Winter in San Francisco isn’t about snow-covered streets or freezing temperatures.
Instead, the city’s mild Mediterranean climate makes it perfect for exploring year-round, with the bonus of smaller crowds and clearer skies from December through February.
While summer visitors battle Karl the Fog, winter travelers enjoy some of the most spectacular sunset views, seasonal treats like fresh Dungeness crab, and cozy indoor activities unique to the Bay Area.
From candlelit fortress tours to steamy Japanese bathhouses, here are the best things to do in San Francisco during winter that even locals love.
Looking for all of my San Francisco recommendations, not just the ones that are ideal for winter? Check out my guide to 50+ things to do in San Francisco.
San Francisco Travel Planning Resources
– Best Time to Visit San Francisco
– San Francisco Packing List (All Seasons)
#1 Dandelion Hot Chocolate
San Francisco’s premier bean-to-bar chocolate maker transforms into a cozy winter haven.
Their signature hot chocolate is crafted from single-origin beans, offering an intensity and complexity that puts Swiss Miss to shame.
But the real winter treat is joining one of their chocolate experiences—a tour or chocolate-making class, where you’ll learn to temper, mold, and taste chocolate like a pro in their Valencia Street factory.
Why I recommend it: It’s not just a drink but an immersive chocolate experience that’s perfect for chilly San Francisco afternoons or evenings.
#2 Watch a Winter Sunset
Watching winter sunsets from Golden Gate Overlook (left) and Muir Beach Overlook (right). I’ve consistently seen the best Bay Area sunsets during winter because of the clearer skies.
Winter brings the clearest skies to San Francisco, making it prime time for spectacular sunsets without Karl the Fog stealing the show.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening or the perfect Instagram shot, winter delivers consistently stunning displays.
Here are some of my favorite viewing spots:
- Sutro Baths: Nature’s amphitheater where you can watch the sun sink into the Pacific while exploring historic ruins.
- Golden Gate Overlook: If you want that picture-perfect Golden Gate Bridge view with a crisp pink sky (not guaranteed but more likely in winter).
- Twin Peaks: The highest natural point in SF offers a 360-degree panorama of the city lighting up at dusk.
- Crissy Field: Combine your sunset watch with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the city skyline.
- Mount Davidson: A peaceful, less-crowded alternative to Twin Peaks with equally impressive views.
- Muir Beach Overlook: Just across the bridge in Marin but one of my favorite winter sunset spots!
For a different type of sunset experience, book a bay boat tour like the classic Sunset Sail with Adventure Cat.
Their stable catamaran offers indoor seating and outdoor viewing areas, plus a complimentary drink—perfect for those chilly winter evenings.
And unlike summer sailings that often battle fog, winter trips regularly deliver on their sunset promise.
Why I recommend it: Winter’s clear skies make it the most reliable season for catching those postcard-perfect San Francisco sunsets.
#3 Enjoy Dungeness Crab Season
That one time I did an Airbnb experience that involved crabbing for Dungeness crab near Fort Baker. Winter is the season to enjoy the freshest crab in San Francisco!
Winter in SF means one thing to locals: sweet, succulent Dungeness crab.
Usually from November through spring (although the 2025 season started a bit later this year in January), the city’s best seafood spots showcase this local delicacy in its purest form—cracked and served with sourdough and butter.
Alternatively, there’s nothing better to warm you up on a winter night than garlic noodles and fresh crab at one of the city’s Vietnamese restaurants (one of my favorite ways to experience Dungeness crab).
Here are some of my top spots for fresh Dungeness crab in the city:
- Swan Oyster Depot: A historic counter-service spot serving the city’s freshest crab, worth the inevitable wait
- Anchor Oyster Bar: Their garlic-roasted crab is a Castro neighborhood institution
- PPQ Dungeness Island: Vietnamese-style roasted crab with garlic noodles that locals swear by—my personal favorite! Just prepare for a messy meal. I had garlic dripping down my forearms last time I ate here.
