Top 13 Group Activities in San Francisco to Unleash a Group Adventure
Somebody once said that either you love San Francisco or you are wrong. And oh, do we love the City by the Bay! SF is known not only for its spectacular scenery and world-famous landmarks but also for its wide variety of group activities that people of all ages and interests can enjoy. So if you’re looking for something for your group to do, you’re in the right place!
Whether you’re planning a family outing, a corporate team building event, or a reunion with friends, this vibrant metropolis has something for everyone. Take a look at 13 group activities in San Francisco to help you plan the perfect group outing in this captivating city.
Fun Group Activities in San Francisco
What are the best group activities in the city? Well, we can’t pick just one because whether it’s a corporate event, a team building outing, or simply a day with friends or family, San Francisco won’t let you get bored!
1. Enjoy the SF Nightlife
If you’re looking for some fun group activity in San Francisco that won’t require much planning, the city’s nightlife offers many options for groups seeking excitement and entertainment. Gather your friends or colleagues and hit the town for a night of dancing, socializing, and entertainment. From trendy bars to live music venues to nightclubs, there is something for everyone.
To experience the most exciting nightlife spots in San Francisco, head to the Mission District and SoMa. These neighborhoods are known for their vibrant nightclubs and bars that serve the absolutely best cocktails. Our favorite spots to experience the nightlife in San Francisco include Berber, Raven Bar, and F8 Nightclub & Bar.
2. Cable Car Tour
Riding the cable car is a quintessential San Francisco experience, and it’s a perfect activity for a group! Hop on board and enjoy a scenic tour through the city’s hilly streets while learning about its history and landmarks. Depending on the line, the cars pass through iconic neighborhoods such as North Beach, Chinatown, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Union Square, so you get a chance to visit them as well!
You can buy single-ride tickets, but the best option is to buy all-day (or multiple-day) passes so you can hop on and off the cars when you want. For large groups, a private charter might be the best idea. If you would like your event to be even more rail-centric, don’t miss the chance to visit the Cable Car Museum!
👋 Event Tip: When riding a cable car in San Francisco, you are sure to spot some amazing views. You can add a bit of excitement to your event, and organize a competition for the best photo snapped during the day. Remember to prepare prizes for the winner!
3. Escape Room
Escape rooms are often cited as corporations’ perfect team building activities. While it’s true, visiting an escape room is a great group activity for anyone, whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just looking to add some excitement to your meet-up.
Gather your friends or colleagues and immerse yourselves in a themed adventure where you must work together to solve puzzles and unlock clues to “escape” within a set time limit. The adrenaline rush of working against the clock and the feeling of achievement when you manage to solve the clues make for a perfect bonding experience!
Where in San Francisco can you book an escape room adventure? Palace Games, The Escape Game, and PanIQ Escape Room are all praised for their creative and fun escape room experiences!
👉 Planning a party? Check out our Party Planning Checklist!
4. Arcade Games
Going to an arcade is a fantastic idea for groups as it offers a wide variety of games and activities everyone can enjoy. Whether classic arcade games like Pac-Man or modern multiplayer experiences, arcades provide a fun and interactive environment for friendly rivalries. It’s a casual and entertaining group activity that allows everyone to unleash their inner child and encourages social interaction.
For a fun-filled night, visit South Beach-based UnderDogs Cantina or Emporium Arcade Bar, located in the North of Panhandle. If you truly want a nostalgic event, go to Fisherman’s Wharf and discover the Musée Mécanique, a family-owned museum featuring an extensive collection of antique and mechanical arcade games, as well as various other coin-operated machines from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century.
5. Roller Rink Visit
A visit to a roller rink is a fantastic group activity that combines fitness, fun, and a touch of nostalgia. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for an excuse to meet up, roller skating provides a lively and entertaining atmosphere for groups. Many roller rinks offer group packages, including skate rentals and music playlists, to keep the energy high.
It’s a social activity that encourages laughter and a bit of healthy competition, making it perfect for friends, family, or coworkers looking for an active but laid-back group outing.
Note: Rollerskating can accommodate different skill levels, making it a great idea for multigenerational groups, but it’s not inclusive for people with disabilities. Make sure that nobody is left out when planning a roller rink visit!
