San Francisco is full of fun, touristy things to do, places to take Instagram-worthy pictures, and delicious food to eat. But what if you want a break from the crowds? What if you’re tired of fighting your way through the throngs of tourists, pan-handlers, and hustlers? Are you considering taking any day trips from San Francisco?
You’ve got your rental car, but don’t want to pay for insane parking garages, only hoping that the minivan that just pulled in next to you won’t dent your door? Need a break from that city life? Don’t worry, we all do at some point and there’s no shame in saying so.
My grandparents have lived in the Bay Area all my life, and after dozens of trips to the area, I present to you my favorite day trips from San Francisco!
Muir Woods
Just a hop, skip, and a jump away from San Francisco is Muir Woods National Monument. Even though it’s located just on the other side of the Golden Gate Bridge, you’ll feel worlds away as you walk amongst the old-growth redwood trees and lush pathways. Arrive early and score a prime parking spot. Hang out in Cathedral Cove. Get “lost” hiking one of the many trails within.
**2020 note: parking is now reserve-only. Check the National Monument website for more information.**
Napa Valley
Even if you don’t drink wine, you’re going to enjoy a day trip to Napa Valley. Green, rolling hills as far as the eye can see. Lush vegetation. Misty afternoons. Golden sunrises and painted skies.
Take a hot air balloon ride, giving you a bird’s-eye view. Tour one of the many vineyards and see the characters shine.
Sample the cheese.
Go for a bike ride and get lost in the “back roads” of Napa.
Have dinner at one of the region’s many notable restaurants, where farm-to-table takes on a whole new meaning.
Jelly Belly Factory
For all the little kids and young-at-heart, the Jelly Belly Factory is the prime place to indulge in your sugar tooth. If you’re traveling with kids (or kids at heart), the Jelly Belly Factory should be at the top of your Day Trips From San Francisco list!
Tour the factory and learn how Jelly Bellys are made.
Purchase a bag of Belly-Flops…the beans that are a little special and didn’t fit the bill to make it to the mainstream bags.
Drink a Jelly Belly flavor-inspired soda (not my favorite, but worth a shot).
Wear the tacky hat they give you with pride.
Walk around the candy shop and watch your eyes pop out of your head!
Even though candy factories like this are all over the country, most Americans have never been able to visit any of them. Stand out from the crowd!
Winchester Mystery House
The Winchester Mystery House takes the supernatural cake on your day trips from San Francisco options.
During the lifetime of Winchester heiress Sarah Winchester, the mansion was under constant construction (24 hours/day, 365 days/year). Sarah visited a Spiritualist medium, who told her that the ghosts of those who died at the hands of her husband’s guns were out to get her. Unless she continually has work done on her house, the spirits were going to kill her.
Yikes!
For over 30 years, the Winchester Mansion grew and today, visitors can witness the madness of the task. Doors that open to solid walls; stairs that lead nowhere; windows that display Sarah’s love/fear of the number 13.
Open your mind to the weird and get shook with a visit. Although pictures aren’t allowed inside, the countless rooms, doors, stairs, windows, and feelings will be imprinted upon your mind for years to come.
What day trips would you add to this list? Have you ever taken a day trip from San Francisco before?
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