- Scoma’s: Traditional whole cracked crab with spectacular Fisherman’s Wharf views
- R&G Lounge: Their salt and pepper crab gives the traditional preparation an exceptional Cantonese twist
Why I recommend it: This quintessential SF winter tradition offers the freshest, sweetest crab you’ll find anywhere.
#4 San Francisco Museums
Enjoying the many types of art on offer at the SF MOMA on a cold winter’s day.
Winter rains make museum-hopping the perfect cultural escape, and SF’s world-class institutions deliver everything from contemporary art to natural wonders.
There are ton of museums you could add to your list in San Francisco, but these are some of my favorites:
- SFMOMA: Seven floors of modern art masterpieces with a fantastic cafe for storm watching.
- Asian Art Museum: Houses one of the most comprehensive Asian art collections in the world, with excellent temporary exhibitions.
- Exploratorium: Interactive science museum that’s equally engaging for adults and kids, especially magical after dark on Thursday nights (adults-only).
- de Young Museum: Beautiful Golden Gate Park location with a free observation tower offering 360-degree views of the city.
- California Academy of Sciences: A living rainforest, planetarium, and aquarium under one living roof—perfect for families. Also located in Golden Gate Park.
Why I recommend it: Beyond the excellent collections, museums offer warm refuge on rainy days with the bonus of cafes, gift shops, and covered viewing gardens.
#5 Warm Up With a Sourdough Bread bowl
Nothing fights San Francisco’s winter chill quite like Boudin’s classic clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl. At their flagship Fisherman’s Wharf location, you can watch bakers craft their famous bread through a 30-foot observation window.
Their “mother dough” dates back to the Gold Rush, making this one of those bucket list San Francisco meals you should experience while you’re in the city.
Looking for more to do in the area? I wrote up a complete guide to Fisherman’s Wharf here.
Why I recommend it: It’s a delicious piece of living San Francisco history that tastes even better on a chilly winter day.
#6 Golden State Warriors Game at Chase Center
I usually try to get to 2-3 Golden State Warriors Games per year. Winter is a great time to warm up with an indoor NBA game in the city.
Winter means Warriors basketball at Chase Center, San Francisco’s stunning waterfront arena.
The energy here is electric whether you’re a basketball fan or not, with local food vendors, innovative architecture, and one of the NBA’s most exciting teams.
Also, don’t miss the “street meat” hot dogs when you come out of the arena, another quintessential SF experience!
Local tip: Take the local Muni light rail to the arena to avoid parking hassles or the ferry from Jack London Square if you’re coming from Oakland, and arrive early to explore the surrounding Thrive City plaza’s restaurants and bay views.
Why I recommend it: It’s the perfect mix of sports, entertainment, and uniquely San Francisco atmosphere, plus the indoor arena offers a cozy escape from winter weather.
#7 Cozy Up at a Jazz Bar
There are a lot of great jazz spots around San Francisco, but the Blue Heron Lakehouse is one of the more unique places to see jazz in the city. I’ve seen jazz here twice, these were taken at a recent show that I went to in January 2025.
I don’t know about you, but I find cozy jazz bars even more enjoyable on cold winter nights, and San Francisco’s jazz clubs heat up with soulful tunes and craft cocktails.
The jazz scene in San Francisco might be smaller and not as well known as other big jazz cities around the US, but I personally love the city’s intimate venues and unique close-knit jazz culture.
Here are some of my favorite spots for jazz around the city:
- Mr. Tipple’s Recording Studio: Craft cocktails meet live jazz nightly in Civic Center, with excellent small plates
- Black Cat: Multi-level Tenderloin supper club with sophisticated ambiance and nightly performances—this is my favorite jazz bar in the city!
- Bix: A hidden gem in Jackson Square, this swanky supper club pairs live jazz with a timeless Art Deco ambiance and elevated American cuisine—perfect for a classy night out in the city!
- Lakehouse Jazz in Golden Gate Park: Ok, not the warmest option for winter jazz sessions, but it’s one of the more unique date nights and jazz experiences in the city. Just bundle up!
- SFJAZZ Center: Not quite as intimate as the other options on this list, but a world-class venue that hosts both legendary performers and rising stars.
