Which Is The Best Time To Visit Ladakh? – Travel Guide

BY  Ankita Feb 7, 2024

Are you dreaming of exploring Canada’s majestic mountains, vibrant cities, and charming small towns? Look no further! The country has so much to offer. But before you pack your bags and head off on an airplane, there are insider tips you can't miss. This guide is here to help you discover the real Canada beyond the famous tourist spots you see in pictures. Let's explore how you can truly experience Canada like a local. Explore Beyond the Cities While cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are must-visits, Canada's true beauty lies in its vast wilderness. To truly discover the beauty, consider renting a car or taking a local bus to explore the scenic countryside, national parks, and charming small towns. Let's talk about these cities one by one: 1. Vancouver The city is known for its breathtaking landscapes and greenery. You can hike in the nearby mountains or stroll along the stunning Stanley Park Seawall, offering ocean views and lush forests.  Vancouver Island is one of the best places in the world for whale watching. With its pristine waters, it is perfect for kayaking and canoeing. Also, it is home to an abundance of wildlife. Keep an eye out for bald eagles, black bears, seals, and sea lions.  To enhance your experience of the Vancouver Island getaway and make it even more relaxing, consider planning your stay at a resort. You can enjoy various amenities and facilities like a swimming pool, Gym, business areas, and the town’s tasty cuisine. Also, you can avail of special offers if you book online and get an incredible experience of staying. 2. Toronto In Toronto, there are awesome adventures waiting for you. You can visit the famous CN Tower, where you'll get amazing views of the city. Or you can ride on a ferry to Toronto Islands. At the place, you'll find sandy beaches and the most beautiful skyline views. It's a great place to chill and have fun. It is also home to cool neighborhoods like Kensington Market, where you can explore colorful streets filled with unique shops and tasty food. Also, enjoy the walk along the waterfront at Harbourfront Centre, where you can enjoy live performances and art exhibitions. 3. Montreal In Montreal, you can dive right into the lively culture. One of the best parts is trying out yummy food in the busy markets. There are all sorts of delicious things to taste. You can also wander around Old Montreal, like stepping into the past with its cobblestone streets and charming buildings. The place is full of incredible art and music events so that you can catch some fantastic shows and exhibitions. And if you like outdoor fun, there are parks and green spaces to enjoy. Participate in Local Festivals Canada's calendar is packed with festivals celebrating everything from music and film to food and heritage. Participating in these events is a fantastic way to experience local culture and meet nationals.  Join the vibrant festivities of the Calgary Stampede, where you can get in on the action and feel like a cowboy or cowgirl for a day. If you're into movies, the Toronto International Film Festival is the place to be. You can watch cool films and soak up the artsy vibe. It's a fantastic way to experience culture and make new friends while having a wonderful time. Uncover Hidden Gems Exploring hidden gems during your Canada adventure enhances your traveling experience. You can ask locals for tips on where to find hidden beaches, peaceful hiking trails, or cool hangout spots in town.  Discover the charm of lesser-known neighborhoods, like the artistic alleys of Toronto's Kensington Market. The historic streets of Old Town Lunenburg in Nova Scotia often offer a more authentic and personal experience than the crowded tourist spots. Essential Tips for a Smooth Journey Understanding a few essentials can make your adventure more enjoyable: Weather: Canada's weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers to adapt to changing conditions, especially if you're exploring the great outdoors. Tickets: Book tickets online in advance to avoid long lines for attractions. You will even get special offers and discounts that save you money.  