Resource Type: Parent Resources

Welcome to the Bay Area Discovery Museum’s Art Studios, where imagination runs wild and creativity knows no bounds! Whether your child loves to paint, sculpt, or invent something brand new, our spaces are designed to spark curiosity and bring out their inner artist.

The Art Studios comprise two dynamic spaces: Studio B and Studio C. Each one is designed for different age groups, but both are filled with hands-on experiences and open-ended prompts that encourage exploration. Think of them as a mini creativity museum, right inside the Bay Area Discovery Museum, where every child can discover the joy of making something uniquely their own.

Choose Your Studio Adventure

Two Studios, Endless Possibilities

Studio B is designed especially for younger kids who are just beginning to explore the wonders of art. This space is filled with tactile materials and playful prompts that invite children to explore textures, colors, and shapes.

Studio C, on the other hand, is tailored for older children who are ready to dive into more complex projects. Here, kids can experiment with advanced tools and creative processes while still being guided by prompts that keep the experience fun and age-appropriate.

No matter which studio you choose, both are immersive spaces full of children’s art activities that spark imagination and bring creativity to life.

There’s No “Right” Way to Create

Scribble, Squish, Sculpt—However You Like!

One of the best parts about our Art Studios is that kids are free to explore and express themselves however they wish. From scribbling with markers to squishing clay between their fingers, every creative choice is celebrated.

Children might find themselves bending wire into whimsical shapes, experimenting with printmaking, or sculpting something unexpected out of clay. These open-ended art activities for kids encourage them to stretch beyond their comfort zones, building both confidence and creativity.

Dress for the Mess

Smocks On, Worries Off!

Let’s face it: true creativity can get a little messy, and that’s part of the fun! But we’ve got you covered. Smocks and cleanup stations are available, making it easy to embrace the process without stress.

The most expressive art often comes when kids aren’t afraid to dive in. By focusing on the joy of exploration rather than perfection, families can let go and enjoy the magical, messy moments together.

Collaborate and Create Together

Art Is More Fun with Friends

Art doesn’t have to be a solo activity. In fact, some of the best moments happen around our shared tables, where kids and their families (or caregivers) inspire each other with new ideas and techniques. Whether they’re giggling through a group project or admiring what a neighbor is making, the collaborative spirit is everywhere.

At our Art Studios, community and creativity go hand in hand; just like at any children’s creativity museum, kids thrive when they can learn from and create alongside one another.

Ask for Help (Our Team Is Awesome!)

Meet the Playful Learning Facilitators

Our Art Studios are guided by a talented team of Playful Learning Facilitators: artists, educators, and creativity champions who love sparking imagination in kids. They’re here to answer questions, demonstrate techniques, and encourage kids to try something new.

If your child is curious about how to use a new material or simply needs inspiration for their next project, don’t hesitate to ask; our team is always ready to help.

Cozy Up in the Reading Corner

Inspiration Awaits in a Book

Need a quick break from creating? The reading nook in the Art Studios offers a cozy spot to recharge and refocus. Kids can browse through books that spark new storylines, characters, and artistic ideas—perfect for inspiring their next masterpiece.

Share Your Masterpiece

Show It Off in Our Gallery!

Every artist deserves a moment in the spotlight. That’s why our studios feature a special gallery wall where children can display their artwork for everyone to admire.

Hanging their creations builds pride and confidence, while also inspiring other families to return and see what’s new. It’s a rotating showcase of imagination that makes the Art Studios feel like a living, breathing children’s creativity museum.

Final Thoughts

The Art Studios at the Bay Area Discovery Museum are all about exploration, collaboration, and joyful creativity. With ever-changing prompts and endless possibilities throughout the year, no two visits are the same.

Ready to roll up your sleeves and get creating? See you in the studios!

Plan your visit today.

Forget “Don’t touch!” At the Bay Area Discovery Museum, touching is the experience. Here, your child is encouraged to dive in and explore. From splashing in Tot Spot Stream to climbing aboard a sunken pirate ship, every Discovery Zone is designed for play-based learning that sparks curiosity and joy. It’s no wonder families consider us a top children’s interactive museum in the Bay Area.

