Free family activities in Northern California

North of the Bay Area

Redwood National & State Parks, Hiouchi

Pack up your family for a day amongst the redwoods. The magnificent Redwood National & State Parks offer an educational experience courtesy of Mother Nature, with five visitor centers located throughout the state park along a 40-mile corridor, including the Hiouchi Information Center, Jedediah Smith Visitor Center, Crescent City Information Center, and others.

Be sure to maximize your excursion by stopping in to one of these visitor centers, where you’ll find knowledgeable staff, maps, exhibits, films, bookstores, restrooms, and picnic areas. The trails throughout the park are always opened, but call ahead for program information about tours and campfire programs that begin during end of May/early June.

Website:Redwood National & State Parks

Address: US Highway 199 at Hiouchi, California

Jelly Belly Factory Tours, Fairfield

The free Jelly Belly Factory Tours in Fairfield offer visitors a sweet experience as they step behind the scenes to learn how the famous Jelly Belly jelly beans are made. 40-minute guided walking tours begin once every 10-15 minutes, but peak times such as holidays and summer seasons could find you waiting up to an hour for the next tour.

The factory is fully functional during the week, but weekend tour-goers view video monitors showing the machines in action. If you need your own stroller or wheelchair, be sure to bring one because they are not available in the Visitor Center.

Website:Jelly Belly Factory Tours

Address: 1 Jelly Belly Lane, Fairfield, CA 94533. Hours: Daily 9am-4pm; Admission: Free.