Things to do in Northern California

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Mill Creek
Mill Creek
Mill Creek
Sacramento featuring street scenes
Napa showing landscape views, a sunset and tranquil scenes

Northern California Attractions

If you're ready to discover the best of Northern California, join one of the top tours & day trips on offer, and have a local expert show you the most popular attractions. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our {2 fun activities in Northern California fun activities in Northern California} are also worth browsing through.


Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.

Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.

One Key members save 10% or more on select activities, hotels, cars and vacation rentals.


Most popular activities in Northern California

Tours & day trips

See all 707 activities

Private & custom tours

See all 267 activities

History & culture

See all 224 activities

Adventure & outdoor

See all 162 activities

Classes & workshops

See all 42 activities

Recommended things to do in Northern California

What to do in Northern California

Free Things to Do in Northern California

Traveling on a tight budget in Northern California? Spend time, not cash, on fantastic experiences.

Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park - Let the natural surroundings here restore your mind.

Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park - Grab your rug, pick up a snack and find a cozy area to be at one with nature.

Things to Do in Northern California with Kids

There's fun for all the family in Northern California. Here are some family friendly experiences you can do together that'll make your trip memorable:


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Northern California? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in Northern California

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Northern California

Fisherman\'s Wharf featuring a bay or harbor

Fisherman's Wharf

4/5(38 area reviews)

Discover Pier 39, Ghirardelli Square, and the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park in this bustling tourist hotspot. Savor seafood at family-owned restaurants and explore the sea lion colony, while enjoying convenient cable car access.

Fisherman's Wharf
Union Square which includes a high rise building and a city

Union Square

4/5(5,164 area reviews)

Major tourist destination in downtown San Francisco, Union Square boasts shopping, hotels, and theaters. Explore department stores, boutiques, and galleries, or catch a performance at various theaters. Enjoy the Dewey Monument and stunning views from nearby hotels. Easily accessible via cable car lines, buses, and subway systems.

Union Square
Downtown San Francisco featuring railway items

Downtown San Francisco

3/5(1,084 area reviews)

Serving as San Francisco's central business district, this area boasts Northern California's two tallest buildings, the Salesforce Tower and Transamerica Pyramid. Explore shopping malls like the Embarcadero Center and enjoy parks such as Sue Biermann Park, all easily accessible via Muni bus and rail lines.

Downtown San Francisco
Greater Sacremento

Downtown Sacramento

3.5/5(2,063 area reviews)

Undergoing revitalization, Downtown Sacramento boasts the retail and entertainment hub, Downtown Commons (DOCO), with Macy's and various dining options. Explore the California State Capitol, Sacramento City Hall, and enjoy convenient public transit options.

Downtown Sacramento
South of Market featuring skyline, a city and city views

South of Market

3.5/5(3,655 area reviews)

From baseball games to top-notch art exhibits, find endless entertainment in one of San Francisco’s fastest-growing neighborhoods.

South of Market
Nob Hill showing a city and street scenes

Nob Hill

4.5/5(1,100 area reviews)

Luxury hotels, historic mansions, and Michelin-starred restaurants abound in this upscale area. Explore Union Square shopping district, Grace Cathedral, and the SF Masonic Auditorium for a taste of culture and history.

Nob Hill

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Northern California

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Northern California on a sunny day?
Take advantage of the clear weather (and stretch your legs as well) with these top outdoor activities:


What to do in Northern California on a rainy day?
If it's pouring with rain during your visit, put your umbrella aside and have a go at a couple of these appealing indoor activities:


What is Northern California famous for?
Bring comfy shoes because there are lots of iconic attractions that simply beg to be explored:

  • Pier 39
  • Golden Gate Bridge
  • Monterey Bay Aquarium
  • Alcatraz Island

What should I not miss in Northern California?
If you want to explore the best of this destination, add these attractions to your itinerary:

  • Squaw Valley Resort
  • Northstar California Resort
  • Golden Gate Park
  • SAP Center at San Jose

Are there cheap things to do in Northern California?
What can you do in Northern California for free?
Your time in Northern California needn't break the bank with free things like these on offer:

  • Pier 39
  • Lombard Street
  • Palace of Fine Arts
  • San Francisco State University