22 INSANE Things to Do in San Francisco at Night (Secret Spots!)

by Jen
Best Things To Do in San Francisco at Night
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Local jazz legends jam in secret Chinatown bars until sunrise. The city’s best tacos appear from a tiny Mission window at 2 AM. This is San Francisco after dark and it’s absolutely electric.

After exploring the best things to Do in San Francisco at night, I can tell you that the real magic happens when tourists leave Fisherman’s Wharf. From secret rooftop bars with Golden Gate views to underground art parties in converted warehouses, these spots prove SF nights are pure gold. Get ready for the adventure of your life!

👉 Pro Tip: I HIGHLY recommend this sunset catamaran cruise on San Francisco Bay. They take you sailing past glowing city views, under the Golden Gate Bridge, and around Alcatraz while you enjoy a complimentary drink on board. You also learn what makes SF’s waterfront magical at twilight from your spot on one of the bay’s few evening catamarans. This tour is absolutely a must-do on a San Francisco itinerary in my opinion.

The top places to visit in San Francisco at night right now
This article on the Best Things To Do in San Francisco at night contains affiliate links where I may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

22 Things to Do at Night in San Francisco

Discovering the best things to do in San Francisco at night unveils a city bursting with energy, offering experiences that captivate both locals and visitors alike!

1. Take the night tour of Alcatraz prison

Alcatraz night tours run Tuesday through Saturday and cost around $59 for adults, but honestly, they’re way better than the day tours. The night tour limits groups to just 100-200 people compared to thousands during the day, so you actually get to hear the audio guide without fighting crowds. For a more premium experience with a sightseeing cruise, I recommend this 4-hour SF Bay Cruise with a night visit to Alcatraz.

I went on a night tour last year and it was genuinely creepy walking through those dark cellblocks. The whole experience takes about 3 hours including the ferry ride, and City Experiences is the only authorized operator – don’t fall for knockoff tours. The audio tour includes stories from actual former inmates and guards, which is pretty wild when you’re standing in Al Capone’s cell at night.

Alcatraz Island looks totally different after dark, with the San Francisco skyline lit up across the water. Book ahead because these sell out weeks in advance, especially in summer. The last ferry back runs around 8:30 PM, so you’ll be back on the mainland before 9 PM. Wear layers because it gets windy and cold on the bay, even in summer.

Exploring Alcatraz Island is one of the best things to do in San Francisco at night.
Experience the eerie allure of Alcatraz Island, a top San Francisco night attraction.

2. Sip Cocktails at Starlite Rooftop Bar

Starlite on the 21st floor of the Beacon Grand Hotel is honestly one of the best rooftop bars in the city. Take the elevator to the 21st floor to Starlite. With close to a century of splashy cocktails, shared stories within its walls, and the best views in the city, Starlite shines as a historic and revered San Francisco establishment. The cocktails here are crafted by Scott Baird (the guy behind Trick Dog), and they’re actually pretty spectacular.

I went here last month and the Cable Car cocktail was way better than I expected – it’s their twist on a Sidecar and actually lives up to the hype. The venue has this old-school glamour vibe that doesn’t feel stuffy, and Multi-hyphenate Nina Tarr brings San Francisco’s nightlife to life with an all-vinyl soundtrack on a nightly basis, with album listening parties on the regular. You’ll want to make reservations because this place gets packed, especially on weekends. Cocktails run around $18-22, but honestly, the 360-degree views make it worth every penny. Open Thursday through Sunday, with varying hours – definitely call ahead at (415) 395-8520.

3. Play vintage arcade games at Musee Mecanique

Musee Mecanique is open daily from 10 AM to 8 PM and admission is completely free – you just pay to play the games. Most games cost 25 to 50 cents, making it one of the most affordable attractions in San Francisco. I spent three hours here last time and dropped maybe $15 total.

Musee Mecanique has over 300 antique arcade machines dating back to the early 1900s. The creepy laughing lady (Laffing Sal) will haunt your dreams, but in the best way possible. There’s everything from penny arcade games to vintage pinball machines and those old fortune-telling machines that actually work.

The museum houses Edward Zelinsky’s personal collection, including a 1912 steam-powered motorcycle that’s probably the only working one left in the world. Kids love the place, but honestly, adults have just as much fun. Located at Pier 45 on Fisherman’s Wharf, it’s easy to find and there are tons of change machines around. Don’t worry about bringing quarters – they’ve got you covered.

