Families & Kids
At Filoli, every visit invites families to discover something new together. Spot tiny critters and colorful blooms throughout the Garden, discover new stories in every corner of the Historic House, or unleash your sense of wonder among the Natural Lands. Whether you're exploring the trails or joining a family-friendly event, Filoli is full of adventures waiting to be discovered together.
Explore Nature with Trolls!
This summer, six folklore-inspired activist Trolls will come to Filoli to teach humans how to rediscover nature and inspire humans to be good stewards of the earth.
Families & kids alike can explore Filoli's Natural Lands to meet the Trolls and immerse themselves in nature through unique experiences and activities that's sure to spark creativity and wonder! Check out some of our Trolls-inspired experiences below and don't miss out on family-friendly summer adventures!
Nature Playspace
This immersive and creative environment inspires curiosity, hands-on exploration, and fun in a natural, sustainable setting. Designed for children to engage in imaginative play, this area includes a loose parts play space, a pretend play area, and a winding pathway with tunnels, logs, and maze-like features to explore.
Nature Playspace is sponsored by US Bank Private Wealth Management.
Secret Scribble Book
The Trolls are communicating a special message to you. Most adults only see scribbles, but kids can read the Troll's secret alphabet to decode what they are telling the humans. Before your adventure starts, make sure to ask a Filoli staff member for a Trolls Secret Scribble Book to learn how to read the Trolls' alphabet!
Trails
Explore the wonders of our Natural Lands with hiking trails. Filoli currently has two hiking trails: The one-mile California Trail which winds along cultivated fields and through oak woodlands and the Spring Creek Trail which takes visitors on a half-mile loop along a scenic creek bed running through redwood understory.
Children's Story Time
Bring your little ones for a fun and enchanting nature-themed reading adventure. Join us in the Garden House for Children's Story Time daily at 10:30am!
*Time and location are subject to change based on other events. Please ask Guest Experience staff for any updates.
Family Nature Weekend
Reconnect with the outdoors and one another at Filoli’s Family Nature Weekend! Discover how nature brings us together with hands-on crafts, eco-friendly fun, and outdoor exploration inspired by the message of TROLLS: Save the Humans. Every station—from storytelling to sustainable art—sparks creativity, curiosity, and connection with the planet.
Family Nature Weekend is sponsored by Fergus Garber Architects.
Family Activity Guide
Gather up the family and get the full Filoli experience! Use our family activity guide to play Bingo and learn about different locations in the Garden.
Children's Redwood Theatre
Step into a storybook setting at Children’s Redwood Theatre, where imagination takes center stage in the heart of Filoli’s enchanting redwood grove. Families can enjoy the scenic walk past towering trees leading to a cozy open-air stage.