25 Best Things to Do in The Bay Area, CA (for 2024) (2024)

The Bay Area in Northern California is located in a warm-summer Mediterranean climate zone.

The Bay Area offers plenty of fun activities, from historical places to art museums.

It’s an ideal place to spend time and collect memories with your loved ones.

But with many sites available to visit in the area, planning where to go takes time and effort.

I’ve been there before.

As a parent and a seasoned travel writer, I always look for what’s best for my family.

And I’ve been exploring with my family, which led us to beautiful spots in The Bay Area.

You don’t have to worry anymore because I’ve reviewed the best things to do in The Bay Area for you.

I’ll also share tips and our experiences during our trips.

For a quick comparison, I’ve also ranked each activity based on its educational value, affordability, accessibility, fun factor, and family-friendliness.

So, worry no more and check out my in-depth reviews and tips below.

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Best Things To Do in The Bay Area Compared

From visiting historic sites to art museums, you have many options for the best things to do in The Bay Area.

Here’s a quick reference guide to show you our top picks.

Editor’s Choice

Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island is a small island found in San Francisco Bay. It was a military and a federal prison from 1934 to 1963.

  • Family-Friendliness: 5/5
  • Affordability: 4/5
  • Accessibility: 4.5/5
  • Fun Factor: 5/5
  • Educational Value: 5/5

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#2nd Best Choice

25 Best Things to Do in The Bay Area, CA (for 2024) (2)

California Academy of Sciences

California Academy of Sciences is one of the largest museums of natural history in the world that offers epic science adventure.

  • Family-Friendliness: 5/5
  • Affordability: 4.5/5
  • Accessibility: 5/5
  • Fun Factor: 4.5/5
  • Educational Value: 5/5

#3rd Best Choice

25 Best Things to Do in The Bay Area, CA (for 2024) (3)

San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise

San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise offers tourists a scenic tour on a sailboat cruise.

  • Family-Friendliness: 4.5/5
  • Affordability: 4.5/5
  • Accessibility: 4.5/5
  • Fun Factor: 4.5/5
  • Educational Value: 4.5/5

Here are the top 25 things to do in The Bay Area.

1. Alcatraz Island (Editor’s Choice)

San Francisco, CA 94123
(415) 561-4900
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Alcatraz Island is a small island found in San Francisco Bay.

It was a military and a federal prison from 1934 to 1963.

Ratings Criteria

  • Family-Friendliness: 5/5
  • Affordability: 4/5
  • Accessibility: 4.5/5
  • Fun Factor: 5/5
  • Educational Value: 5/5

Pros

  • Nice and knowledgeable staff
  • Self-tour audio

Cons

  • Expensive

Why You Should Go

There are tons of spots to look at when you visit Alcatraz Island.

You can go tour around Eagle Plaza and visit the ruins of the Warden’s House and lighthouse.

You can also visit the Cellhouse to see what it was like to live as a prisoner on Alcatraz Island.

What To Do

Don’t forget to visit the theater on the island.

It shows a short film that depicts the history of Alcatraz Island.

Once done, you can enjoy a trip to the gift shops and get yourself a souvenir to remember yourtime ‘in prison.’

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Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco

2. California Academy of Sciences

25 Best Things to Do in The Bay Area, CA (for 2024) (5)

5 Music Concourse Dr
San Francisco, CA 94118
(415) 379-8000
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California Academy of Sciences is one of the largest museums of natural history in the world that offers epic science adventure.

Ratings Criteria

  • Family-Friendliness: 5/5
  • Affordability: 4.5/5
  • Accessibility: 5/5
  • Fun Factor: 4.5/5
  • Educational Value: 5/5

Pros

  • Diverse and interactive museums
  • Fun and educational experience

Cons

  • Crowds

Why You Should Go

California Academy of Sciences is a must-go destination with your kids.

You and your kids will enjoy the aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum for 4-hours.

It’s an excellent place where your kids can enjoy having fun while learning.

There’s so much to see and enjoy for the whole family, a great way to spend the day.

What To Do

There are a lot of things to do when you’re at the California Academy of Sciences.

You can visit the aquarium, the rainforest, and the natural history museum.

You can also watch breathtaking shows at the planetarium.

