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.
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!
Ankita Tripathy loves to write about food and the Hallyu Wave in particular. During her free time, she enjoys looking at the sky or reading books while sipping a cup of hot coffee. Her favourite niches are food, music, lifestyle, travel, and Korean Pop music and drama.
The climate in Thailand varies throughout the country, but the good part about it is that you can visit this place all year. The ideal seasons that Thailand sets its best foot forward are between November and early April. These months witness little to no rain, and the sky is as clear as it can be. The days become warm and ideal for going out. The beaches look stunning, and the several heritage sites become more convenient to visit.
As April rolls in, the heat becomes unbearable, and with June, the monsoon season begins. Thailand being the jewel of southeast Asia, is also called the land of smiles, with most of its natives welcoming you warmly with their world-class hospitality skills. The country has developed its economy mainly through its tourism industry. This has given the country its uber-modern cities and state-of-the-art luxurious holiday destinations.
Despite the urbanization, the tropical feel of this island country is untouched and held in sacred esteem. There is a perfect intersection of modern and primitive in Thailand, and it makes the country that much more attractive. There are mountains, beaches, islands, and more to explore here. This exotic heaven beacon to all who love the sun, sand, and nightlife alike.
In this article, we will explore the best time to visit Thailand around the year.
Best Time To Visit Thailand Beaches
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Thailand has way too much to offer, and you might want to plan it out to explore the nooks and crevices of this country that you can’t get enough of.
Like any other country, Thailand also has seasons that you can enjoy at its best and worst. Here are the peak, shoulder, and low seasons.
Peak Season (November-February)
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These months are usually known for bringing winter to the rest of the planet, but in Thailand, this is the best time for a holiday. The air gets less humid, and the sun does not get too rough, bad enough to drench you in your own sweat within a few minutes. The evenings are cool, too, with a light sea breeze swaying in giving comfort to visitors.
Shoulder Season (September-October)
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In these seasons, the weather keeps getting better, and yet they are not the peak times yet. There is sporadic rainfall with drier days in between. The temperature as well as humidity also fade away. The beaches are less crowded, so if you can face the occasional heavy pouring, these months can be very suitable for your Thailand visit.
Low Season (April-May, July-September)
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Although it is said that there is no bad time for you to enjoy Thailand, there is totally an inconvenient time. Two actually. The months between April and May get extremely hot, and if too much heat becomes an issue, a holiday during those months must be avoided. As July begins, monsoon comes, and the next three months become the most damn times in Thailand. The streets are flooded, and the air around is stuffy and humid. All you can do is sit in your hotel room and look at the water gliding down the building.
Travel SeasonsMin/Max TemperatureSeasonMarch to July30-34 degreesSummer - Hot and humidJuly to October23-29 degreesMonsoon - Heavy rainfallNovember to February18-32 degreesWinter - Cool and pleasant
Thailand In The Winter Season (November To February)
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Now that you know what Thailand feels like at its peak season in the winter, here is a glimpse of everything you can expect if you plan to visit this year.
Temperature
Avg. of 32 degrees high to 18 degrees low.
Weather
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There is no doubt that winter is the best time to visit Thailand. With the monsoon gone, the temperatures are moderate and just perfect for a holiday outdoors. The air is much more dry and sunny. It makes the environment all around warm and pleasant. The only downside is that with improved weather, the crowd gets thicker too. But really, with those beautiful beaches and the amazing cityscape, the more, the merrier.
If you stay on the coast, the weather is warm and pleasant. But if you head up to the mountains or further inland, the nights will tend to get colder, making you carry a light shawl or winterwear to keep the cold away.
Events
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In the winter, Thailand is a pretty quiet time despite Christmas and New Year. But not when it comes to the nation’s own festivals, especially December 5th, which is the birth anniversary of the King of Thailand, which is a nationwide fanfare. The focal festivities are held in Bangkok, with the streets coming alive with celebrations, a candlelight vigil held for the king’s long life, along with an appearance of the king himself if his health supports it.
You can plan to stay back just until January and February to witness Thailand usher in the Chinese New Year. The date changes every year as it is based on the lunisolar calendar. There are lion dances, parades, fireworks, and stage shows. The experience is truly one of a kind, and you should not miss it if you happen to visit at the time.
