Randall Museum in San Francisco, CA 94114

Located on a 16-acre hill overlooking the City, this small, dynamic, city-run museum focuses on area wildlife and offers hands-on art and science classes for children and families. In addition to hosting interactive exhibitions in its main lobby and a new permanent tree-house themed exploration zone for toddlers, the Museum has over 50 species of live animals kids can view... and some they can even touch!

The Randall Museum Theater is host to a number of performances, movies, plays, and lectures year-round. A hiking trail from the Museum leads to the top of Corona Heights with stunning views of San Francisco and the Bay.

There's something happening almost every hour of every Saturday. Regular Saturday programs include a drop-in family ceramics workshop from 10:30am-11:30am, a live animal presentation at 11:15am, and a drop-in science or art activity from 1pm-4pm. The Golden Gate Model Railroad Exhibit is open Saturdays from 10am to 4pm. And the Museum also hosts several special family events throughout the year. Check the calendar for upcoming events.

The Randall Museum offers a series of popular day camps each summer.

Classes: The Museum offers a broad range of affordable classes for families with children ages three years and older; children over six can attend classes on their own. You must register for a workshop or class ahead of time, but if you're signing up late (less than a week before the class or workshop), the museum recommends that you call first to find out if there's an opening and then register in person to confirm your spot.

Parties: The Museum hosts birthday parties year-round on selected Sundays. The parties include use of the facility and outdoor space, and a hands-on art activity led by an experienced teacher. The birthday parties help support the museum's free school field trips and a portion of the fee is tax deductible. For prices and more details call 415.554.9681.

Kids can also celebrate a birthday at the museum through The Buddy Club, which presents a performing arts series for families on selected Sundays, from October to April. The child's birthday event centers around a one-hour performance at the theater, where party guests enjoy front row seats. Afterwards, they'll be escorted to a party room for cake and presents. For prices, and to receive a performance schedule, contact The Buddy Club at 510.236.7469 or online.

Please note the rest of the Museum is closed on Sundays.

Summer Camp: One of the best deals in town, these summer camps are lively, fun, and art-or-science-centered. Held at the museum, the camps invite children to explore the arts and sciences with stimulating hands-on activities taught by experienced educators. Each session runs two weeks, from Tuesday through Friday. Registration for summer camp is in early April. Acceptance is determined by a lottery.