Worried about how the family can vacation together without breaking the piggy bank? San Francisco abounds with free things to do, places to go and sights to see, many at no charge.

There’s always something to do at the San Francisco Zoo & Gardens, which is home to more than 1,000 exotic, endangered and rescued animals.

Holiday cheer extends beyond the bridge. Check out these wonderful winter activities happening across the Bay Area.

Enjoy innovative, interactive exhibits at the Exploratorium science museum. After reopening in its new location on Pier 15 in 2013 after a $300 million makeover, this shiny space is still just as much for adults as it is for children.