Best Summer Spots in San Francisco

Sydney Winstead • July 11, 2025

SUMMER SPOTS YOU CAN'T MISS, AMSI PICKS!

๐ŸŒณ Holly Park – Bernal Heights

Holly Park is a serene neighborhood park offering panoramic views of the West Bay and a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle. This 7.5-acre park features tennis and basketball courts, a baseball diamond, children's playground, and picnic areas. In summer, it's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a family outing. Additionally, Tree Frog Treks hosts summer camps here, offering nature adventures for kids, including live animal encounters and outdoor experiments.


๐ŸŒž Dolores Park – Mission District

Dolores Park is a vibrant hub of activity, especially during the summer months. The park hosts various events, including performances by the San Francisco Mime Troupe, offering free musical theater in the park. It's also a popular spot for picnics, sunbathing, and people-watching, with stunning views of the city skyline.


๐ŸŒผ Golden Gate Park – Richmond & Sunset Districts

Golden Gate Park is a sprawling urban oasis offering a plethora of activities. This summer, the park will host major events like the Outside Lands Music & Arts Festival from August 8–10, featuring artists such as Tyler, the Creator, Doja Cat, and Vampire Weekend. Other events include the San Francisco Free Folk Festival on July 12 and the Crucial Reggae Sunday on July 20 at the Golden Gate Bandshell.


๐Ÿท The Wine Merchant at the Ferry Building – Embarcadero

For a more sophisticated summer outing, visit The Wine Merchant at the Ferry Building, a charming shop offering a wide selection of locally-sourced wines. Perfectly located along the Embarcadero, it’s an ideal stop for wine enthusiasts looking to sample and purchase some of the best California wines. Whether you’re grabbing a bottle for a picnic or enjoying a glass while taking in the stunning waterfront views, this wine shop provides a unique, intimate way to experience the city's culinary culture. Pair your visit with a stroll along the Ferry Building’s marketplace, where you can explore artisan goods and fresh produce.


๐ŸŒ… Sunset District – Ocean Beach & Great Highway Park

The Sunset District offers a laid-back coastal vibe, perfect for summer relaxation. Ocean Beach provides a scenic spot for walks and surfing, while the Great Highway Park, a pedestrianized area stretching from Lincoln Way to Sloat Boulevard, features public art, chairs, and performance spaces. Additionally, the Sunset Night Market on August 30 brings AAPI food, vendors, and community fun to the Irving Street corridor.


.

