In hopes of spicing things up for Bay Area families, "Forum" asked its listeners, along with Amy Graff of "The Mommy Files" blog and Mike Adamick, author of "Dad's Book of Awesome Projects: 25 Fun Do It Yourself Projects for Families," to share their lesser-known and out-of-the-way kid-friendly outings.
Wow. Did listeners deliver. "Forum" compiled a complete list of recommendations on the show's website, but here are three highlights from each region to whet your appetite.
East Bay
- Adventure Playground. Located at the Berkeley Marina, this kid-designed playground lets children tinker to their hearts' desire. The website says that it is best suited for kids over 7 years old, but all ages are allowed.
- Lindsay Wildlife Museum in Larkey Park, Walnut Creek. The park is a great picnic spot too.
- Matteo's Dream: A Playground for Children of All Abilities. Located in Concord, this playground was founded by a mother who wanted somewhere accessible for her son, who uses a wheelchair and is blind.
North Bay
- Duxbury Reef, Bolinas. Widely recommended as a great spot for tide-pooling.
- Old Saint Hilary's, Tiburon. Part of Marin County's open space preserves. Good for picnics, hiking, bay vistas and wildlife viewing.
- Mrs. Grossman's Sticker Factory, Petaluma. A chance to show your kids what was popular with kids in the '80s (giant red heart stickers, anyone?) We'll let you decide whether to listen to Duran Duran or A-Ha on the drive over; reservations are required.
San Francisco
- Family Dance Class at ODC Dance School at 17th and Shotwell streets. Offered the last Sunday of every month, this class costs $5 a person, with a $20 family maximum.
- Free concerts from San Francisco Chamber Orchestra. Concerts are held around the Bay Area and last 20 minutes, just long enough to pique an interest among the squirmy set.
- SS Jeremiah O'Brien. A fully functional World War II Liberty ship docked at Pier 45, near Fisherman's Wharf. An interactive piece of history tucked away near the tchotchke shops and seafood restaurants.
San Jose and the Peninsula
- Deer Hollow Farm, Cupertino. Located in the Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve.
- Guadalupe River Trail, near downtown San Jose. Eleven-mile bike and pedestrian trail.
- K1 Speed, South San Francisco. Indoor go-kart racing. This one is endorsed by KQED's own Thuy Vu , who says it's a blast.
Listen to the show and view the complete list of activities: