Ready for Spring Break? Here Are 20 Things To Do In The Bay Area
Spring break is right around the corner! If you're a parent of a Bay Area high school student, you may be looking for ways to keep them entertained while making the most of the break. The Bay Area is brimming with exciting, fun, engaging, and even educational activities. Whether your teen is an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or looking for a memorable experience, there's something for everyone.
Here are some top things to do in the Bay Area for spring break:
Explore the Great Outdoors
Spring in the Bay typically means you get to experience some of the best weather for outdoor adventures. Consider taking a family hike at Muir Woods National Monument, where your family can experience the beauty of some of California’s towering redwoods. If you want a more challenging trek, the trails at Mount Tamalpais offer breathtaking panoramic views.
For water lovers, a kayaking trip in the Monterey Bay or a surfing lesson in Santa Cruz can provide an adventure. Angel Island State Park is another fantastic destination for hiking and history, as it offers scenic trails and a glimpse into the island’s past as an immigration station—and it’s just a short ferry ride away!
Visit Famous Landmarks
This vacation time is perfect for exploring some of the Bay Area’s most-known attractions. If your high school student hasn’t yet walked across the Golden Gate Bridge, now’s the time! Follow up with a trip to Alcatraz Island, where they can learn about the history of the infamous prison while enjoying stunning city skyline views.
Another must-visit location is Pier 39, where families can watch sea lions, enjoy street performances, and grab a bite at one of the many restaurants. If your teen loves art and culture, stop at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA). Teens ages 13-18 get into the museum for free!
Get Hands-On with Science and Technology
If your high schooler is a STEM enthusiast, a visit to The Exploratorium is a must. This interactive museum is filled with hands-on exhibits that make learning fun and engaging. Similarly, the California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park is home to an aquarium, planetarium, and natural history museum all under one roof. You can take a stroll in the park after and talk about all the cool exhibits you got to see too!
For a more tech-focused outing, take a trip to Silicon Valley and visit the Computer History Museum or The Tech Interactive in San Jose. These places offer fascinating exhibits on innovation and the future of tech, which can be educational and inspiring for teens.
Experience Thrills and Entertainment
If your teen enjoys a challenge, an escape room experience in San Francisco could be a great way to test their problem-solving skills.
Movie buffs might enjoy a visit to The Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, where they can watch a film in a fun setting with a full menu of delicious food like chicken tenders and pizza. You can’t forget about the unlimited soda refills either. If your family enjoys live performances, check out a show at the Berkeley Repertory Theatre or San Francisco’s Orpheum Theatre for an unforgettable night out.
Take a Day Trip
The Bay Area is flooded with charming destinations that make for perfect day trips. A drive down the Pacific Coast Highway to Big Sur offers breathtaking coastal views.
For an immersive experience in nature, head to Yosemite National Park. While it’s a bit of a drive, the stunning waterfalls and majestic mountains make it well worth the trip. Another option is Lake Tahoe, where families can enjoy skiing or simply relax in the beautiful mountain setting. Lake Tahoe is often overlooked as one of the best places for a ski vacation. Your family trip could include skiing during the day and games around a cozy cabin fire in the evening. The great thing about staying in Lake Tahoe is you can rent a cabin or a home so the teens can have a separate room to themselves for much-needed downtime.
Take a Trip to Disneyland
While not in the Bay Area, Disneyland in Anaheim is a top spring break destination that’s worth the trip. A short flight or a road trip down to Southern California can bring your family to the “Happiest Place on Earth.” Your high schooler can enjoy rides like Space Mountain, Indiana Jones Adventure, and the classic Pirates of the Caribbean. With two parks, exciting shows, and delicious food, Disneyland is fun for parents and their children.
Go Abroad for an Unforgettable Experience
If you're looking to make spring break truly special, consider taking your family on an international adventure. Traveling abroad can expose your teen to new cultures, languages, and experiences that they’ll remember for a lifetime. Whether it’s exploring the historic streets of Rome, enjoying the vibrant markets of Tokyo, or relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Cancún, there are countless destinations to choose from.
Go Whitewater Rafting
Looking for an exhilarating experience? Whitewater rafting is a fantastic option. The American River, just a few hours from the Bay Area, offers thrilling rapids suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters. Guided tours ensure safety while providing an unforgettable adventure on the water. This activity is perfect for teens who enjoy outdoor sports and a bit of adrenaline.
Try a New Restaurant
What’s better than celebrating a break from school with a good meal? The Bay Area is known for its food scene, and plenty of options exist.
If your teen has a sweet tooth try The Ice Cream Bar in San Francisco, Caravaggio Gelato Lab in Berkeley, or Sweet Fix Creamery in San Jose. If you’re considering enjoying something more savory, visit Presidio Bowl in San Francisco, Sam’s Anchor Cafe in Tiburon, or Puesto in Santa Clara.
Camp it out
Spring break is a great time for students who love the outdoors to go camping in the Bay Area. Whether you prefer tent camping, RV camping, or glamping, the region offers plenty of campgrounds with beautiful scenery. Students can head to places like Big Sur, Marin Headlands, or the Redwood National and State Parks to experience nature up close, enjoy hiking, and stargazing, and cook over a campfire. Camping is a fantastic way to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature. Plus, it’s an affordable and memorable way to spend time with friends, away from screens and social media.