Experience a nostalgic journey at Musee Mecanique, an antique arcade at Fisherman's Wharf.
Experience a nostalgic journey at Musee Mecanique, an antique arcade at Fisherman’s Wharf.

4. Roller Skate at Church of 8 Wheels

Church of 8 Wheels is probably the coolest nighttime activity you’ve never heard of. It might still look like an unassuming church on the outside, but the inside can get more packed than the hottest nightclub in town. This 127-year-old church in the Fillmore has been converted into San Francisco’s premier roller disco, and it’s absolutely wild.

I took my friends here last Friday night and we couldn’t stop laughing – there’s something magical about skating under disco balls and stained-glass windows while a DJ spins from what used to be the altar. Friday hours are 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. (all ages), 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. (all ages), and 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. (21+); Saturday hours are 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. (family session), 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. Admission is around $10-15 plus $5 for skate rentals, and it’s cash only. Don’t worry if you can’t skate – the community here is super welcoming and people actually help beginners. The Saturday night sessions get pretty intense with the disco costumes and everything.

5. Take photos at the Museum of 3D Illusions

The Museum of 3D Illusions is open Monday-Friday 12 PM to 7 PM and weekends 11 AM to 8 PM. General admission starts around $25-30 and includes access to over 40 interactive exhibits. I’ll be honest – this place is basically Instagram bait, but it’s actually pretty fun.

You can pose like you’re flying on a magic carpet next to the Golden Gate Bridge, escaping from a giant shark, or hanging from a skyscraper. The staff shows you exactly where to stand and how to pose for the best photos. There’s also a “Smash It!” room where you can decorate plates and then smash them to release stress, but that’s only for ages 12 and up.

Located at 55-61 Jefferson Street near Fisherman’s Wharf, it’s super touristy but kind of addictive once you start taking photos. Plan about 45 minutes to get through everything. The Museum of 3D Illusions isn’t groundbreaking art, but if you want unique photos and don’t mind paying tourist prices, it delivers exactly what it promises.

Museum of 3D Illusions offers a captivating choice for activities, with over 40 interactive exhibits.
Museum of 3D Illusions offers a captivating choice for activities, with over 40 interactive exhibits.

6. Get Nerdy at Exploratorium After Dark

Every Thursday night, the Exploratorium transforms into an adults-only playground that’s way cooler than it sounds. Experience life After Dark, an evening series exclusively for adults that mixes cocktails, conversation, and playful, innovative science and art events. Not a theater, cabaret, or gallery, After Dark contains aspects of all three. Think of it as science museum meets cocktail party – no kids allowed, but you can definitely act like one.

I went to their “Unplug and Play” night last month and spent two hours just messing around with exhibits while sipping craft cocktails. With your favorite cocktail in hand, explore more than 600 interactive exhibits that challenge your perception of all things science, technology, engineering, art, and math. Each Thursday has a different theme, from music and electricity to more provocative topics. The whole thing runs from 6-10 PM and tickets are around $20-25. Pro tip: if you go more than twice, get the After Dark membership – it pays for itself quickly. The crowd is a mix of tech folks, artists, and curious adults who want to do something different on a Thursday night.

7. Watch stand-up comedy at Cobb’s Comedy Club

Cobb’s Comedy Club is located at 915 Columbus Ave in North Beach and has been around since 1982. Ticket prices typically range from $38-80 depending on the performer, but there’s a mandatory two-drink minimum that’ll add another $20-30 to your night.

I’ve seen some great shows here, including Michelle Wolf and Doug Stanhope. The venue is pretty intimate with good sightlines from every seat, so you’ll actually feel connected to the comedian. Cobb’s is 18+ and they check IDs at the door. Shows usually start at 7:30 PM or 8 PM, with late shows on weekends around 10 PM.

Cobb’s Comedy Club books both big-name comedians and rising talent, so the quality varies. Check who’s performing before you go – some nights are definitely better than others. The box office is open Wednesday through Sunday, but honestly just buy online to avoid hassle. The drink minimum is annoying but the wait staff is professional and quick about it. It’s a classic San Francisco comedy institution that’s worth the splurge for the right show.

Cobb's Comedy Club is a beloved entertainment staple, drawing locals and tourists for nights of laughter and fun.
Cobb’s Comedy Club is a beloved entertainment staple, drawing locals and tourists for nights of laughter and fun.