Local Transport: Familiarize yourself with public transport options. Biking is also a popular way to explore Canadian cities. Currency:  While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, having some Canadian dollars on hand is useful for smaller establishments or rural areas. Where Locals Eat To set the gastronomy in motion, check out Celebrity Chef Lynn Crawford’s Ruby Watchco in Leslieville. The menus change on a weekly basis with locally sourced ingredients. The servings are family-style, and they encourage you to stay back. Take their bait and hang out in this famous neighborhood that has sustained young, creative minds and families from across the city. Their spots, such as the restored Broadview Hotel, are meticulously chosen. You can choose to savor the city from The Rooftop Terrace, or you can check in to one of the grand 58 eclectic guest rooms. If you want to try a refreshing breakfast, check out Bonjour Brioche, where locals enjoy fresh pastries and lattes. All this so far covers a single neighborhood! Across the city, you will find different opportunities to munch on whatever you desire. If you are in the mood for tapas-style treats, you may hit the all-time staple Bar Raval. If you are craving nouveau Caribbean, check out Chubby’s Jamaican Kitchen. And at the end of it all if you are craving some dessert, the city’s favorite, Rosen’s Cinnamon Buns on College Street, will not disappoint. If you are into vegetarian options, your options are growing that way, too. One of the more refined options is Planta or even the more trendy new Vegandale chain of restaurants and breweries in Parkdale, which will leave you feeling super satisfied. Photo Spots Since its arrival in 2015, the Toronto Sign at Nathan Phillips Square has become a selfie spot for locals as well as tourists alike. Remember to take a peek at all the artwork or get a selfie in Graffiti Alley, but that is not all. There is The Falcon Skybar at Hotel X, the Kost rooftop bar perched on top of the 44th-floor of Bisha Hotel, and the Thompson Toronto’s Rooftop Lounge offer a spot to nibble and sip with some highly Instagrammable views. Final Thoughts Experiencing Canada like a local opens up a world of possibilities typical travel guides might overlook. It's about diving into the community, understanding their way of life, and discovering the country's soul. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, and get ready to explore the country beyond the surface. Read Also: Winter Camping In Canada: Tips For Cold-Weather Adventures Guide To Exploring Whistler, Canada For A Memorable Getaway How To Enjoy Your Journey After You Book Flight Tickets From Canada To India?

BY  Sibashree Nov 20, 2025

We were lying in the Medlands Beach with the Milky Way arching overhead. No city lights! Only the sound of the waves kept us connected to this physical world. For me, it was not just the sky full of stars and constellations. These stars were the roadmap for our ancestors, irrespective of the culture and country we belong to. They watched the stars to keep time and decide the time of the year ideal for agriculture, harvesting, fishing, and hunting. In the Maori culture, Tohunga kōkōrangi, or specialist priests, had this deep astronomical knowledge, and they shared the knowledge with others. Also, there are myths and ancient stories about the stars, like the one with the Matariki cluster. This cluster is associated with the anger of Tāwhirimātea, the God of wine and storms. Being furious, he tore his eyes and threw them into heaven. There, his eyes became the Matariki stars. Overall, for the Maori tribes, the stars and constellations have been beyond celestial bodies for observation. They were a mix of spirituality, science, stories, and a way of living life. So, when the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, became a Dark Sky Sanctuary in 2017, it celebrated ancestral connections and the role of the sky as a roadmap. And I visited Great Barrier Island in 2022. So, nature had its own reboot during and post the COVID-19 era. So, we could see the clearest sky. In this Great Barrier Island stargazing guide, I will talk about the best stargazing spots, stargazing tips, conservation etiquette, and more. Let’s explore the magic of the Aotea Dark Sky Sanctuary. A Deep Dive Into Māori Astronomy (Tātai Aroraki) And Legends: A Combination Of Science, Spirituality, And Culture When on the Great Barrier Island, it is important to see the stars and celestial bodies through a Maori lens. Also, during our Maori-guided stargazing tour, our guide chanted waiata, and he even used carvings (whakairo) and told stories to make the experience more interactive. He made us familiar with the key celestial figures and their Maori names. Furthermore, he explained how Maori people perceive different celestial phenomena. Major Celestial Figures And Their Significance In Maori Tradition  It is fascinating to see how Maori people connect the stars and celestial bodies with their traditional beliefs and stories.  1. Te Kahui O Kahu  The Te Kahui O Kahu constellation is the guardian of the sea and land. The stories of this constellation are important for teaching us the importance of being respectful to nature and protecting natural resources. 