10 Fun Activities For Teens In San Francisco

The city by the bay is known for its iconic landmarks, delicious cuisine, and bustling energy, but what about engaging activities for teenagers? You'll be happy to know that San Francisco does not disappoint in this department. Whether you're a local teen looking for something to do on the weekends or a visitor searching for fun things to do in the city, we've put together a list of 10 exciting activities that will keep your teen entertained and most importantly, off their phones! From outdoor adventures to culture-filled experiences, let's dive into the top 10 fun activities for teens in San Francisco.

Exploring the Golden Gate Park

San Francisco is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The city is known for its picturesque views, beautiful weather, and eclectic culture. If you're traveling to San Francisco with teens, there is no better place to explore than the Golden Gate Park.

The Golden Gate Park covers over 1,000 acres and is home to numerous attractions for all ages. Here are some of the top things you can do with your teens in Golden Gate Park.

California Academy of Sciences

The California Academy of Sciences is a must-visit attraction in Golden Gate Park. It is home to a planetarium, natural history museum, and a tropical rainforest exhibit. Your teens will love exploring the world-renowned Steinhart Aquarium, which is home to many exotic marine creatures.

Japanese Tea Garden

The Japanese Tea Garden is a beautiful oasis that is perfect for a relaxing afternoon with your teens. The garden is a beautiful example of traditional Japanese architecture and landscaping, complete with koi ponds, waterfalls, and beautiful bridges. Be sure to sample some of the famous Japanese tea and snacks while you're there.

Conservatory of Flowers

The Conservatory of Flowers is another beautiful attraction in Golden Gate Park that your teens will love. The conservatory is home to thousands of exotic and rare plants from all over the world. The building itself is a beautiful example of Victorian architecture, with a central dome that rises 60 feet high.

DeYoung Museum

The DeYoung Museum is a wonderful place to explore for art lovers. The museum has an impressive collection of American art from the 17th through the 21st centuries, as well as collections of African, Oceanic, and American Indian art. Your teens can also enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding park from the museum's observation tower.

Bike Riding

One of the best ways to explore Golden Gate Park is on two wheels. There are several bike rental shops around the park that allow you to rent bikes by the hour or for the full day. The park has several bike trails that wind through its many attractions and provide breathtaking views of the city skyline.

In conclusion, the Golden Gate Park is a perfect place to explore with your teens while in San Francisco. With its numerous attractions and beautiful scenery, this park is sure to leave a lasting impression on you and your teenage children.

Taking a bike ride across the Golden Gate Bridge

San Francisco is a city that offers numerous attractions for all ages. However, when traveling with teens, it can be challenging to find activities that are both fun and engaging. One experience that is sure to be a hit with teenagers is taking a bike ride across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.

The Golden Gate Bridge is a sight to behold and is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. The bridge spans 1.7 miles and offers breathtaking views of San Francisco Bay, the city skyline, and the Pacific Ocean. Luckily, visitors don't have to be expert cyclists to enjoy a ride across the bridge. Bike rental companies are plentiful in the city, and many offer excellent guided tours that cater to individuals of all fitness levels.

Before heading out, it's essential to make sure your teens are dressed appropriately for the journey. Cycling-specific clothing is not necessary, but comfortable clothes and shoes are a must. Additionally, helmets are mandatory on the Golden Gate Bridge, so make sure everyone's head is protected before setting off.

Once you're on your bikes, the adventure begins! You'll start the journey in the beautiful Marina district, where you'll cycle through Crissy Field and along the San Francisco Bay. The scenery is stunning, and there are plenty of opportunities for photos along the way.

As you approach the Golden Gate Bridge, you'll be amazed by the sheer size and grandeur of the structure. The bridge's bright orange color makes it stand out against the blue sky, creating a stunning contrast that your teens will love.

As you make your way across the bridge, the views become more and more breathtaking. The wind and ocean breeze will keep you fresh, and you'll feel an immense sense of accomplishment when you finally reach the other side. From there, you can continue the ride into Sausalito, a picturesque town in Marin County, where you can explore its many boutiques and art galleries.

Visiting Alcatraz Island

Characteristic	Description
Name	ALCATRAZ TOURS
Type	Sightseeing tour agency in San Francisco, California
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 1,516
Address	Pier 33, San Francisco, CA 94111
Phone	(415) 429-4947
Hours	Tuesday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 7 PM Wednesday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 7 PM Thursday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 7 PM Friday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 7 PM Saturday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 7 PM Sunday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 7 PM Monday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 7 PM
Profiles

San Francisco is one of the most popular travel destinations for families with teenagers, and for good reason. With its stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, bustling neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks, there's no shortage of things to do and see.

One of the top attractions for families with teenagers is Alcatraz Island, the notorious former federal prison that housed some of the country's most dangerous criminals. Here's everything you need to know about visiting Alcatraz with your teens.

Getting to Alcatraz Island

The only way to get to Alcatraz Island is by taking a ferry from Pier 33. The ferry ride takes about 15 minutes, and it's recommended that you buy tickets in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly during peak travel times. You can purchase tickets online or in person at the pier.

Exploring the Island

Once you arrive on the island, you can either take a guided tour or explore on your own. We recommend taking the guided tour, as it offers a more immersive experience and provides insight into the history of the prison.

During the tour, your family will have the chance to visit the cellblocks, see the famous dining hall, and learn about some of the prison's most notorious inmates. Your teens will likely be fascinated by the stories of Al Capone, the Birdman of Alcatraz, and other infamous criminals.

In addition to the prison, there are also several hiking trails on the island that offer stunning views of the Bay Area. These trails range in difficulty and length, so be sure to choose one that's appropriate for your family's fitness level.

Tips for Visiting Alcatraz with Teens

• Dress in layers. San Francisco can be chilly, even in the summer, and the island is often windy.
• Bring snacks and water. There's no food or drink available on the island, so it's important to come prepared.
• Don't forget sunscreen. Even on a cloudy day, you can still get sunburned.
• Allow plenty of time for the tour. The guided tours usually take about 2-3 hours, depending on how long you choose to stay on the island.

In conclusion, Alcatraz Island is a must-see attraction for families with teenagers visiting San Francisco. It offers a glimpse into one of the country's most infamous prisons and provides an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Shopping at Union Square

San Francisco is a beautiful and vibrant city that has something for everyone, including teenagers. With its cultural and diverse neighborhoods, there’s an endless array of activities to enjoy, and one of the best things about San Francisco is shopping. And if you’re a teenager looking to explore the shopping scene, you have to visit Union Square.

Located in the heart of downtown San Francisco, Union Square is a shopping haven where you’ll find high-end stores, boutiques, department stores, and an abundance of restaurants and cafes. Even if you’re not interested in shopping, Union Square is still a must-visit attraction, thanks to its stunning architecture and the iconic statue of Victory, commonly referred to as the “Goddess of Victory.”

From designer shops to brand-names, the shopping scene in Union Square is diverse and magnificent. There’s Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton for those looking for high-end fashion, while American Eagle, H&M, and Zara cater to the younger crowd. Lovers of beauty products won’t be disappointed, with Sephora and Ulta luring them in with their impressive displays of cosmetics and skincare products.

The Westfield San Francisco Centre and Macy’s Union Square are the main department stores in the area. You can easily spend hours in these stores browsing through the various sections and taking advantage of the many sales.

Union Square is also home to various specialty stores that you won’t find anywhere else. The Disney Store is a must-visit location for those looking for unique and fun souvenirs. The San Francisco Cable Car Store offers a range of cable car-themed merchandise, perfect for anyone who wants to take a piece of San Francisco back home with them.

As for food, Union Square is a foodie’s paradise. It’s a great place to grab a quick bite, sip on a coffee or indulge in a long lunch. There are famous food chains like Shake Shack, and the Cheesecake Factory, as well as local gems like the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory, where you can watch workers make authentic fortune cookies.

Overall, shopping at Union Square is a great experience for both locals and tourists, including teenagers. From clothing to beauty products to food, you’ll find everything you need in one place. Plus, the area is easily accessible by public transport and has several parking lots for those driving in. It’s a great destination to spend an entire day, so grab your friends, head over to Union Square, and get ready to shop till you drop!

Watching a movie at the Embarcadero Center Cinema

Characteristic	Description
Name	Landmark's Embarcadero Center Cinema
Type	Movie theater in San Francisco, California
Rating / Review count	4.5 / 566
Address	1 Embarcadero Ctr, San Francisco, CA 94111
Phone	(415) 352-0835
Profiles

San Francisco is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and for good reason. The city is full of exciting attractions and activities that can cater to every age group. With teenagers, though, it can be a bit tricky to figure out what to do that they will find interesting. Luckily, San Francisco is home to the Embarcadero Center Cinema, and watching a movie while enjoying the stunning view is one activity that is sure to impress any teen.

The Embarcadero Center Cinema is an independent movie theater located in the heart of San Francisco's Financial District. What sets this theater apart from others is the breathtaking view that accompanies the movie-watching experience. From the 4th-floor theater, you can see the iconic Bay Bridge and the San Francisco Bay, making it the only theater in California that has such a stunning view.

The theater itself is also a sight to see. It is modern, sleek, and entirely digital, offering the latest movies in high-quality format. The comfortable seating and state-of-the-art sound system ensure that the movie experience is both visually and audibly stunning.