8. Cruise the Bay at Sunset

A sunset cruise on San Francisco Bay is honestly one of those touristy things that’s actually worth doing. This sunset cruise takes you across San Francisco Bay with outstanding views of the city skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, the San Francisco Bay Bridge, and Alcatraz Island. I was skeptical until I tried the Adventure Cat catamaran – their 1.5-hour sunset sail is pretty awesome, especially when you sail right under the Golden Gate Bridge.

The Red and White Fleet also does solid sunset cruises from Pier 43½ at Fisherman’s Wharf. In November, December, January and February, tour departs at 5:30pm for the San Francisco City Lights Cruise and will not see the sunset. During summer months, you’ll catch the actual sunset over the Pacific, but winter cruises focus on city lights instead. Most cruises run $35-65 depending on the operator and season. The Adventure Cat includes one complimentary drink and you can buy more onboard. Just dress warmly – it gets cold out there even in summer, but most boats have heated indoor areas if you need a break from the wind.

9. See a magic show at Marrakech Magic Theater

The Marrakech Magic Theater puts on 75-minute shows that actually exceed expectations. I was skeptical going in, but the performers blend magic, mentalism, and comedy really well. The pre-show at their Moroccan-style bar is a nice touch – you can grab drinks and chat before the main event starts.

The theater creates an intimate atmosphere where every seat feels close to the action. The magic isn’t just card tricks and rabbit-pulling – they do mind-reading stuff that’ll genuinely mess with your head. The venue has this old-school San Francisco charm that makes the whole experience feel special.

Shows typically run several nights a week, but check their website for current schedules and pricing since they change seasonally. The theater isn’t huge, so it does sell out for popular shows. I’d recommend this for date nights or when you want something different from the usual San Francisco nightlife scene. It’s definitely more unique than catching another movie or hitting a regular bar. The magic is legit entertaining, and the whole vibe feels like a throwback to classic entertainment.

Experience magic and mystery at Marrakech Magic Theater, a standout attraction, promising an evening of wonder and amazement.
Experience magic and mystery at Marrakech Magic Theater.

10. Bar Hop Through Chinatown at Night

Chinatown after dark is a completely different vibe from the daytime tourist crowds. With its blue neon sign drawing in locals like moths to a light, the bar has nightly karaoke on tap, attracting Mission hipsters, Chinese Americans from the neighborhood and curious out-of-towners in equal amounts. Li Po Cocktail Lounge is where you absolutely need to start – this is supposedly where the first Chinese Mai Tai was created, and their version is still killer.

I usually end up at Bow Bow Cocktails for karaoke after dinner in Chinatown. It’s this tiny dive bar that’s been around forever, and the crowd is an awesome mix of locals and adventurous visitors. A swanky destination for the in-crowd, Moongate Lounge offers inventive cocktails—all based on the Chinese lunar calendar—and natural wines above the renowned Mister Jiu’s Chinese American restaurant. For something fancier, Moongate Lounge above Mister Jiu’s has these lunar calendar-inspired cocktails that are actually pretty creative. The Lion’s Den is the neighborhood’s only proper nightclub, with DJs spinning Thursday through Saturday nights. Most bars here don’t take reservations, so just wander Grant Avenue and Stockton Street and see what calls to you.

11. Go clubbing at DNA Lounge

DNA Lounge has been a San Francisco institution since 1985 and it’s still one of the best nightclubs in the city. They have two stages, four dance floors, and six bars spread across multiple levels. The club is typically open Monday, Friday, and Saturday from around 8:30 PM to 2:30 AM.

I love that DNA Lounge hosts all kinds of events – not just typical club nights. You might catch live bands, burlesque shows, all-ages events, or themed dance parties. Cover charges vary by event, and table service runs $345-690 if you want VIP treatment.

The crowd is eclectic and ranges from college kids to people in their 40s, depending on the event. They even have DNA Pizza attached, which stays open late for when you need post-dancing food. The sound system is legit and the DJs actually know what they’re doing.

DNA Lounge in the SOMA district represents the best of San Francisco nightlife – it’s weird, inclusive, and has actual personality instead of just being another generic club. Since 2001, they’ve webcast all their events live, which is pretty cool if you want to check out the vibe before going.

Experiencing the DNA Lounge is one of the best things to do in San Francisco at night.
DNA Lounge is a testament to the city’s nightlife, offering live music, dance parties, and special events for decades.