Ready to see what your kids’ hands (and feet!) will get into? Let’s take a tour.

1. Mysterious Sea Caves of Bay Hall

These winding sea caves are part of a short tunnel, but there’s plenty of room for imagination. Little adventurers can pretend they’re searching for treasure or discovering hidden grottos. All that crawling and climbing secretly builds strength, balance, and big imaginations while feeling like pure adventure.

2. Woven Bridges and Tunnels in Tot Spot

Our flexible rope bridge invites toddlers to climb, squeeze, and wriggle their way through. It can be scary to enter the tunnel, but every twist and turn is a mini-adventure that encourages safe risk-taking, an important piece of play-based learning. Here, kids get to test their bodies and minds in a way that feels daring but is designed just for them.

3. Wobbly Waves and Cushy Floors in Tot Spot

Bounce, wobble, tiptoe—it’s like a dance floor designed just for toddlers. These cushy surfaces encourage sensory exploration and gross motor skill development, the kind of movement that makes the Bay Area Discovery Museum stand out as a children’s creativity museum and, more importantly, a go-to spot for giggly fun.

4. Giant Spider Web in Lookout Cove

Grab on tight! Children can climb, balance, and channel their inner superheroes on this giant web structure. It feels like play (and it absolutely is), but it’s also quietly building confidence, problem-solving, and coordination. Sometimes, kids even pause here just to soak up the sunshine and fresh air—because play can be relaxing too.

5. Ooey, Gooey Mud in the Mud Kitchen

​​Stir it, squish it, scoop it—the Mud Kitchen is gloriously messy, and that’s the point! Here, kids can become chefs, mud pie makers, or potion brewers. It’s a sensory-rich experience that encourages imagination and child-led exploration (and one you won’t have to clean up at home!).

6. Paint, Clay, Wire, and Bits & Bobs in the Art Studios

Squish clay, twist wire, or glue sparkly buttons into a masterpiece. The Art Studios are a hands-on wonderland. Kids not only make open-ended art but also display their creations (yes, art you can actually touch). It’s a celebration of imagination, decision-making, and creativity that cements our role as a children’s creativity museum.

7. Gravel in the Pit at Lookout Cove

Scoop, dump, and rearrange. Our gravel pit is like a sandbox with a twist. From endless piles of gravel, kids can build imaginary roads, bury treasure, or just enjoy the crunchy sound underfoot. It looks like pure fun, but it also secretly builds focus and fine motor skills.

8. Splashing Water in the Tot Spot Creek

Splash over to the Tot Spot Creek, where your child can enjoy some water play. Kids can send leaves racing downstream, test how the current moves toys, or simply enjoy a good splash. Clothes might get a little wet (that’s half the fun), but aprons are available for those who’d rather stay dry.

9. Bursting Bubbles

Bubbles are a universal favorite here at the museum. Kids can get some energy out by chasing them and leaping high to catch them. Parents love this feature too—whether it’s joining in on the popping fun or simply soaking up the sight of their child’s face lit with joy. Bubbles are timeless, simple, and magical, reminding us that sometimes the very best play is also the simplest.

Why Hands-On Play Matters

At the Bay Area Discovery Museum, we believe play is how children learn best. Every squish of mud, wobble on the floor, and climb on a spider web is a chance to build confidence, coordination, and curiosity. Unlike traditional museums, where parents shush their kids and whisper “Don’t touch,” here we celebrate safe risk-taking, hands-on exploration, and joyful exploration. Among interactive museums, our approach to play-based learning makes us a place where families can enjoy time together and kids can thrive.

Plan Your Visit

Ready to say “yes, touch everything”? Come play, splash, and create at the Bay Area Discovery Museum, your go-to children’s interactive museum for hands-on fun, imagination, and unforgettable family memories.

Plan your visit today!

Snap, Play, Repeat

The Bay Area Discovery Museum isn’t just a place for learning and play—it’s also perfect for capturing those unforgettable family photos. With sweeping views, hands-on Discovery Zones, and vibrant outdoor settings, the museum is packed with picture-perfect scenes. There’s nothing like capturing the perfect pic—whether you’re snapping spontaneous laughter or a candid portrait, here are the top spots to photograph your adventure.

