10 Things to do with Bay Area Kids this October (2025)
- Jenine
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Looking for kid-friendly things to do in the San Francisco Bay Area this October? From pumpkin patches and Halloween trains to STEM fun and skyline views, here are the best October family events around the San Francisco Bay Area
Quick Jump Links
1) Pumpkin Patch Season (All Month)
Nothing says fall like a pumpkin patch adventure. Expect corn mazes, hayrides, photo ops, and toddler-friendly play zones. We have some pretty awesome pumpkin patches nearby!
Plan it: Pick a patch by location, budget, and crowd level. Think about if you want a more traditional pumpkin patch or one with ALL the rides..
Link: See our Bay Area Pumpkin Patch Guide + Map
2) Filoli Nightfall (Oct 3–Nov 10) — Last Chance for the Trolls
(Peninsula / Woodside)
Explore Filoli after dark with immersive light moments and garden paths—plus your last chance to see the Thomas Dambo trolls before they go.
Kids will love: Flashlight strolls, glowing pathways, Halloween decor and larger-than-life troll sculptures.
Parent tip: Evenings get chilly; bring layers and a stroller blanket. Book timed tickets early.
3) Gilroy Gardens’ The Great Big BOO (Weekends through Nov 2)
(Gilroy / South Bay )
A gentle, costume-friendly Halloween celebration with rides, character meet-and-greets, treat trails, and not-too-spooky décor.
Great for: Toddlers and early elementary; sensory-friendly daylight vibes.
4) Fleet Week San Francisco (Oct 5–13; Air Shows Oct 10–12)
(San Francisco waterfront)
The Blue Angels roar over the Bay with ship tours and air shows in the city.
Where to watch: Marina Green, Crissy Field, or Aquatic Park, Presidio, North Beach, Moscone Park Playground. Arrive early; use transit or bikes.
Sound note: It’s loud—bring kids’ ear protection.
Cost: Waterfront viewing is free.
5) Disney On Ice (Oakland Oct 16–19; San Jose Oct 23–26)
Presenting Encanto and Frozen, skate into the season with dazzling costumes, sing-along numbers, and big “wow” moments.
6) Halloween Train Ride Experiences (Multiple Dates/Locations)
From redwood routes to coastal rides, Halloween trains offer costumes, treats, and memorable views.
Link: Browse our Halloween Train Rides Roundup to compare times, age ranges, and accessibility.
Pro tip: These sell out. Book early and plan to arrive 15 minutes before boarding.
7) Oogubi Wonderland: A Mini Sensory Play Theme Park (Oct 19)
San Francisco (Spark Social SF)
Hands-on fun, character meet-n-greets, foam party, DJ, balloon home, and more: it's a sensory play wonderland designed for curious kids.
Why we love it: Open-ended play, fine-motor fun, and easy wins for toddlers through early elementary.
Parent tip: Dress for mess; bring a change of clothes and wipes.
Discount: TODDLERSPLAY10 [ get tickets here ]
8) Treasure Island Harvest Festival & Pumpkin Patch (Oct 5)
(San Francisco / Treasure Island)
Free to attend with stunning SF skyline views, pumpkins for sale, a hay bale pyramid, bounce houses, petting zoo, live music, and cozy sips.
Getting there: Ferry recommended (budget-friendly fares; kids under 5 are free). On-site parking is limited.
9) Goblin Jamboree at Bay Area Discovery Museum (Oct 18–19 & Oct 25–26)
(Sausalito / North Bay)
A beloved BADM tradition with costumes, hands-on exhibits, and spooky-cute activities under the Golden Gate.
10) Tech or Treat at The Tech Interactive (Oct 25)
(San Jose / South Bay)
This annual event hosted at The Tech Interactive combines the excitement of trick-or-treating and hands-on science activities, creating a one-of-a-kind Halloween celebration!
Trick-or-treat stations throughout the museum
Rooftop (spooky) science: Solar Creepy Crawlers Workshop*
Mad scientist lab demonstrations
Safe, family-friendly fun. This is an excellent first trick-or-treat experience for tiny explorers.
NEW! Halloween-themed laser show in our IMAX Dome.
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