With its interactive screen next to most exhibits, you and your kids will learn a lot.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Fairmont Heritage Place Ghirardelli Square

Related: Best Restaurants in the Bay Area

3. San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise

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Pier 39 Dock J
San Francisco, CA 94133
(702) 648-5873
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San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise offers tourists a scenic tour on a sailboat cruise.

Ratings Criteria

  • Family-Friendliness: 4.5/5
  • Affordability: 4.5/5
  • Accessibility: 4.5/5
  • Fun Factor: 4.5/5
  • Educational Value: 4.5/5

Pros

  • Fun experience
  • Friendly and helpful staff

Cons

  • Expensive

Why You Should Go

San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise is an ideal thing to do for a relaxing getaway.

You’ll get a sun-filled 1.5 relaxing sail in the San Francisco Bay.

While sailing, you’ll get amazing views of Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the city’s skyline.

It’s a perfect treat for everyone.

Also, you’ll learn the history and ecosystem of the San Francisco Bay area.

What To Do

While on board, you can take in the spectacular views of the city, Alcatraz, and the Golden Gate Bridge.

You can also look for sea lions, seals, and dolphins.

Also, take advantage of great photo ops with your family as souvenirs.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Suites Bakersfield

4. SFMoMA

151 Third Street
San Francisco, CA 94103
(415) 357-4000
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The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is a nonprofit organization with an internationally-recognized collection.

It was established in 1935.

Why You Should Go

With a vast collection of artworks, SFMoMA is an excellent alternative to the San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise and the California Academy of Sciences.

SFMOMA has a vast collection of 33,000 works, including paintings, sculptures, design, media arts, photography, and architecture.

It is one of the largest modern and contemporary art museums in the world.

What To Do

When it’s raining or cold outside, visit this downtown museum to see works from celebrated artists.

Some of the artists you’ll see here are Jackson Pollock, Frida Kahlo, and Andy Warhol.

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Recommended Hotel Nearby: St. Regis San Francisco

Related: Best Beaches in The San Francisco Bay Area

5. Sonoma Farm Trails

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Sebastopol, CA 95473
(707) 837-8896
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The Sonoma Farm Trails were created by farmers in Sonoma County so that the public can meet local farmers and learn more about agriculture.

Why You Should Go

Discover more about food production and agriculture when you visit Sonoma County.

The farm trails are a great way to maximize your time, going from one farm to another.

With the map and guide on hand, you can take workshops, buy from farmer’s markets, visit nurseries, and go on different tours.

What To Do

One of the activities that you can do on the farm trails is to visit a U-Pick farm.

Some farms in the trails offer you the chance to pick your own produce like fruits and vegetables.

Seasonal visits can even have you picking your own Halloween pumpkin or Christmas tree.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairfield Inn and Suites Santa Rosa Sebastopol

Related: Best Things to Do in Sonoma, CA

6. Mount Tam

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3801 Panoramic Highway
Mill Valley, CA 94941
(415) 388-2070
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Mount Tamalpais in Marin County is part of the California Coast Ranges.

It has an elevation of 2,571 feet.

Why You Should Go

Mount Tam is considered by many to be symbolic of Marin County.

It’s one of the places to visit in the San Francisco Bay Area when you want to do a hike.

There are tons of trails that you can choose from.

Besides backpacking and walking hikes, you can also go road cycling, horseback riding, and even hang-gliding in Mount Tam.

What To Do

Mount Tam is known for its idyllic nature views of open grassland, redwood trees, and more.

It’s also common for artists to spend a bit of time drawing or painting the sceneries during the hikes.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Mill Valley Inn

7. Long Meadow Ranch

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738 Main Street
St. Helena, CA 94574
(707) 963-4555
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Long Meadow Ranch is a family-owned ranch known for its full-circle organic farming system and wine selection.

Why You Should Go

One of our favorite things to do in the Bay Area for couples is to sample the impressive selection of wine in the area.

Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch is an excellent place for this.

This ranch offers different wine experiences that will cater to your needs.

You can choose to pair Long Meadow ranch wines with a cheese and charcuterie board.

Or you can opt for the chef-chosen bites that match perfectly with each estate wine served.

What To Do

Aside from wine, Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch is known for its healthy, organic meals made through sustainable practices.

