Find kid-friendly places in Novato (11)
A freshly rebuilt, fully accessible playground (rubberized surfaces, shade umbrellas, perimeter fencing) with separate tot lot and big-kid structures, on nine rolling acres with BBQs and a gazebo - Marin's go-to birthday party park.
An aviation-themed, community-built playground in Novato's Hamilton neighborhood - helicopter, plane and boat play pieces for toddlers, a big central structure with a swinging bridge for older kids - next to the Bay Trail for wildlife walks.
A 139-acre lakeside county park with an adventure playground (climbing obstacles, spinners, zip line) for ages 5-12, the North Bay's first public bike park with a kids' learn-to-ride zone, fishing, disc golf and free entry.
A community-rebuilt neighborhood playground in eastern Novato's Bahia wetlands edge: modern structure with bridge, slides and climbing wall, baby and full swings, and paved paths made for trikes and balance bikes.
A reliable Novato chain stay with a genuinely good free breakfast bar (eggs, bacon, waffles), a pool and spa, and some rooms with kitchenettes - convenient to both Marin and Sonoma.
A downtown Novato staple: big salads, sandwiches and tater tots with a play structure in the outdoor area and live music on weekends - dinner that doubles as an outing.
Old Town Novato's family pub: a broad, forgiving menu, staff used to families, and Marin's best standing deal - kids 12 and under eat free all day Sundays.
A Sonoma-born brewpub with a big beer garden and lawn play area where kids run while parents actually finish a beer - frequent live music and a kid-friendly menu.
A mid-century motor-inn-style property off 101 in southern Novato with an outdoor pool, free continental breakfast, Keurigs in rooms and easy parking - a good-value Novato base.
The Bay Area's better-burger chain in Novato's Hamilton Marketplace: fast counter service, mini burgers sized for kids, indoor-outdoor seating and a fountain out front that toddlers love.
Oakland's hot-chicken chainlet with a Novato-only Tuesday kids-eat-free deal, a bright, colorful room and classic video games to keep littles busy while you wait.