1. Crow’s Nest – A Picture-Perfect Viewpoint

In Lookout Cove, Crow’s Nest is a favorite among little climbers and photo-happy parents alike. From this elevated perch, kids can take in views of the San Francisco Bay while parents snap a frame-worthy shot from below with the Golden Gate Bridge in the background. It’s one of the most iconic Bay Area Discovery Museum photos you can take—majestic, playful, and unmistakably the Bay Area.

2. Faith – A Retired Fishing Boat With Character

A museum favorite, “Faith” is a real retired salmon fishing boat and a whimsical photo spot. Kids love clambering aboard, pretending to steer, and exploring the nautical nooks. The weathered wood, rustic charm, and authentic maritime vibes create a dynamic setting for candid or posed shots. It’s like stepping into a seaside storybook, and it’s great for inspiring exploration.

3. Lookout Cove – A Treasure Trove of Photo Ops

Spanning 2.5 acres, Lookout Cove is a photo lover’s dream, filled with spots to explore that each offer their own visual appeal:

Shipwreck – A pretend sunken vessel that encourages imaginative play. Whether your kids are pirates, sailors, or explorers, it’s the perfect place for dynamic storytelling shots.

Mud Kitchen – Let kids use their creativity to whip up pies, cakes, and more with mud and utensils. Think messy hands and wide smiles—great for photos.

Sea Caves – These sculpted crawl spaces are designed to resemble real sea caves. Kids love ducking inside, making it a fun setting for candid, adventurous photos with a sense of mystery and movement.

4. Stump Trail – Nature’s Staircase

Winding through Lookout Cove, the Stump Trail is a wooden pathway built from tree stumps and nestled in a mini forest setting. It’s a natural haven for playful action shots—think balancing acts, leafy backdrops, and nature-inspired portraits. If your little ones are into forest adventures, this is the spot for you and your family.

5. Lookout Deck – Telescopes and Bay Views

Don’t miss the raised deck overlooking Lookout Cove—complete with a telescope. Kids love pretending to be explorers, peering into the distance. The elevated angle and stunning water views make it a beautiful place to frame your memories. Snap your young adventurer in action or gather the family for a scenic group shot.

6. Tot Spot – A World Just for Littles

Designed exclusively for toddlers, Tot Spot features cozy woodland and bay-themed environments scaled to tiny explorers. From forest-inspired climbing areas to soft surfaces, Tot Spot is a warm, gentle space perfect for documenting those big developmental leaps. Adding to the local charm, a vibrant mural painted by a Bay Area artist decorates the walls, while all the animals and plants featured throughout are native to the Bay Area—making this space feel as local as it is lovable.

7. Tot Spot Stream – Splashes and Smiles

Imagine tiny hands in the water, big belly laughs, and unexpected splashes. That’s what you’ll find right outside at the Tot Spot Stream: a magnet for toddler fun. It’s one of those places where you can capture pure joy, so if you’re looking to capture candid moments, this spot is a must.

8. Beach – A Golden Gate View

Located along the main walkway, the beach is a sandy, sweet respite with front-row views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Ideal on sunny days, this giant sandbox offers lounge chairs for relaxing, while kids can build sandcastles or chase waves. It’s perfect for wide-angle family shots or peaceful portraits with an iconic backdrop.

9. How Things Work – A Home Split in Half

This indoor exhibit reveals the inner workings of a house—pipes, wires, and chimney sweeps exposed. It’s equal parts educational and whimsical, showing the inner workings of everyday life. Snap your kids interacting with these everyday mechanics in a space that feels both surreal and familiar.

Tips for Taking Great Photos at Bay Area Discovery Museum

• Lighting: Whether it’s sunny or foggy, the soft light adds a dreamy quality to your photos. Note that afternoons tend to be more mellow, with fewer crowds.
• Prep for Play: Bring extra clothes for water, mud, and art exhibits.
• Get Playful: The best candid photos often come when you’re engaged in play, rather than snapping from the sidelines.
• Tag & Share: Don’t forget to tag @bayareadiscoverymuseum when sharing your favorite shots on Instagram!

