Affording the Bay Area

I just saw a report that of the 10 most expensive real estate markets in the US, 8 are in California. No surprise to those of us living in the Bay Area. Even though our basic living expenses are very high, I’m always amazed at the number of free activities there are for families. The October discussion topic is to share your family’s favorite free activities (Oct. 4 for the 5-10 group, Oct. 25 for the 0-5s). I’m going to try to compile a list of everyone’s suggestions that I will post here. In the meantime you can help me get started with the list by sending a comment to the blog.

Here’s one free San Francisco activity to get the list started. The Eureka Valley Recreation Center is free and open all year round. It’s in the Castro at 100 Collingwood St. I’ve only been to the outdoor playground, which is very nice. Apparently there is also an indoor playroom that is great – a large room with tumbling mats and things for climbing, sliding, swinging, and riding, along with toys and books. If you’re not going to the OFC sponsored conference on Queer Families at the Center on October 11 you can join the Mamas and Papas 0-5 group at Eureka Valley Rec Center. Parents and children will be together for this event. Be sure to look for us inside.

Terri