5 Great Inexpensive SF Spots To Entertain Grandparents

The City of San Francisco is a wonderful place to spend time with the grandparents. The abundance of sights to see and things to do can accommodate every senior from the most energetic to those who navigate the city from a wheelchair. Many grandparents today are on fixed incomes and would welcome inexpensive time spent with grandkids. Read on for five of the best budget options to spend quality time with grandparents in San Francisco.

Ferry Building Marketplace
1 Ferry Building
San Francisco, CA 94111
(415) 983-8030
www.ferrybuildingmarketplace.com

This culinary paradise is any foodie's dream destination to while away a few hours. The wheelchair-accessible hot spot can please visitors on any budget and is easy to reach with public transportation or by a leisurely stroll down the scenic Embarcadero. Peruse inside the marketplace to find a wide variety of locally made and sourced products from cheese and meats to seafood and bread. When it's time to take a break from browsing, treat the grandparents to a couple of fresh oysters and a glass of wine, or perhaps a cup of coffee. For those willing to brave the crowd, don't miss the Saturday farmers' market for a plethora of free samples and the chance to spot local chefs as they source ingredients.

Ghirardelli Square
900 N. Point St.
San Francisco, CA 94109
(415) 775-5500
www.girardellisq.com

Ghirardelli Square is the historic location of the original Ghirardelli chocolate factory. While the actual chocolate manufacturing has been moved across the bay, visitors can still watch some of the original chocolate-making equipment in action. Make sure to stop by the Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop for free chocolate samples or to share a sundae or hot chocolate with grandma and grandpa. Free walking tours of the square are available on Wednesday and Thursday mornings, and for those that are in the mood for an al fresco picnic, check out the adjacent park.

SS Jeremiah O'Brien
Pier 45, Fisherman's Wharf
San Francisco, CA 94133
(415) 544-0100
www.ssjeremiahobrien.org

The SS Jeremiah O'Brien is one of the only two extant fully functional World War II Liberty ships. The ship's facilities are best suited for more able-bodied grandparents, as most floors are accessible by stairs only. Visitors should carve out at least an hour or two for self-guided tours of the ship, museum, engine room and gift shop. Special discounts are offered for seniors and active military receive free admission.

Related: Spend The Day At Fisherman's Wharf

Golden Gate Bridge
Golden Gate Bridge Toll Plaza
San Francisco, CA 94129
(415) 921-5858
www.goldengate.org

A Golden Gate Bridge crossing is doable for grandparents and grandkids alike. There are a number of travel options beyond walking the 1.7-mile span. For more active seniors, bicycle travel is permitted on both sides of the bridge, and the east side is wheelchair accessible. For those looking to travel in a more relaxed manner, numerous city tours offer motorized Golden Gate crossings, including the very family friendly San Francisco Fire Engine Tour. Regardless of the method of travel, make sure to dress in layers as the bridge can be very windy and cold.

Legion of Honor
100 34^th Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94121
(415) 750-3600
www.legionofhonor.org

Located in Lincoln Park, the Legion of Honor contains the Fine Arts Museum of San Francisco and was originally built to honor fallen Californian WWI soldiers. The Museum houses a vast collection of European and ancient art that spans 4,000 years of history. Seniors receive discounted museum admission and entry for everyone is free on the first Tuesday of each month. The Legion is fully wheelchair accessible and a number of wheelchairs are available for loan while touring the facility.

Related: The Perfect Day For Your Dog In San Francisco

Joanna Metheny is a freelance writer covering all things South Bay. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.