Enjoy your date fully with a dinner of White Alba Truffles or ‘Brick Cooked’ Chicken.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Harvest Inn

8. The Marshall Store

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19225 State Route 1
Marshall, CA 94940
(415) 663-1339
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The Marshall Store is one of Tomales Bay’s iconic destinations.

When it comes to oysters and seafood dishes, foodies will adore visiting here.

Why You Should Go

The oysters served in The Marshall Store come from their family farm.

Get the most authentic experience by eating their delicious oyster dishes on the tables outside with a scenic view of the waters.

What To Do

Make sure to try the different ways on how they cook their oysters.

You can always try them raw.

But barbecue, Rockefeller, and Kilpatrick are also great ways to experience this seafood favorite.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Bodega Bay Lodge

9. Googleplex

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1600 Amphitheatre Parkway
Mountain View, CA 94043
(650) 253-0000
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Googleplex is the corporate headquarters of Google.

It was built in July 2004 and is 2,000,000 square feet in size.

Visiting this destination should be added to your list of stuff to do in the South Bay.

Why You Should Go

While there are no Googleplex tours open to the public, you can stroll around the campus independently.

Sure, you won’t be able to go indoors without an employee with you.

But there are tons to see outside.

Visit the quirky works around the campus like the life-size T-Rex skeleton or the jumbo cartoon Android figures.

You can also ride one of the Gbikes inside the campus.

What To Do

If you’re on campus during the weekend or at night, you can make use of their sports fields and tennis courts.

It’s one of the top things to do in the Bay Area tonight.

You’ll be able to tell your friends you did a workout at Google.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Crowne Plaza Cabana Hotel

Related: Best Restaurants in Mountain View

10. Big Basin Redwoods State Park

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21600 Big Basin Way
Boulder Creek, CA 95006
(831) 338-8861
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Big Basin Redwoods State Park is the oldest state park in California.

It was established in 1902 with an original land area of 3,800 acres.

Currently, it is 18,000 acres big.

Why You Should Go

A walk around nature can really be relaxing for many people.

Here, at the state park, you’ll find the largest group of ancient coast redwood trees south of San Francisco.

You can also use the many trails in the park to visit other destinations like Castle Rock State Park or the Santa Cruz range.

What To Do

Big Basin is home to many waterfalls, different environments, and tons of animals.

Make sure to bring your camera to capture the beautiful nature scenes all around.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Los Gatos Garden Inn Hotel

11. Port Costa

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1 Plaza Del Hambre
Port Costa, CA 94569
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Port Costa is a CDP in Contra Costa County with a population of 190.

It was founded in 1879 by the Central Pacific Railroad.

Why You Should Go

Feel like you stepped back in time when you arrive in the village of Port Costa.

The atmosphere in the area will make it seem like time stood still in this small area.

Eat a hearty brunch at Bull Valley Roadhouse or have a drink at the Warehouse Cafe if you want to stay indoors.

What To Do

Feeling as if you’re in the past isn’t the only come-on of Port Costa.

Art lovers will also adore the superb selection of vintage-inspired paper artwork that can be seen in the Theatre of Dreams.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Heritage Inn

12. Harley Farms

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205 North Street
Pescadero, CA 94060
(650) 879-0480
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Harley Farms is a dairy farmstead in the peninsula known for its award-winning cheeses and goat-milk products.

Why You Should Go

Learn more about the farm life when you tour around Harley Farms.

Here you can pet their goats or have a picnic on the farm’s beautiful grounds.

A trip here is an excellent addition to your list of top things to do in the Bay Area with kids.

What To Do

While you’re here, make sure to taste a sample of Harley Farm’s popular products.

Many of them are freshly made, so you’re sure to enjoy your experience.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sheraton Palo Alto Hotel

13. Chinatown San Francisco

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Grant Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94108
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The Chinatown in San Francisco can be found around Grant Avenue and Stockton Street.

It is the oldest Chinatown in North America.

Why You Should Go

Enjoy walking along the lantern-adorned streets of SF’s Chinatown.

You’ll love looking at the colorful buildings and discovering what each narrow alleyway has in store for you.

A stroll around this area of San Francisco is definitely a contender for one of the best free things to do in the Bay Area.

