Things to Do On
A Rainy Day in San Francisco

By Aaron Danzig

Rainy days aren't wasted days. Discover San Francisco activities like museums, experiences, restaurants, and more.

In San Francisco, our mild Mediterranean climate brings cool summers and a slightly damp winter. But don't let a little rain dampen your spirits! Here in the City by the Bay, showers often come in waves, allowing you to quickly jump between iconic attractions, cultural institutions, or unique experiences- usually in a driverless car!

Take a Food Tour

Indulge in a culinary adventure through SF! Join these expert tour guides as they lead you around San Francisco's vibrant neighborhoods. Loved by locals and tourists alike, rain or shine, these food tours promise a delicious experience full of flavors, stories, and all the San Francisco vibes.

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Visit San Francisco Museums

San Francisco is home to numerous cultural institutions that should be required stops on your trip, rain or shine. Stay dry and cultured at some of these iconic spaces. Experience modern art at SFMOMA, hang out with ancient treasures at the Asian Art Museum, or discover the science of our natural world at Cal Academy.

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Go Behind The Scenes at Oracle Park

24 Willie Mays Plaza

San Francisco is home to one of the most beautiful ballparks in the country: Oracle Park. The stadium is famous for being the iconic home of the San Francisco Giants. On a rainy day, you can explore behind the scenes and learn about the history of this impressive stadium and the even more impressive team that calls it home.

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Take a Bus Tour

Don't miss seeing the sights just because of a little rain. Hop on one of these bus tours to get out of the rain and into San Francisco. With so many tours available, you can see all you want without getting soaked to the bone.

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Enjoy The Rain at The Japanese Tea Garden

75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr.

The Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park offers a serene atmosphere, especially when it's raining. Stroll through the grounds and temples, past statues, and koi ponds, where the rain and fog add a touch of magic to this beautiful spot. Afterward, warm up at the Tea House located within the garden. There, you can enjoy a pot of tea, noodle soup, or other Japanese treats to help you warm up before venturing into the storm.

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Enjoy A San Francisco Shopping Spree

Indulge in a day of retail therapy as you explore San Francisco's creative and eclectic shopping scene. Wander through charming neighborhood nooks in the Mission District, where culinary treats, fashionable finds, and some unexpected souvenirs can be found. Don't forget to fuel up before a busy shopping day!

Shop Local

Explore Japantown

Japantown is a unique cultural hub offering a variety of unique shops and restaurants that make it the perfect destination for a rainy day. A must-visit spot is the Japan Center Mall, which has a variety of delicious restaurants where you can sample regional favorites like ramen, sushi, yakitori, and more. Additionally, you can learn to make origami, shop for incense, find clothing, books, and so much more. It's the perfect place to find that special souvenir.

Explore Japantown

Explore SF's Cannabis Lounge Scene

If you're over 21 and want to experience something new, you can visit one of San Francisco's trendy cannabis lounges. These lounges are suitable for both experienced users and beginners and have knowledgeable staff to assist you with the shopping and smoking processes.

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Learn About Wine at the San Francisco Wine School

415 Grand Avenue

The San Francisco Wine School is a renowned institution offering wine education for aspiring sommeliers and wine enthusiasts. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you can enjoy their interactive classes designed to educate, entertain, and introduce you to new wine styles. With master sommelier David Glancy and other experienced teachers, you can attend these in-person or online classes. So, spend a rainy day in one of their classes and explore the world of wine!

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Eat, Drink, and Play at Detour

2200A Market St.

Detour, located in the Castro, has everything you need to ride out the storm. Order from their full bar and pan-Pacific-inspired menu to accompany their more than 60 arcade games, including pinball machines, skeeball, Pac-Man, Rush San Francisco 2049, Mortal Kombatt III, and more! Ask about their video games on the big screen like Mario Kart & Super Smash Bros. Don't forget about both new and classic games like Battleship, Connect 4, Jenga, and more!

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Take an Urban Wine Tour

You don't need to visit wine country to take a wine tour! Embrace the rainy day vibes and discover the charm of San Francisco's eclectic wine scene. From local spots in the foggy Sunset to posh pour houses in Downtown, wine bar hop around the city for the perfect rainy day.

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Learn to Make Ramen

3231 24th St.

At The Story of Ramen, you'll find a memorable culinary experience that not only lets you make your own ramen noodles but also teaches you about the culture, technique, and history of this tasty bowl of soup. Book a class with friends and enjoy this interactive food experience, perfect for a cold SF night or rainy day.

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Pick Up A Paddle at SPiN SF

690 Folsom St

For ping pong lovers who are looking for a little friendly competition and an urban atmosphere, this is the spot for you. You’ll find a collection of street art, a house DJ, two full bars, and a private lounge area and patio. It’s time to get your pong on!

Let's Play

Watch A Warriors game

1 Warriors Way

If you're in town during the season, watch Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center. Warriors fans are known to be some of the loudest fans in the NBA, so you’ll definitely have a night full of high-level energy at the arena or one of the numerous sports bars in SF!

Let's Go, Warriors!

Boudin Bakery Tour

160 Jefferson St.

Learn some history behind Boudin’s sourdough French bread and why it just can’t be baked anywhere else on Earth other than right here in San Francisco. During this special tour, you’re even able to participate and roll bread with one of the actual bakers. Keep yourself warm with Boudin’s classic clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl to complete the experience!

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Aaron Danzig

Aaron is the Manager of Digital & Social Media Marketing at San Francisco Travel. He has lived in San Francisco for over 10 years and has worked in Travel & Tourism for over 8 of those. He is usually exploring the Bay Area hunting for that new and unique experience and good food too!