Best Arts & Culture in Santa Cruz for Kids & Families

Looking for the best arts & culture in Santa Cruz for kids? As surf town with a vintage boardwalk and redwood forests, Santa Cruz offers creative experiences and cultural enrichment that families won't find anywhere else. Whether you're visiting for the first time or looking for something new, we've rated every option for age-appropriateness, stroller access, and value so you can skip the guesswork.

Art museums and cultural venues don't have to be boring for kids. The best ones have interactive elements, kids' audio tours, or dedicated family galleries. We note which have stroller-friendly layouts and which require you to leave the stroller at the door. In Santa Cruz, expect mild year-round, foggy mornings, warmest in September-October. Pro tip: The Beach Boardwalk is free to walk — you only pay per ride. Henry Cowell Redwoods is 10 minutes from the boardwalk.

Below you'll find our curated list of arts & culture in Santa Cruz, CA — each with detailed age ratings (infants through teens), cost estimates for a family of four, and the practical parent details that matter: parking, stroller access, nursing rooms, and honest reviews of what makes each spot worth your time.