What To Do

Foodies will rejoice because Chinatown has cheap and delicious snacks for you to munch on.

From takeaway dim sum to a glass of fresh fruit shake, you’ll love eating your way through the streets.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Orchard Garden Hotel

14. Cavallo Point

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601 Murray Circle
Sausalito, CA 94965
(888) 651-2003
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Cavallo Point is a historic boutique hotel found at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge.

It is a well-known advocate of green living.

Why You Should Go

Spend a peaceful time in the picturesque setting of Cavallo Point.

Its spectacular views and the incredibly green fare is sure to be a hit with nature lovers.

You can even learn more about organic cooking when you join the classes found in their Cooking School.

What To Do

After being busy, make time to relax in Cavallo Point’s indoor-outdoor spa.

You can soak in the mediation pool, indulge in fantastic body treatments, or even drink a cup of tea around the fireplace.

Related: Best Things to Do in Sausalito, CA

15. Russian River

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Guerneville, CA 95446
(707) 869-9000
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The Russian River is the second largest river that flows through the Greater San Francisco Bay Area.

It is about 180-km long.

Why You Should Go

The Russian River is known for its leisurely pace.

So it’s no wonder locals and visitors alike love lazing down this rolling river.

All you need is a floater, and you can kick back, relax, and let the river weave its peaceful magic.

What To Do

There are tons of ways to enjoy a day in the Russian River.

You can bring your canoe and kayak to explore around and search for wildlife.

Or you can discover hidden beaches along the river and lounge on your beach blanket.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Ukiah

16. Twin Peaks

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501 Twin Peaks Boulevard
San Francisco, CA 94114
(415) 831-2700
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Twin Peaks is a community in the hills of San Francisco.

It was initially called Strawberry Flat in the 1860s.

Why You Should Go

The reason why many tourists like visiting Twin Peaks is because it has fantastic views.

You can see the San Francisco skyline from here.

What To Do

Besides the view, you can also enjoy seeing various plants and animals around the area while making your way up top.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Bear Springs Hotel

17. Ferry Building

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One Ferry Building
San Francisco, CA 94111
(415) 983-8030
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The San Francisco Ferry Building can be found along the Embarcadero.

It is a terminal for ferries owned by the Port of San Francisco.

It opened in 1898.

Why You Should Go

Though still a ferry terminal, the Ferry Building is more known for its incredible food hall and marketplace.

Here you can taste a myriad of flavors.

From simple donuts to luxurious oysters, the food hall has tons of choices for you to choose from.

What To Do

While you’re here, you should check out the San Francisco-themed merchandise you can get.

They’ll be great souvenirs to bring back or just have in your home.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Fairmont San Francisco

18. Lombard Street

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Lombard St
San Francisco, CA 94133
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Lombard Street can be found between Leavenworth Street & Hyde Street.

It is known as ‘the crookedest street in the world.’

Why You Should Go

Lombard Street is a famous San Francisco attraction because of its unique look.

You’ll enjoy watching cars going down the winding street with eight hairpin turns.

What To Do

Take a picture of Lombard Street from the bottom.

The shot’s angle will make it look like the cars are driving down an impossibly sharp road.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Taj Campton Place

19. Lands End Trail

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Point Lobos Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94121
(415) 426-5240
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Lands End Trail is a 5.5-km loop trail near San Francisco Bay.

It is a moderately difficult trail that kids can still enjoy.

Why You Should Go

If you want to see beautiful views of the Pacific, then a visit to Lands End Trail is a must.

Aside from pretty wildflowers and a small chance to spot sea lions, this trail offers incredible scenes of the ocean.

What To Do

Idyllic and relaxing views make Lands End Trail a great spot for running or walking activities.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Stanyan Park Hotel

20. Fort Point

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Long Avenue & Marine Drive
San Francisco, CA 94129
(415) 504-2334
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Fort Point is a seacoast building found just below the southern end of the Golden Gate Bridge.

It was completed in October 1970, just before the American Civil War.

Why You Should Go

History buffs will love to go on tour in Fort Point.

It was built to defend San Francisco Bay from enemy warships.

You’ll be able to walk around its courtyard and look for unique views of the Golden Gate Bridge above.