By Sydney Winstead September 2, 2026
Last-Minute Summer Events in San Francisco: September 2026 Summer is not over yet. September brings some of San Francisco’s best outdoor concerts, neighborhood festivals, waterfront celebrations and open-air movie nights. Here is what to add to your calendar before the season winds down. ๏ปฟ Saturday, September 5 5th Annual Surf Festival Spend the afternoon listening to surf-inspired live music at the Golden Gate Bandshell. The free outdoor festival features The Seismics, Surf Monster, The New Shockwaves and Uncle Sea Monster. Time: 2–6 p.m. ๐Ÿ“ Location: Golden Gate Bandshell, Golden Gate Park Monday, September 7 Labor Day Celebration Close out Labor Day weekend with a free afternoon concert from the Golden Gate Park Band. The program celebrates American work and community with a lively mix of musical favorites. Time: 1–2:30 p.m. ๐Ÿ“ Location: Golden Gate Bandshell, 75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive Thursday, September 10–Sunday, September 20 Flower Piano Flower Piano returns to the San Francisco Botanical Garden for 11 days of outdoor music. Twelve pianos will be placed throughout the gardens for scheduled performances and opportunities for visitors to sit down and play. Time: Performance times vary ๐Ÿ“ Location: San Francisco Botanical Garden, Golden Gate Park Thursday, September 10 Valencia LIVE! Valencia Street comes alive with music, art, food, drinks, shopping and entertainment. Walk between participating businesses and enjoy performances throughout the neighborhood. Time: 5–10 p.m. ๐Ÿ“ Location: Valencia Street between 18th and 21st streets Saturday, September 12 Fiesta de las Américas Celebrate the cultures of the Americas at this free Mission District block party. The event brings together local artists, musicians, food vendors, nonprofit organizations and small businesses for a full day of performances and festivities. Time: 11 a.m.–6 p.m. ๐Ÿ“ Location: 24th Street between Bryant and Folsom streets Sunday, September 13 Opera in the Park Bring a blanket and picnic for one of San Francisco’s favorite free outdoor traditions. The San Francisco Opera Orchestra and performers from the company’s fall season will present an afternoon of arias, ensembles and popular songs. The event also includes a picnic contest and a children’s area with crafts and lawn games. Time: 1:30 p.m.; approximately two hours ๐Ÿ“ Location: Robin Williams Meadow, Golden Gate Park Friday, September 18 Oktoberfest on Front San Francisco’s official Oktoberfest block party returns with live music, German food, beer and traditional beer-hall games. Admission is free, although advance registration is encouraged. Time: 2–10 p.m. ๐Ÿ“ Location: Front Street Entertainment Zone, 240 Front Street Friday, September 18–Sunday, September 20 San Francisco Greek Food Festival Come hungry for three days of Greek food, music, dancing and cultural performances. The long-running neighborhood festival is celebrating its 75th year, and admission is free. Time: Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.–7 p.m. ๐Ÿ“ Location: Annunciation Cathedral, 245 Valencia Street Saturday, September 19 Festival of the Sea Celebrate San Francisco’s maritime history with live music, waterfront activities and family-friendly entertainment. The free festival offers a full afternoon of performances and hands-on maritime experiences. Time: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. ๐Ÿ“ Location: San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, 900 Beach Street Glen Park Night Market The final Glen Park Night Market of the season brings local makers, artists, food vendors, live music and DJ sets to the neighborhood. Browse the booths, grab something to eat and stay for an evening under the lights. Time: 3–8 p.m. ๐Ÿ“ Location: Kern Street and Diamond Street, Glen Park Saturday, September 19–Sunday, September 20 Chinatown Autumn Moon Festival Chinatown’s annual Autumn Moon Festival returns for two days of food, mooncakes, lion and dragon dancing, cultural performances, children’s activities and local vendors. Time: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. both days ๐Ÿ“ Location: Grant Avenue between California Street and Broadway Sunday, September 20 Haight-Ashbury Street Fair The Haight-Ashbury Street Fair brings live music, food and more than 200 vendors to one of San Francisco’s most recognizable neighborhoods. Explore local art, clothing, crafts, community organizations and two stages of entertainment. Time: 11 a.m.