12. Hunt for Ghosts on Pacific Heights Tours

Ghost tours in San Francisco run every single night, and honestly, they’re way better than I expected. The San Francisco Ghost Hunt is a haunted history walking tour of Pacific Heights, one of the few neighborhoods to survive the Great 1906 Earthquake and Fire. You’ll walk a mile on tree-lined streets in a safe residential area with fine Victorian architecture. The Haunt and San Francisco Ghost Hunt are the two best companies running these tours.

I did The Haunt tour last October and they actually give you EMF meters to use during the investigation – it felt like being on a real paranormal TV show. Using our ghost hunting tools, this tour attempts to contact spirits and invite apparitions. We’ve had guests report strange sensations (dizziness, feeling pinched, tapped or grabbed), hear shrill sounds and voices, see apparitions, and document unexplainable images in photographs from the tour. 

The Pacific Heights area is perfect for these tours because it survived the 1906 earthquake, so there are tons of Victorian mansions with wild stories. Tours run nightly around 7-8 PM, cost about $30-40 per person, and usually last 90 minutes. Book ahead because they regularly sell out, especially on weekends.

Photo credit: San Francisco Ghost Hunt https://www.sfghosthunt.com/

13. Catch a Broadway show in the Theater District

San Francisco’s Theater District actually puts on legitimate Broadway productions that rival what you’d see in New York. The Curran Theatre, Golden Gate Theatre, and Orpheum Theatre regularly host touring productions of major musicals like Hamilton, Wicked, and The Lion King.

I caught Hamilton at the Orpheum last year and the production quality was top-notch. Ticket prices vary wildly depending on the show and seats – you can spend anywhere from $40 for nosebleed seats to $200+ for orchestra. The theaters themselves are gorgeous historic venues with that classic San Francisco architecture.

The Theater District is perfectly located downtown, so you can easily grab dinner before or drinks after. Most shows start at 7:30 PM or 8 PM, with weekend matinees at 2 PM. I’d recommend buying tickets directly from the theater websites rather than third-party sites to avoid markup and fees.

The quality of touring productions has gotten really good in recent years. You’re not getting some watered-down version – these are often the same casts and production teams from Broadway. Just check the show schedules because they rotate productions every few months.

Theater District shines with captivating performances, offering Broadway's essence in the heart of the city for arts enthusiasts.
Theater District shines with captivating performances, offering Broadway’s essence in the heart of the city for arts enthusiasts.

14. Chase Late-Night Eats Beyond the Tourist Spots

San Francisco’s late-night food scene is way more interesting than most people realize. It’s hard, then, to overstate the value of a place like Taishan Cuisine, which very quietly serves some of the tastiest Chinese food in San Francisco until 3 a.m. every night. Forget the basic stuff – Taishan Cuisine in Chinatown stays open until 3 AM and serves incredible Taishanese dishes that most tourists never discover.

I’ve become obsessed with their yellow eel claypot rice after discovering it at 1 AM last month. Big Apple Pizza N Grill in the Tenderloin brings true NYC energy to SF, making juicy, extra-cheesy bodega-style chopped cheeses until 3am on weeknights and 5am on weekends. 

Pinecrest Diner is another late-night gem that’s open 24 hours Thursday through Saturday – their steak and eggs at 2 AM hits different. Cocobang serves Korean BBQ and soju until 1 AM on weekends, and Turtle Tower has incredible phở until 4 AM on Friday and Saturday nights. These places actually get busier after midnight, which tells you everything about SF’s real nightlife.

15. Try an escape room at The Escape Game

The Escape Game has locations at Fisherman’s Wharf and downtown, with games starting around $36-45 per person. They offer six different themed rooms, including an exclusive “Prison Break: Alcatraz” game you can only play in San Francisco. Each game lasts exactly 60 minutes and they don’t mess around with the timing.

I’ve done the Alcatraz escape room and it’s genuinely challenging – we barely made it out with three minutes left. The rooms are way more elaborate than typical escape rooms, with multiple connected spaces and movie-set quality props. Games are recommended for ages 13 and up, and anyone under 18 needs an adult to sign their waiver.

The Escape Game at Fisherman’s Wharf is convenient if you’re already doing the tourist thing, but honestly both locations are solid. Plan to arrive 15 minutes early for briefing and stay 15 minutes after for photos. The staff gives unlimited hints, which is helpful when you’re stuck. These aren’t horror-themed or scary – just challenging puzzles that require actual teamwork to solve.