One of the best things about the Embarcadero Center Cinema is the movie selection. You don't have to be a cinephile to enjoy a movie here; the theater offers a range of mainstream and indie films, including the latest blockbuster releases and documentaries. So, whether you're in the mood for a romantic comedy, a horror film, or an art-house movie, there's something for everyone.

If you're planning on visiting the Embarcadero Center Cinema with your teens, it's a good idea to make a reservation in advance. The theater is popular among locals and tourists alike, so seats tend to sell out quickly, especially during peak times.

Overall, watching a movie at the Embarcadero Center Cinema is a perfect way to spend an afternoon or evening in San Francisco with your teens. The view is stunning, the theater is modern and comfortable, and the movie selection is diverse enough to cater to everyone's tastes. So, if you're looking for a unique movie experience in San Francisco, the Embarcadero Center Cinema is definitely worth checking out.

Trying new food at the Ferry Building Marketplace

San Francisco is a great city for teenagers, with so much to see and do. But one activity that shouldn't be missed is visiting the Ferry Building Marketplace and trying some new and exciting food.

The Ferry Building Marketplace is located on the waterfront, and it's a great place to wander around and explore. The building itself is beautiful, and there are plenty of shops and stalls selling everything from artisan cheeses to fresh oysters.

But the real highlight of the marketplace is the food. There are so many different options to choose from, and you're sure to find something that will appeal to even the pickiest eater.

One great option is to start at the Hog Island Oyster Company. They're known for their fresh, delicious oysters, which are harvested from their own farm in Tomales Bay. They also have a great selection of other seafood, including clam chowder and crab cocktails.

If you're looking for something a bit heartier, head to the Cowgirl Creamery for some amazing grilled cheese sandwiches. They use their own artisanal cheeses, and you can choose from a variety of different sandwiches, including one with prosciutto and fig spread.

For those who are feeling adventurous, the Miette Patisserie has some delicious and unique treats. They specialize in French-style pastries, and their macarons are particularly popular. They also have a great selection of cakes and other desserts.

And finally, for a real taste of San Francisco, head to the Blue Bottle Coffee Company. They're known for their excellent coffee, which is brewed to order with organic, fair-trade beans. They also have some delicious pastries and sweet treats to enjoy while you sip your coffee.

Overall, the Ferry Building Marketplace is a great place to try some new and exciting food, and it's perfect for teenagers who love to explore and discover new things. So be sure to plan a visit on your next trip to San Francisco!

Playing mini-golf at Stagecoach Greens

Characteristic	Description
Name	Stagecoach Greens
Type	Miniature golf course in San Francisco, California
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 279
Address	1379 4th St, San Francisco, CA 94158
Phone	(415) 310-3246
Hours	Tuesday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 9 PM Wednesday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 9 PM Thursday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 9 PM Friday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 9 PM Saturday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 9 PM Sunday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 9 PM Monday - opens at 11 AM and closes at 4 PM
Profiles

San Francisco is a beautiful city that offers a lot of attractions and interests for people of all ages. If you're planning a trip to San Francisco with teens, there are endless options for things to do. However, if you're looking for a unique and fun activity that will get your teenagers excited, consider taking them to play mini-golf at Stagecoach Greens!

Stagecoach Greens is a brand new mini-golf course that is unlike any other. Located in the heart of San Francisco's Mission District, this course takes players on a journey through the Wild West, complete with wooden barns, water towers, and even a stagecoach that players can putt through. As your teens make their way through the course, they will be fully immersed in a fun and challenging mini-golf experience.

One of the best things about Stagecoach Greens is that it is perfect for both experienced and novice mini-golf players. The course has a variety of holes with various levels of difficulty, so everyone can find a challenge that suits their skill level. Plus, the course is beautifully designed with lush greenery, waterfalls, and even a horseshoe pit, making it a peaceful and scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

If you're looking for a unique and exciting activity to do with your teens in San Francisco, Stagecoach Greens is the perfect option. With its Wild West theme, challenging holes, and beautiful scenic design, this mini-golf course is sure to be a hit with everyone in your group. So, grab your putters and head to Stagecoach Greens for a day of family fun!

Hiking at Lands End Trail

San Francisco is a city with a lot of activities for a family vacation, and if you are coming with teens, you need to check out the Lands End Trail. Lands End Trail is a picturesque 3.5-mile hiking trail located in the northwest corner of San Francisco. This scenic hiking trail is perfect for families, as it offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific Ocean coastlines.

Here's what you need to know before setting out on your hike:

Getting There:

Lands End Trail is accessible by car or public transit. There are numerous parking spots available. Public transportation takes you to the Visitor’s Center that is the starting point of the trail.

What to Bring:

Make sure to come prepared for this adventure. You’ll need good walking shoes, snacks, plenty of water, sunscreen, hats, and cameras to capture the beautiful moments.