–5:30 p.m. ๐Ÿ“ Location: Haight Street between Stanyan and Masonic avenues Friday, September 25 Sunset Night Market: Autumn Moon Festival The Sunset Night Market returns with food vendors, local makers, cultural performances and live entertainment. The September event celebrates the Autumn Moon Festival with five blocks of evening activity. Time: 5–10 p.m. ๐Ÿ“ Location: Irving Street between 20th and 25th avenues Sundown Cinema: School of Rock Watch School of Rock outdoors against the backdrop of the San Francisco waterfront. Bring a blanket or low-back chair, pick up dinner nearby and arrive early to find a comfortable spot before the movie begins. Time: Activities begin around 5:30 p.m.; movie starts after sunset ๐Ÿ“ Location: San Francisco Ferry Building, 1 Market Street Saturday, September 26 Cinema on the Square: The Conversation See Francis Ford Coppola’s San Francisco-set thriller The Conversation in the place where part of it was filmed. The free screening includes pre-show programming before the movie begins. Time: Pre-show at 5 p.m.; movie at 7:15 p.m. ๐Ÿ“ Location: Union Square Plaza Sake Day Sake Day returns to Japantown for an evening of tastings, learning and meeting sake makers and industry professionals. The annual event benefits the Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California. Time: 4–8 p.m. ๐Ÿ“ Location: Hotel Kabuki, 1625 Post Street Saturday, September 26–Sunday, September 27 Portola Music Festival Portola returns to Pier 80 for two days of electronic, dance and alternative music. The 2026 lineup includes Robyn, Swedish House Mafia, Dog Blood, Zara Larsson, Tiësto, Four Tet, Tove Lo, Soulwax and more. The festival is for guests ages 21 and older. Time: Gates open at 1 p.m. each day ๐Ÿ“ Location: Pier 80, San Francisco Whether you want live music in the park, a neighborhood festival, waterfront activities or one final outdoor movie night, September offers plenty of ways to make the most of the last stretch of summer in San Francisco. Event details may change, so check with the organizer before heading out.
By Sydney Winstead August 25, 2026
The $8.5 Million Dollar Makeover Starts Here —
By Sydney Winstead August 5, 2026
Preserving the Charm of a Victorian Home: A Guide to Thoughtful Updates AMSI ’s Jackson Salamunovich recently contributed expert insight to a Redfin article about preserving the character of Victorian homes while supporting long-term resale value. Read the full article: How to Increase the Resale Value of a Victorian Home | Redfin , powered by Rocket
By Sydney Winstead July 31, 2026
Six Tips to Navigating Today's Rental Market
By Sydney Winstead July 23, 2026
What's New in San Diego: Summer 2026 San Diego is always evolving, and Summer 2026 has brought a wave of exciting new restaurants, hotels, attractions, development, and experiences across the county. Whether you're a longtime local, new to the area, or simply planning your next outing, here are a few of the newest places worth adding to your list. ๏ปฟ
By Sydney Winstead July 13, 2026
Everything You Need to Know About Living in San Diego Whether you're relocating for work, military orders, a new opportunity, or simply a change of scenery, San Diego offers an unmatched blend of coastal living, year-round sunshine, and diverse neighborhoods. Home to thriving industries like biotechnology, healthcare, defense, education, and technology, the city continues to attract professionals, families, students, and remote workers from across the country. If you're planning a move, here's everything you need to know before settling into America's Finest City.
By Sydney Winstead July 8, 2026
The transformation of office space across the San Francisco Bay Area continues to evolve, and one of the latest examples is taking shape in San Ramon. Recently, homebuilder Lennar announced plans to redevelop the Canopy office campus at Bishop Ranch into a new residential community featuring 255 townhomes, along with a future affordable housing development and neighborhood amenities. The project reflects a broader trend in commercial real estate as developers explore new uses for underutilized office properties. Why Are Office Buildings Being Redeveloped? In recent years, changing workplace trends have led many companies to reassess their office space needs. At the same time, many communities across California continue to address housing demand, creating opportunities to reimagine office campuses for residential and mixed-use development. Rather than leaving vacant or underused office buildings in place, some developers are converting these sites into communities that combine housing, parks, retail, restaurants, and public gathering spaces. The Transformation of Bishop Ranch For decades, Bishop Ranch has been known as one of the Bay Area's largest business parks. Today, plans for the property include a broader mix of residential, retail, and recreational uses. The long-term vision includes thousands of new homes, expanded dining and shopping options, parks, and other community amenities. The latest 255-townhome project represents another step in the ongoing redevelopment of the area. What This Means for the Bay Area Real Estate Market Office-to-residential redevelopment could influence the Bay Area market in several ways, including: Adding new housing options Reducing overall office inventory