Local Secrets: The Best Things to Do Outside Super Bowl City

By Marybeth Bond / The Gutsy Traveler

Super Bowl 50 is almost here and we’re gearing up for it. Here are six suggestions of where to go beyond the usual “must see” tourist places in San Francisco: Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz, Ghirardelli, and the Golden Gate Bridge.

1. See Wildlife for Free

Hang out with San Francisco’s hometown sea lions. (Photo: iStock/jasantiso)

Head to Pier 39 to watch mammoth sea lions cavort in the water, jump onto the docks, and push each other off. They bark, growl, and grunt to mark their territory and attract females. Pier 39 is a favorite haul-out site for boats, as well as one of the most popular spots in the city for shops and waterfront restaurants. The boisterous seals began camping out on the marina docks after the 1989 earthquake and have made it home ever since. Several years ago 1,701 were counted on a Thanksgiving weekend. They are not visible from the street — walk to the end of the pier on the left side of the shops to the K Dock and enjoy the free show. It’s always a hit for visiting families and friends.

2. Spend an Afternoon in the Park

The Conservatory of Flowers is just one part of Golden Gate Park’s 1,000 acres. (Photo: iStock/coleong)

Where do locals go to jog, picnic, walk dogs, find culture, join a swing dance, hike, or meditate? Golden Gate Park, more than 1,000 acres of gardens, picnic areas, lakes, museums, and even a carousel. Entrance to the park is free, and my favorite free activity is to hike around Stow Lake, a man-made body of water in the center of the green. Or rent a paddleboat and find the waterfall and gazebo as you make your way around the lake. Some activities do require a fee — the de Young Museum, the Academy of Science (with the aquarium), the Conservatory of Flowers and the carousel — but they are all well worth the price of admission.

Related: The 50 Best State Parks in America

3. Go Swing Dancing in the Park

Every Sunday that weather permits, Lindy in the Park offers free swing dance lessons. No one is shy — you’ll see dancers of all ages and levels just having fun. And for those who need some pointers, lessons are free at 12:30 p.m. You’ll hear the music before you see the dancers — look for them on John F Kennedy Drive between 8th and 10th Avenues.

4. Discover Magical Mosaic Steps

Rio isn’t the only city with mosaic steps. (Photo: iStock/pikappa)

Inspired by the world famous steps in Rio de Janeiro, an Irish artist and more than 300 community volunteers worked for more than two and half years to install the handmade 16th Avenue Tiled Steps Project, located in Golden Gate Heights at 16th Street and Moraga. The mosaic uses ceramic tiles, pieces of mirror and glass, to create a swirling design of animals, birds,and fish that spans 163 steps. Be sure to walk both sets of stairs and take a break for spectacular city and ocean views from Grand View Park at the top. If this wasn’t enough of a work-out and you want more views, hike the Lyon Street steps in Presidio Heights, an area packed with multi-billion-dollar homes of the rich and famous. There’s usually parking available at both the top and bottom.

Related: Cheat Sheet: Rio de Janeiro

5. Nibble Your Way Through the Ferry Building Farmer’s Market

Bring your appetite to the Ferry Building. (Photo: iStock/PeskyMonkey)

The variety of goods at the Ferry Building Farmer’s Market will wow even the most spoiled connoisseur. Shop for veggies, fruit, mushrooms, seafood, whatever and then dump your heavy shopping bags with the “Veggie Valet” while you continue perusing the market. The service is free and available on Saturdays during the operating hours of the Farmers market. It’s located at the front of the building.

Related: Foodie Bucket List: 12 Iconic Restaurants Worth Traveling for

Inside the Ferry Building, slurp down Hog Island oysters, raw or grilled; sample cheese from Cowgirl Creamery; taste fresh-baked bread from bread from Della Fattoria or Acme Bakery; gobble down charcuterie at Boccalone and and pork tamales from Primavera; and if you still have room enjoy almond bars or chocolate brownies from Downtown Bakery.

It’s all located at One Ferry Building, along the waterfront. And yes, there are lots of ATM machines.

6. Go on a Music Romp at Beach Blanket Babylon

Undoubtedly, some of the world’s largest hats are found at Beach Blanket Babylon, SF’s outlandish musical extravaganza. The long-running North Beach revue combines topical humor, madcap sketches, and enormous headpieces to play up commercial excesses with a wink and a nod (as well as some tap-dancing). Make reservations well in advance for weekend performances.

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