23 Things to Do During Spring in San Francisco

Wondering what to do during spring in San Francisco? Here’s the ultimate guide to making the most out of your trip to the Golden Gate City!

Spring in San Francisco is a magical time of year, with the city bursting into color and life after a long, rainy winter.

The hills are green, the flowers are blooming, and the sun is shining more often than not.

From outdoor festivals and events to seasonal foods and drinks, there is so much to see, do, and experience in San Francisco during the springtime.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best things to do and see in San Francisco during the spring season, so you can make the most of this beautiful time of year in the city by the bay.

What to Expect during spring in San Francisco

Spring in San Francisco is a unique experience that is characterized by a mix of cool and warm weather.

During this season, you can expect to see a lot of fog, which is a common occurrence in the city.

The average temperature during spring is around 60°F, but it can vary depending on the time of day and location within the city.

One of the highlights of spring in San Francisco is the blooming of flowers throughout the city.

You can see beautiful patches of wildflowers in parks and gardens, such as the Golden Gate Park and the Conservatory of Flowers.

Another thing to expect during spring in San Francisco is the occasional rain shower.

While it doesn’t rain a lot during this season, it’s always a good idea to bring a light rain jacket or umbrella just in case.

The rain can also make the city’s hills and parks greener and more vibrant, adding to the beauty of the city.

Weather in Spring in San Francisco

The weather during spring in San Francisco can be unpredictable, with sunny days and chilly nights.

The average temperature in spring is around 60°F (15°C), but it can vary greatly depending on the day and location in the city.

One thing to keep in mind is that San Francisco is known for its microclimates.

This means that different areas of the city can have vastly different weather conditions.

For example, the Mission District may be sunny and warm, while the Marina District is foggy and cool.

In general, spring in San Francisco is characterized by cool temperatures, occasional rain showers, and the famous San Francisco fog.

Make sure to bring layers when exploring the city, as the temperature can drop quickly once the sun goes down.

When is Spring in San Francisco?

In general, spring in San Francisco starts around mid-March and lasts until early June but always keep in mind that the temperature and weather patterns can vary greatly from day to day.

During spring in San Francisco, you can expect to see a mix of sunny and cloudy days.

Things to Do During Spring in San Francisco

1. See the Blooms in San Francisco

Spring in San Francisco is a time when the city comes alive with colorful blooms.

Spring in San Francisco is a treat because the city is filled with beautiful flowers that bloom in a variety of colors and shapes.

If you’re looking to experience the beauty of spring in San Francisco, here are some places where you can find flowers:

2. Golden Gate Park

This park is home to a variety of gardens that are filled with flowers throughout the spring season.

The Japanese Tea Garden is particularly beautiful, with its cherry blossoms and azaleas in full bloom.

3. San Francisco Botanical Garden

Located within Golden Gate Park, this garden is home to over 8,000 different plant species from around the world.

During spring in San Francisco, you can see a variety of flowers, including tulips, daffodils, and magnolias.

4. Alamo Square

This park is famous for its “Painted Ladies” Victorian houses, but it’s also a great place to see spring flowers.

The park is filled with tulips, daffodils, and other colorful blooms.

5. Union Square

This popular shopping district is also home to a variety of flower beds that are filled with tulips, daffodils, and other spring flowers.

It’s a great place to take a break from shopping and enjoy the beauty of the season.

6. California Palace of the Legion of Honor

This museum is known for its collection of European art, but it’s also surrounded by beautiful gardens that are filled with spring flowers.

You can take a stroll around the grounds and enjoy the views of the Golden Gate Bridge while admiring the flowers.

7. Conservatory of Flowers

This historic greenhouse is home to a variety of exotic plants and flowers, including orchids, bromeliads, and carnivorous plants.

In spring, the conservatory features a special exhibit of blooming bulbs (it’s inside Golden Gate Park).

8. San Francisco Flower Mart

If you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the San Francisco Flower Mart.

This wholesale flower market is open to the public and offers a unique opportunity to see and buy a variety of fresh flowers and plants directly from local growers.

9. Go Hiking to See Wildflowers

San Francisco is not only known for its iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, but also for its stunning natural beauty.

Spring is the perfect time to go hiking and witness the blooming wildflowers in the city’s parks and trails.

Some great hikes include:

10. Mount Sutro Open Space Reserve

This 61-acre reserve offers a variety of trails with different difficulty levels, so you can choose the one that suits you best.

The trails are surrounded by lush greenery and colorful wildflowers, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

11. Presidio

Another great option is the Presidio, a former military base turned national park.

The park features over 24 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes.

The park is home to a wide variety of wildflowers, including California poppies, lupines, and wild irises.

12. Lands End Trail

If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, head to the Lands End Trail.

This 3.4-mile trail offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Golden Gate Bridge, as well as a chance to see wildflowers like seaside daisies and California poppies.

13. Take a wine tour

San Francisco is known for its wine country, and taking a tour is a great way to experience it.

There are many options for wine tours, ranging from small group tours to private tours.

You can choose from tours that focus on specific regions or types of wine, or tours that offer a more general overview of the area.

14. Napa and Sonoma Wine Country Full-Day Tour from San Francisco

This tour is a full-day trip from San Francisco to Napa and Sonoma Valley wineries.

It includes tastings and guided tours of popular wineries, as well as a stop for lunch in Sonoma Square Plaza.

The tour also offers views of the Bay Area and the opportunity to learn about the history of winemaking from an expert guide. BOOK HERE.

15. Muir Woods with Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour

This day trip from San Francisco includes a hike through the famous Muir Woods, where visitors can admire California redwoods and explore the visitors center.