The Escape Game offers modern, adrenaline-pumping, challenging participants to "escape" from themed rooms in a race against the clock.
The Escape Game offers modern, adrenaline-pumping, challenging participants to “escape” from themed rooms in a race against the clock.

16. Discover Hidden Speakeasies and Secret Bars

San Francisco’s speakeasy scene is alive and well, with some seriously creative hidden bars. Bourbon & Branch in the Tenderloin is in the same space as a speakeasy from the 1920s, and their commitment to the theme is strong—including a lot of rules to follow. There’s a strict 90-minute time limit per table, speaking volume should be low lest you incur the wrath of a server, and don’t even think about taking out your cell phone. Bourbon & Branch is the most famous, but honestly, it’s gotten a bit touristy.

My favorite hidden bar right now is Wilson & Wilson, a “private detective firm” that operates as a secret bar within Bourbon & Branch – you need reservations and they serve drinks in case files. Hidden inside Chinatown’s massive China Live, Cold Drinks Bar feels like an escape to a high-end club in a major Asian city, with Blade Runner-esque wall tiles, a dramatic marble bar, and velvet gray couches. 

Cold Drinks Bar in China Live has this amazing Blade Runner aesthetic, and The Pawn Shop in SoMa requires you to hand over a possession to the “pawnbroker” to get in. Lore SF in the Mission just opened in 2025 and combines an escape room with a Middle Earth-inspired cocktail bar – it’s weird but brilliant.

17. Eat at Off the Grid food trucks

Off the Grid food truck gatherings happen at different San Francisco locations throughout the week, but the night markets are where it’s at. The vibe is like a street festival with dozens of food trucks serving everything from Korean BBQ tacos to gourmet grilled cheese.

I always end up spending more than I planned because everything looks good and portions are usually pretty generous. Prices are reasonable for San Francisco – most items run $8-15. The Mission Bay and Fort Mason locations tend to have the best variety and atmosphere for evening events.

What’s cool is you get cuisines you won’t find in regular restaurants, like Filipino fusion or Venezuelan arepas. The trucks rotate, so the lineup changes depending on which event you hit. Some nights have live music or local craft beer vendors too.

The only downside is it can get crowded and finding seating is hit-or-miss. I’d recommend going with a group so you can try multiple trucks and share. Check their website before heading out because events get cancelled for weather or other reasons. The whole Off the Grid scene really captures that San Francisco foodie culture in a casual, accessible way.

Off the Grid food trucks showcases the city's culinary diversity, offering a variety of dishes from American to global cuisines.
Off the Grid food trucks showcase the city’s culinary diversity, offering a variety of dishes from American to global cuisines.

18. Capture Epic Night Photos at Lesser-Known Spots

Beyond Twin Peaks, San Francisco has incredible night photography locations that most people miss. From Treasure Island, you get a fantastic view of San Francisco’s stunning Skyline including the Bay bridge. Treasure Island gives you the best skyline shots with the Bay Bridge in the foreground, and you can actually drive there unlike some hiking spots.

I spent last weekend shooting at Pier 14 for Bay Bridge long exposures – the light trails from cars combined with the bridge’s LED art installation create amazing shots. Another San Francisco landmark that would look much prettier with some light trails leading to it. The crossroad of Columbus Ave and Stockton St seems like the best spot to place your tripod to. 

Lombard Street at night is perfect for capturing light trails from cars navigating those famous curves. Battery Spencer on the Marin side gives you Golden Gate Bridge shots with the city lights in the background. Palace of Fine Arts offers reflection shots in the lagoon, and sometimes there are even roller skaters with LED lights. Bring a tripod and arrive before sunset to scout your compositions – the blue hour right after sunset is magic.

19. Walk along the Embarcadero waterfront

The Embarcadero at night is actually one of the best free activities in San Francisco. The Bay Lights installation on the Bay Bridge creates thousands of LED patterns that reflect on the water, and it’s genuinely spectacular. I walk this route at least once a month and it never gets old.

Start at the Ferry Building and head south toward AT&T Park (now Oracle Park). The whole waterfront path is well-lit and safe, with plenty of other people around even late at night. Pier 14 has those great benches where you can sit and watch the lights on the bridge while boats cruise by.