Why I recommend it: These venues capture San Francisco’s bohemian spirit while providing the perfect cozy winter evening out.
#8 Ramen Crawl
Winter days call for steaming bowls of ramen, and San Francisco has a lot of great ramen spots, delivering everything from traditional tonkotsu to creative California fusion.
Here are some of the top spots to get your ramen fix in the city:
- Marufuku Ramen: Their Hakata-style tonkotsu draws lines in Japantown for good reason
- Hinodeya Ramen: Unique dashi-based broths in a cozy Japantown space
- Ushi Taro: Rich house-made broths in the Sunset District
- Mensho Tokyo: Creative bowls like matcha ramen make this Lower Nob Hill spot worth the wait
- Nojo Ramen Tavern: Their chicken paitan ramen offers a lighter but equally satisfying option
Why I recommend it: Each shop has its own specialty, making a ramen crawl the perfect way to warm up while exploring different neighborhoods.
#9 High Tea
I’ve had a fun time getting into the high tea scene around San Francisco. At the now closed Crown & Crumpet Tea Salon, RIP (left) and at the beautiful Rotunda for a bachelorette party (right).
Another fun and warm foodie experience that tastes even better in the winter is high tea! There have been a number of high tea places I’ve noticed around San Francisco in recent years, and I’ve enjoyed testing them out.
An elegant tea service that transports you to another era or destination is the perfect way to escape rainy or chilly winter afternoons in the city.
These are some of my favorite spots:
- Palace Hotel’s Garden Court: The most grand setting under a glass atrium ceiling that sometimes has live harp or violin music.
- Rotunda at Neiman Marcus: City views and their signature popovers make this a local favorite—this is my personal favorite high tea place in SF! Those windows (and the natural light they provide) looking out towards Union Square is hard to beat.
- Sip Tea House: A cozy and modern tea spot in Inner Sunset with an eclectic menu of tea blends and fresh pastries—perfect for a casual afternoon tea break.
- Lovejoy’s Tea Room: A charmingly quirky and quintessentially British tea room in Noe Valley, offering mismatched china, hearty scones, and a delightfully homey vibe.
- Son & Garden: A whimsical and Instagram-worthy spot on Polk Street, where high tea comes with floral décor, inventive treats, and a playful twist on tradition.
- Dartealing Lounge: A hidden gem in SoMa, this chic and intimate tea lounge serves up artisanal teas and classic tea sandwiches in a stylish yet relaxed setting.
Why I recommend it: These tea services offer a refined winter retreat, combining warmth, ambiance, and a dash of fanciness in San Francisco (a rare thing sometimes).
#10 Magic or Comedy Shows
There are a lot of great shows around SF, but magic and comedy are especially in abundance. Waiting in line to see the hilarious Josh Blue at Cobb’s (left) and enjoying a night of magic with Kevin Blake (right).
Indoor attractions are always a win when it’s cold outside in San Francisco, and the city has some fantastic comedy and magic shows. These intimate venues showcase both underground talent and big names that are uniquely San Francisco experiences.
These are some of my favorite shows in the city:
- Kevin Blake’s “The Illusionist”: An immersive evening of magic and mentalism that weaves stellar storytelling with sophisticated illusions at a historic speakeasy theater underneath a clock shop in Chinatown. This is my personal favorite! I’ve seen Kevin Blake three times and his shows never get old.
- The Magic Patio: Hidden Bernal Heights venue hosting close-up magic shows in a speakeasy setting.
- Marrakech Magic Theater: An intimate venue in the Tenderloin with close-up magic by Jay Alexander.
- Cobb’s Comedy Club: North Beach institution known for surprise appearances by famous comedians. If there’s one place to go to a comedy show in SF, this is it. By far my favorite spot for comedy in the city.
- Secret Improv Society: A hilarious late-night comedy gem in Union Square, blending quick wit and audience participation—perfect for an offbeat night out in the city.
- The Punch Line: San Francisco’s legendary comedy club in FiDi is known for its intimate setting and for hosting big-name comedians. It’s an iconic spot for stand-up in the city.