2. Matariki Or Pleiades Star Cluster  Matarikin is the most celebrated Māori constellation. When Matariki gets visible in the sky at dawn, it announces the arrival of the Māori New Year. It is time to gather, share stories, and plan for the year ahead for this local tribe. Also, according to traditional beliefs, the brighter the Matariki constellation shines, the better the year for harvesting and fishing.  3. Tautoru Or Orion Constellation  Tautoru symbolizes protection and power. It was significant for hunters and warriors. 4. Ngā Rā  The Milky Way or Ngā Rā is believed to be the pathway of ancestors in the Maori tradition. The ancestors use this pathway to travel between the worlds. Furthermore, in many interpretations, this is the pathway through which the spirits guide the departed souls to the afterlife. 5. Tāwhirimātea Or The Southern Cross  Tāwhirimātea is worshipped as the protector of the sea. In ancient times, the Maori sailors depended on this constellation to guide them across the Pacific Ocean. 6. Auroras Maori people worship auroras as the spirit of their loved ones or ancestors. They even think that auroras bear significant messages from the spiritual realm.  7. Bright Planets (Venus And Jupiter)  The appearance of these bright planets was associated with the everyday life of Maori people. The appearance of these planets is predictable, and that is why they are associated with timing ceremonies and navigation. Why Great Barrier Island Is A Stargazer’s Paradise?  With exciting hiking trails, pristine beaches, and an eco-conscious and off-grid lifestyle, the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is an ideal stargazing destination. With no ATMs, footpaths, or banks, the island has maintained a quiet existence. Furthermore, with low air and light pollution, the stars, the Milky Way, and other celestial bodies shine bright in the sky once the Sun goes down. In addition, around 60% of the island is protected by the Department of Conservation (DoC). So, it is home to many endemic plants, animals, and birds. So, it is also a bucket-list destination for nature and wildlife lovers. Moreover, each islander thinks of themselves as a kaitiaki or caretaker. Thus, it has successfully emerged as a zero-waste island, and biosecurity measures with designated spots for camping, hiking, and cleaning have made this island a sanctorium of sustainable practices and natural preservation. What Makes Aotea A Dark Sky Sanctuary?  The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) has scientifically measured the darkness of the sky of the Great Barrier Island. The IDA further offers principles to protect the night sky through awareness and restricted lighting. "To be a Dark Sky Sanctuary, you need an mpsas [magnitude per square arc second] of 21.5, and we had an average of 21.79. Every step on that scale is twice as dark; Auckland is 18, so you can see 10 times more stars here than you can in Auckland.”  Hilde Hoven, from Good Heavens Dark Sky Experiences.  Furthermore, the darkness of the night sky of the Great Barrier Island is measured every year, and the report is sent to the International Dark Sky Association. In addition, the local people choose low-intensity lighting indoors and outdoors to adhere to the light pollution standards of the dark sky sanctuary. In addition, there are no street lights, and the entire island practices off-the-grid living to preserve it as a Dark Sky Sanctuary.  What Are The Best Stargazing Spots On Great Barrier Island, New Zealand?  The Great Barrier Island is one of the best stargazing spots in NZ. I had the most beautiful stargazing experience at Medlands Beach. However, Awana Beach and the Mount Hobson Summit are two other prominent locations for stargazing. 1. Medlands Beach  I was fortunate enough to be a part of the Good Heavens group stargazing experience on the sand dunes above Medlands Beach. We all had access to an 8-inch telescope to get up close and personal with the stars and planets. Furthermore, each of us had binoculars, and our guide used a laser light to point at the stars and planets and share their stories with us. Far from urban areas, Medlands Beach offers the best views of the night sky, and the gentle waves reflect the stars and planets. Here is a dark Sky photography guide for you if you are at Medlands Beach. You can use the contrast between the dunes and the vast sky to create a perfect composition for your picture. 2. Awana Beach  Awana Beach, one of the best beaches in Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is a natural planetarium. The shoreline here is secluded, making it even more suitable for stargazing. Offering a clear view of the southern sky, Awana Beach is the best place to see the Milky Way on the Great Barrier Island. Furthermore, Awana Beach is the meeting ground of amateurs and professional astronomers. The beach gets more visitors during the following celestial and planetary activities. Planetary Alignments  Occasional Auroras  Lunar Eclipses  In addition, the tranquility of the place is ideal for experiencing stargazing as something beyond a visual spectacle. 