After the hike, the tour continues to Sonoma and Napa Valley for an afternoon of wine tasting at notable cellars, accompanied by cheese samples.

The tour also offers views of the San Francisco Bay and Marin Headlands, with complimentary hotel pickup and return from most San Francisco hotels. BOOK HERE.

16. Check out the Farmer’s Markets

San Francisco is known for its diverse culinary scene, and one of the best ways to experience it is by visiting the farmer’s markets.

There are several markets throughout the city, each offering a unique selection of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and prepared foods.

17. Ferry Plaza Farmer’s Market

The Ferry Plaza Farmer’s Market, located at the Embarcadero, is one of the most popular markets in the city.

Open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, this market features over 100 vendors selling everything from organic fruits and vegetables to fresh seafood and baked goods.

You can also find unique items like handmade soaps and artisanal cheeses.

18. Alemany Farmer’s Market

Another great option is the Alemany Farmer’s Market, located in the Bernal Heights neighborhood.

This market is open on Saturdays and offers a more laid-back atmosphere than the Ferry Plaza market.

You’ll find a variety of produce, including exotic fruits and vegetables, as well as fresh flowers and plants.

19. Inner Sunset Farmer’s Market

If you’re looking for a market that’s off the beaten path, check out the Inner Sunset Farmer’s Market.

This market is held on Sundays and offers a selection of organic produce, as well as prepared foods like tamales and empanadas.

20. Visit Golden Gate Park

This sprawling urban oasis is one of the city’s most beloved attractions, and for good reason.

With over 1,000 acres to explore, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the park’s most popular spots is the Japanese Tea Garden.

This tranquil garden features traditional Japanese architecture, koi ponds, and beautiful cherry blossom trees. It’s the perfect spot to relax and take in the sights and sounds of spring.

For those who love nature, the park’s Botanical Garden is a must-visit.

With over 8,000 different plant species, this garden is a paradise for plant lovers. Spring is the perfect time to visit, as many of the flowers and trees are in full bloom.

If you’re looking for something more active, the park has plenty of options.

You can rent a bike and explore the park’s many trails, or head to the Stow Lake Boathouse and rent a paddleboat or rowboat. There’s even a golf course if you’re feeling competitive.

21. Visit the de Young Museum

If you’re looking for a cultural experience during your spring visit to San Francisco, the de Young Museum is a must-see.

This fine arts museum is located in Golden Gate Park and features a wide range of American art from the 17th through the 21st centuries.

The museum’s permanent collection includes works by famous artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe, Diego Rivera, and Frida Kahlo. In addition to the permanent collection, the museum hosts several temporary exhibitions throughout the year, so be sure to check the schedule before your visit.

One of the highlights of the de Young Museum is the observation tower, which offers stunning views of the city and the park. The tower is free to visit, but you’ll need to get a timed ticket at the museum’s entrance.

22. Join a Beer Festival (Bay Area Craft Beer Festival)

If you’re a beer enthusiast, you won’t want to miss the Bay Area Craft Beer Festival.

This festival celebrates the best craft beers from around the Bay Area and beyond.

With over 200 beers to choose from, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste.

The Bay Area Craft Beer Festival takes place in April and is the perfect way to welcome spring.

The festival is held at the waterfront park in Martinez, which offers stunning views of the bay. You can enjoy your beer while taking in the beautiful scenery.

In addition to beer, the festival also features live music, food trucks, and vendors selling beer-related merchandise.

There’s something for everyone at this festival, whether you’re a beer lover or just looking for a fun day out.

Tickets for the Bay Area Craft Beer Festival are available online in advance or at the gate on the day of the event.

Make sure to bring a valid ID as you must be 21 or older to attend. The festival is a popular event, so it’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines.

23. Check out the Cherry Blossom Festival

If you’re in San Francisco in the spring, you won’t want to miss the Cherry Blossom Festival.

This annual event celebrates the blooming of cherry blossom trees and Japanese culture.

The festival takes place in Japantown, which is a vibrant neighborhood filled with shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks.

During the festival, you can enjoy a variety of activities, including traditional Japanese music and dance performances, martial arts demonstrations, and taiko drumming.

You can also browse the many vendor booths selling Japanese crafts and food.

What Flowers can you see in San Francisco in Spring?

If you’re in San Francisco during spring, you’ll be treated to a colorful display of blooming flowers.

Here are some of the flowers you can expect to see during spring in San Francisco:

• Cherry Blossoms: These pink and white flowers are a common sight in San Francisco during spring. You can see them at the Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park or along the streets of Japantown.
• Magnolias: Magnolias are large, fragrant flowers that bloom in shades of pink, white, and purple. You can see them at the San Francisco Botanical Garden or at the Magnolia Tree in Golden Gate Park.
• Tulips: Tulips come in a variety of colors and are a popular flower in San Francisco during spring. You can see them at the Pier 39 Tulipmania Festival or at the Golden Gate Park Tulip Garden.
• Daffodils: Daffodils are bright yellow flowers that bloom in early spring. You can see them at the Daffodil Hill in Golden Gate Park or at the Ferry Building Farmers Market.
• California Poppies: California Poppies are bright orange flowers that bloom in the hills around San Francisco. You can see them at the Mount Tamalpais State Park or at the Lands End Lookout.

Spring in San Francisco: Conclusion

Spring is undoubtedly one of the best times to visit San Francisco, with its mild temperatures and abundance of outdoor activities.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there is always something new to discover and enjoy in this vibrant city during the spring season.

From admiring the blooming flowers in Golden Gate Park to indulging in seasonal treats at local farmers’ markets, spring in San Francisco offers endless opportunities to make the most of the city.