into a full morning adventure.
Let Them Burn Energy at an Indoor Play Space
Indoor play places are an absolute lifesaver on rainy days. We’re lucky to have a couple in our neighborhood, and one even takes reservations, so it never feels overwhelming.
It’s the best way to let kids really move their bodies—climbing, spinning, sliding, and swinging—without worrying about the weather. And if you absolutely need to, many of these spaces have seating and Wi-Fi, so you can get a little work done while they burn off energy. No judgment here.A few of my favorites include: Peekaboo Factory and Imagination Playhouse!
Create an At-Home Art Day
Step 1: Clear your dining table and cover it with plastic, a tablecloth, or newspaper.
Step 2: Grab paper, glue, watercolors, stickers, and yes… glitter.
Step 3: Turn on your favorite movie soundtrack.
Step 4: Create.
Don’t let the mess intimidate you. I promise it will be okay.
See what you and your kids come up with. Collaborate. Make individual pieces. Share your work. Tape it on the wall like a mini gallery.
You might even want to end it with a dance party to get those post-art wiggles out.I really encourage you to slow down and spend this kind of intentional, creative time with your kids—then notice how you feel afterward. Sometimes the best rainy-day plans don’t require leaving the house at all.
A Little More Inspiration Before You Go
And of course, I wouldn’t be a photographer and business owner if I didn’t say this too. Photoshoots can happen right at home. They do not need a special occasion, perfect outfits, or even a professional photographer. Grab your phone, let the kids play dress up, build a little set in the living room, and use your imaginations. Some of the most meaningful photos come from everyday moments like these.
But if that feels like too much pressure, I’m always here. Rainy days are actually one of my favorite times for indoor family sessions. There’s something really special about documenting your kids creating art, playing, and being themselves in the space they know best. If that sounds like your kind of memory to hold onto, I’d love to help you capture it.
If you loved this, stay tuned. I’ll be sharing more of my San Francisco favorites for families, from sunny day adventures to low key neighborhood gems, all through the lens of a working mom who has truly tried and tested it all.
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