Things to Do with a Toddler

Hap Magee Ranch Park

Hap Magee Ranch Park is a family favorite in Danville, featuring playgrounds for both younger and older kids, open grassy areas, picnic spots, walking trails, and a dog park. In the summer, children can cool off in the park’s popular splash pad and water play area, making it a perfect destination for warm-weather family outings.

Heather Farm Park

Heather Farm Park is a local favorite for families, with tons of space to play, explore, and unwind. There’s a great playground (including an all-abilities area), open fields, a pond, and easy trails for little legs. You’ll also find picnic spots, a dog park, and sports areas. It’s an easy go-to for a laid-back outing, whether you’re meeting friends or just getting the kids outside.

Larkey Park

A spacious 13-acre neighborhood park perfect for easy family outings. With separate playgrounds for ages 2–5 and 5–12, kids of all stages have space to play, while grown-ups can enjoy picnic areas, sports courts (tennis, basketball, volleyball), and peaceful trail connections. There’s a swim center, restrooms, and plenty of open space, plus dog-friendly paths (on leash). Whether you’re planning a picnic, playdate, or just some fresh air, it’s a solid go-to from dawn to dusk.

Lindsay Wildlife Experience

Kids can get up close to rescued native California animals through interactive exhibits and live animal encounters. The museum is especially great for younger children, with hands-on learning areas, outdoor play spaces, and easy walking paths that make it an engaging outing for the whole family.

Playground as The Orchards

Small but fun playground with multiple climbing options, suitable for toddlers or slightly older kids.

Pleasent Hill Library

Pleasant Hill Library is a great stop with kids. There’s a large, dedicated children’s area where little ones can spread out with books and activities, and a gated backyard space that’s perfect for a quick break to move around safely. Easy, low-key outing when you need something calm but engaging.

Pleasent Hill Park

An easy, reliable spot for a quick outing with kids. There’s a larger playground for older kids and a separate gated one for little ones, which is great when you don’t want to worry about them wandering off. Plenty of open grass for running around, plus good shade for warm days. It’s right next to the YMCA and the public swimming pool. Restrooms and parking are close by.

Pleasent Oaks Park

Pleasant Oaks Park is a family-friendly park in Pleasant Hill with a small playground that works well for both younger and older kids, plus plenty of open space to run around. The park is also popular for its multiple baseball and softball fields

Tilden Park Steam Train at the Redwood Valley Railway

All aboard for a classic East Bay adventure at the Redwood Valley Railway in Tilden Regional Park! Scenic ride through beautiful parkland that kids (and parents) love. Tickets are $4 each, or buy 5 tickets for $20. Tip: If you walk a bit further down into the valley past the main station, you’ll also find a small ride-on train that’s free to enjoy. It has shorter operating hours, so it’s worth checking early in your visit.

Walden Park

Situated by the Iron Horse Trail, Walden Park is a small but popular neighborhood park in Walnut Creek with playgrounds for both younger and older kids, open grassy areas, basketball courts, picnic tables, and a unique disc golf course. Lots of shaded spots make it great for a casual afternoon outing or scooter ride.