What To Do

Learn more about the history of Fort Point through artifacts and films that can be found inside.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Kimpton Buchanan Hotel

21. Union Square

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291 Geary St., Ste. 200
San Francisco, CA 94102
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Union Square is a public plaza in downtown San Francisco.

It is bordered by Geary Powell Street, Post Street, and Stockton Street.

Why You Should Go

If you want to do some shopping, then Union Square is a great place to start.

For serious retail lovers, this place should be added to your list of fun things to do in the Bay Area.

From affordable brands all the way to luxury flagship stores, you’ll be in a shopper’s heaven.

What To Do

After a satisfying shopping stint, you can do both indoor and outdoor dining over at Union Square.

You can also go to art galleries and other entertainment places like the Museum of Ice Cream and the San Francisco Playhouse.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Cartwright Hotel, Union Square BW Premier Collection

22. Fisherman’s Wharf

25 Best Things to Do in The Bay Area, CA (for 2024) (25)

Jefferson Street
San Francisco, CA 94133
(415) 673-3530
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Fisherman’s Wharf is a popular tourist attraction in San Francisco.

It can be found between Hyde and Powell Streets.

Why You Should Go

Fisherman’s Wharf is long.

It starts from about Ghirardelli Square all the way to Pier 35.

So you know you’ll have lots to do and see here.

Besides shopping, you can also go inside spots like Ripley’s Believe or Not, the Musee Mecanique, and the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park.

What To Do

Seafood lovers will enjoy spending their time in Fisherman’s Wharf as there are plenty of seafood restaurants around.

Make sure to try San Francisco gems like Alioto’s.

Or if you prefer something more mainstream, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and the like are also here.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf

Related: Best Hotels in The Bay Area

23. Golden Gate Park

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501 Stanyan Street
San Francisco, CA 94117
(415) 831-2700
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Golden Gate Park is a 1,017-acre public urban park.

It is 20 percent larger than New York’s Central Park and opened in April 1870.

Why You Should Go

If you want to check out tons of attractions this weekend without hopping from place to place, visit this park.

The Golden Gate Park is home to many gardens like the Shakespeare Garden and Dahlia Garden.

You can also check out the Conservatory of Flowers.

What To Do

Sporty visitors will also love the many fitness opportunities scattered in the park.

You can visit the Kezar Stadium, the Polo Field, or the Archery Range.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Drisco

Related: Best Things to do in San Francisco

24. Presidio of San Francisco

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103 Montgomery Street
San Francisco, CA 94129
(415) 561-5300
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Presidio of San Francisco is a former US Army military fort.

It was fortified in September 1776.

Why You Should Go

Bike along or take a stroll in the Presidio Promenade.

It’s a 2.1-mile trail that starts at the historic Lombard Gate all the way to the foot of the Golden Bridge.

You’ll be passing stunning views and old military architecture.

What To Do

Make sure to stop by Crissy Field.

It’s the Presidio’s most popular spot that both locals and visitors love.

You can do a picnic around or jog along its waterfront paths.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Zelos San Francisco

25. The Palace of Fine Arts

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3301 Lyon Street
San Francisco, CA 94123
(415) 608-2220
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The Palace of Fine Arts can be found in the Marina District of San Francisco.

It was initially built in 1915.

However, it was completely rebuilt from 1964 to 1974.

A visit to this location is one of the best things to do in the Bay Area.

Why You Should Go

Currently, the Palace of Fine Arts is most notable because of its open rotunda with beautiful arches enclosed by a lagoon.

It’s utterly romantic, and many weddings are done there because of its scenic view.

What To Do

Artists will love their trip to the Palace of Fine Arts without even stepping inside.

The recognizable landmark is a favorite subject for many artists who visit.

So draw or paint away, and you’ll find yourself with a beautiful souvenir to take back home.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco

Related: Best Things to Do in Northern California

Activity Guide

Comparing Attractions: Which One Is Right For You?

Just like a vibrant palette full of colors, each Bay Area attraction has its unique hue.

So, when choosing the best things to do with the family, consider the factors and preferences you’re looking for.

You must also consider its affordability, accessibility, family-friendliness, fun factor, and educational value.

For instance, Alcatraz Island has a fascinating past.

It’s not just a former prison but also an important site for Native-American activism.

With a headset tour guide, we enjoyed the site itself.