3. Mount Hobson Summit  A hike to the Mount Hobson Summit ensures a brilliant stargazing experience. The summit is at a height of 627 meters, and thanks to the height, it is free of the atmospheric interference at the sea level or lower altitudes. Also, once you reach the summit after a walk of 2-3 hours, you will get a 360-degree view of the night sky and the Great Barrier Island. Furthermore, the height allows you to observe the Orion Nebula and other deep-sky objects with binoculars. 4. Kaitoke Hot Springs Kaitoke Hot Springs fuses relaxation with a fascinating stargazing experience. Imagine you are soaking in warm sulfur water pools, and the stars are shining the brightest over your head. It is a multisensory experience, with the crisp air caressing you, the warm water offering comfort, and the night sky presenting the ultimate cosmic display. Just a small tip. You must bring a waterproof laser light to see the stars without ruining the clarity or the darkness measure. 5. Windy Canyon  Windy Canyon already has that drama on the verge of being surreal, thanks to its unique geological formation. So, stargazing here feels magical, with the canyon itself functioning as a natural observatory. The clarity of the sky is so high here that even the faintest celestial bodies become visible. In addition, the Windy Canyon is accessible for all types of visitors as the walk is short and easy. What Are The Top Stargazing Tours & Experiences?  The Good Heavens stargazing tours and experiences are the best on the Great Barrier Island. It offers the following stargazing tours on the Great Barrier Island. 1. Heavens Above - Private Dark Sky Experience  This private dark sky experience is organized at your accommodation with a telescope, hot chocolate, and bean bags arranged by Good Heavens. They can also take you to the nearby beach. The charge is $1560 for a group of 2 to 12 people, and beyond that, the price will be on request. 2. Moon Walk - Group Star Gazing Experience  Moon Walks happen for a week every month. During this time, the Moon looks the biggest in the sky, and the Milky Way is less visible. The tour charge is $130 for adults and $65 for children below 13 years. 3. Look Up And Get Lost - Group Dark Sky Experience  This is a deep sky experience, and the tour continues for 1.5 hours. The charge for this tour is $130 for adults and $65 for children under 13. How To Enjoy Dark Sky Sanctuary On Great Barrier Island Without A Tour?  Are you on an independent stargazing tour on the Great Barrier Island? Consider the following Aotea stargazing tips. 1. Checking Weather Conditions  Clear Moonless nights are the best for a stargazing experience on the Great Barrier Island. However, if you want to go for a Moonwalk, expect lesser visibility of the Milky Way and the stars. 2. Finding A Dark Sky Spot  The beaches of the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, are ideal for the ultimate stargazing experience. Know the dark sky spots and drive away from urban life to see the best cosmic display. 3. Bringing The Right Gear  On guided stargazing tours, the tour operators provide binoculars, telescopes, and red laser lights. If you are on a DIY tour, you will have to carry these essentials. 4. Using Stargazing Apps And Tools  You must use stargazing tools and apps for the best stargazing experience. The best is the free NASA app, and Astrospheric is another app known for brilliant forecasting. Furthermore, you can bring a star chart to locate and identify the stars and constellations. Astrophotography Tips For Beginners  The Medlands Beach and Awana Beach are two of the best beaches for reflection shots on the Great Barrier Island. Furthermore, here are some ideas about the essential equipment and camera modes for astrophotography on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand.  Camera Mode Manual Aperture \(f/2.8\) or \(f/4\) ISO 3200 or 6400 Shutter Speed 15-25 Seconds Or, Divide 500 by the Focal Length of Your Lens File Format RAW or RAW + JPEG to Retain Better Color Data for Editing White Balance Manually Setting The White Balance to 4000 Kelvin Tripod Carry a Sturdy Tripod for Image Stabilization.Focus Keep Your Lens Focus to Infinity.Trigger You Can Use a Remote Trigger or Set the 2-10 Seconds Self-Timer of the Camera to Avoid Jerking while Pressing the Shutter Button.Lens Wide Lens (At least 24mm) for Full-Frame Cameras 18mm or Wider for APS-C Cameras  Seasonal Stargazing Calendar: What To See & When  Know when to watch meteor showers, the Milky Way, and Aurora Australis in the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand.  