This isn't really one location, but is a string of parks along the hills between the San Francisco Bay and the suburbs. The one I go to most often is Tilden because of the location. In Tilden park there are trails, a merry-go-round, a lake for swimming, steam trains, a "little farm" with animals, and a botanical garden. My favorite trail is the one to Jewel Lake because of the boardwalk though the marsh. Inspiration Trail has great views. Other parks in the park district such as Lake Temescal also have swimming and lakeside hiking. Briones has fantastic hiking as well. There are some attractions for small children, some for teens and adults -- you might want to go to the website and see.

The memory of riding one of the painted horses or animal wagons on the Tilden Park Merry Go Round will last for the rest of your life. Take your children and enjoy the music unique to the Merry Go Round. Easy access to the facility, parking up top and below. Purchase your tickets and freshly popped popcorn for the wait. You and your children will have a delightful outing and believe me, you will return gladly over and over again. Check online for opening days and hours. Combine this with a picnic in Tilden Park at one of the many campsites, visit the Little Farm, take a walk around Jewel Lake. Tilden Park offers so many different things for families, couples, and individuals. USE OUR PARKS!

Great photo ops galore! Nice hikes with beautiful views!! Great place for kids to explore the outdoors & really see nature at it's finest. Wonderful place to visit, regardless of the season.

Tilden Park in Berkeley is excellent! I enjoy hiking Redwood Park and Lake Chabot. They have a variety of parks to explore in Contra Costa and Alameda County anything you want from hanging out at a lake to some challenging hikes to bay views and bbq can be found within EPRPD boundaries!