When the kids are back in school and the days get shorter, finding things to do as a family can be challenging. However, California has unique outdoor activities for families of all sizes and interests. So if you’re vacationing in California this fall, or even moving there permanently, read on for our list of the best family outings in California. These kid-friendly attractions will get you out of the house, introduce your kids to new people and places, and give you a new appreciation for the Golden State.

The California Academy of Sciences

The California Academy of Sciences is one of the world’s premier natural history museums, and families visiting San Francisco will be treated to a truly memorable experience.  Inside, you’ll find several awe-inspiring exhibitions, including an aquarium with hundreds of species of rescued marine life, a living roof, and a rainforest habitat.  Alongside the Academy of Sciences, there are various aquariums that are fun for kids in California, some of which are even interactive.  These are worth visiting if your family is interested in marine life.

San Diego Zoo

If you have kids, you’ve probably already been to – or at least heard of – the San Diego Zoo. It’s one of the most popular attractions in San Diego and a must-see for most families with kids. The San Diego Zoo is home to almost 4,000 animals, many of which are native to California. It’s especially great for kids in the fall because most animals are out and about during the cooler months. 

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is one of the most beautiful in California, and it’s the perfect place for families to spend a weekend hiking, biking, and exploring. This park is the most visited in the state, and it’s easy to see why. You’ll be blown away by the fantastic natural beauty of Yosemite, and you can spend hours exploring its trails as a family. And if you’re looking for family-friendly hikes, you’re in luck. There are plenty of trails in Yosemite that are appropriate for even the littlest hikers. 

Lake Tahoe

California is a great place to visit year-round, but the winter has its charms, and Lake Tahoe is one of the best winter vacation spots for families in California.  It’s an enormous lake in the Sierra Nevada Mountains connected to the surrounding area by a series of rivers and streams.  There are many winter activities in the area, including skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts, guided snowshoe walks, sledding, ice skating, and more. You can also enjoy a stroll around the lake on a clear day, and you might even be lucky to see some spectacular ice formations.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for fun family outings in California this fall, the places on this list are the perfect place to start. These attractions are family-friendly and perfect for all ages. Just make sure to plan and schedule these activities for when the weather is still lovely, and you won’t need to bundle up too much. A fall trip to California’s unique destinations will be one you and your family will never forget.