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Things to Do in San Francisco, San Jose & the Bay Area
- Elijah
- 2 hours ago
- 10 min read
There’s no shortage of things to do in the Bay Area, but not every experience is equally enjoyable once you’re actually there. This guide focuses on San Francisco, San Jose, and nearby Bay Area destinations we’ve personally explored, not just places that look good online or show up on every generic list.
The experiences below are based on firsthand visits and how they felt in practice, from completely free ways to explore the cities to paid activities that felt worth the time and cost. We’ve grouped them by city and general type of experience to make planning easier, without turning this into a checklist or ranked list. This page is updated over time as we revisit places and discover new experiences we genuinely enjoy, keeping it useful whether you’re planning a first trip or looking for something different to do locally.
Exploring San Francisco Without Breaking Your Wallet
Visiting the Bay Area doesn’t have to break the bank. San Francisco is full of free attractions that you can enjoy before or after the big game. Here are a few favorites:
Visit The Golden Gate Bridge
No trip to San Francisco is complete without seeing the Golden Gate Bridge. Spanning 1.7 miles across the Bay, it’s one of the most photographed landmarks in the world, and for good reason. The bridge changes character depending on where you view it: sometimes shrouded in fog, glowing orange at sunset, always dramatic against the city skyline. You don’t have to walk the full span to appreciate it. Many visitors choose to admire the bridge from scenic viewpoints like Crissy Field, Battery Spencer, or Marin Headlands, while others prefer a boat cruise beneath its towering arches. Driving across is quick and convenient, but stopping at one of the official overlooks lets you take in the scale and beauty at a slower pace.
Check out our guide to the 10 best Golden Gate Bridge viewpoints for tips on where to capture the most iconic shots.
Golden Gate Park:
San Francisco’s version of Central Park, this massive green space stretches over 1,000 acres and has everything from bison paddocks to lakes and gardens. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic or a stroll before heading to a game-day event, and a free shuttle makes it easy to explore the park’s highlights.
Visit Chinatown & Fortune Cookie Factory:
San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest in North America, with colorful streets, temples, and endless food options. One highlight is the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory, where you can watch cookies being made and even customize your own.
Visit the Cable Car Museum:
A hidden gem for history buffs, the museum houses three antique cable cars from the 1870s and shows the massive machinery that still powers today’s system. Best of all, it’s completely free, just remember it’s closed on Mondays.
Visit the Pier 39 Sea Lions:
One of the city’s most famous (and noisiest) attractions, the sea lions took over the Pier 39 docks in the 1990s and have been entertaining crowds ever since. Combine a visit with a classic San Francisco bite, like a sourdough bread bowl from Boudin Bakery.
Palace of Fine Arts:
Originally built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition, this Roman-inspired rotunda is now one of the city’s most photographed landmarks. It’s free to walk around, and the lagoon makes for a peaceful spot to relax in the Marina District.
Paid Experiences in San Francisco Worth Considering
If you want to splurge on a few unforgettable experiences while you’re in town, San Francisco has plenty of attractions worth the price of admission. Here are some of the best:
Visit Muir Woods:
Just 45 minutes outside the city, this redwood grove offers towering trees, peaceful trails, and a welcome break from the urban bustle. Walk among ancient giants that soar hundreds of feet into the sky, and enjoy the cool, quiet atmosphere of the forest floor. Parking and shuttle reservations are required, so plan ahead, but the scenery and sense of tranquility are well worth the effort. Many visitors combine a trip here with a stop in nearby Sausalito for a full day of nature and charm. Read our full Muir Woods guide.
Take a Tour of Alcatraz Island:
Walk the halls of the infamous prison known as “The Rock” while taking in unbeatable views of the San Francisco skyline. Explore the historic cellblocks, hear stories of daring escape attempts, and learn about the island’s layered history as both a military fort and federal penitentiary. A visit offers not only a glimpse into the lives of the inmates who once lived there, but also a chance to enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife that thrive on the island today. Day and night tours are available; we compare them in our full Alcatraz guide.
California Academy of Sciences:
Located in Golden Gate Park, this museum combines an aquarium, rainforest dome, planetarium, and even an albino alligator named Claude. Perfect for families or anyone curious about science, it’s a place where visitors can journey from the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of outer space in a single afternoon. Wander through a living rooftop teeming with native plants, experience hands-on exhibits that spark curiosity, and discover new wonders around every corner.