I also loved how friendly and knowledgeable the staff was during our trip.

The only downside is, going to Alcatraz Island is costly.

On the other hand, the California Academy of Sciences is all about diversity and interaction.

My kids had a blast having fun while learning about science.

But, the place is quite popular so expect crowds during weekends.

In San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise, we love the unique, fun experience.

Also, the entire staff is helpful and friendly, making our trip memorable.

However, it’s costly too.

We spent the best of our lives visiting The Bay Area, and my kids wanted to return.

These attractions and activities offered something special that made our vacation unforgettable.

It’s all about choosing the adventure that speaks to your heart.

How I Picked The Activities

As a parent and travel writer, my passion for exploring led me to numerous places.

And that led my family to The Bay Area for vacation.

Filled with happiness during our trip, I’ve reviewed the best things to do in The Bay Area.

And to write an honest review, I did extensive research.

I also talked with other tourists and parents for their valuable insights.

Our Rating Method

I rate these attractions based on the following criteria:

  • Family-Friendliness: I use this criterion to assess the family-friendly appeal of every activity. Is it suitable for families with kids? Is it safe, engaging, and fun for children? I ask myself these questions in order to rate family-friendliness.
  • Affordability: This is used to evaluate the attraction’s affordability. Will visitors get a lot of bang for their buck? Is it free or cheaper compared to the other options? Does it offer discounted rates, special promotions, or free entry? I consider these factors when rating affordability.
  • Accessibility: This evaluates the activity’s accessibility. Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Are there plenty of parking spaces available? Is it wheelchair accessible? I ask myself these questions when assessing the attraction’s accessibility.
  • Fun Factor: I use this to evaluate how enjoyable the attraction is for visitors. Will it create positive and memorable experiences? Is it engaging, fun, and exciting? I use these questions to evaluate this criterion.
  • Educational Value: This assesses the educational benefits of the activity. Does it provide learning opportunities to kids? Will it teach visitors lessons in science and history? I ask myself these important questions when rating educational value.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Bay Area Famous For?

The Bay Area is famous for its iconic landmarks, such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, which attract millions of visitors each year. It is also renowned for its vibrant tech industry, with Silicon Valley being the epicenter of innovation and home to numerous tech giants and startups.

Is Oakland Cheaper Than San Francisco?

Yes, Oakland is generally considered to be more affordable than San Francisco. While both cities are part of the Bay Area, Oakland tends to have lower housing costs, lower overall expenses, and a lower cost of living compared to San Francisco.

Conclusion

25 Best Things to Do in The Bay Area, CA (for 2024) (29)

These are the best things to do in The Bay Area.

As for my family vacation, we created fun and lasting memories to cherish.

And each of these things to do has something unique to offer to everyone.

Visiting the California Academy of Sciences made my little kids curious about science.

We love the fun and educational experience they offer and its diverse and interactive museums.

I was like a wide-eyed kid, totally in awe of the rainforest dome and the planetarium.

At San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise, our sailing trip is worth the money with the fun and one-of-a-kind experience we got.

SFMoMA is an excellent alternative to the California Academy of Sciences and San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise if it’s raining outside.

At SFMoMA, you’ll see more than 33,000 artworks from the celebrated artist.

However, we must acknowledge each of their drawbacks.

At the California Academy of Sciences, it gets crowded.

San Francisco Bay Sailing Cruise is costly.

On the other hand, SFMoMa needs better customer service.

Despite their drawbacks, these attractions keep on evolving and improving.

As for the top choice, the tour on Alcatraz Island is the best.

With its self-tour audio, you can tour at your own pace.

As my family and I stood at the entrance, I could already feel the excitement.

Every corner of the former prison held an insightful story.

And what I love the most is their pleasant and knowledgeable staff that made our tour more fun and memorable.

Going to Alcatraz Island may be expensive, but worth all the effort and money.

Editor’s Choice

Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island is a small island found in San Francisco Bay. It was a military and a federal prison from 1934 to 1963.

  • Family-Friendliness: 5/5
  • Affordability: 4/5
  • Accessibility: 4.5/5
  • Fun Factor: 5/5
  • Educational Value: 5/5

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25 Best Things to Do in The Bay Area, CA (for 2024) (2024)
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