Things to Do in Northern California in 2026

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Most popular activities in Northern California

Tours & day trips

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Big Bus San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour by Open-Top Bus

Free cancellation available

History & culture

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California Academy of Sciences Daytime Admission

Free cancellation available

Private & custom tours

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Redwoods & Wine Country Escape to Sonoma & Napa with Optional Gourmet Lunch

Free cancellation available

Adventure & outdoor

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San Francisco: Kids Thrill Zone Combo at PIER 39

Free cancellation available

Classes & workshops

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Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise

Free cancellation available

What to do in Northern California

Discover the most popular places to visit in Northern California

Redwood National and State Parks

5/5(884 reviews)

Walk amid towering trees, hike along scenic coastal trails and spot rare wildlife at this spectacular national park in North Coast California.

Stanford University

4.5/5(1,998 reviews)

Enjoy the collegiate vibe around Stanford University, a top university in Palo Alto. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

Yosemite Valley

5/5(1,212 reviews)

From Yosemite Falls to Half Dome and El Capitan, you can see some of the most stunning scenery in the world from Yosemite National Park’s central valley.

Yosemite National Park

The hiking trails, waterfalls and mountains full of diverse wildlife make this national park one of the country’s most picturesque.

Oracle Park

4.5/5(1,481 reviews)

Whether or not you’re a baseball fan, this charming ballpark with outstanding views should be on your San Francisco sightseeing list.

Monterey Bay Aquarium

4.5/5(1,756 reviews)

Perched on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, you’ll find a spectacular window into life both above and below the waves.

Levi's Stadium

4.5/5(828 reviews)

Catch an event at Levi's Stadium during your trip to Santa Clara. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

Pier 39

4.5/5(6,903 reviews)

This waterfront attraction offers thrilling rides, innovative street performers and colorful souvenir shops, but it’s the sea lions that win the day.

Golden Gate Bridge

4.5/5(7,342 reviews)

Cars trundle across it and ships sail under it, but the best way to experience this iconic bridge is on foot.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Northern California

Fisherman's Wharf

4/5(39 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.

Union Square

4/5(5,227 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.

Downtown San Francisco

3/5(1,093 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 Sacramento

3.5/5(2,086 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.

North Beach

4.5/5(2,726 area reviews)

Adjacent to Chinatown and the Financial District, this "Little Italy" boasts Italian restaurants, cafes, and bakeries along Columbus Avenue and Washington Square. Explore the National Shrine of Saint Francis of Assisi and City Lights Bookstore.

Nob Hill

4.5/5(1,107 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.