Not Just Disney! Best Amusement Parks for Toddlers in Northern California

The Bay Area in Northern California is home to some hidden gem parks that are perfect for families with young children. These places, designed with kids in mind, are full of fun and imagination, offering not only exciting attractions but also unforgettable moments for the whole family. Whether it's a laid-back weekend adventure or a special celebration, these parks provide endless joy for kids while giving parents a stress-free experience. Curious about which parks are worth visiting? Keep reading to find out!

Funderland Amusement Park

Located in Sacramento, Funderland Amusement Park has been dedicated to providing safe and fun amusement for children aged 2 to 12 since its opening in 1946. The park features various attractions suitable for young children, including the Flying Dragon Roller Coaster, Classic Carousel, and Funderland Express Train. These rides offer a range of experiences from mild thrills to classic enjoyment.

For dining, the park’s FunderTreats food stalls offer classic amusement park snacks like hot dogs, corn dogs, and cotton candy, allowing both kids and parents to enjoy tasty treats during their visit. Funderland also provides birthday party venue rentals and hosts various special events such as Easter celebrations and Halloween activities. The park operates from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM Wednesday through Friday, and from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekends. Ticket prices are $24 for children, $17 for adults, $10 for seniors aged 60 and over, and free admission for children under 34 inches.

Children's Fairyland

Children's Fairyland, located in Oakland, has been enchanting young children with its fairy-tale theme since its opening in 1950. This 10-acre park is known for its unique design and interactive play areas based on classic children’s stories. Visitors can explore various story-themed play zones and use "magic" keys to unlock the background of each story, adding extra fun to their visit.

The park’s design exudes the nostalgic charm of the 1950s, and it offers numerous educational and community programs, such as children's theater programs and writing workshops, to stimulate creativity and imagination in kids. Children's Fairyland is open Wednesday through Sunday, and closed on Monday and Tuesday. Its affordable ticket prices make it accessible for more families to enjoy this magical place.

Pixieland Amusement Park

Pixieland Amusement Park, located in Concord, has been a beloved destination for young children since its opening in 1983. The park’s design, filled with whimsical elements, and its attractions like the carousel, airplane ride, mini train, and small roller coaster are tailored for young kids, offering mild thrills and plenty of fun.

The park features vibrant decor and a safe environment, making it an ideal place for children to play while parents can easily supervise. Pixieland also provides dedicated birthday party spaces and packages, making it a great choice for hosting children’s birthday parties. The park typically operates Wednesday through Sunday, with affordable ticket options available for single or multiple visits, and tickets do not expire, allowing for repeat visits.

In addition to the aforementioned amusement parks, consider attending the "Bay Area Wonders" Experience Day: Mid-Autumn Festival, a unique carnival event. Scheduled for September 7, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Elliston Vineyards, this event blends culture, gourmet food, fine wine, and music into one experience. Notably, the vineyard also features an ostrich farm, offering families a distinctive experience. While parents savor premium wines, children can observe and feed these fascinating birds up close, adding both joy and educational value to the family outing. The event will also feature mooncake tastings, historic mansion tours, creative product stalls, and enticing food trucks, along with a vibrant music performance by local bands and renowned singers. Hosted by KTSF’s "Bay Area Wonders" presenter Jiayu Jeng, this event is a must-attend for families seeking an exceptional outing this year.

These three amusement parks provide countless hours of fun and memorable experiences for families. Especially for those with young children, these parks are ideal destinations where kids can enjoy various thrilling and entertaining activities, and parents can relax and enjoy quality family time. With attractions catering to different age groups, these parks add joy and color to children’s growth. Whether for family gatherings, birthday celebrations, or weekend leisure, these imaginative and playful parks are sure to create lasting and delightful memories for children.