Set Sail on the Bay:
See the skyline from the water on a sunset sail, catamaran cruise, or speedboat ride. It’s one of the best ways to capture photos of the city and the Golden Gate Bridge while feeling the fresh ocean breeze. Cruises often pass by Alcatraz and Angel Island, giving you a whole new perspective on San Francisco’s landmarks. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening, an adventure with friends, or just a peaceful way to take in the views, a trip on the Bay is unforgettable.
Visit and Go to the Top of Coit Tower:
For $10 you can ride the elevator (and climb about 30 stairs) to panoramic views of San Francisco, with sweeping sights of the Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridge, and downtown skyline. Inside the tower, vibrant Depression-era murals depict life in California during the 1930s, adding a cultural layer to your visit. If you’re short on time or money, the views from the parking lot are still worthwhile and provide a fantastic photo spot without the climb.
Learn Something New at The Exploratorium:
A hands-on science museum on Pier 15 that’s just as fun for adults as it is for kids. With hundreds of interactive exhibits, visitors can tinker, experiment, and discover the science behind everyday phenomena. Don’t miss their “After Dark Thursdays,” when the museum turns into an adults-only playground with cocktails, live demos, and a lively, social atmosphere. It’s a place that inspires curiosity at any age and makes learning feel like play.
Walk the Japanese Tea Garden:
The oldest Japanese garden in North America, tucked into Golden Gate Park, offers a peaceful escape from the city’s buzz. Wander among pagodas, koi ponds, and winding paths surrounded by cherry blossoms and bonsai trees. Pause at the traditional tea house for a warm cup of tea and a quiet moment of reflection. Tip: Admission is free from 9–10 a.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and their website lists current events and seasonal highlights worth checking out. You can check out their website for current events and prices.
Ride a San Francisco Cable Car:
Nothing is more iconic than hopping on a cable car and riding down San Francisco’s famously steep hills. At $9 a ride, it’s one of the most affordable ways to experience a classic slice of city history, complete with clanging bells and open-air views. The Powell-Hyde line is especially scenic, passing by Lombard Street and offering sweeping views of the Bay as it heads toward Fisherman’s Wharf. Whether you ride for the history, the thrill, or the photo ops, it’s a must-do for any first-time visitor.
Exploring San Jose at a Slower Pace and Cost
San Jose may not be as famous as San Francisco, but it offers plenty of fun things to do, and many of them are free. If you’re staying downtown or near Levi’s Stadium, here are a few spots to check out:
Santana Row (Window Shopping):
Stroll San Jose’s version of Rodeo Drive for free, soaking up the stylish atmosphere without needing to spend a cent. With luxury shops, high-end car showrooms, and plenty of people-watching, Santana Row is always buzzing with energy. Seasonal events, live music, and festive decorations add to the experience, making it a fun outing even if you don’t open your wallet.
San Jose Municipal Rose Gardens:
A peaceful, free escape filled with thousands of colorful rose bushes, landscaped arches, and a fountain at its center. It’s one of the best photo spots in the city and just as lovely for a quiet stroll. While spring and summer are peak bloom seasons, the garden offers beauty and calm year-round without costing a dime.
San Pedro Square Market (Music & Atmosphere):
You don’t have to buy anything to enjoy the lively energy at San Pedro Square Market. With live music six days a week and plenty of outdoor seating, it’s the perfect spot to relax and soak up the atmosphere. Grab a free seat, listen to local bands, and enjoy the community vibe that makes this downtown hub a favorite gathering place.
Guadalupe River Park & Gardens:
Stretching through downtown San Jose, this urban park offers trails, open green spaces, and themed gardens to explore, all for free. Stroll along the river, check out the Heritage Rose Garden, or let kids play at the Rotary Play Garden, which is inclusive and accessible for all. It’s a refreshing dose of nature right in the middle of the city.
Paid Experiences in San Jose and Silicon Valley
If you want to dive into local history or have some extra fun before game day, San Jose has a few standout paid attractions:
The Tech Interactive:
A hands-on science and technology museum that explores Silicon Valley’s history and innovations. Families will love the robotics, genetics, and virtual reality exhibits, while adults will appreciate the deeper dives into how technology shapes our world. It’s a fun and educational way to connect with the region’s tech roots. Get tickets here!