The Chiang Mai Flower Festival is held in February, which is a 3-day festival held at the end of the “cool season.” It features grand parades and a vibrant display of chrysanthemums and the Damask Rose- varieties found only in Chiang Mai.
Wrapping Up
With the winter just around the corner for Thailand, all the festivities are creeping in this is your chance to book your tickets and plan an elaborate holiday in and around the winter season in Thailand. This could be the best way to celebrate Christmas and the year on the most colorful note.
If you are still thinking about the best time to visit Thailand, you simply need to get a trip to Thailand during the winter months, preferably in January and February, when you can spend your winter days wearing flip-flops under the sun. If the sound of beaches does not excite you in those cold bone-chilling winter months, we don’t know what will.
So, If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!
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Are you looking at booking a vacation to Florence? Or, perhaps you’ve already booked and want to know what to expect when you reach this amazing destination. If you have the question, “Is Florence flat or hilly?” read on to the end of the article to learn more.
Florence is one of the best cities in the world. It has an immense historical and cultural significance, and, of course, it is full of Italian passion. Hence, when you’re visiting a place like Florence, you’ll be thinking about how best to get around. That means you need to understand if Florence is fat or hilly.
The Truth About Is Florence Flat Or Hilly
Hills surround Florence, and they are full of treasures worth seeing. Is Florence hilly? Yes! However, the city center is surprisingly flat. There are some slopes and inclines, but nothing that will stop you from getting around on foot.
That means you can happily visit the Florence Baptistry, the Bargello National Museum, the Uffizi Gallery, Michelangelo’s David, and so much more. You can traverse the city on foot and enjoy the rich culture, architectural delights, and ambiance.
Making The Most Of Florence And Its Hills
You’re in Italy, and one of the many iconic things about Italy is the Vespa. What better way to enjoy every element of your vacation than by riding a Vespa? Fortunately, it’s possible to do just that: simply visit Florence Hills on Vespa with Walkabouttours.com. You’ll be able to enjoy the thrill of riding a Vespa through narrow streets in the various small towns located around Florence.
A Vespa is also the perfect way to appreciate the countryside without having to walk up and down the many hills! Don’t forget to look down on Florence from the hills. Here, you will get an impressive sight, and you’ll want plenty of photos.
Naturally, riding a Vespa through the countryside also means you can enjoy the vineyards, olive groves, and abundance of ancient castles. There are plenty of sights worth seeing in the hills around Florence, and you’ll find it effortlessly fun to get to them.
Top Sights in Florence You Have to Check Out
Once you reach Florence, take time to enjoy the experience each sight has to offer. Also, spend time to get the sound and feel of the city. Hence, you need to plan your days accordingly. So, when you are in Florence, make sure you visit two to three sites every day. Don’t do more than that. Therefore, make sure these places are in close proximity to one another.
The following are some of the top sights that you need to check out when you are visiting the hills of Florence:
1. Viale dei Colli
This is a road lined with beautiful houses, pine trees, and cypresses. Moreover, it runs next to the river. It’s a reminder of when Florence was briefly the capital of Italy.
2. Giardino delle Rose
This was designed by the same architect who designed the Viale dei Colli. It’s a rose garden with over species of roses! Just above the rose garden, you’ll find the Piazzale Michelangelo, which has one of the best views of Florence.
3. Church of San Miniato
This is another spot with stunning views of Florence. It’s on the hill near Piazzale Michelangelo and was created over 800 years ago. It’s worth looking at the Chapel of the Crucifix and the stunning central mosaic.
Of course, while you’re in Florence, you’ll need to visit a vineyard and sample the local wine. If you’re enjoying the Vespa at the same time, you may want to stay the night!
4. Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral/Duomo
This is the church complex where you will find both history and beauty. Once you reach the plaza, the view of the surroundings will be mesmerizing. Moreover, step inside the cathedral to experience some of the best views of your lifetime. However, before visiting the place, purchase tickets in advance.
5. Ponte Vecchio
This is a beautiful pedestrian walkway where you will get a bustling market. This place is filled with jewelry stores, leather shops, and mesmerizing views. Additionally, you will also find plenty of musical performers in the walkway.
On the northern side of the bridge, there is the Uffizi Gallery, while on the southern end, there is the Boboli Gardens. Apart from the Ponte Vecchio bridge, check out the other bridges near the area as well.