The Hike:

This moderate hike trail is perfect for teens who want to explore something new. There are a lot of things to see on this trail, such as wildflowers, historical milestones, caves, and rock formations. The hike is mostly flat, but there are some slopes.

The Scenic Views:

Apart from botanical gardens and historical landmarks, Lands End Trail has picture-perfect views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific Ocean. The view can inspire some great ideas for Instagram photos.

Tips For Hiking Lands End Trail:

• Make sure you wear comfortable shoes
• Bring plenty of water
• Pack sunscreen and hats
• Bring snacks to keep your energy levels up
• Be prepared for any weather, as the trail can be chilly or windy,
• Stay on the path to avoid disturbing vegetation and wildlife

Teens will love the Lands End Trail hike during their visit to San Francisco. This hike provides a great opportunity to unplug, enjoy nature, and capture some beautiful memories. Don’t forget to bring your cameras!

Attending a Giants baseball game at Oracle Park

San Francisco with Teens: Attending a Giants Baseball Game at Oracle Park

San Francisco offers a myriad of exciting activities and attractions for teens to enjoy, but one of the most thrilling experiences for sports enthusiasts is to attend a Giants baseball game at Oracle Park. Located in the South Beach neighborhood of San Francisco, Oracle Park is one of the most beautiful and iconic stadiums in the world, providing a fun and unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Getting to the Game

One of the best ways to get to Oracle Park is by taking public transportation. The stadium is conveniently located near several modes of transportation, including the Muni Metro T-Third line and several bus routes. If you prefer to drive, there are several parking lots available around the stadium, but be prepared to pay a premium price.

What to Expect at Oracle Park

When you first enter Oracle Park, you will immediately feel the energy and excitement of the crowd. The stadium offers stunning views of the Bay Area, with the iconic San Francisco Bay Bridge visible in the distance. The seats in the stadium offer a good view of the field, and there is plenty of legroom for added comfort.

Food and Drinks

Oracle Park offers a wide variety of food and beverage options, including delicious hot dogs, garlic fries, and barbecue ribs. There are also vegetarian options available, such as veggie burgers and salads, and a wide selection of craft beers for adults.

Entertainment

In addition to watching the San Francisco Giants play, Oracle Park offers a range of entertainment options for teens. There are several interactive exhibits, photo opportunities, and kid-friendly activities scattered throughout the stadium. One of the standout features of Oracle Park is the Coca-Cola Fan Lot, where teens can participate in baseball-themed games and activities.

Final Thoughts

Attending a San Francisco Giants baseball game at Oracle Park is an unforgettable experience for teens and their families. Whether you're a die-hard baseball fan or just looking for a fun and exciting activity to do in San Francisco, a visit to Oracle Park is a must. Make sure to purchase your tickets in advance and get ready to cheer on the Giants!

Enjoying a concert at The Fillmore

If you are planning a trip to San Francisco with teenagers, there are many fun activities to enjoy together. One must-visit venue for music lovers is The Fillmore. This iconic concert venue has hosted some of the biggest names in music and continues to attract a diverse range of artists.

Located in the Western Addition neighborhood, The Fillmore is more than just a concert venue. The building itself is an important part of San Francisco's cultural history. The first Fillmore opened in 1912 as a dance hall and was later renamed the Majestic Hall. During the 1950s and 60s, it played host to a range of events, including rock and roll concerts.

The current Fillmore location opened in 1966 and has since hosted concerts by legends like Jimi Hendrix, Grateful Dead, and Janis Joplin. It has a capacity of 1,200 and offers seating, standing room, and balcony areas. The venue's unique decor includes chandeliers, red velvet curtains, and concert posters covering the walls.

If you're planning to take your teens to see a concert at The Fillmore, here are some tips to make the most of the experience:

• Buy tickets in advance: Most concerts at The Fillmore sell out quickly, so it's recommended to buy tickets ahead of time.
• Arrive early: Doors typically open 90 minutes before the show, and the best seats tend to go first. Arriving early also gives you time to explore the venue and grab a bite to eat from the concession stand.
• Be flexible: The Fillmore is known for its general admission policy, which means there are no assigned seats. This can be a fun experience for teens who are up for standing and dancing throughout the show.
• Explore the neighborhood: While in the area, take a stroll through the colorful Western Addition neighborhood. You'll find a range of eateries, vintage shops, and street art.
• Respect the venue: The Fillmore is a historic San Francisco landmark, so be mindful of the venue's rules and regulations. This includes avoiding smoking, bringing illegal substances, or causing disruptions during the show.

Overall, seeing a concert at The Fillmore is an unforgettable experience for teens and music lovers. With its rich history and unbeatable atmosphere, it's no surprise that The Fillmore remains a must-visit destination for those exploring San Francisco.

Frequently asked questions