Winchester Mystery House:
One of San Jose’s most famous (and strangest) landmarks, this sprawling mansion was under construction for 36 years, supposedly to ward off ghosts. Guided tours take you through bizarre hallways, staircases that lead to nowhere, and plenty of spooky lore. Whether you’re into history, architecture, or the supernatural, it’s a uniquely San Jose experience. Get tickets here.
San Jose Museum of Art:
Located downtown, this museum highlights contemporary and modern works from around the world, with a strong emphasis on West Coast artists. It’s a manageable size, easy to enjoy in a couple of hours, and often features rotating exhibits, interactive installations, and family-friendly activities. A great cultural stop before or after exploring the nearby plaza.
California’s Great America:
Located in the same parking lot as Levi’s Stadium, this amusement park offers roller coasters, family rides, and a water park. It’s a great option if you’re traveling with kids or want a full day of thrills. Read our full Great America review.
Easy Day Trips from the Bay Area
If you’re extending your stay beyond San Francisco, the Bay Area makes the perfect base for exploring more of Northern California. From scenic coasts to wine country and even a world-famous national park, here are some of the best day trips:
Monterey & Carmel:
About 2.5 hours south of San Francisco, Monterey is a coastal gem known for its marine wildlife, historic Cannery Row, and the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium. Whale-watching tours and scenic coastal walks make it a favorite for nature lovers. Just a few minutes away, Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a charming contrast with boutique shopping, art galleries, and a storybook small-town vibe. Together, these two towns make for a perfect day trip, or even an overnight getaway, combining natural beauty with culture and relaxation. Read our full Monterey guide.
Highway One Road Trip:
California’s most iconic drive, Highway One winds along rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and endless Pacific Ocean views. Head south toward Big Sur for a full-day adventure filled with dramatic scenery, state parks, and charming coastal towns. For a shorter outing, a drive to Half Moon Bay or Santa Cruz still offers sweeping vistas and plenty of spots to stop for photos, fresh seafood, or a walk along the beach. No matter how far you go, the journey is just as rewarding as the destination.
Half Moon Bay:
Just 50 minutes from San Francisco, Half Moon Bay is a scenic coastal town famous for its massive Mavericks surf competition in the winter and its peaceful oceanfront trails year-round. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding on the beach, tide pooling along the shoreline, or simply taking in the dramatic coastal views. The town itself offers a welcoming mix of boutiques and restaurants, Breakwater BBQ is one of our favorites.
Sausalito:
Directly across the Golden Gate Bridge, or a quick ferry ride from the city, Sausalito feels like a quiet Mediterranean village perched on the Bay. Spend a few hours wandering its waterfront cafes, boutique shops, and art studios, all while soaking in postcard-worthy views of San Francisco’s skyline. It’s an easy half-day trip that combines charm, scenery, and a slower pace just minutes away from the city bustle.
Wine Country (Napa & Sonoma):
Just an hour north of San Francisco, Napa and Sonoma are home to more than 400 wineries, rolling vineyards, and some of the best food in California. A must for wine lovers, the region also offers Michelin-starred dining, charming downtowns, and stunning countryside views. Even if you don’t drink, you’ll find plenty to enjoy, from art galleries and hiking trails to hot air balloon rides at sunrise. It’s a perfect mix of relaxation and indulgence.
Yosemite National Park (Bonus Trip):
At about 4 hours from San Francisco, Yosemite is a bit of a stretch for a true day trip, but if you can add an overnight stay, it’s absolutely worth it. Towering granite cliffs, thundering waterfalls, and iconic landmarks like Half Dome and El Capitan make it one of the most breathtaking national parks in the U.S. Whether you’re hiking, photographing the scenery, or simply standing in awe at Yosemite Valley, this trip is a bucket-list experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Final Thoughts
Every experience shared here is something we’ve personally done and would feel comfortable recommending again. Rather than trying to cover everything, this guide focuses on activities that stood out to us based on how enjoyable, practical, or memorable they were once we were actually there.
The Bay Area is always changing, and this list evolves with it. As we revisit familiar places and explore new ones, we update this guide to reflect experiences that continue to feel worth the time, not just popular on paper, but enjoyable in real life.
Planning more of your trip? Our complete Bay Area travel guide pulls together where to stay, how to get around, and what else to do, all in one place.