Note: Cheaper Than Therapy is another popular local comedy spot, but I went to a show there once, and it was some of the worst comedy I’ve seen. I’ve had friends that have enjoyed shows there though too, so I’d say it’s more hit or miss in terms of the quality of their comics.
Why I recommend it: These indoor shows provide the perfect evening of high-quality entertainment during the winter months.
#11 Hot Tub Boat Ride
Experience San Francisco Bay from a floating hot tub—perhaps the most unique way to stay warm while taking in waterfront views! The 90-minute experience leaves from Alameda, just across the Bay Bridge from San Francisco, and takes you around the Alameda and Oakland estuary.
These electric-powered vessels combine the comfort of a 102-degree spa with stunning views from the water. Each boat fits up to six people and includes a Bluetooth speaker and ice bucket for beverages.
Local tip: Book a sunset time slot for the best photo opportunities of the city lights reflecting on the bay.
Why I recommend it: It’s an unforgettable way to enjoy winter on the water without getting chilly, plus it’s one of those “only in the Bay Area” experiences you’ll be talking about long after your visit.
#12 Conservatory of Flowers
I love exploring the Conservatory of Flowers on chilly winter days because of its sauna-like atmosphere and how alive it is with plants.
Step into a tropical paradise within Golden Gate Park’s Victorian greenhouse. While winter winds whip outside, inside maintains a balmy 85 degrees and 85% humidity, making it the perfect winter escape.
Each room offers a different climate zone, from lowland tropics to misty highland forests filled with rare orchids, carnivorous plants, and giant Amazon lilies.
Why I recommend it: It’s like a warm vacation in the middle of San Francisco, plus the steamy windows and historic architecture make for incredible photos.
#13 Fire pit Dining & Drinks
Enjoying a winter cocktail at Cavana rooftop bar and staying cozy with their blankets and fire pits.
It’s no surprise that San Francisco has a number of great fire pit dining and drink options, given that locals love being outdoors even though it’s such a chilly city.
These spots allow you to embrace San Francisco’s foggy evenings in cozy outdoor spaces warmed by crackling firepits.
- Cavaña: Mission Bay rooftop bar overlooking the city with fire pit tables. This is one of my favorite rooftop bars in the city. It’s a little out of the way, but that only adds to its charm. This would be a great spot to go after a Warriors Game since it’s in the same area.
- Foreign Cinema: Heated courtyard with fire pits and movie screenings in the Mission.
- The Patio: A lively Marina hangout with cozy fire pits, a stellar wine list, and a buzzing atmosphere—perfect for casual drinks with friends.
- Belle Cora: North Beach’s charming hidden gem featuring a warm fire pit patio, curated wines, and small plates in a cozy setting.
- Charmaine’s Rooftop Bar & Lounge: Stylish rooftop vibes with stunning city views, fire pits, and creative cocktails—an unbeatable spot for a chic night out.
- Bar Bocce: Sausalito’s waterfront escape with fire pits, wood-fired pizzas, and bocce ball—ideal for a laid-back evening with a view.
Why I recommend it: These spots combine San Francisco’s love of outdoor dining with winter-worthy comfort.
#14 Relax at a Bathhouse or Spa
Escape winter’s chill at San Francisco’s traditional bathhouses and spas, where ancient wellness rituals meet modern relaxation techniques.
Here are some of the top soaking spots around the city:
- Kabuki Springs & Spa: A historic Japantown bathhouse offering traditional communal bathing with alternating men’s/women’s days and co-ed Tuesdays (bathing suits required).
- Pearl Spa & Sauna: Japantown favorite that combines Korean spa traditions with modern treatments. This is a women’s-only spa.
- SenSpa: Luxury bathhouse in the Presidio mixing Eastern and Western traditions with steam rooms and cold plunges.
- Archimedes Banya: A unique retreat in India Basin blending Russian-style saunas, steam rooms, and hot tubs with stunning bay views—perfect for unwinding and embracing the art of relaxation.
Why I recommend it: These bathhouses and spas offer a deeply relaxing winter retreat, and the contrast between hot soaking and cool San Francisco air makes the experience even more invigorating.
