We went to the members' pre-opening of the California Academy of Sciences and think that visitors will very much enjoy the exhibits at the academy.  The architecture alone is worth seeing - see the website of the Academy to get an appreciation.  Kids (and parents) enjoyed the T Rex skeleton, a great whale skeleton and several marine exhibits.  There is a swamp and an African wildlife exhibit to name a few.  Our son's favorite though was the two heads snake - I guess my favorite too.  The Academy within a mile from the house so about a 15-20 minute walk or very short drive.

 
 

Two tops picks close by are (in order of proximity):
1. Grattan Playground (about 6 blocks away at Stanyan and Grattan)
2. Children's Playground at Golden Gate Park (see park map)

Other playgrounds close by that we like alot:
Rossi Playground (Arguello and Anza near USF)
Julius Kahn Playground (in the Presidio)

 
 

There are a couple bike rental places close to the house.  This is a wonderful way to tour Golden Gate Park.  You could also bike through the Presidio and out across Golden Gate Bridge if you are up for a longer bike trip.

 
 

The California Academy of Sciences includes, among other things, a 25 foot deep aquarium, a rainforest, a planetarium featuring real-time data from NASA, an early childhood center, an observation deck, an African exhibit including penguins, a swamp and an ongoing lecture series.  Check out the website: http://www.calacademy.org/

The California Academy of Sciences is within walking distance of the house in Golden Gate Park and the academy will be opened on September 29.

 
 

San Francisco has something for everyone.  No matter how long you stay, there is not enough time to do all the things worth doing.  We wanted to offer some ideas on this page and guests are welcome to add their tips.