San Francisco Winter Activity Guide
San Francisco winter activities are great for the whole family. The city is full of culture, fascinating attractions, and wonderful sights all year round. Because the weather in San Francisco is usually mild in the wintertime, most of the most popular tourist attractions are still accessible.
From outdoor recreation and art festivals to shopping and dining, there is something for everyone.
San Francisco Winter Weather
What’s Winter Like in San Francisco?
Winter in San Francisco is mild compared to other parts of the country. The average high temperature in December, January, and February is around 55-60 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average low temperature is around 45-50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Rainfall is common during the winter months, but snowfall is extremely rare. Overall, the weather during the winter in San Francisco is generally cool and wet.
Now that you know how to dress for the weather, let’s take a look at activities in San Francisco you can do in the comparatively cooler winter months.
Finding Parking in San Francisco When Attending Winter Activities
California Parking
Finding parking in the city can be a challenge during any season, so it is important to plan ahead. With over 30 parking lots and garages to choose from, we have been providing premier parking in the downtown San Francisco (SFO) area at affordable prices since 1954.
At California Parking, we understand that our customers come with a diverse set of parking needs, and we are dedicated to fulfilling each and every one. Our many parking options include garages, lots, and valet services, and we are constantly updating our technology to make your parking experience as seamless as possible.
We offer parking near many major San Francisco attractions, including the AT&T Park, Hall of Justice, the downtown Financial District, North Beach, SOMA, Chinatown, and Union Square. View our locations to find the nearest one to you and rest assured that you will be able to find a parking spot for your trip to the city.
In addition to convenient locations, we pride ourselves on our top-notch parking facilities and exceptional customer service. Our customer service representatives are friendly and dedicated to providing the best possible service for all of our San Francisco customers. Plus, as a locally based company, you can always reach a manager or higher-up during business hours for any parking-related questions or concerns.
Experience the best in parking with California Parking Company – reserve your spot today!
San Francisco Winter Activities:
The Best Things to Do in Winter
San Francisco Events (winter)
Most holiday related events ended in mid-January, but there are plenty of other San Francisco winter activities to enjoy through the season.
San Francisco Botanical Garden
The San Francisco Botanical Garden is one of the largest and most important botanical gardens in the United States. Located in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, the gardens are home to more than 8,500 different species of plants from around the world.
Since the garden’s establishment in the late 1930s, it has become one of the most popular attractions in San Francisco. Today, the garden is maintained and operated by the city of San Francisco and is open to the public. Here, visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk in the park and experience the wonders of its beautiful plants and wildlife.
The San Francisco Botanical Garden is divided into three distinct areas: the Curator’s Garden, the Rock Garden, and the Native Plant Garden. Each of these gardens is home to hundreds of species of plants, including native California species and exotic foreign species.
In the Curator’s Garden, visitors can find plants from many different countries around the world, including China, Japan, Mexico, Ecuador, and Peru. This garden also has a variety of seasonal displays, such as spring bulbs and blooming cacti. The Rock Garden, meanwhile, has more of an exotic atmosphere with exotic succulents and porous rock formations. Finally, the Native Plant Garden is home to more than 200 species of plants native to California, such as California poppies, wild lupines, and manzanitas.
The San Francisco Botanical Garden hosts several special events and activities throughout the year, winter included. In addition, the garden also holds art displays, lectures, and classes throughout the year. The garden also offers nature-inspired educational programs for children and adults.
The San Francisco Botanical Garden is also a great place to observe wildlife. The garden provides a natural habitat for a variety of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife species. In addition, the garden also serves as an important haven for migratory birds during the winter months.
Overall, the San Francisco Botanical Garden is one of the most beloved botanical gardens in the United States. As a landmark in San Francisco, the garden’s beautiful plants, educational programs, special events, and wildlife provide an environment that is both calming and inspiring. The garden’s presence in San Francisco serves as an important reminder of the beauty and importance of nature, and it is a destination that both locals and visitors alike can enjoy.
Mount Davidson
Mount Davidson is a 938-foot peak located in San Francisco, California. Rising up from the city’s fog-laden landscape, Mount Davidson offers a dramatic view of the City by the Bay. From its summit, one is rewarded with a spectacular panorama of the San Francisco skyline, the Bay Bridge, the Golden Gate Bridge, and beyond. Mount Davidson is not only a stunning sight to behold, but is also home to a variety of activities and attractions that make it a great destination for both locals and visitors alike.
At the heart of the summit is a 103-foot tall cross, made of concrete, that is illuminated on Easter Sunday. Built-in 1934, the cross is a symbol of faith for many members of the city’s diverse population.
Regardless of one’s religious beliefs or lack thereof, a visit to the top of Mount Davidson is always a delightful experience. Hiking trails offer ample opportunity to take in the sights of the peak and surrounding area, while also providing an opportunity to enjoy some of the area’s most beautiful vistas.