Plan Your Visit

With so many interactive exhibits and scenic spots, the Bay Area Discovery Museum is a haven for young families—and a goldmine for memory-making. These photo-worthy locations are just part of the experience. Grab your camera and come explore!

The museum is located at 557 McReynolds Rd in Sausalito, just north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Check out our website for current hours and ticket info, and make a day of it. Whether you’re chasing smiles, splashes, or spectacular views, you’ll walk away with a camera full of keepsakes.

Fort Baker in Marin County is a national park and part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. It also happens to be one of the Bay Area’s best-kept secrets. Tucked just north of the Golden Gate Bridge, this scenic spot offers unbeatable views, historical charm, and family-friendly fun—all just minutes from San Francisco. Whether you’re planning a relaxed day outdoors, looking for free things to do in San Francisco, or hoping to visit the Bay Area Discovery Museum, Fort Baker makes the perfect starting point.

1. Start Your Morning at Fort Baker

Take a Peaceful Morning Stroll Through Battery Yates

Begin your day with a refreshing stroll along the Battery Yates trail. This historic military site is lined with lush greenery, gentle hills, and coastal breezes. Kids will love exploring the old bunkers, while adults can appreciate the peaceful, wide-open views of the Bay. It’s an ideal first stop to stretch your legs and connect with nature in Fort Baker, Marin County.

Take in Iconic Views of San Francisco

Just steps from the trail, you’ll find sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and Angel Island. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, this vantage point never gets old. Don’t forget your camera—this is one of the most iconic photo spots in Fort Baker, Marin County, and a must for any list of things to do in San Francisco.

2. Enjoy a Relaxing Picnic at the Fort Baker Parade Ground

Pack a Lunch and Make a Day of It

Looking to slow down and enjoy the moment? Bring a picnic lunch and head to the parade ground, an open field at Fort Baker. It’s one of the best free things to do in San Francisco for families with kids. With grassy lawns, shady trees, and a backdrop of the San Francisco Bay, it’s the perfect setting for a midday break. If you’re planning to visit the Bay Area Discovery Museum nearby, be sure to grab a re-entry stamp at the Front Desk so you can enjoy both lunch and more museum adventures without missing a beat.

3. Stroll Around Horseshoe Bay and Catch the Sunset

Reflect and Unwind at Golden Gate Panorama View Point

As the day winds down, take a golden hour stroll along the edge of Horseshoe Bay. This quiet marina offers lovely views of bobbing boats, the shoreline, and the iconic golden towers of the bridge. End your stroll at the Golden Gate Panorama View Point, where sunset paints the sky in warm golds and oranges or fog rolls in over the Marin Headlands. It’s a peaceful way to close out a full day of exploring Fort Baker.

4. Visit the Bay Area Discovery Museum

Explore Interactive Exhibits and Family-Friendly Experiences

If you’re travelling with young children, a visit to Bay Area Discovery Museum is a must. Located right inside Fort Baker, our award-winning children’s museum features interactive exhibits, inspired outdoor spaces, and creative STEAM-based activities designed to spark curiosity in kids of all ages. It’s educational, exciting, and beautifully situated at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge, making it one of the top things to do in the San Francisco Bay Area with kids.

Bonus Adventures: Explore Nearby Marin Headlands

Looking to keep the adventure going? Just a five-minute drive from Fort Baker, through the Baker-Barry Tunnel, the Marin Headlands offer even more to explore. A perfect excursion for those seeking hikes, beach adventures, and several other free things to do in San Francisco and the surrounding area.

Hawk Hill — Enjoy Panoramic Coastal Views

Drive, hike, or bike up to Hawk Hill for sweeping, panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the San Francisco skyline. It’s a favorite spot for birdwatchers and photographers alike.

Point Bonita Lighthouse — Step Back in Time

Book a guided tour with the Golden Gate National Parks Service to explore this historic lighthouse and its essential role in Bay Area history. The trail includes a cliffside tunnel and dramatic ocean vistas—well worth the effort!

