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 wide lawn beside a playground, first set aside in the 1800s as a safe haven from the horse racing in the park.

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

Sunset Vietnamese where pho and rice plates suit kids of any age.

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

A neighborhood playground for a quick run-around between other plans.