Looking for something fun to do this weekend, but not interested in serious planning? Keep it easy and outdoorsy with these five amazing local outings.
Row Your Boat Around Stow Lake
From 10am to 4pm daily, the Stow Lake Boathouse in Golden Gate Park lets you choose from their fleet of rowboats, pedal boats, and electric boats. We’re fans of the old-fashioned row boat—it’s not too strenuous and gliding around the calm waters of Stow Lake will be just like The Notebook, just not as cheesy. Hey, girl. Learn more.
Inside Tip: Pack a backpack of snacks and drinks and have your own picnic on the water. That bottle of wine isn’t going to drink itself.
Take a Ride on San Francisco’s Secret Slides
Despite how awesome the Seward Street Slides are — slides! In a mini park! In SF! — we’d still call them under the radar. Head to Eureka Valley’s Seward Mini Park to ride down the two surprisingly steep concrete slides that were built there in 1973. You’ll feel like a kid again. Remember that the park closes at 5pm, and the neighbors won’t think twice to kick you out if you’re there past sunset. Learn more.
Inside Tip: There’s usually a few pieces at the bottom of the slide, but play it safe and bring your own cardboard on which to slide down. And don’t forget to wear sturdy pants!
Tucked away in Cole Valley, Tank Hill is so small that it’s easy to overlook on a map. But this 650-foot tall park is a better, more intimate version of Twin Peaks— same views without the crowd. On a clear day, you can see all the way from the Marin Headlands to the East Bay. Learn more.
Inside Tip: There’s only one bench up there, so bring a blanket and some provisions and have yourselves a sunset picnic.
Head to Pescadero’s Costanoa Lodge
This one does require a bit of planning beforehand, but it will be worth it when you’re spending a weekend in one of Costanoa Lodge’s tent bungalows. Just an hour south of San Francisco outside of Pescadero, this eco-lodge is surrounded by coastal hills and secluded beaches. Ask for recommendations at the front desk and they’ll direct you to dozens of nearby trails. Learn more.
Inside Tip: Head into the tiny town of Pescadero and make a visit to Harley Farms to stock up on their award-winning goat cheese. Space is still available for Friday night.
Spend the Day in the East Bay’s Lake Chabot Regional Park
Not feeling the crowds at Mt. Tam? Head east to the Lake Chabot Regional Park. From the 315-acre lake stocked with trout and catfish to the 20 miles of trails around the water, you’ll have no shortage of ways to spend your day—you’ll only have trouble deciding whether you want to fish, hike, or kayak. Make a day of it and do all three. Learn more.
Inside Tip: Into disc golf? There’s a full course at Lake Chabot. Hit it up after your hike.
