Take the whole family to ride a little steam-powered train! We've never gone ourselves but have heard that it's helpful to get there early and be prepared for lines. But worth the wait!

Just as it sounds, this is an area with animals and learning exhibits for kiddos. Easy access with parking. Good, short (or long) hikes nearby if you're interested in afterwards.

This is a hands-on museum in San Francisco that's geared towards kids, but honestly is super fun for everyone. Don't have kids? Go on Thursdays when they have a 21+ evening event.

Self-explanatory! We've never gone but have heard good things and have co-workers who go often with their kids.

Park here (there's a public lot tucked away by the buildings) for an easy, family-friendly (probably stroller-friendly) out-and-back with shade an excellent views of the Bay.

Park here and then head out on East Ridge for an easy and great out-and-back. Make it a mini loop by adding Philip's Trail or a big loop by getting down by Stream Trail.

Our favorite spot for sunset hikes. It's open, and hilly. Easy to make whatever length you want. Can get hot during the day because there's little shade. Go and see if you can hear the frogs in the evenings!

Sean nick-named it this because of the serpentine rock :) Park at Serpentine Prairie to explore Redwoods Regional Park. Can do an out-and-back or there are 4-6 mile loops.

A hilly, beautiful open space. Will be warmer than any trail in East Bay. Can get exposed with little shade, so bring lots of water if it's hot out. If the hills are still green, you'll want to go check it out for the great views.

Beautiful drive along the coast to get here and lots to do when you arrive. Large beach (which can get very chilly; bring a coat and probably a hat too), restaurants, and great hiking.

Some of the best views in the Bay! And one of the tallest points in the Bay. Lots of scenic hiking here. Easy to drive it too and get good views in that way.

Beautiful out-and-back (or should we say up-and-down) hike, especially if the water level is high. Parking can be a challenge here. The drive by itself to and from the trailhead is beautiful. Can easily connect this drive/hike with a half day at Stinson Beach.

Lots of fun hiking in redwood forests. Makes for a big day from East Bay. Is half way to Santa Cruz. If the water is higher, there are some waterfalls with swimming pools.

One of the tallest peaks in the Bay! Driving up is easy (Sean and Madi like to bike up it), but you can also do it as a big day hike. Has great views.

Drive down the coast to Santa Cruz for a weekend! Makes for the perfect 1-2 night trip (although you could do a big day trip if you preferred). Good tacos, ice creams, and surfing.

Drive up the coast and stop at all the little fruit stands and oyster shops. Can make a great trip out of this by stopping at Point Reyes to hike, Bodgea Bay for some oysters, and then looping back through Guerneville to Santa Rosa where you can get some wine to end the night.

Lake Tahoe is an incredible area. You drive up either to the south shore or north shore and can explore from there. The north side is easier/slightly faster (about 3.5 hours) to get to and has lots to offer, so we'd recommend that. If you can get out on the water somehow, you should! It's incredibly clear and beautiful.

Doesn't need an explanation. Beautiful park. About four hour drive from East Bay. Recently has had issues with long waits to get into the park. But worth going if you have the time.

Excellent backpacking (a lot of which doesn't require reservations for the non-planners in the group). Can get back to great mountain lakes. Make sure to check weather before you go though. End of May can still be cold there.