Looking for the coolest things to do in one of the prettiest cities in the world at the height of summer? We’ve done the deep research for you on the best things to do in San Francisco including museums, cultural events and food tours and more. Speaking of food, we also have an extensive list of our best restaurants in San Francisco, and if you’re planning a weekend, the best places to stay.Â
de Young and Legion of Honor Free Day (First Tuesday and First Saturday)
Travel the world through art as you check out pieces from the 17th through 20th centuries at the de Young Museum, an iconic landmark in the Golden Gate Park. This summer, the museum will be featuring a special printworks exhibit, showcasing California’s history of printmaking and collaboration. Â
More info: famsf.org/events/free-saturdays-de-young
Free National Parks Day
Pack what you need and come celebrate the anniversary of the American Great Outdoors Act with free access to national parks, including Muir Woods National Monument and more. The opportunity to visit National Parks with the entrance fee waived only comes around a few times a year, so be sure you make the most of it.
More info: nps.gov/orgs/1207/12-08-22_2023-entrance-fee-free-days.htm
Outside Lands
Don’t miss out on San Francisco’s most popular annual music festival this August. Outside Lands is the perfect event for music lovers. Headliners such as Kendrick Lamar, Lana del Rey, DJ Diesel (aka Shaquille O’ Neal), ODESZA and Foo Fighters — not to mention, some of the Bay Area’s most unique and exciting restaurants — will be popping up over the weekend. Catch a bite of savory bacon flights, Indonesian dumplings and churro waffles. Or, grab a drink from 30 of the most popular NorCal breweries in attendance. If wine is more your taste, indulge in over 100 varieties from California’s finest vineyards.
More info: sfoutsidelands.com
Candlelight Concerts
Dates vary
Enjoy a truly unique night with this live, multi-sensory musical experience at some of San Francisco’s more whimsical locations like the Great Star Theater, St. Ignatius Church, and the International Art Museum of America. Unwind beneath the gentle glow of candlelight to orchestra and string quartet covers of popular artists like ABBA, Beyonce and more. Each concert is about 60 minutes with first come first serve seating.
More info: feverup.com
Event Venues
Looking to see what’s happening right now in SF? Our comprehensive list of venues across the city below will help you find what you need to know what’s going on.
Looking for more things to do in the area?
Visit our What to Do in Northern California page!
