10 Things to do with Bay Area Kids this November (2025)
- Jenine
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
November is packed with Bay Area family events, perfect for kids and parents alike. From holiday ice rinks and light displays to King Tides and magical train rides, here are the best things to do with kids in the Bay Area in November 2025.
Quick Jump Links for Bay Area Kids fun in November
1) Holiday Ice Rinks are opening (All Month)
Dates: Early November onward (varies by location)
Where: Around the Bay Area (SF, Peninsula, East Bay, South Bay)
>> Check out our Bay Area Holiday Ice Rinks list to learn more about where to ice skate this winter
2) Zoppé Italian Family Circus (Redwood City)
Dates: Nov 1–30
Where: Redwood City
Why kids love it: Classic one-ring circus with acrobatics, clowning, and old-world charm—intimate tent = no bad seats.
>> Get tickets here
3) King Tides are Coming
Dates: Nov 4–6
Where: Our favorite spots for tidepooling are in Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz
Pro tip: Check the tide chart here, and plan to go when tide is at it's lowest. Don't touch or disturb the sea life and always leave no trace.
4) Last Chance: Trolls at Filoli
Dates: Through Nov 10
Where: Filoli, Woodside
Why kids love it: Giant outdoor troll sculptures and garden paths make for a whimsical treasure hunt. It's about 1 mile and mostly stroller friendly.
>>Get tickets here
5) Glowfari (Oakland Zoo)
Dates: Starts Nov 7
Where: Oakland
Why kids love it: Larger-than-life illuminated animals and lantern scenes after dark.
Pro tip: Plan to arrive early and do the gondal first things because the line for that can get pretty long. Pack layers and snacks.
>> Get tickets here
6) San Jose Holiday Lights
Dates: Starts Nov 14
Where: Discovery Meadow, San Jose (walk-through/park setting)
Why kids love it: A holiday light experience with magical zones to explore and photo-worthy attractions
>> Get tickets here
7) IlluminOdyssey at CuriOdyssey
Dates: Starts Nov 16
Where: San Mateo
Why kids love it: Immersive, interactive winter light experience with hands-on exhibits
>> More info here
8) Holiday Train Rides (Multiple locations & dates)
Dates: Various dates in November & December
Where: Bay Area & nearby (e.g., Niles Canyon Train of Lights, THE POLAR EXPRESS™ in Sacramento/Jamestown, Skunk Train, Napa Santa Train, River Fox, Roaring Camp)
Pro tip: Many sell out quickly. Set calendar reminders for on-sale times, and consider weeknight departures.
>> check out our list of holiday train rides here
9) Giant Gingerbread House at the Fairmont
Dates: Opens Nov 22
Where: Fairmont San Francisco
Why kids love it: A life-size gingerbread house inside a grand lobby is pretty much instant holiday magic.
Pro tip: Expect lines on weekends. Pair with a cable-car pic outside; tea reservations book out early.
10) San Jose's Christmas in the Park
Dates: Opens Nov 28
Where: Downtown San Jose
Why kids love it: A beloved, free holiday experience with trees decorated by local schools, animated displays, kid-friendly rides, and seasonal treats.
>> Learn more here
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