10 TOP Things to Do in Northern California (2025 Activity Guide)

Mill Creek showing tranquil scenes and a sunset

Mill Creek featuring mountains, tranquil scenes and a lake or waterhole

Mill Creek which includes forests and dangerous animals

Napa featuring tranquil scenes, a sunset and farmland

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Most popular experiences 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

Private & custom tours

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GoCar San Francisco Tour

Free cancellation available

History & culture

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California Academy of Sciences Daytime Admission

Free cancellation available

Adventure & outdoor

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Electric Dirtbike Adventure in Lake Tahoe

Free cancellation available

Cruises & boat tours

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Golden Gate Bay Cruise - Sail Around Alcatraz! (1-hour)

Free cancellation available

What to do in Northern California

Popular places to visit

Silicon Valley

From historic parks to high tech museums, this Silicon Valley city has been, and remains, anything but dull.

Yosemite Valley

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.

Redwood National and State Parks

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

Stanford University

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 Falls showing a cascade and mountains

Yosemite National Park

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

Golden Gate Park

This wonderful park is a haven away from the hustle and bustle of the busy city. Come here to relax, enjoy the scenery, breathe in the air and watch the wildlife.

Pier 39

This waterfront attraction offers all the fun of a traditional pier with rides, street performances and entertainment courtesy of a colony of resident sea lions!

Monterey Bay Aquarium

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

Golden Gate Bridge

This iconic bridge, with its distinctive burnished red colour, is probably one of the world’s most instantly recognisable landmarks.

Areas of Northern California

Union Square

4.5/5(7 area reviews)

Packed with a treasure trove of upmarket boutiques, designer labels and department store, shoppers will love this huge shopping plaza.

Downtown San Francisco

4/5(1 area review)

Known for its fascinating museums, popular shops, and acclaimed art galleries, there's plenty to explore in Downtown San Francisco. Top attractions like Oracle Park and Chase Center are major draws. Catch the metro at Market St & 5th St Stop or Market St & Taylor St Stop to see more of the city.

Fisherman's Wharf

This waterfront location is steeped in history dating back to the days of the gold rush. Today, visitors come here for its vibrant atmosphere and great food.

Downtown Sacramento

Known for its abundant dining options and interesting museums, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Sacramento. Top attractions like Golden 1 Center and K Street Mall are major draws, and you can catch the metro at 8th & H/County Center Station or 7th & I/County Center Station to see more of the city.

South of Market

3/5(2 area reviews)

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

Downtown San Jose

Known for its fascinating museums and great live music, there's plenty to explore in Downtown San Jose. You can visit top attractions like SAP Center at San Jose and San Pedro Square, and jump on the metro at Santa Clara Station or St James Station to see more of the city.