Season / Months Meteor Showers (Peak Dates) Milky Way Core Visibility Aurora Australis Chances Summer (December–February)• Geminids – Dec 13–14 (best annual shower) • Ursids – December 22• Quadrantids – January 3–4 (short, intense) • Early Morning Visibility• Low on Horizon before Dawn The chances of Aurora Australis visibility are low as geomagnetic activity is subdued; occasional events only during strong solar storms.Autumn (March to May) • Lyrids – April 22–23 • Eta Aquariids – May 5–6• Core Visibility from 2 AM to 5 AM There are moderate chances of seeing the Aurora Australis. As the nights grow longer, the chances become higher, and equinox-related geomagnetic boosts the visibility chances.Winter (June to August) • Bootids – June 27 (variable)• Southern Delta Aquariids – July 28–30• It is the Best Season for Milky Way Photography.• You Can See the Core for Most of the Night. These months offer high chances of seeing the Aurora Australis due to high solar wind and longer nights. The chances of seeing the Aurora increase after the Equinox.Spring (September to November) • Draconids – October 8th • Orionids – October 21–22 • Leonids – November 17th–18th• The Core Visibility Becomes Less in this Season.The September equinox gives strong geomagnetic activity. So, this season offers moderate to high chances for Aurora visibility. Stargazing-Friendly Accommodation & Camping  Camping on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is the best option for stargazing. There are Department of Conservation (DoC) campsites such as Medlands Beach, Akapoua Bay, Harataonga, Awana Beach, The Green, and Whangapoua. In addition, Stay High Island Camping Co. and the Great Barrier Island Campground are two privately-owned campgrounds on the Great Barrier Island. Furthermore, stargazing tour providers, such as Good Heavens, can offer all-inclusive packages, including eco-friendly accommodations such as XSPOT Cliff House.  Beach Etiquette & Conservation For Night Sky Lovers  When you listen to the Maori stories about stars and celestial bodies, you have to respect their tradition. Be sensible, as the stories are a part of their value system and spiritual beliefs carried through generations. Our guide asked us to remain quiet during storytelling and participate in some cultural traditions. The more respectful you are toward their culture, the more enriching your experience will be. In addition, you have to abide by the light pollution rules and wildlife protection norms. 1. Light Pollution Rules  Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is a designated Dark Sky Sanctuary. So, the protection of the dark sky is very important. So, you have to avoid using bright lights, and even if you need to use light for safety, keep the intensity low. Furthermore, you need to allow your eyes to adapt to the darkness of the sky. Slowly, you will also discover the faint stars. You can use a red laser light and binoculars to enhance the stargazing experience on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. 2. Wildlife Protection  Stargazing goes hand in hand with the wildlife tours on the Great Barrier Island. The sound of black petrels kept us alert during our entire stargazing experience on Medlands Beach. To protect the wildlife on and around your stargazing location, you must avoid feeding the animals and birds. Maintain a safe distance and remain on the marked routes to avoid disturbing their habitats and soil transfer. Furthermore, do not trespass on any private property, and you must not leave any litter behind. Adventure Add-Ons: Glowworms, Hot Springs & Night Kayaking  You can combine the stargazing experience on the Great Barrier Island with night kayaking at the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. As you kayak, you will notice the water of the Great Barrier Island transforming into a surreal landscape. Furthermore, if you are on the Great Barrier Island around February-March, you will see bioluminescence in the water on warm and calmer days. In addition, taking a bath in the Kaitoke Hot Springs after sunset is an experience that you will remeber for the rest of your life. Final Tips For Your Aotea Stargazing Adventure  You need to have some knowledge about the moon phase if you want to enjoy stargazing on Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. The New Moon or the Crescent Moon is the ideal day for observing the night sky. Also, even in the summer months, the temperature drops drastically after sundown. So, you will have to wear layered clothes.  Moreover, keep flashlights dimmed or the brightness of your phone screen low to avoid light pollution.