Take a Campus Tour
Spring break is a great opportunity for students to explore potential colleges or universities in the Bay Area. Many schools offer guided campus tours, where students can get a firsthand look at the facilities, student life, and academic programs. It’s a perfect way to see if a particular campus feels like the right fit. Whether you’re interested in UC Berkeley, Stanford, SFSU, SJSU, or smaller local colleges, these tours provide insight into the campus culture, dorm life, and available resources. For prospective students, it’s also a chance to ask questions about sports, admissions, scholarships, and student support services.
Have a Picnic
The Bay Area is home to many scenic parks and outdoor spaces, making it an ideal place to enjoy a relaxing picnic with friends or family during spring break. Spots like Golden Gate Park, Crissy Field, or Lake Merritt offer picturesque views and plenty of space to spread out a blanket and enjoy a meal outdoors. Pack a picnic with snacks or lunch, bring games or sports equipment, and soak in the natural beauty of the area. It’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy the spring weather and unwind in a laid-back environment.
Volunteer
Spring break is a perfect time for students to give back to the community by volunteering. The Bay Area has many non-profit organizations in need of help, whether it’s working with food banks, tutoring students, or assisting with environmental clean-ups. Volunteering helps those in need and provides students with life experiences and opportunities to meet new people. It’s a fulfilling way to spend spring break, and many organizations offer flexible hours so students can balance giving back with other activities.
Go to the Beach
With its beautiful coastline, the Bay Area offers some amazing beach destinations that are perfect for spring break. Whether it’s the sandy shores of Ocean Beach in San Francisco, the rugged coastline of Point Reyes, or the calm waters of Stinson Beach, there’s something for every beach lover. Relax by the water, play beach volleyball, or take a dip in the ocean if the weather permits. The spring break weather can vary, but the beaches still offer great spots for sunbathing, picnics, or even a bonfire with friends.
Shop at Thrift Stores
The Bay Area is full of eclectic and trendy thrift stores, where students can hunt for unique fashion finds, vintage items, or quirky home decor. Shopping at thrift stores offers a chance to score some cool and affordable items, and it supports sustainable shopping. Popular spots like Buffalo Exchange in San Francisco or Thrift Town in Berkeley are perfect places to browse for one-of-a-kind clothing and accessories. It’s a fun way to spend an afternoon and explore new neighborhoods while saving money during spring break.
Shadow Someone at their Job
For students considering future careers, shadowing a professional during spring break is an invaluable experience. Many Bay Area businesses offer job shadowing opportunities that allow students to observe daily tasks and gain insight into different industries, from tech to healthcare to law. By spending a day with a professional in their field, students can ask questions, learn about the skills required for various roles, and gain a deeper understanding of the work environment. It’s a great way to help guide future career decisions while building valuable networking connections. Swoon Learning also offers internships. While there isn’t a dedicated page for this, interested students can submit an inquiry through the contact page.
Go on a Lake Trip
The Bay Area offers several stunning lakes where students can enjoy a peaceful spring break getaway. A trip to places like Clear Lake or Almaden Lake Park allows students to spend the day hiking, fishing, or enjoying nature. Whether you prefer a more active adventure or just want to relax by the water, a lake trip offers the perfect escape from city life. With beautiful scenery and various outdoor activities, it's an excellent option for students looking to enjoy a quieter, nature-filled spring break.
Ride Horses in Point Reyes
For students looking for a unique outdoor adventure, horse riding in Point Reyes National Seashore is a great option. The area offers guided horseback riding tours that allow you to explore the stunning coastal cliffs, lush valleys, and expansive fields. It’s an exciting way to see the natural beauty of the Bay Area while getting some exercise and learning a new skill. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, these tours cater to all experience levels, making it a fun and memorable spring break activity.
Spend Time with Friends
Spring break is the perfect time to relax and have fun with friends. Whether you’re exploring new parts of the Bay Area, hosting a movie marathon, or simply enjoying each other’s company over coffee, spending quality time together is what makes spring break memorable. From local hikes to exploring new eateries or even just chilling at home, the possibilities are endless for bonding. It’s all about creating fun memories, and the Bay Area has endless opportunities to enjoy each other’s company in a unique and beautiful setting.
Sign Up For A Spring Break Program
Many organizations and schools offer spring break programs that allow students to learn new skills, gain experience, or contribute to community service. From academic programs at local universities to travel opportunities abroad, there are a variety of ways students can spend their spring break productively. In the Bay Area, there are options for everything from leadership development workshops to eco-tourism programs. These programs can enhance a student’s resume, provide new experiences, and help them gain a deeper understanding of a subject or area of interest.
Make the Most of Spring Break
Spring break is a great opportunity for families to bond and create lasting memories. Whether you choose to stay local or venture out on a day trip, the Bay Area offers endless opportunities for adventure and fun. By choosing activities that match your teen’s interests, you can ensure they have an exciting and fulfilling break while spending quality time together. So pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and get ready for an unforgettable spring break in the Bay Area!
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