Rodeo Beach and Lagoon — A Natural Wonderland

Spend some quiet time exploring Rodeo Beach and Rodeo Lagoon. This serene coastal area is a haven for sea lions, pelicans, herons, and more. It’s a great place to unwind and connect with nature before heading home.

Ready to Plan Your Visit?

Before heading out, be sure to check the official visitor information and directions for Fort Baker. From parking tips to nearby trails and scenic spots, it’s your go-to guide for a smooth and enjoyable trip.

If you’re a family with children, Bay Area Discovery Museum is an essential stop in your exploration of Fort Baker in Marin County. With hands-on Discovery Zones and family-friendly fun, it’s the perfect way to round out your day.

Start planning today and create unforgettable memories with your family!

Looking for things to do with kids in the Bay Area this summer? From having fun in the sun to exploring interactive exhibits and opportunities to spark creativity, California offers endless possibilities for families to connect, explore, and learn together.

To help families make the most of the warm weather, we’ve gathered some of the top Bay Area activities that inspire imagination, encourage discovery, and create lasting memories.

Adventure Awaits: Fun for the Whole Family

Adventure Playground (Berkeley)

Starting off strong, a visit to Berkeley’s Adventure Playground is a great Bay Area activity for kids. This hands-on, creative space lets children build, paint, climb, and explore with real tools and raw materials. It’s a great environment for risk-taking and imagination—perfect for adventurous spirits.

Bay Area Discovery Museum (Sausalito)

We can’t compile this list without mentioning our hands-on summer camps at the Bay Area Discovery Museum. From STEAM projects to hidden grottos, children ages 3-8 explore, create, and make new friends across our 7.5-acre campus. See available dates and enroll your camper today!

California Academy of Sciences (Golden Gate Park)

This living museum features an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest dome, and more. It’s one of the most engaging things to do in the Bay Area with kids, especially for budding scientists.

Chabot Space and Science Center (Oakland)

If you’re raising a future astronaut, this is one of the best Bay Area activities for kids. Families can explore space-themed exhibits, participate in science experiments, and observe the skies through real telescopes—a great option for curious minds of all ages.

Children’s Fairyland (Oakland)

Step into a storybook world at Children’s Fairyland, one of the most whimsical things to do with kids in the Bay Area. With storybook sets, gentle rides, puppet shows, and animals to meet, it’s designed especially for young children. Watch your little one’s imagination take flight in this beloved Oakland gem.

Crissy Field East Beach (San Francisco)

As part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, this wide, family-friendly beach offers gentle surf (perfect for busy toddlers), soft sand, and iconic views of the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s ideal for picnics, kite-flying, and beachcombing.

Exploratorium (San Francisco)

One of the most fascinating Bay Area activities for kids, the Exploratorium is a hands-on museum where science meets play. Interactive exhibits invite children (and adults) to experiment with light, sound, motion, and perception. It’s a must-visit for curious families and a great way to spark STEM learning through fun.

Presidio Tunnel Tops (San Francisco)

Presidio Tunnel Tops is where national park adventures begin! Offering panoramic views, nature play spaces, picnic areas, and trails, this spot is one of our top outdoor picks. Plus, it’s free to all and open every day. Families can explore the Outpost play area, enjoy food trucks, or simply relax with breathtaking views of the Bay and Golden Gate Bridge.

Tilden Park Little Farm (Berkeley)

Meet cows, goats, chickens, and more at this free, family-friendly farm. Kids can feed the animals with celery or lettuce brought from home. It’s a simple, down-to-earth way to connect with nature.

A Summer of Wonder Awaits

A summer of exploration and fun wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the Bay Area Discovery Museum. Located at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge, our museum is more than a destination—it’s a place where kids can get hands-on learning, explore the outdoors, and ignite their imaginations. It’s a must-visit for families looking for fun things to do in the Bay Area with kids that will spark curiosity and foster creativity. 

Add it to your list of unforgettable Bay Area activities this summer! Ready to join us on a summer adventure? Get started today.