Things to Do in San Francisco This Weekend (When You Have No Plans)

Looking for things to do in San Francisco this weekend that get you out of the house? 

Unleash your inner detective with a city-wide scavenger hunt! Explore San Francisco’s nooks and crannies while solving clever puzzles and uncovering hidden gems. Perfect for getting in your step count and showing off how smart you are!

Now that Wicked has hit the movie theaters as well as the big stage, I know I'm not the only one who’s ready for more show-stopping numbers and toe-tapping tunes! 

San Francisco’s Broadway scene is alive with world-class performances that will have you singing all the way home. Find out what’s playing and grab some leftover tickets for a weekend full of the right kind of drama!

As the saying goes, we don’t stop dancing because we get old, we get old because we stop dancing. Except, trade dancing for exploring.

If you’re looking for things to do in San Francisco this weekend, grab some friends, your family or your partner and watch as the city gets turned into your playground!

Follow cryptic clues that lead you to San Francisco’s lesser-known wonders, including hidden gardens and scenic spots, and be prepared to share local trivia with everyone you know for the next few weeks.

For unbeatable panoramic views of San Francisco, head to Christmas Tree Point. 

Since the holiday lights have been put up and San Francisco is now at its “glowiest”, this iconic spot atop Twin Peaks offers a spectacular vantage point for getting into the holiday spirit. 

Bring your camera, and prepare to be wowed!

Winter, summer, fall or spring, it’s always flower time over at the Conservatory of Flowers.

This Victorian gem houses a vibrant collection of tropical plants and exotic blooms, providing a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and wintery temps. 

Stroll through lush greenery, marvel at carnivorous plants, and snap photos of vibrant blooms–your Instagram feed will thank you for it.

If you’re looking for things to do in San Francisco this weekend that involve a little time travel without the hassle of building your own machine, you could always channel your inner archaeologist at the Sutro Baths ruins.

Explore the remains of what was once a luxurious bathhouse and imagine its former grandeur as you take an adventurous stroll or grab some Instagram-worthy shots.

Did you know that there was a plan to turn Sutro Baths into an ice rink but it ultimately failed? Well, it doesn’t matter, because you can still get your skates on this weekend (not at the baths, though). 

Lace up your skates and glide into the holiday spirit at Union Square’s iconic ice rink. Even if you’re more of a “clinging to the wall” type, it’s a delightful way to embrace the season.

Foodies, this one’s for you! The Ferry Building Farmers Market is a feast of flavors, offering everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses and handmade chocolates. Sample local delicacies, chat with friendly vendors, and stock up on unique treats you won’t find anywhere else.

Come hungry and leave with a bag (or two) of goodies.

Looking for things to do in San Francisco this weekend that come with a dose of fresh air?

Trade skyscrapers for Redwoods at Muir Woods. Wander along shaded trails, breathe in the crisp, earthy air, and feel your worries melt away beneath the canopy of these majestic giants. 

For a little adventure, tackle a scenic loop or climb to higher viewpoints for jaw-dropping panoramas.

It’s been a minute since you last visited (or maybe you’ve never been before!) but this is your sign to immerse yourself in the world of modern art at SFMOMA. 

With innovative exhibits and striking works from renowned artists, it’s a cultural experience that’s anything but ordinary. From mind-bending contemporary installations to thought-provoking photography and classic works by artists like Frida Kahlo and Andy Warhol, there’s always something to spark your imagination. 

Don’t miss the rooftop garden for a breath of fresh air!

History buffs and thrill-seekers, unite! Urban adventures like these let you peel back the layers of San Francisco’s rich history in the most interactive way possible. 

Solve riddles, uncover secrets, and explore the city’s landmarks while learning quirky stories about its past…

'Tis the season to drink and be merry and you know what that means: it’s holiday bar time. 

San Francisco’s holiday-themed bars are serving up festive cheer by the glass, and as this is the prime time to visit them, it’d almost be rude not to sip on creative cocktails in over-the-top decor that would make even the Grinch smile.

Take a ferry ride to the infamous Alcatraz Island and uncover the secrets of “The Rock.” 

Once home to infamous inmates like Al Capone, this former prison now offers fascinating exhibits that bring its history to life. Wander through eerie cell blocks, explore the prison yard, and imagine the daring escape attempts that became the stuff of legend.

Hop off a cable car and step into history at the Cable Car Museum!

Marvel at the massive machinery that keeps the cables running, explore vintage cars up close, and dive into the stories of the people who built and operated them. Admission is free, making it a fun and budget-friendly way to experience a piece of living history. 

Pro tip: The working powerhouse beneath the museum will leave you as impressed as the views you just rode in on!

Looking for things to do in San Francisco this weekend that give you a break from the stress of the holidays? 

Take a deep breath and let nature work its magic at the San Francisco Botanical Garden. 

Wander through 55 acres of lush landscapes showcasing plants from around the globe, from towering redwoods to vibrant tropical blooms.

Get your heart pumping and your camera clicking as you tackle San Francisco’s famous staircases. The Filbert Street Steps wind through lush greenery and charming gardens, while the Lyon Street Steps reward your efforts with jaw-dropping views of the Golden Gate Bridge. For a splash of color, head to the 16th Avenue Tiled Steps, where intricate mosaics guide you skyward.

And if you’re not in the mood for climbing today…why not whizz down the Seward Street Slides instead.