6. Uffizi Gallery
The Uffizi Gallery contains some of the most exquisite works of painters and sculptors like Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Sandro Botticelli, Filippo Lippi Raphael, Giotto, and many more.
Here, too, make sure you purchase tickets in advance to avoid crowds and queues. Apart from that, always check whether reservations are still available or not.
7. Galleria dell'Accademia
Being one of the major cities during the Renaissance, Florence boasts some of the best works of the time. In the Galleria dell-Academia, you will find one of the most famous statues by probably the most famous sculptor of all time - the Statue of David by Michelangelo.
Make sure to take a selfie with the statue. Apart from that, check out other pieces of some of the best artworks of the Renaissance era.
8. Medici Chapels
These chapels at the heart of Florence are some of the most beautiful structures in the city. The Medici Chapels are present in the Basilica of San Lorenzo and were built during the 16th century (at the height of the Renaissance).
Once you step inside the Chapels, you will find some of the best statues, frescoes, and stoneworks with intricate details. This will give you an idea of the impact of the Renaissance not just in Florence but in the whole of Italy.
Buon Viaggio - Happy Traveling
When you’ve experienced everything this fabulous place has to offer, you can decide how to handle the answer to ‘Is Florence flat or hilly?’ In reality, it doesn’t matter. You can embrace the hills on your Vespa and help make the experience perfect.
Also read
Top 10 Naples Italy Beaches You Can’t Miss!
8 Best Places to Go in Italy You Must Explore.
Paradise Islands: Discovering Italy’s Hidden Gems.
No matter where you live or what you do for a living, there’s a good chance you will want to take some sort of vacation this year.
Everyone needs some downtime to recharge their batteries, and as you’re probably well aware, trying to do so at home can sometimes be futile.
Taking a trip out of town can eliminate any compulsion to check in at the office or work on your “wanna-do list” of repairs and maintenance around the house. This doesn’t mean you have to fly off to the beautiful Malaysia Bay, but at least part of your time off should be spent doing something really enjoyable!
Here Are Four Fun Trip Ideas To Plan For This Year
Whether you travel regularly and just want to do something new and fun or haven’t been out of your city in years, one or two of the following trip ideas may be the perfect addition to your time off plans.
1. While It’s Still Winter
Unless you think snow and winter are for the birds, this is the perfect time of the year to travel to Vermont or Colorado for outdoor fun. Packing up your ski clothes and visiting a popular resort is a great way to get outdoors, exercise, and have fun on the slopes.
Conversely, renting a cabin in a small mountain town and enjoying some time alone with that special someone is a great way to strengthen your relationship. Visit the shops and restaurants owned by locals, go to nearby tourist attractions like the famous Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado, and unwind while seeing and doing fun new things.
2. Outdoor Fun
These days, you can find zip-lining opportunities just about everywhere you go. The experience is unforgettable, and if you get a good head strap camera mount, you’ll be able to relive the experience and show off your fun to friends and family. In some places, you can find tours that will take you to several zip line locations throughout the day.
Another great way to enjoy the local area you’re visiting is to hit the lakes, parks, and trails for hiking. However, take the time to review some crucial hiking tips and ensure that you’re properly equipped before heading out.
3. H2O
This summer, consider heading to the coast for fun in the sun and waves. While you’re there, get adventurous and get some wing-surfer gear, or better yet, try paragliding or a helicopter tour of the beach. Seeing the coastline from that height can give you a whole new perspective and add a layer of fun that is unforgettable.
Alternatively, visiting the waterparks like Adventure Lagoon or Discovery Cove is an excellent way to build lifelong memories if you're vacationing with the kids. If you want to see as many as possible during your trip, make South Dakota or Missouri your destination, as they have 16.4 and 16.3 parks per capita, respectively.
4. Live it Up
A fun way to have a memorable trip is to go as extravagant as possible. Stay in a boutique hotel, pack your suit or favorite dress, eat at a couple of higher-end restaurants, and take a romantic helicopter tour of the city.
Having a good time and relaxing a little bit is exactly what trips away are supposed to be for. Go somewhere new, try something you’ve never done before, and get outside of your comfort zone, and you’re virtually assured of having a really fun time.
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