Supporting mixed-use neighborhood development Revitalizing existing business districts Encouraging continued redevelopment and investment As more communities evaluate how to adapt underused commercial properties, similar projects may continue to emerge throughout the region. Looking Ahead The redevelopment of office properties into residential communities is one of several trends shaping the future of Bay Area real estate. While every project is unique, these developments highlight how commercial properties can evolve alongside changing market conditions and community needs. AMSI continues to monitor real estate trends across the Bay Area and share market insights for property owners, investors, buyers, sellers, and renters. Visit AMSI Living for additional market updates, housing trends, and local real estate news. Looking to rent ๐Ÿ‘‰๐Ÿผ AMSI Looking to buy ๐Ÿ‘‰๐Ÿผ NOVO Read more about the development here !
By Sydney Winstead June 29, 2026
Fourth of July Events in San Francisco & the Bay Area (2026) Looking for the best ways to celebrate the Fourth of July in the Bay Area? From waterfront fireworks and hometown parades to live music, food vendors, and family-friendly festivals, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy Independence Day. Whether you're staying in San Francisco or exploring nearby communities, here are some of the top celebrations happening this year. San Francisco Fourth of July Celebration This year, San Francisco's official Fourth of July celebration will feature a spectacular fireworks display over the Golden Gate Bridge, marking America's 250th anniversary. The show begins at 9:30 p.m. and will be the city's only official fireworks display. Before the fireworks, visitors can enjoy a full day along the waterfront with live music, shopping, dining, and entertainment at Pier 39, Fisherman's Wharf, and Aquatic Park. Best places to watch the fireworks: Crissy Field Pier 39 Fisherman's Wharf Northern Embarcadero Marin Green Tip: Arrive early and bring a jacket—summer evenings along the bay can be chilly. North Bay Celebrations If you're looking to venture outside the city, the North Bay is packed with classic Fourth of July traditions. Sausalito Spend the day enjoying a community parade through Old Town, followed by a picnic, live music, food vendors, and an evening fireworks show over the waterfront. Sonoma Watch one of the area's favorite hometown parades before enjoying food, games, and local nonprofit booths around the historic plaza. Fireworks wrap up the festivities in the evening. Napa Downtown Napa starts the day with a festive parade before transitioning into an afternoon festival featuring live entertainment, food vendors, and a nighttime drone show over Oxbow Commons. Calistoga Celebrate with a morning parade followed by an evening laser light show complete with music and immersive visuals. East Bay Favorites Communities throughout the East Bay are hosting celebrations perfect for all ages. Popular events include: Alameda – One of the Bay Area's largest Fourth of July parades. Pleasant Hill – Firecracker 5K, family activities, parade, and evening fireworks. Concord – Pancake breakfast, parade, festival, and fireworks. Richmond – Waterfront celebration with live music, food vendors, and fireworks. San Pablo and Pinole – Family-friendly celebrations featuring drone shows instead of traditional fireworks. South Bay & Peninsula Events There are plenty of opportunities to celebrate throughout the South Bay and Peninsula. Highlights include: San Jose – The Rose, White & Blue Parade followed by a community festival. Morgan Hill – Freedom Fest featuring races, a parade, classic cars, live music, and one of the area's largest fireworks displays. Sunnyvale – Carnival rides, food trucks, live entertainment, and family activities. Half Moon Bay – Pancake breakfast, parade, and downtown festival. Palo Alto – Summer festival with food trucks, games, live entertainment, and its annual chili cook-off. ๐ŸŽถ Live Music & 4th of July Entertainment Looking for more than fireworks? Many Bay Area communities are celebrating with live music, food vendors, and family-friendly entertainment throughout the day. ILLUM Block Party at The Midway Looking for a high-energy way to celebrate the Fourth? Head to The Midway for the ILLUM Block Party, featuring electronic music superstar deadmau5 alongside Nero. The outdoor and indoor festival runs from 3:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and is one of San Francisco's biggest Independence Day parties for EDM fans. This is a 21+ event, and tickets are required. Fisherman's Wharf Enjoy free live performances throughout the afternoon and evening before the city's fireworks display. With waterfront restaurants, shopping, and views of the bay, it's one of the best places to spend the holiday. Sausalito After the morning parade, the celebration continues with live music at Gabrielson Park, plus