10 Thrilling Nighttime Activities In San Francisco That Are Worth Staying Up For

San Francisco offers plenty of after-dark adventure possibilities. Although most of them are not exactly kid-friendly activities, we’re not just talking about going to your regular cocktail bars, although we do enjoy a crisp drink or two. Undoubtedly, the city comes alive at night, offering a blend of culture, atmosphere and education. Without further ado, here are some of the best things to at night in San Francisco. 1. Spend the evening in a museum with Nightlife ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thursday nights, the California Academy of Sciences holds a very special event from 6-10 p.m. calledNightlife. Guests who are 21 and over can enjoy themed experiences , socialize with fellow science enthusiasts and enjoy live DJ sets and musical performances. Besides the Osher Rainforest and the *Gems and Minerals Unearthed* exhibition, every exhibit is open so you can discover the museum’s hidden gems with a refreshing cocktail in hand while listening to upbeat music! 2. Attend a magical Candlelight performance ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Another popular evening plan is going to a Candlelight concert. The twinkling sea of candles , the talented musicians, and the striking locations all make these live music performances really special. With two shows offered each evening , music lovers can unwind to some of their favorite melodies no matter the genre. From pop and rock to jazz and soul , there is something for every taste. ➡️See all upcoming Candlelight concerts here. 3. Check out San Francisco’s night markets ------------------------------------------ If you consider yourself a bit of a gourmand, one of the best things to do at night in the city is go to one of its many night markets. You’ll find one practically all year round, offering mouth-watering dishes and fun-filled activities . Our favorites include the Valencia night market starting in May, the food trucks of Fort Mason and the recurring Chinatown night market. Some of them tend to add more dates so stay on the lookout! 4. Immerse yourself in a hands-on exhibit at the Exploratorium -------------------------------------------------------------- Yep, the public learning laboratory offers nighttime admission on Thursdays from 6-10 p.m. It boasts over 650 engaging exhibits that will make you ask questions and learn a few things about science, light and perception. 🎟️ Get your tickets here. 5. Have a chuckle at a comedy club ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The San Francisco comedy scene is vibrant and diverse. You’ll find both famous venues and smaller clubs in the likes of Cobb’s Comedy Club, The Setup, Milk Bar and The Masonic . And it doesn’t stop there. If you’d rather go to an edgy improv set, Endgames Improv Theater & Bar in the Mission district is a popular spot for comedy lovers. Read more: [These are the shows and musicals to see this year in the city](https://secretsanfrancisco.com/bay-area-theater/) 6. Dance the night away at one of San Francisco’s coolest nightclubs -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Full of character and deep beats, one of the go-to things to do at night for locals is enjoying the city’s nightlife scene.Think of the legendary Bimbo’s 365 or Cat Club that is renowned for its themed parties and obviously, its cheeky go-go cage! Additionally, if you prefer bigger venues, other options includeDNA Lounge,Public Works and1015 Folsom , just to name a few. 7. Enjoy 360-degree views of the city from Twin Peaks ----------------------------------------------------- When night falls over San Francisco, the city transforms into a shimmering display of lights . Clearly, there is no better vantage point to witness this than from Twin Peaks. Open 5 a.m. to midnight , these iconic twin summits offer 360-degree views of the city. Whether you’re seeking some peace of mind or on a romantic date, you can marvel at the illuminated Golden Gate Bridge and spot the Bay Bridge , set against the Pacific Ocean. For drivers, there is free parking at the top of Twin Peaks Boulevard, but the 37 Corbett bus route will also get you close to the base. 8. Grab a late-night bite ------------------------- Now, chances are that if you’re up late around town, you might have had a drink or two—we don’t judge. And before heading home, it’s best to hit up one of San Francisco’s legendary late night spots. From diner-style restaurants like the always cool Grubstake Diner to places that serve your favorite hangover meals such asBob’s Donuts on Polk Street andDNA Pizza, there’s something to satisfy every craving. 9. Explore Alcatraz at night ---------------------------- For lovers of everything eerie, a night time visit to The Rock might be just what you’re looking for. Located only 1.25 miles off the coast of San Francisco, this spooky spot brims with strange and cruel stories. Luckily, there are a number of guided boat tours around the island and from the dock to the main prison building , including the Alcatraz Night Tour and Alcatraz Cruises. 10. The Jazz Room ----------------- A spirited live‐music experience celebrating the rich roots of New Orleans jazz , **The Jazz Room** blends beloved ragtime, swing, brass, and blues standards with vibrant improvisation. The show is brought to life by a dynamic local band—complete with saxophone , trumpet , vocals and more—offering an intimate, speakeasy‐style atmosphere that whisks listeners back to the smoky, soulful dive bars of jazz’s early days . And there you have it. These things to do at night in the city offer experiences that are both fun and quintessentially San Francisco. So whether you’re looking for cultural activities or something more offbeat, going on a solo adventure or hanging out with friends after dark, now you know where to go. Source: https://secretsanfrancisco.com/things-to-do-at-night/