Things To do Within 1 hour of South San Francisco
If you’re planning on visiting the San Francisco Bay Area for an event in the near future, you’re probably making a list of things do to in San Francisco — and maybe you’re finding yourself wanting to veer off the beaten track rather than simply do the traditional San Francisco tourist things such as visiting Fishermen’s Wharf and talking a walk in Golden Gate Park. If you’ll be staying in one of the great event locations in South San Francisco, you may not know that this area is a separate city from San Francisco. Known by locals as “South City,” South San Francisco has a population of slightly less than 68,000 citizens. South San Francisco has a number of parks, an historic downtown, and plenty of good restaurants and coffee shops. Following are several ideas designed to help build your list of things to do in South Francisco.
Vallejo Ferry
Operated by San Francisco Bay Ferry, the Vallejo Ferry provides a relaxing way to enjoy the Bay Area’s stunning scenery and iconic San Francisco skyline. The vessel is clean, spacious, and comfortable, with indoor seating if rain or wind is part of the picture. The ride from San Francisco to Vallejo takes about an hour and passes by Mare Island and by the Golden Gate and Bay Bridge. Food and coffee, tea, soft drinks, juice, and cocktails are available at an onboard snack bar. WiFi is available throughout the vessel as well as onboard charging stations.
Muir Woods National Monument
Muir Woods National Monument is slightly under an hour by car from South San Francisco. One of the most well-preserved redwood forests in California, Muir Woods offers winding trails under towering coastal redwoods, the tallest of which is estimated to be approximately 258 feet tall. Those planning to visit Muir Woods National Monument by private vehicle should know that it’s necessary to book parking reservations prior to their arrival There is no cell phone or WiFi service in or around Muir Woods National Monument, making it an ideal place to unplug and relax.
Burlingame Avenue
Burlingame is an easy drive of slightly under seven miles from South San Francisco with a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly district called Burlingame Avenue at its core. Burlingame Avenue offers a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Those who are lucky enough to be visiting during August shouldn’t miss the annual Burlingame on the Avenue celebration, which is a two-day event featuring live music, a huge array of arts and crafts produced by talented California artisans, and food and beverage options that include beer and wine gardens.
Oyster Point Marina
One of the most popular things to do around South San Francisco is to visit Oyster Point Marina. Those who need a respite from urban activity but don’t want to leave South San Francisco proper can find natural beauty and relaxing spaces here and enjoy activities such as hiking, picnicking, and simply relaxing and watching the vessels go by in the bay. There is even a fishing pier, and whale watching tours are available at certain times of the year.
Please feel free to contact us for more information about things to do near our South San Francisco venue or for more inspiration on what to do and see during your upcoming visit to the Bay Area.