#15 Fort Point Candlelight Tour (Nov-Feb)
This Civil War-era fortress beneath the Golden Gate Bridge takes on a magical quality during winter’s candlelight tours (November-February).
Rangers lead intimate evening tours through the fort’s brick arches and passageways, sharing tales of soldiers’ lives and the fort’s role in protecting the bay. The combination of candlelight, crashing waves, and bridge views above creates an unforgettable atmosphere.
Local tip: These tours are limited and book out almost immediately once tickets are released, so make sure you know when they plan to release tickets and be ready to purchase!
Why I recommend it: It’s a uniquely atmospheric way to experience one of San Francisco’s historic treasures, especially magical on foggy winter nights.
#16 SF Sketchfest (Jan)
SF’s premier comedy festival typically runs for three weeks in January, transforming venues across the city into comedy showcases. The festival features everything from podcast recordings and film screenings to stand-up and improv shows.
Local tip: Keep an eye out for special performances at unique venues like the Palace of Fine Arts and Marines’ Memorial Theatre.
Why I recommend it: The festival brings both established and emerging comedic talent to intimate venues throughout the city, perfect for those chilly January evenings.
#17 Chinese New Year Parade (Feb)
San Francisco’s Chinatown is a great place to be in the month of February when the neighborhood goes all out for its Lunar New Year celebrations.
The Year of the Snake will be celebrated with the largest Lunar New Year parade outside of Asia on February 15th at 4 PM this year. And there are a few other Lunar New Year events to enjoy throughout February.
The energetic parade features elaborate floats, traditional lion dancers, martial arts groups, and the spectacular 268-foot Golden Dragon.
Why I recommend it: It’s a vibrant celebration of San Francisco’s Asian heritage that brightens up the winter season with incredible performances and festive energy.
#18 Holiday Events & Lights
There are plenty of fun holiday events and things to do around San Francisco leading up to Christmas, including the Fairmont Gingerbread House (left) and the Great Dickens Christmas Fair (right).
San Francisco transforms into a festive wonderland from November through December, combining traditional celebrations with uniquely local twists.
Here are some of my favorite holiday experiences around the city:
- The Great Dickens Christmas Fair: Step into Victorian London with interactive theater, food, and shopping spanning five weekends before Christmas.
- San Francisco Ballet’s Nutcracker: Performing at the War Memorial Opera House, this production sets the classic tale in 1915 San Francisco.
- SF Symphony Holiday Concerts: Davies Symphony Hall hosts everything from Home Alone film screenings with live orchestra to holiday sing-alongs.
- Union Square Ice Rink & Tree: The heart of SF’s holiday action with an 83-foot tree and outdoor skating.
- Fairmont Gingerbread House: Two-story edible gingerbread house in the hotel’s grand lobby.
- Westin St. Francis Sugar Castle: Their famous Sugar Castle display is an SF tradition to go see.
- Thrive City Winter Wonderland: A festive holiday destination outside of Chase Center that features ice skating, a huge tree, twinkling lights, live entertainment, and family-friendly fun.
- Holiday bars: There are a ton of good Christmas-themed bars that pop up around the city this time of year. Two of my favorites are Thriller Social Club and Miracle at PCH.
You can read our complete guide to Christmas in San Francisco here.
Why I recommend it: San Francisco’s holiday celebrations blend classic traditions with local character, creating magical experiences whether you’re catching fake snowflakes at Thrive City or enjoying the Fairmont’s gingerbread house display.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mimi McFadden
Founder & Editor-In-Chief
Mimi McFadden initially started The Atlas Heart in 2013 to write about her adventures abroad. But since 2019, The Atlas Heart has become a love letter to the Golden State. Mimi enjoys sharing her first-hand knowledge and expertise with the places she knows so well and making the most comprehensive travel guides possible. When she’s not hiking and exploring new places in California, she loves to travel abroad, read in her cozy chaise lounge, play basketball, and connect with friends and family over board games. Over her 30 years in California, she has lived in Santa Cruz (18 years), San Diego (5 years), and the San Francisco Bay Area (7 years), where she currently resides.
