San Francisco Botanical Garden

The oldest public Japanese garden in the country: a steep arched drum bridge kids insist on climbing, koi ponds, and tea and mochi at the house.

A large grassy meadow next to a playground, good for family picnics and play dates.

A small walled garden in Golden Gate Park planted with everything Shakespeare mentioned. Quiet, benches, and a good pause between the museums.

Sunset Chinese known for dry-fried chicken wings; loud enough that a meltdown goes unnoticed.

Golden Gate Park art museum with a free observation tower at the top: ride the lift up for the view even if the galleries are a hard sell.