10 Must See Places In The Bay Area


The Bay area is a magical place to live or visit. Whether you grew up here or are coming for vacation I've put together a list of 10 must see places.

1. Salesforce Rooftop Park
This park is so unique and has stunning views! The park in the sky is located in the middle of San Francisco's skyscrapers. There are green spaces to relax and play, gardens to explore, interactive water features, and a walking loop. 

2. JV Fitzgerald Marine Reserve
You're welcome this is my favorite place on the list! There are miles of tidepools where you can discover starfish, crabs, seals, and occasionally an octopus. Right next to the beach is a cypress tree cove that you'll want to make time to explore as well!

3. Monterey Bay Aquarium
If you're a local near Monterey it's worth getting a membership since the cost of admission is pricey. If you're just visiting the area the world famous aquarium is worth a visit. The entrance fee is $50. You can easily spend several hours here. The jellyfish are a favorite exhibit for my family! After touring the aquarium visit the shops on Cannery Row. Don't forget to save room for Clam Chowder at one of the local Restaurants.

4. Villa Montalvo County Park
What can I say about this park. Here you are instantly transported to Europe with breathtaking art sculptures, architecture, and gardens. There are also several hiking trails that you can explore! 

5. Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate park is so diverse, including japanese gardens, a planetarium, a bison Paddock, tulip garden, lakes, and more. 

6. The Golden Gate Bridge
At the risk of stating the obvious I'm including this icon in my list because it really is worth a visit. Even if it is overly touristy. Go ahead be a tourist and walk along the majestic bridge!

7. Hakone Gardens and Estate
This is a hidden gem in Saratoga. Compared to the over touristed japanese gardens in Golden Gate Park this is the winner in my book. The gardens are beautiful and quiet! Entrance is $10.

8. Santana Row
Every destination needs amazing shopping and Santana Row does not disappoint! This is a fun place to shop, eat, or stay in a hotel. 

9. Municipal Rose Garden 
So I've got a thing for gardens! This garden is exactly what you expect, a garden with thousands of beautiful roses all over. This is a perfect spot for a picturesque picnic!

10.Natural Bridges State Beach
It's hard to choose the best beach when you've got a whole Bay to choose from. And I can't even promise that this is the best because there are so many that are amazing. But I'm including this one because it has so much to offer! It'll cost you $10 to park, but after that you can explore the beach itself which is a popular spot for families and photographer's. A perfect spot for a sunset view. Or you can follow the rocks to tidepools and get a glimpse into some Marine habitats. If you've come around November or December follow the trails to see thousands of migrating monarch butterflies!

Let me know your favorite Bay area adventures in the comments!

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