BY  Ankita Mar 23, 2024

San Francisco is a city full of famous American landmarks, intriguing history, and delicious food. It has attractions ranging from the Ghirardelli chocolate to cioppino, various cultures, and typical California scenery. With so much to see and do in this vibrant, scenic West Coast city, even the residents could never grow bored. If you are looking for things to do in San Francisco this weekend, we have made a list of the top ones that you just can’t miss. Things To Do in San Francisco San Francisco’s famous hilly roads and cable cars have made a mark on travelers and global citizens. But there is more to this city than meets the eye. Here are the top unique things to do in san francisco this weekend. Golden Gate Bridge One of the most iconic images in the United States is the Golden Gate Bridge. Cars and pedestrians can cross the strait which is named after this 1.7-mile-long, brick-red structure, which connects San Francisco and Marin County. When visiting the city for the first time, crossing the bridge by foot or bicycle is practically required. Depending on the day of the week and the time of day you cross the bridge, there are rules governing which of the two sidewalks should be used for walking and cycling. The Presidio A great place to explore outside is The Presidio, a 1,500-acre public park that was formerly a military post. Take a hike or a bike ride on the 24 miles of trails and stop at one of the lookout points for a breathtaking view of the Golden Gate Bridge. San Francisco is surrounded by breathtaking scenery, making it one of the greatest spots to get away from the hustle and take a peaceful moment. Presidio Tunnel Tops Above a six-lane highway lies green space provided by the Presidio Tunnel Tops. The 14 acres of parklands, which opened in 2022, offer some of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge and connect the main post of the former military base to the waterfront at Crissy Field.   You can even reserve a picnic table with the best view for a truly memorable experience. In addition, there are lots of chances for leisure and education, like the weekend campfire talks given by rangers from the National Park Service. Institute for Contemporary Art San Francisco Yes, this vibrantly creative city has a lot of places to view art, but the Institute for Contemporary Art San Francisco is unique: It is non-profit, does not collect, and is "dedicated to experimenting." It's the opposite of pretentiousness in the arts. There is free admission, so you won't have to pay to view any of the pieces, which include photography, textile art, video, and mixed media. JFK Promenade JFK Drive in Golden Gate Park was only car-free on weekends prior to 2022. Then, voters in San Francisco decided to permanently restrict traffic on the road to pedestrians. It is now free of traffic, so you can ride your bike, walk, skate, or travel along it however you please. Along the route, there will be art installations, lounging chairs, and public pianos. Read More: Is San Francisco Safe? THIS Is What You Should Know! Cable Car Ride San Francisco is a city known for its hills. Using public transportation to get around might be advantageous unless you're looking to get a serious leg workout. Since its inception in 1873, the city's renowned cable car system has been a popular tourist destination. The cable cars are still a great way to get around and a must-try Instagram-worthy experience. Tickets cost $8 for a one-way ride and can be bought at kiosks located throughout the city. Ferry to the Alcatraz While going to jail might not seem like a very vacation-like activity, Alcatraz isn't your typical jail. Some of the most infamous criminals in the country were housed at the long-closed penitentiary. It was situated on the island bearing the same name in the middle of San Francisco Bay. Some of them attempted to swim across the dangerous waters to escape. The prison is so well-known that it has appeared in motion pictures, including "The Rock" and "Bird Man of Alcatraz." To discover more about the intriguing history of the prison, anyone can take the ferry to the island. Moreover, it is now a part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. So you can take a guided tour of the prison. North America’s Oldest Chinatown The Dragon Gate at Grant Avenue and Bush Street marks the entrance to San Francisco's Chinatown, which is the oldest in North America. The neighborhood, which covers thirty square blocks, is a miniature, thriving city unto itself. Visit the stores, indulge in delicious dim sum or authentic congee, enjoy boba, or pick up a fortune cookie flavored with green tea from the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory. Lovers’ Lane Enjoy a peaceful stroll along Lovers' Lane, the Presidio's oldest footpath, for a treat outside. When on vacation in San Francisco, the roughly half-mile trail is the ideal location. Stroll hand in hand with your significant other or find a moment of solitude amidst the trees. The trail is rated easy to moderate and has pavement. The walk takes about half an hour. Palace of Fine Arts Architect Bernard Maybeck created the Neoclassical Palace of Fine Arts for the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exhibition. He imagined it to be a Roman ruin that would be demolished once the fair was over. Rather, a committed group of locals preserved the cherished building, which by the late 1950s had truly become a ruin. It was more permanently rebuilt in the ensuing ten years and is still a breathtaking landmark. Situated in a park at the edge of the Presidio, the free attraction boasts a stunning 162-foot-tall open-air rotunda. It overlooks a serene lagoon and is flanked by two Corinthian colonnades. It's a fantastic location for your next Instagram photoshoot, meeting spot, or stroll. Oracle Park Cheering on the Giants at Oracle Park is a sign of support for the San Francisco natives. While baseball enthusiasts will want to sit in the 100s near the field, this waterfront stadium's upper deck offers breathtaking views of the bay. This is seriously one of those times when it pays off to sit in the nosebleeds. Just remember to pack a glove and be prepared to catch a home run or foul ball if necessary. Alamo Square Park One of the most photographed locations in San Francisco is Alamo Square Park, primarily because it provides the ideal angle for photographing the pastel-colored Painted Ladies. They are also known as the Victorian-style homes made famous by the television series Full House. However, it also provides an amazing 360-degree view of the city. Bring a blanket and a snack so you can enjoy people-watching for as long as you want. TreasureFest Although there is some excellent vintage shopping in San Francisco, Treasure Fest may be the best place to locate a few unusual pieces. The outdoor market, formerly called Treasure Island Flea, features apparel, antiques, handcrafted goods, and more. In addition, there are lots of food trucks available to feed the famished masses. This flea is open only a few weekends a year; check the website for schedules and locations. Bay Cruise Take a bay cruise to experience the city from a different angle. This will let you get up close to some of the attractions, such as Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge. While out on the water, keep a watch out for seals and other marine life. You can reserve a thrilling 90-minute inflatable raft excursion with Bay Voyager or an hour-long tour with Blue and Gold Fleet. There are numerous options for boat tours. Exploratorium A "public learning laboratory" and museum, The Exploratorium lets anyone become a crazy scientist. With the resources at their disposal, visitors can unleash their creativity. They become active explorers, creating anything they can dream up. It's no surprise that kids love this place, but Thursday nights are adult-only at the museum, so you can go without kids. If not, visit at any time to engage with the exhibits and listen to regular speakers. SFMOMA Art It would be an understatement to say that the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is enormous. Moreover, the museum is over 45,000 square feet, spread across seven gallery floors. It is crammed full of contemporary artwork, pictures, sculptures, and much more. You could certainly explore SFMOMA and take in everything it has to offer for a full day, if not longer. Snack at the Ferry Building Searching for a delicious treat? Visit the historic Ferry Building, a marketplace with a variety of locally sourced treats. They offer sweet treats from the Donut Farm and foamy beers from Fort Point Beer Co.  Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays are market days when local purveyors come in to sell their products directly from the farms (or straight from the studio). If you're lucky, you might even visit on one of these days. San Francisco Botanical Garden The most amazing flora in the city can be found at the 55-acre San Francisco Botanical Garden. Strolling through the various gardens will make you feel as though you're in the Andes one minute and the Mediterranean the next. If you're visiting during the blooming season, make sure to stop by and take a whiff of the magnolia collection. This location is especially well-known for the flowers from December through March. Tiki Drink in the Tonga Room There are plenty of great restaurants and bars in the city that will