Best Things to do in Northern California
There’s no shortage of things to do and places to visit in Northern California. This region offers a wonderful balance of outdoor sights, fun activities, and metropolitan cities, sure to delight any and every tourist. Although it’s a large area, there are many great day trips in Northern California, whether you choose to stay in one city or overnight in several places.
It’s a good idea to book a car, as public transportation between areas is limited outside of San Francisco. Alternative options include day or overnight bus tours.
Be prepared for slightly cooler and wetter weather, especially along the coast and if you’re used to southern California weather. No matter what time of year you visit, you will enjoy your stay in Northern California!
San Francisco
“I left my heart in San Francisco” is a familiar tune that speaks of “morning fog,” a “blue and windy sea,” and “golden sun.” These lyrical terms perfectly describe this hilly and relaxed bayside city.
Expect windier weather and a fun local vibe, without the hustle and bustle that you find in most cities. If you’re looking for things to do in Northern California, then San Francisco is the top attraction!
Dumplings (and More!) in Chinatown
Chinese immigrants arrived in San Francisco early in the city’s history and eventually established the largest Chinatown outside of Asia. This district encompasses a roughly rectangular area between Powell and Kearny Streets and Broadway and Bush Streets. Don’t miss Dragon’s Gate (Bush St. and Grant Ave.), a ceremonial gate that serves as an unofficial entrance to the district.
There are many wonderful restaurants to choose from in Chinatown. Chong Qing Xia Mian (915 Kearny St.) has an extensive noodle selection and is known for its spicy Szechuan. Delicious Dim Sum (752 Jackson St.) is true to its name and very popular. You can also check out the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Company and customize your fortune! If you’re in San Francisco in February you may even catch some Chinese New Year events.
Banish Yourself to Alcatraz
A trip to San Francisco isn’t complete without a visit to the notorious Alcatraz Island. This rocky outcrop in the middle of the bay was home to a fort and then a prison for over 150 years. The federal penitentiary was in use for nearly 30 years and housed famous prisoners such as the gangster Al Capone. The prison has been wonderfully preserved and provides the public with a wealth of interesting information.
A visit to Alcatraz is also a great opportunity to take pictures of the city! Make sure to get your tickets in advance, lines are long and tickets sell out fast. There are several tour options, that include the ferry fee, starting at around $39.90 per adult. Allow at least three hours for the whole experience.
Stroll Along Fisherman’s Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf is a bayside tourist area located on several piers. You can drive, taxi, walk, take the MUNI F-Line streetcar, or hop on the Powell/Hyde or Powell/Mason cable car to the wharf. For detailed transportation information, you can visit the Fisherman’s Wharf Community Benefit District website.
There is lots to do at Fisherman’s Wharf – the Aquarium of the Bay, National Liberty Ship Memorial, Madame Tussauds, and more! If you’re short on time, it’s worth a visit just to walk around, stop in some shops, and get a bite to eat. Take a moment to look for seals along the water! If it’s a clear day you may even catch a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Two delicious stops are Ghirardelli Square and Boudin Bakery. Ghirardelli gets its namesake from the famous chocolatier, and you can visit The Original Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop. The Boudin Bakery is the home of sourdough bread– a San Francisco classic.
If you have time, finish your visit with some games at Musee Mecanique, located at the end of Fisherman’s Wharf (Pier 45 at the end of Taylor St.). This unique display contains over 200 coin-operated mechanical games and toys (think Zoltar the Fortune Teller). This “museum” is open 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM, and the only cost is whatever you spend to play the coin-operated games.
Get Whisked Away on a Cable Car or Meander Down Lombard Street
San Francisco is known for its cable cars, and you can get an authentic experience by taking one of the historic cars on the California, Powell/Hyde, or Powell/Mason lines. Purchase your ticket in advance to give yourself more options for boarding locations. One ride is $2.50. To buy tickets or check out the cable car maps visit the San Francisco Metro System website. Please note, during busier times (summer, weekends, etc.) there is usually a wait to board.
Lombard Street is said to be the “Crookedest Street in the World,” and is also a heavily photographed tourist attraction. To take a look, or walk, for yourself, the most iconic portion of the street is between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets. It’s best not to drive– due to its popularity there is usually a wait and the city is considering implementing a charge.
Gaze at the Golden Gate
The Golden Gate Bridge is the symbol of San Francisco and is one of the most well-known (and beautiful!) bridges in the world. Viewing the Golden Gate Bridge can be tricky, due to its location and the frequent foggy weather. The bridge is actually located to the north of the city, approximately 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) from Fisherman’s Wharf.
You can drive, bike, or walk over the bridge, or you can view it at a distance from many observation points including Fort Point National Historic Site, Golden Gate Overlook, and Crissy Field. To get some fresh air and great views, go hiking in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
Sacramento & Napa Valley
Stop in Sacramento to experience Californian politics, history, and art. You may want to sample their “farm to fork” cuisine craze, or grab a coffee at one of the many independent coffee houses. A visit to Northern California also wouldn’t be complete without