The Ferry Building stays partially open in the evenings, so you can grab coffee or a snack from some vendors. Street performers often set up along the route, especially near Pier 39. The views of Alcatraz and Angel Island lit up across the dark water are pretty magical.

This walk works great as a romantic date or just to clear your head after a long day. It’s about 2 miles from the Ferry Building to Mission Bay, but you can turn around whenever. The whole Embarcadero captures why people fall in love with San Francisco – it’s beautiful, urban, and totally unique.

As night falls, Embarcadero transforms into a nighttime attraction with shimmering waterfront lights.
As night falls, Embarcadero transforms into a nighttime attraction with shimmering waterfront lights.

20. Experience Live Jazz in Historic Venues

The San Francisco jazz scene is having a serious moment right now, and the venues are incredible. Live music, rooted in jazz, will be offered each night, usually commencing after 8pm. The bands performing at the Dawn Club will primarily be locally based, San Francisco Bay Area jazz performers, some of the most accomplished in the Country. The Dawn Club just reopened in the historic Monadnock Building where the original 1930s Dawn Club used to broadcast live radio shows during WWII.

I caught a show at Black Cat in the Tenderloin last month and the intimate setting was perfect – they’re open Wednesday through Sunday with shows starting around 8 PM. Located in the heart of San Francisco’s historic jazz district — the Tenderloin — Black Cat is vibing 5 nights a week. 

SFJAZZ Center is the big-name venue, but Local Edition has become my favorite for their Hot Club of San Francisco residency and swing dancing. Mr. Tipple’s Recording Studio has this cool vintage vibe where they actually record the performances. The Tenderloin neighborhood might seem sketchy, but it’s the historic heart of SF’s jazz scene, and these venues are creating something really special. Shows typically run $15-30, and many places don’t require reservations if you’re cool standing at the bar.

21. Get city views from Twin Peaks

Twin Peaks sits almost 1,000 feet above sea level and offers unmatched panoramic views of San Francisco. On clear nights, you can see the entire city spread out below, plus the Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridge, and Alcatraz. I’ve brought probably a dozen out-of-town friends here and it never fails to impress.

The drive up is an adventure itself – narrow, winding roads through residential neighborhoods. There’s free parking at the top, but it fills up on nice evenings and weekends. Twin Peaks gets windy and cold even when the rest of the city is warm, so bring layers. I learned this the hard way wearing just a t-shirt in July.

The viewing area at the top is just a big open space with some benches. It’s not fancy, but the views are absolutely spectacular. Sunset is obviously prime time, but I actually prefer going after dark when all the city lights are twinkling. It’s romantic if you’re into that, or just peaceful if you want to think about life stuff.

The only downsides are crowds during peak times and occasional fog that blocks everything. Check the weather before making the trek up – there’s nothing worse than driving all the way up for zero visibility.

Twin Peaks offers unmatched panoramic views of the city from its 1,000-foot-high vantage point.
Twin Peaks offers unmatched panoramic views of the city from its 1,000-foot-high vantage point.

22. Ice skate at Union Square

The Union Square ice rink is only open seasonally from November through January. General admission costs $20 and includes skate rental, with kids 8 and under paying $15. Sessions run every 90 minutes from 10 AM to 11 PM daily, except New Year’s Eve when they close early.

I went last December and it’s definitely a tourist trap, but kind of magical in that cheesy holiday way. The rink is pretty small and gets crowded, especially on weekends. You can rent lockers for $5 and they even sell gloves and socks for $5 each if you forget them.

Union Square during the holidays is pure chaos, but skating under the city lights with holiday decorations everywhere does hit different. They host special themed nights like “Flashback Fridays” with ’80s music and “Drag Queens on Ice” events. The ice quality is decent and they have those penguin helpers for kids who can’t skate yet.

Located at the corner of Geary and Stockton Streets, it’s super convenient if you’re already shopping in the area. Just don’t expect a peaceful skating experience – it’s more about the San Francisco holiday atmosphere than actual skating.

Skating at Union Square's seasonal ice rink is one of the best things to do in San Francisco at night.
In winter, skate at Union Square’s seasonal ice rink for a night activity, drawing locals and tourists alike.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About San Francisco Night Activities

For those with questions about the best things to do in San Francisco at night, our FAQ section provides detailed answers to help you plan your nighttime adventure.

Does San Francisco have good nightlife?