gladly bring you a drink. However, only a few are perhaps as famous as the Tonga Room. Travelers have always loved the Fairmont San Francisco's tiki-style bar. This is despite its oddball setting in the Bay Area. Transport yourself to the tropics with a fruity cocktail as well as some bite-sized treats inspired by islands. Outdoor Music Festival Those who attend festivals frequently are probably familiar with Outside Lands, which is one of the world's highest-grossing music festivals. Every August, Golden Gate Park hosts a three-day festival. It draws hundreds of thousands of attendees and dozens of top-notch bands. The Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival, which ends the season with lovely folk music, and the Stern Grove Festival, which offers free outdoor concerts all summer long, are less well-known but still worthwhile visits. Walt Disney Family Museum Any Disney enthusiast visiting San Francisco should not miss the Walt Disney Family Museum. The museum provides plenty of insider knowledge along with interactive exhibits that highlight the personal side of the man behind the brand. Original storyboards, vintage movie posters, Disney memorabilia, and some of Walt Walton's personal belongings are among the items on exhibit. You will undoubtedly come away inspired. It will make you want to watch your beloved animated classic again. Lombard Street The location that most embodies the distinctively hilly and winding terrain of San Francisco is Lombard Street. It is also referred to as the "crookedest street in the world." It zigzags through eight steep turns on the hill between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets. Although you can walk the street and see the houses along the way if you're prone to motion sickness, it's a fun little stretch for a leisurely drive. Davies Symphony Hall A performance at the Civic Center neighborhood's Davies Symphony Hall is a visual as well as auditory feast. Attend a traditional concert or the San Francisco Symphony's special screenings. Here, a big-screen blockbuster film is shown with a live soundtrack provided by the orchestra. Visit the symphony's website to view the schedule.   The Weed Dispensary Are you eager to experience something that is distinctly San Francisco? Visit one of the many dispensaries in the city. Despite your stance against marijuana use, it can still be interesting to observe this booming industry up close. Since the state legalized cannabis for adult use in 2016, the practice has developed into a full-service way of life. Consider it like visiting a winery. To get assistance, simply ask a helpful "budtender." Use Weedmaps to locate a place. Ghirardelli Square You probably have a sweet tooth if the name Ghirardelli Square sounds familiar to you. The renowned chocolate company of the same name once called the entertainment and retail complex between Fort Mason and Fisherman's Wharf home. Ghirardelli relocated its headquarters to the neighboring city of San Leandro in 1966. However, the Chocolate Experience, which includes a sundae station and a pick-and-mix bar, faithfully honors the site's past. Visit its nearby eateries as well as bars for a larger bite or stop in for a taste. Mission Murals Take a self-guided tour of the Mission Murals to see some amazing street art for nothing. Even though there are over a thousand murals lining the streets, the best way to see them is to stroll down Caledonia, Clarion, Balmy, and Horace Alleys. Alternatively, you can just explore the neighborhood and pick your own favorite mural. Palace Hotel Do you wish you were a little more regal? For afternoon tea, proceed to the Palace Hotel. The hotel's Garden Court dining room hosts a traditional ceremony every Saturday. There, stands of traditional English bites, such as finger sandwiches and scones, adorn the tables and provide a perfect pick-me-up for both locals and hungry tourists. Wrapping Up So, this was a list of enjoyable things to do in San Francisco over the weekend. We could probably make this guide ten times longer with all the things we could do in SF for weekend adventures. The options are as varied as the city itself. However, it is best to take things a little at a time. We hope this guide will help you choose a few things to do during your next trip to San Francisco. For every weekend visitor, the City by the Bay guarantees an amazing experience, ranging from culinary delights and historical excursions to outdoor adventures and cultural explorations. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Art, Architecture, And Azaleas: 24 Things To Do In Savannah The Best Things To Do In Moab Utah For Outdoor Enthusiasts From Festivals To Spas: The Top Things To Do In Park City Utah