Plan Your Alternative Thanksgiving in SF

If you’re in San Francisco and unsure of how to spend this holiday, go the untraditional route. As always, the city by the bay has you covered.

What’s Open

Golden Gate Park - The city’s most beloved park is open on Thanksgiving, which gives you the opportunity to find the elusive bison, walk/bike winding trails, and find zen in the Japanese tea garden.

California Academy of Sciences - Contemplate the wonders of natural history with stunning exhibitions this Thanksgiving. Open 9:30am to 5pm.

Botanical Garden - See and smell 7,500 varietals from around the globe at this magical display in Golden Gate Park. Open 7:30am to 4pm.

Aquarium by the Bay (Pier 39) - The amazing shark tunnel at this aquarium is usually packed with crowds, but that shouldn’t be the case on Thanksgiving! Enjoy time with the fish at this aquarium located at Pier 39 and the Embarcadero.

Holiday Ice Rink at Union Square - Get in some cardio this holiday at the city’s most iconic skating rink. The rink at Union Square is open for business on Thanksgiving, with tickets available for pre-purchase. Opening November 2, 2022. 

What’s Happening

Illuminate SF Festival of Light - The festival that celebrates public art light installations kicks off in mid-November throughout the city. Make sure to check out the ethereal Grace Light installation at Grace Cathedral on Nob Hill.

Thanksgiving Turkey Trot- Five-mile, three-mile and 100-meter runs (for kids) are part of the annual Turkey Trot in Golden Gate Park. The event starts at 8 am.

What’s for Dinner

Whether you’re looking for traditional Thanksgiving fare or something as untraditional as your Thanksgiving in San Francisco, there are plenty of options. Your best course of action is to browse your options ahead of time via OpenTable, where you see what’s open and make reservations.

Stanford Court on Nob Hill

Our spirited, sophisticated hotel is conveniently located in Nob Hill near Union Square, right in front of the iconic Cable Car line on California Street. Learn more at www.stanfordcourt.com