In addition to breathtaking views and outdoor activities, the peak is home to a variety of other attractions. Memorial groves to commemorate fallen heroes, rare flora and fauna, and even a community garden where local volunteers grow their own fruits and vegetables can all be found on the mountain’s gentle slopes. Whether you visit to take some time out of your day and explore the natural beauty or join in on one of the many activities taking place, Mount Davidson is sure to leave a lasting impression.
No matter how you plan to spend your time in this unique and beautiful part of San Francisco, remember to dress appropriately and come prepared for any type of weather. While the views on sunny days are especially breathtaking, the peak can become quite cold and windy when the fog rolls in. Whether coming alone or with friends, visiting Mount Davidson is sure to be an unforgettable experience. So leave the busy streets and head up to the summit to take in the incredible sights and sounds of the City by the Bay.
Whale Watching Tours
San Francisco is one of the most stunning cities in the United States, and it’s famous for its unparalleled wildlife-viewing experiences. One of the most memorable things to do while visiting the city during the winter months is to take a whale-watching tour, where you’ll be captivated by majestic creatures of the sea as they appear in their natural environment. Whale-watching trips are offered throughout the year, but seasonal sightings peak between December and April, when migrating gray whales pass through the area.
Whale watching in San Francisco is a unique experience. Adventure tours launch from Fisherman’s Wharf, and knowledgeable guides keep passengers informed about the whales and other wildlife that call the San Francisco Bay home. Marine mammals, including gray whales, orcas, humpbacks, and dolphins, can be spotted throughout the year.
The Bay Area is home to a thriving whale-watching community. People from around the world come to witness the birth of these majestic creatures, watch their playful displays, and feel a connection to the natural world. A whale-watching tour aboard a boat out of San Francisco is a safe way to observe these animals in their natural environment.
The tour typically lasts several hours, giving visitors plenty of time to explore the Bay Area and observe the whales. It can be a great way to observe the unique characteristics of the San Francisco skyline, too. And some tours even offer onboard naturalists to help you learn more about the marine life that inhabits the area.
If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of whales passing close to the vessel while they migrate through the area. This is an amazing opportunity to get up close and personal with these beautiful creatures. In addition to whales, you may also spot dolphins, seals, sea lions, and porpoises.
When you plan your trip, it’s important to take safety into account. Whale-watching trips can be physically and mentally taxing, and the open ocean can get rough. Luckily, most whale-watching vessels provide passenger safety briefings before leaving the harbor. In addition, crews are well-trained and equipped to handle emergencies.
You’ll also need to have the right gear for whale-watching. Comfortable clothing and sun protection, such as hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses, are good items to pack. Whale-watching tours are typically held rain or shine, so it’s best to prepare for both types of weather.
Once aboard, don’t forget to take plenty of pictures. You might even want to bring binoculars to get a clearer view of the wildlife. By the end of the day, you’ll have plenty of memories of your time spent whale-watching in San Francisco.
Whale-watching tours in San Francisco offer a rare opportunity to learn about and observe the creatures that call the Bay home. These tours provide an educational experience and a chance to witness the majestic sight of whales in their natural habitat. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, a whale-watching tour is a must for any visitor to San Francisco.
Other Outdoor Activities
For nature enthusiasts, San Francisco has a wide variety of gorgeous hikes and trails that you can enjoy during the cooler winter months. Popular hiking trails include Mount Sutro, Land’s End, and The Presidio. These trails offer breathtaking views of San Francisco Bay and the surrounding area, and they are great for a peaceful winter walk in the sunshine. If you are feeling adventurous, you can also climb the famous Golden Gate Bridge, or take a guided hike through Muir Woods to view the majestic redwood forest.
For those who prefer a little more adrenaline during the wintertime, San Francisco has a wide variety of thrilling activities. You can spend the day snowboarding or skiing at Squaw Valley or take a thrilling ride on a jet boat or kayak.
Indoor Activities
For those who prefer to stay indoors during the winter, San Francisco has a variety of cozy and inviting cafes, restaurants, and shops. Some of the most popular areas include Chinatown, North Beach, and the Castro. Here, you can experience the city’s rich culture, sample delicious local cuisines, and browse unique boutiques. Additionally, if you are looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, take a relaxing day cruise on the San Francisco Bay to enjoy stunning views and picturesque sunsets (from inside the comfort of a boat).
Final Thoughts
San Francisco is a unique and vibrant city full of exciting winter activities for all types of visitors. From picturesque hikes and outdoor adventures to relaxing cruises and calming spa days, San Francisco has something for everyone in the wintertime. Whether you are a nature lover, an adrenaline junkie, or a culture enthusiast, you can find an activity to suit your needs.
Whatever you decide to do, San Francisco is sure to provide a cozy and memorable winter experience. And don’t forget to reserve your parking ahead of time with California Parking to ensure your experience is as seamless and enjoyable as possible.