food, drinks, and waterfront festivities before the evening fireworks. Napa The Oxbow Commons Festival features live entertainment from Wonderbread 5, local food vendors, family activities, and concludes with a spectacular drone show over downtown Napa. Morgan Hill Freedom Fest offers a full day of festivities with live entertainment, food vendors, classic cars, and one of the South Bay's largest fireworks shows. Celebrate the Fourth Around the Bay Whether you're watching fireworks over the Golden Gate Bridge, enjoying a hometown parade, or spending the day exploring one of the Bay Area's many festivals, there's no shortage of ways to celebrate Independence Day this year. Grab your picnic blanket, gather your friends and family, and enjoy one of the best summer weekends the Bay Area has to offer.
By Sydney Winstead June 22, 2026
Official promotional poster for Voicemails for Isabelle. Image © Netflix. Netflix's Voicemails for Isabelle isn't just a love story—it's also a love letter to San Francisco. While much of the film was shot in Vancouver, director Leah McKendrick made sure some of the city's most iconic locations made it on screen. From waterfront views to hidden neighborhood gems, here's your guide to exploring the real-life places featured in Voicemails for Isabelle.
By Sydney Winstead June 18, 2026
Best 4th of July Events in San Diego 2026 Looking for the best ways to celebrate Independence Day in San Diego? From spectacular fireworks displays and family-friendly festivals to waterfront concerts and rooftop celebrations, San Diego offers no shortage of ways to enjoy the holiday. Whether you're planning a day with the family or a night out with friends, here are some of the top 4th of July events happening across San Diego County in 2026. Big Bay Boom As Southern California's largest fireworks display, Big Bay Boom remains one of San Diego's most anticipated Fourth of July traditions. Four barges positioned throughout San Diego Bay launch a synchronized fireworks show beginning at 9:00 PM, creating a spectacular display visible from multiple waterfront locations. Best Viewing Locations: Shelter Island Harbor Island North Embarcadero Marina District Coronado Ferry Landing Coronado Independence Day Celebration Spend the day in one of San Diego's most iconic beach communities during Coronado's annual Independence Day celebration. Festivities begin with the 77th Annual Independence Day Parade along Orange Avenue at 10:00 AM, followed by live entertainment, community activities, and an evening fireworks display launched from Coronado Golf Course. Location: Coronado Island SeaWorld's Ocean of Dreams Drone Show Looking for an alternative to traditional fireworks? SeaWorld's Ocean of Dreams combines cutting-edge technology with artistic storytelling as 600 synchronized drones illuminate the night sky with marine-inspired aerial displays set to music. Location: SeaWorld San Diego Old Town 4th of July Celebration Step back in time at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. This family-friendly event celebrates Independence Day with historical demonstrations, traditional games, sack races, tug-of-war competitions, and activities inspired by 19th-century America. Location: Old Town San Diego State Historic Park United We Rave Music Festival For those looking to celebrate with music, United We Rave returns to Fiesta Island with a free outdoor festival featuring multiple stages and performances from more than 30 artists. Expect a mix of house, techno, bass, and reggaeton throughout the day. Location: Fiesta Island America The Beautiful: 250 at The Rady Shell Celebrate America's upcoming 250th anniversary with the San Diego Symphony during a patriotic waterfront concert at The Rady Shell. Enjoy live orchestral performances under the stars before heading out to watch fireworks around the bay. Location: The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park Quartyard R&B Block Party East Village comes alive with music, dancing, and nostalgic hits during Quartyard's 90s and 2000s R&B All White Party. This lively celebration is perfect for those looking to enjoy Independence Day with great music and an energetic crowd. Location: Quartyard, East Village Harbor & Sky Rooftop Bar Fireworks Celebration Take your Fourth of July celebration to new heights at Harbor & Sky Rooftop Bar. Guests can enjoy a BBQ buffet, live entertainment, specialty cocktails, and premium views of the Big Bay Boom fireworks display from one of downtown's most popular rooftop venues. Location: Harbor & Sky Rooftop Bar, Downtown San Diego ๏ปฟ Celebrate Independence Day in San Diego From family-friendly festivals and patriotic parades to waterfront concerts and spectacular fireworks displays, San Diego offers something for everyone this Fourth of July. Be sure to arrive early for popular events, plan transportation ahead of time, and enjoy one of the most exciting weekends of the summer.