Check Out These Things To Do In the Bay Area This Weekend

Boredom is never an option in the Bay Area. Known for its iconic landmarks, breathtaking vistas, historic sites, innovative spirit, and unmatched art scene, the Bay Area truly is the real deal. You can experience different worlds in a single day—one minute you’re in a redwood park; the next minute you’re in a contemporary art museum. With all the fun things to do in the Bay Area this weekend, you know you’re going to have a hella good time.

Free Things To Do In the Bay Area This Weekend

1. Bike the Napa Valley Vine Trail

One of the most fun and free things to do in the Bay Area is exploring it on two wheels. There’s one trail that will take you from Vallejo to Calistoga—The Napa Valley Vine Trail. During your 47-mile journey, you’ll get to explore the art and culture of the area and that’s why biking on this trail is a Napa Valley activity you'll love. 

2. Trek Armstrong Redwood State Natural Reserve’s Trails

Hiking among towering redwood trees is an exciting thing to do not just in Sonoma, but California as a whole. The trails at Armstrong Redwood State Natural Reserve allow you to enjoy the gigantic trees, beautiful nature, and scenic views of Sonoma County. Come prepared; a few of the trails might pose a good challenge. 

3. Get Artsy at the Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Center for Visual Arts

One of the best things to do in the Bay Area any time of the year is viewing spectacular art installations that feel like they’re out of this world. The Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Center for Visual Arts at Stanford University has over 44,000 artworks spanning 5,000 years, bringing residents of the Bay Area closer to every other continent. The free art gallery is also famous for its outdoor sculptures; you’ll adore doing this at Stanford.  

4. Ride the Waves at Stinson Beach

Surf enthusiasts in the Bay Area consider Stinson Beach a top surfing destination in San Fran, while climbers consider it the go-to spot for bouldering. Whether you’re looking for fun activities or just need a break by the shore, Stinson Beach is your answer. Pro surfers come here to head straight to the lifeguard stand, where the big waves test your skills.  

Cool Things To Do In the South Bay Area

5. Relax at Alum Rock Park

California’s oldest municipality park is located east of San Jose on the foothills of Mount Diablo. 720 acres of natural beauty and 13 miles of trails provide visitors with the opportunity of hiking, camping, and picnicking in Alum Rock Park. The rustling of oak trees and the flowing Penitencia Creek will make you feel like you’re slowly fading away from reality.

6. Look For Ghosts at the Winchester Mystery House

The Winchester Mystery House is undoubtedly the most fascinating house in the state. Built in the span of 38 years, the house is as peculiar as it gets. It has doors opening to walls, stairs leading to nowhere, and ghost stories that’ll keep you awake at night. We can go on and on about the Winchester Mystery House, but you have to visit to see for yourself—make sure to add it to your list of things to do in the South Bay Area.

7. Get Innovative at The Tech Interactive

The Tech Interactive is a reflection of Silicon Valley’s advancement. Hands-on activities, experimental labs, and design challenges get your creative juices flowing and satisfy your curiosity. Once you visit this place, you’ll finally understand why Silicon Valley is considered the best city for tech jobs.

8. Step back in time at the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum 

Ready to time travel back to Ancient Egypt? The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum will expose you to more than 4,000 artifacts, as well as mummified human and animal bodies. Make sure to go on the tomb tour when you’re here!

Fun Things To Do In The East Bay

9. Admire the Chapel of the Chimes

Visiting a crematory might not sound like a great weekend plan, but when it comes to the Chapel of the Chimes, you’ll have a change of heart. The hidden gem in Oakland is where gorgeous architecture meets interior design perfection. This East Bay attraction will leave you in awe as you marvel at the mosaic floors, intricate statues, and gothic archways.

10. Go Rock Climbing at Indian Rock Park 

If the great outdoors feel like your second home, Indian Rock Park won’t let you down. One of the best things to do in Berkeley is climbing the park's large rock located on the western side of Indian Rock Avenue. No need to search for the fun Bay Area things to do this weekend—rock climbing is the way to go. 

11. Pay a visit to Rosie the Riveter World War II Home Front National Historical Park

Pop by Rosie the Riveter World War II Home Front National Historical Park for one of the best things to do in the East Bay for history buffs. An oil house, assembly building, hospital, fire station, among many other structures will tell you about the nation’s home front response to World War II. This national historic park will give you a new outlook on how Richmond (and the whole nation for that matter) dealt with turbulent times.