Do you have a 3-day weekend coming up in the calendar? Do you have some extra time on your hands after a doctor’s appointment? Whatever the reason for your day off, be sure to make the most of it with these fun plans around San Francisco.
1. Enjoy drinks with a view at a marvelous rooftop bar
Everyone knows that rooftops in San Francisco are few and far between, but we managed to round up some stellar spots to try out when you’re looking to grab dinner or drinks with a view. Whether you prefer a swanky environment with craft cocktails, or a laid-back terrace to enjoy a cold beer, we’re sure you’ll find something on this list that caters to your sensibility. All of these bars offer excellent food menus in addition to the drinks.
- Rooftop at VIA
- Charmaine’s
- El Techo
- And more
2. Explore these fascinating tide pools around the Bay Area
If you’re a California native lucky enough to live on the coast, then you know that tide pooling is an awesome way to enjoy the beach! We’ve put together a list of great tide pools to visit around the Bay Area, so put on your best waterproof shoes and get ready to explore. Tidepooling is a fun activity for kids and adults alike, but remember: you’re a guest in these critters’ habitat, so try not to disturb whatever you find and always watch your step! Be sure to visit at low tide, and watch out for sneaker waves. Check the tide tables here.
- Duxbury Reef Reserve in Bolinas
- Fitzgerald Marine Reserve in Moss Beach
- Bean Hollow State Beach in San Mateo
- And more
3. Catch a Bay Area sunset at one of these essential spots
There’s truly no shortage of excellent places to see a sunset in the Bay, but we wanted to get to the bottom of where locals love to watch the sky light up. That’s why we posted an Instagram poll asking for our followers’ best recommendations! They didn’t disappoint, and here we’ve chosen 10 essential spots to check out a sunset! Grab your best friends, bring a picnic or a bottle of wine, and toast to your birthday before an incredible view.
- Mori Point
- Lands End
- Mount Tamalpais
- And more
4. Enjoy a picnic at these 15 charming spots in San Francisco
San Francisco is home to some of the best parks and gardens in the world, so there’s no shortage of awesome picnic spots for you to enjoy a socially distanced meal with friends. Whether you want to support a local cafe and get some amazing food to go, or you prefer to pack your own delicious recipe to enjoy out in the sunshine, you’ll love all of these great options. Some are SF staples, and some are a little less well-known.
- Conservatory of Flowers
- Old Speedway Meadow
- Pine Lake Park
- And more
5. Have a fancy meal at one of SF’s most affordable Michelin-starred restaurants
If you’re looking to treat yourself to a Michelin-starred meal, we’ve put together a list of the most affordable restaurants in San Francisco that have made it into the coveted Michelin Guide. That’s not to say they’re super cheap, to be fair, but you can get a full 3-course meal at some of these spots for under $45. For the best experience, remember to reserve a table in advance!
- State Bird Provisions
- Marlena
- Kin Khao
- And more
6. Check out one of these epic arcade bars.
Looking to shake up your weekend plans? It could be as simple as finding a great pinball machine! No matter how you want to keep yourself entertained, there’s something for everyone at these awesome arcade bars in the Bay Area. See full details about each spot here.
- Emporium (SF, Oakland)
- Outer Orbit (SF)
- The Detour (SF)
- And more
7. Take a day trip to a spectacular destination
- Pinnacles National Park
- Alamere Falls
- Muir Woods
- And more
8. Explore these colorful mural collections around the city.
We love San Francisco for its vibrant, eclectic art scene. It seems that there is a new hidden mural around every corner! But if you’re looking to explore some famous mural collections around the city, it’s absolutely worth taking a stroll through these beautiful alleys and projects. Each one houses a vibrant, diverse display of murals by mostly local artists. Learn about each spot here.
- Balmy Alley
- Umbrella Alley
- And more
9. Go for a gorgeous bike ride
When thinking about bikeable cities, San Francisco isn’t necessarily the first place that comes to mind. It might be that street with a 41% grade (Bradford above Tompkins, anyone?) or some of the sharp turns… but it turns out that there are some very beautiful spots to take your bike for a spin, and the City has some stellar infrastructure for cyclists! Especially if you’re a first-time cyclist in the City, consider planning your next outing at these 5 beautiful routes.
- Golden Gate Park
- The Wiggle
- Fort Funston
- And more
10. Eat your way through SF’s excellent ice cream shops
Nothing makes a good day better like ice cream! Have you been to all of these essential spots? Learn all about each one here!
- Smitten
- Humphry Slocombe
- Bi-Rite Creamery
- And more
11. Get a breath of fresh air on a stunning local hike
In the Bay Area, a beautiful view is always right around the corner. Whether you’re looking for a quick stroll in the city or a more strenuous day hike in Marin, you’ll love these incredible hikes for a chance to stretch your legs.
- Land’s End Trail
- Presidio Loop Trail
- Mount Davidson Trail Loop
- And more
12. Enjoy a pint at one of these 9 lively beer gardens
The Bay Area is home to some of the best craft beer in the country, meaning that it’s cultivated an entire generation of beer lovers and aficionados. When it comes to breweries, we’re hard to beat, but SF’s beer gardens are also excellent places to kick back and try out a flight or sip on your favorite pils and watch the game.
- SPARK Social SF
- Zeitgeist
- Southern Pacific Brewing
- And more
13. Climb these stunning staircases in the city
There’s no shortage of stunning public art pieces in San Francisco, and visitors and residents alike love San Francisco’s iconic staircases. But have you seen them all? Check our list to find out!
- 16th Ave tiled steps
- Hidden Garden Steps
- Lincoln Park Steps
- And more
14. Go shopping at the best Bay Area thrift shops recommended by locals.
Any real Bay Area resident perks up when it comes to sustainable living. The secondhand industry is influencing even the most forward-thinking of fashionistas and home decorators. Do you know where the best thrift shops are in the Bay Area? We asked our Instagram followers for their recommendations, and they didn’t disappoint! Learn more about each spot here.
- Crossroads Trading Co.
- Out of the Closet
- Community Thrift Store
- And more
15. 10 weird and wonderful menu items to try at least once in San Francisco
Who’s hungry?! With all the creative people living in this amazing city, San Francisco has an enormous amount of unique and delicious food to offer. Read on to learn all about the weird, wacky, and wonderful menu items in San Francisco that you have got to try at least once! Learn more about each dish here.
- Watermelon beer from 21st Amendment Brewery
- Gourmet quail dishes from State Bird Provisions
- Doomsday Sandwich from Ike’s Sandwiches
- And more