6. Group Dinner
Sometimes, the easiest idea might just be what you’re looking for, and sharing a meal is a classic way to bond with a group. Maybe you can throw a whole dinner party?
San Francisco is a haven for all the foodies looking for new culinary adventures. You can try authentic Italian or French food at North Beach or grab a quick bite in Chinatown or Japantown. The Mission District is a must-visit for Mexican food lovers. For upscale dining, head to Nob Hill or Union Square.
Many restaurants can accommodate large groups and offer group menus, making it easy to plan and enjoy a memorable meal together. You can also choose to rent a private room in a restaurant if you’re planning an outing for a small group.
7. Creative Workshops
Engaging in creative workshops is a fantastic way for groups to spend time together while learning new skills. San Francisco offers a variety of workshops that encourage participants to express their creativity, work together, and support each other, all while having fun. Since you get to keep what you’ve created during the workshop, it makes for a perfect keepsake of the event!
Our favorite creative workshops in San Francisco include graffiti workshops (try 1AM SF or Blue Barley), clay sculpting, paint-and-sip sessions, and a natural skincare-making class. But there are many more creative workshops to choose from, so whatever your group needs, you’ll find it in SF!
👋 Event Tip: Creative workshops are a great option for groups of various ages or those who don’t know each other too well. Remember to choose one that will fit everyone in the group or that is easy enough for everyone.
8. Fisherman’s Wharf Visit
Fisherman’s Wharf is a vibrant waterfront destination in San Francisco that caters to groups of all sizes. You can explore the iconic Pier 39, watch sea lions basking in the sun, and try the iconic clam chowder or steamed Dungeness crab. The variety of attractions, shops, and entertainment options make Fisherman’s Wharf a perfect outing destination for groups, whether you’re on a family outing or a team building excursion.
The picturesque views of the bay and the Golden Gate Bridge provide a beautiful backdrop for group photos and create lasting memories. If you would like even better views of the bay and the Wharf, start your event with a scenic boat tour around the bay.
👋 Event Tip: Fisherman’s Wharf has a lot of interesting spots to visit. One of them is Magowan’s Infinite Mirror Maze, a maze that groups of all sizes and ages can enjoy. It’s perfect for any event that needs a bit more fun and excitement!
9. Free City Tour
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly group activity in San Francisco, consider taking a tour of the city. Explore SF’s top attractions and learn about its history and culture. You can go on a self-guided tour or contact San Francisco City Guides for guided tours.
Taking a city tour is a great idea for groups that come to the city for the first time. But even if you’re a local, there’s still a ton to discover about your city! Do you know the most scandalous murals of SF? Do you think Chinatown is just delicious dim sums and a colorful New Year Parade? Or maybe you’re curious to follow Alfred Hitchcock’s cinematic route in the city? Well, the answers to these questions are hidden in the city’s streets, just waiting for you to discover them!
Note: San Francisco City Guides is a group of volunteers with a mission to share the city’s history, lore, characters, and stories. The tours are always free but almost entirely supported by walker donations, so a $20 donation per person is encouraged.
10. Walt Disney Museum Tour
If you thought you wouldn’t be able to feel the Disney magic while in San Francisco, you’re wrong! Although the city can’t invite you to any Disneyland, you can still enjoy an enchanting tour of the Walt Disney Family Museum. It offers a unique and immersive experience that showcases the life and legacy of Walt Disney. Groups can enjoy guided tours or explore the Museum on their own.
The fun doesn’t end here! The museum offers workshops to let you explore the magic behind the beloved animations. They cater to different ages, so your group can surely find something that fits their needs.
The Walt Disney Family Museum is located in Presidio, so you can continue your group outing with a picnic on Crissy Field beach or a visit to the Palace of Fine Arts.
11. Indoor Golf
Indoor golf is a great idea for groups, especially if you’re looking for an activity that is fun, inclusive for people of all skill levels and can be played without worrying about weather conditions.
Indoor golf facilities often have multiple simulators, allowing groups to play together simultaneously and engage in friendly competition, no matter the previous experiences. It’s a great opportunity for participants to bond, share tips and strategies, and have a good time together.
