San Francisco offers an abundance of exciting activities for a memorable weekend getaway, with its iconic landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a local looking for new adventures or a visitor eager to explore the City by the Bay, here’s a curated list of fun things to do in San Francisco over the weekend.
If anything we write here inspires you to explore San Francisco with Incredible Adventures, check out our San Francisco Tours (which include tours from SF to nearby attractions).
Take in the Atmosphere in Golden Gate Park
Kickstart your weekend with a visit to Golden Gate Park — a sprawling oasis in the heart of the city that gives its name to the iconic bridge that overlooks it. The park is home to various attractions, including the de Young Museum, the California Academy of Sciences, and the serene Japanese Tea Garden.
Enjoy a stroll, rent a paddleboat at Stow Lake, or simply bask in the beauty of the park’s botanical gardens. Golden Gate Park is great at any time, but there is a different atmosphere at the weekend that elevates everything.
Golden Gate Bridge: A San Francisco Classic
While not weekend-specific, no visit to San Francisco is complete without crossing the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Whether you choose to walk, bike, or drive, the breathtaking views of the city skyline, Alcatraz Island, and the Pacific Ocean are guaranteed to leave you in awe. Don’t forget your camera – the photo opportunities are endless!
Our SF bike tours and rentals are perfect for anyone hoping to get a little more up close and personal with what is arguably the most famous bridge in the world.
Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39
For a taste of San Francisco’s maritime history and bustling waterfront, head to Fisherman’s Wharf. Explore Pier 39, where sea lions bask in the sun and street performers entertain passersby (usually this is more fun at the weekend, but it’s great at any time).
Another benefit of visiting Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 is that you will have the opportunity to indulge in San Francisco’s best fresh seafood. Look forward to SF chowder in a sourdough bread bowl, and pretty much any seafood you can imagine.
Visit Alcatraz Island
One of the daytimes on your weekend could be set aside for a tour of one of San Francisco’s most famous (or infamous) sights: Alcatraz Island. Embark on a ferry ride to Alcatraz Island, home to the infamous Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary.
There is just far too much to learn about the island and the infamous prison that used to operate there. Today, it is a tourist hotspot with visitors coming from all around the world to learn about the prison’s fascinating history, notorious inmates, and the numerous escape attempts (some more successful than others). You take a day tour and you’ll have a great time, or you can opt for our San Francisco Bay Cruise & Alcatraz Night Tour for something more exciting and memorable.
Explore San Francisco’s Famous Chinatown
San Francisco boasts one of the oldest and most vibrant Chinatowns in North America. Lose yourself in the maze of narrow alleys, browse through traditional shops, and savor authentic Chinese cuisine. Don’t miss the colorful Dragon Gate at the entrance as this is an excellent photo opportunity.
Hike or Bike the Presidio
The Presidio is a former military base turned national park, and it offers a perfect blend of nature and history. Mostly, it’s an excellent place for a morning hike or cycle. Choose from the various trails for a scenic hike or rent a bike to explore this picturesque area. The Presidio also houses the Walt Disney Family Museum — a unique and immersive experience for Disney enthusiasts.
The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)
Art aficionados will find joy in the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA). With its impressive collection of contemporary and modern art, SFMOMA is a haven for creativity. From renowned masterpieces to cutting-edge installations, the museum has something to offer experts and tourists alike. This is a great place to stop off for a few hours between larger activities. Depending on when you visit, there will be different exhibitions on, so make sure to visit the SFMOMA website to find out what’s on.
See the Mission District Murals
Another excellent morning activity, head to the Mission District to experience the vibrant street art scene. Take a leisurely stroll through Balmy Alley, Clarion Alley, and other mural-covered streets. These colorful works of art reflect the neighborhood’s rich history, diverse culture, and the passion of local artists.
Relax at Baker Beach
You might choose Baker Beach or Golden Gate Park, but both deserve to be on your SF weekend bucket list. Baker Beach is a pristine stretch of coastline to the northwest of the city offering unparalleled views of the Golden Gate Bridge while you dig your toes into soft sand and enjoy the seaside air.
Baker Beach is perfect if you’re looking for a tranquil spot to unwind, a romantic sunset stroll, or just an excellent beach to make some sand castles with the little ones. You can visit at any time, but we think Baker Beach provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing Sunday afternoon.
That’s all we have time for with this guide to fun things to do at the weekend In San Francisco. The possibilities for weekend adventures in SF are as diverse as the city itself and we could probably extend this guide out to ten times the length. But we didn’t want to overwhelm you. Instead, we hope this guide has helped you figure out a few activities for your next SF visit.
From cultural explorations and outdoor activities to culinary delights and historical excursions, the City by the Bay promises an unforgettable experience for every weekend visitor. We look forward to your visit!