Absolutely! San Francisco boasts a dynamic nightlife that caters to a diverse range of preferences. Whether you’re into live music, dance clubs, bars, or theatrical performances, the city has something for everyone. The best things to do in San Francisco at night often revolve around its vibrant entertainment scene, with venues like DNA Lounge, Cobb’s Comedy Club, and the Theater District offering unforgettable experiences.

Where can I walk at night in San Francisco?

San Francisco offers several safe and scenic spots for nighttime strolls. The Embarcadero is a popular choice, with its beautifully lit waterfront providing picturesque views of the Bay Bridge and the city skyline. Union Square, with its bustling atmosphere and illuminated surroundings, is another great option. For those seeking a more tranquil experience, a walk up to Twin Peaks will reward you with panoramic views of the city lights and other beautiful places in San Francisco.

How many nights is enough in San Francisco?

The number of nights you should spend in San Francisco largely depends on what you want to see and do. However, a three to four-night stay in San Francisco is generally recommended to explore the major attractions and indulge in some of the best things to do in SF at night. This allows visitors to experience both the iconic daytime sights and the vibrant nighttime activities.

Stunning city lights illuminate San Francisco's skyline at night.
Stunning city lights illuminate San Francisco’s skyline at night.

Is San Francisco safe to explore at night?

Like any major city, San Francisco has areas that are safer than others. It’s always a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings and stick to well-lit, populated areas. Neighborhoods like Union Square, the Embarcadero, and North Beach are generally considered safe for nighttime exploration.

What are some unique nighttime attractions in San Francisco?

San Francisco is home to several unique nighttime attractions. The Bay Lights art installation on the Bay Bridge, the interactive exhibits at the Museum of 3D Illusions, and the vintage charm of Musee Mecanique are just a few examples. These attractions showcase the city’s blend of art, history, and innovation.

Are there family-friendly activities in San Francisco at night?

Yes, San Francisco offers numerous family-friendly nighttime activities. The ice skating rink at Union Square during the winter months, the interactive games at Musee Mecanique, and the captivating performances at the Marrakech Magic Theater are all great options for families looking for the best things to do at night, including restaurants in San Francisco.

Where can I find live performances in San Francisco at night?

San Francisco’s Theater District is the heart of live performances in the city. Venues like the Curran, Golden Gate, and Orpheum theaters regularly host Broadway shows and other live acts. Additionally, places like Cobb’s Comedy Club offer stand-up performances, while DNA Lounge and other clubs feature live music.

Are there any nighttime food experiences I shouldn’t miss?

Certainly! San Francisco’s culinary scene shines even at night. Off the Grid food trucks offer a diverse range of cuisines in an outdoor setting. If you’re eager to try different foods and enjoy the fresh air, they’re a great choice. The Ferry Building, on the other hand, is filled with charming artisanal shops and restaurants. It’s a wonderful place to explore and enjoy delicious flavors in the evening.

The top things to do in San Francisco at night for all types of travelers
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Jon Miksis

About Jon Miksis

Award-winning Travel Writer • Founder of Global Viewpoint • 70+ countries visited • 10 Million+ readers

Since 2017, I’ve traveled 3–6 months a year, sharing detailed guides that have helped over 10 million readers travel smarter, deeper, and better. My work blends firsthand experiences — from U.S. road trips and cold-plunge cabins to Michelin-starred dining and business-class flights — with honest, independent reviews.

I’ve been hired by leading tourism boards in 7 countries across Europe, North America, and South America, as well as international travel brands. My travel tips and insights have been featured in Forbes, HuffPost, Yahoo Travel, and The Boston Globe. I’ve personally reviewed 500+ hotels, retreats, and flight experiences — and I never recommend a place I wouldn’t return to myself.

I also save $5–10K per year on airfare using flight tools and 10+ travel credit cards, and I’ve invested over $100K into personal development through transformational retreats and coaching since 2021.

When I’m not road-tripping across the Northeast or writing guides for Global Viewpoint, you’ll find me cold plunging in local lakes, sipping espresso in quiet cafes in Vienna, or chasing fall foliage across New England. I split my time between exploring the world and soaking up life in Boston, my lifelong home base. Some of my favorite places I keep going back to? Switzerland, Spain, Iceland, Italy, Greece, the Faroe Islands, Guatemala, California, Montana, Vermont, and coastal Maine in autumn.

See my latest adventures on Instagram and TikTok.

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