If you’re looking for indoor golf in San Francisco, try NorCal Golf Academy. The city also offers mini golf locations, with Subpar Miniature Golf and Urban Putt being the most popular destinations.
13. Night Visit to Alcatraz
Visiting Alcatraz Island is another staple group activity in San Francisco, but how about making it a spine-thrilling one? If your group is up for an eerie experience, explore the infamous former prison under cover of darkness. The darkness and solitude of Alcatraz at night create a hauntingly atmospheric adventure, allowing groups to delve into the mysteries and ghost stories associated with this historic site.
A night tour of Alcatraz is an unforgettable excursion for those seeking a blend of history, intrigue, and a touch of the supernatural. It will become an event that you and your friends and colleagues will talk about for months, if not years, ahead!
Will you dare to go on a ghost-hunting tour next? 👻😈
14. Outdoor Concert Experience
San Francisco hosts numerous concerts and music festivals throughout the year, making it an ideal group activity for music lovers. The city’s diverse music scene ensures there’s a genre for every taste, and the vibrant and energetic atmosphere of a live performance can energize the group and provide a fantastic atmosphere for bonding.
The most popular outdoor music performances can be enjoyed at The Golden Gate Park Bandshell. They take place between March and November so you can enjoy the performances almost all year long. If you’re planning your group event in August, don’t miss a chance to attend the Outside Lands Music Festival. To experience San Francisco’s music scene firsthand,
head to the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood, which is known for its many live music venues.
👉 You may also like: 16 Top Outdoor Party Ideas for 2023
Final Thoughts
San Francisco is a city that thrives on diversity and adventure, making it the perfect destination for group activities. Whether you explore iconic landmarks, go crazy on a roller rink, or immerse yourself in the rich history and art of the city, San Francisco has it all. We hope our list of 13 group activities in San Francisco will help you and your group get the most out of this incredible city.
So gather your friends, family, or colleagues and embark on an unforgettable journey in the vibrant city of San Francisco.
If you’re planning a corporate event or looking for team building ideas in San Francisco, get inspired here:
- 10+ Team Building Activities in San Francisco to Elevate Your Team Spirit
- Top 13 Corporate Event Ideas in San Francisco to Break Away from Routine
FAQ
What are some activities in San Francisco for small groups?
For small groups, consider exploring the city via cable car, taking a bike tour of the Golden Gate Bridge, or visiting the Walt Disney Family Museum. Small groups can also enjoy a round of indoor golf or minigolf, try to solve clues in an escape room, or attend creative workshops.
What are some activities in San Francisco for large groups?
For large groups, activities like renting a charter boat for a bay cruise, organizing a group hike, or booking a private group tour of Alcatraz Island can be great options. Renting out a roller rink or attending an outdoor concert are good ideas for big groups as well. Taking a city tour or organizing an arcade game night can be a fun way to spend time together, as well.
How to get around San Francisco?
San Francisco offers a variety of transportation options, including cable cars, buses, trams, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. You can also rent bikes or explore on foot, depending on your group’s preferences and the areas you plan to visit. Plan your transportation in advance, taking into account your group’s size and itinerary.
What are some indoor group activities in San Francisco for rainy days?
Indoor group activities in San Francisco for rainy days can include visiting museums like the Exploratorium or the de Young Museum, going to an indoor roller rink, or enjoying a creative workshop. Escape rooms and arcade games are also available for groups looking to hide away from rain.
Are there any group-friendly restaurants or venues for group dinners in San Francisco?
Yes, San Francisco has plenty of group-friendly restaurants and venues. You can find options suitable for different group sizes and culinary preferences. Head to Tagvenue to quickly find the best place for your group.
What is the best time of year to plan outdoor group activities in San Francisco?
The best time for outdoor group activities in San Francisco is typically during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and pleasant. These seasons offer comfortable conditions for outdoor adventures and sightseeing.
What are some budget-friendly group activities in San Francisco?
Budget-conscious groups can enjoy free city tours, exploring the Mission District’s murals, visiting the historic Ferry Building Marketplace, hiking in nearby parks like Lands End, or picnicking in iconic locations such as Crissy Fields. These activities offer memorable experiences without breaking the bank.
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