THINGS TO DO IN THE BAY AREA
There are so many ways to enjoy the Bay - good food, rich culture, beautiful views, and the kind of energy that stays with you. Whether you have an hour or a whole day, pick the experience(s) that calls to you. Below are some ideas and options for you to explore. Nothing here is required. Just click the buttons below or browse the lists below for a bit of inspiration to make the weekend yours.
ROOTS & ROYALTY - THE BLACK BAY AREA
Culture, history & community
The Bay Area has long been home to some of the most important Black culture, history, and community in the country — and this weekend is the perfect time to honor that. From historic bookstores and community art spaces to museums that tell the full story, these stops are worth your time.
1. Marcus Books — Oakland
Explore a historic Black-owned bookstore specializing in books by and about Black people.
2. African American Museum and Library at Oakland
Discover Black history, archival collections, and stories rooted in Oakland and beyond.
3. Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD) — San Francisco
Explore contemporary art and exhibitions celebrating the global African diaspora.
4. Oakland Museum of California — Oakland
Discover California art, history, and natural sciences under one roof.
5. African American Art & Culture Complex — San Francisco
A community arts center celebrating Black creativity and cultural expression. Check gallery access and current programming before visiting.
6. Black Panther Party Museum — Oakland
Learn about the history and legacy of the Black Panther Party. Confirm visitor access before making the trip.
7. Miyako Old Fashioned Ice Cream — San Francisco
Look into this longstanding Black-owned ice cream business while exploring the Fillmore neighborhood. The owner Tom is a hoot and a holler. Cash-only payments accepted.
SCENES WORTH SEEING
Scenery, sightseeing & fresh air
The Bay doesn't disappoint when it comes to a view. Whether you're chasing the perfect photo, a peaceful walk, or just want to take it all in — these are the spots that remind you exactly why people fall in love with this place.
8. Golden Gate Bridge — San Francisco
Walk part of the bridge or find a scenic overlook for those iconic Bay views.
9. Lands End Trail — San Francisco
Enjoy coastal trails, rugged cliffs, and gorgeous ocean scenery.
10. Lake Merritt — Oakland
Take a lakeside stroll, people-watch, and enjoy one of Oakland's signature outdoor spaces.
11. Painted Ladies at Alamo Square — San Francisco
Snap the classic photo of colorful Victorian homes with the city skyline behind them.
12. Dolores Park — San Francisco
A classic city hangout for sunshine, skyline views, and people-watching.
13. Berkeley Rose Garden — Berkeley
Take in hillside views and beautifully landscaped gardens.
14. Marin Headlands — Marin County
Take a scenic trip across the Golden Gate Bridge for dramatic coastal cliffs, Pacific Ocean views, and incredible photo opportunities.
WANDER & DISCOVER
Retail therapy, vintage treasures & local discoveries
Some of the best Bay Area moments happen when you're not really looking for anything in particular. Browse a neighborhood, pop into a thrift store, grab a snack, stumble onto something you didn't know you needed. These spots are great starting points — but let yourself get a little lost.
15. Bay Street Emeryville — Emeryville
Browse popular brands, lifestyle stores, and entertainment in an open-air shopping destination.
16. Union Square — San Francisco
Get your city-shopping fix with fashion, beauty, flagship stores, and nearby theaters.
17. Fillmore Street — San Francisco
Browse boutiques and neighborhood businesses in a historic San Francisco district.
18. Explore Oakland's Food Scene — Oakland
Find your own favorite restaurants, cafés, bakeries, and food spots. Browse by cuisine and mood to make your own delicious discoveries.
19. Shop Community Thrift — San Francisco
Hunt for secondhand clothing, accessories, furniture, and unexpected treasures.
20. Take an Oakland Mural Tour — Oakland
Explore Oakland through its vibrant street art, large-scale murals, and the stories behind the artists and communities that shape the city. Choose the self-guided Downtown Broadway route, or explore the murals around Jack London Square.
21. Explore Rockridge & College Avenue — Oakland
Stroll College Avenue for independent boutiques, bookstores, specialty shops, and neighborhood cafés.
THE CREATIVE SIDE
Art, music, movies & unexpected finds
The Bay has always had a creative soul — and it shows. Whether you're flipping through records, catching a film in a neighborhood cinema, or losing yourself in a museum, these are the stops for anyone who feeds off good art and good energy.
22. Amoeba Music — San Francisco
Dig through records, discover new artists, and browse music and movies at an iconic independent music store.
23. SFMOMA — San Francisco
Spend time with modern and contemporary art, photography, design, and large-scale installations.
24. Pacific Pinball Museum — Alameda
Play your way through vintage and modern pinball machines for a fun group outing.
25. Japanese Tea Garden — San Francisco
Wander through landscaped gardens, bridges, ponds, and traditional architecture in Golden Gate Park.
26. Grand Lake Theatre — Oakland
Catch a film or admire the historic Art Deco theater and its distinctive marquee or enjoy shopping in the surrounding Grand Lake/Lakeshore neighborhood. Check the screening schedule for your visit.
ONLY IN THE BAY
Iconic stops, waterfront exploring & memorable Bay Area experiences
Some things you just have to do when you're here. These are the classic Bay Area experiences — the ones you'll talk about when you get home. Iconic, unmissable, and best enjoyed without rushing. Take your time and make it count.
27. Alcatraz Island — San Francisco
Take the ferry to the famous former federal prison and explore its history. Book tickets ahead.
28. Ride a Cable Car — San Francisco
Experience one of the city's most recognizable traditions while rolling through its famous hills.
29. Ferry Building & Bay Ferry — San Francisco Bay
Browse the Ferry Building's specialty shops and local vendors, then consider taking a ferry for a different view of the Bay. Check Bay Ferry routes and schedules before planning your trip.
30. Explore Chinatown — San Francisco
Wander historic streets, browse shops, and admire the architecture of one of the city's most distinctive neighborhoods.
31. Explore Downtown Oakland & Uptown — Oakland
Explore Oakland’s creative core, from colorful murals and historic architecture to independent businesses, galleries, music venues, and nightlife. Venture along nearby Telegraph Avenue for more local discoveries.
32. Explore Temescal — Oakland
Discover independent businesses, creative spaces, and neighborhood gems around Telegraph Avenue.
33. Explore Grand Lake & Lakeshore Avenue — Oakland
Stroll neighborhood shops and cafés, check out the surrounding area, and head toward Lake Merritt for a walk by the water.
34. Jack London Square — Oakland
Take a relaxed walk along the waterfront, explore the marina and historic warehouse district, and browse local businesses. Check the event calendar for markets and activities during your visit.
35. PIER 39 — San Francisco
Watch the famous sea lions, browse shops, catch street performers, and take in the waterfront views.