How to Tackle Your New Year's Resolution in San Francisco

San Francisco enjoys mild weather year-round, and with so much green space in the city and its neighboring destinations, there's no excuse not to get outside and flex your muscles. Golden Gate Park is full of trails for countless hours of walking, running and cycling. San Francisco's highest points, Twin Peaks (922 ft.) and Mt. Davidson (928 ft.), make for a worthy hike—but the views are so worth it.

You don't have to go straight to the top for a good workout, though. San Francisco is famously a city of hills. It's also gorgeous and full of unique neighborhoods, each with their own charm and character. Set out in any direction from where you're staying and you're guaranteed a brisk and beautiful walk. Try a walking tour of The Mission or Chinatown, Nob Hill & North Beach!

Feeling competitive? Start training for Bay to Breakers (May), the San Francisco Marathon (July), or the San Francisco Giant Race (September).

You can explore San Francisco by bicycle, kayak, or by motorcycle. You can even walk San Francisco's famous 49 Mile Drive. Similar opportunities await you beyond the bridge, from the forest trails of Muir Woods to the pristine mountain lakes in Shasta Cascade and Tahoe.

If you want to be more adventurous with what you put on your plate, San Francisco is the place for you. You'll find everything from classic Mission-style burritos to trendy afternoon chocolate tea. San Francisco's chefs shatter expectations with their bold creations, whether that be an Impossible Burger or olive oil ice cream.

The Bay Area features numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, and a great many of those exceptional restaurants are here in San Francisco. The city's restaurants are also supplied with some of the world's finest fresh produce, which you can sample at farmer's markets all over the city, including one at the iconic Ferry Building.

And there's no better place to broaden your wine horizons than San Francisco. Between the urban wineries at your doorstep and the gorgeous vineyards just an hour north in Napa and Sonoma, there's no excuse for you not to become the resident sommelier of your circle.

San Francisco is home to some of the most popular contemporary authors, as well as the inspiration for a number of legendary works. Be part of our strong literary tradition by picking up a few new books this year. You can shop in person or online at some of our beloved independent bookshops, including the historic City Lights Bookstore in North Beach, Green Apple Books (with locations in both the Richmond and Sunset neighborhoods), and Dog Eared Books in the Mission. 

At the Ferry Building, you'll find Book Passage, and in Noe Valley there is Omnivore Books on Food, a food-centric bookstore. Dont forget about Bird & Beckett Books & Records, the best combination of new & used books as well as records, and live events. 

Then, take your newest purchase to some of the many San Francisco bars and coffee shops once frequented by the greats of the Beat Generation, including Vesuvio Cafe, Caffe Trieste, or Specs Cafe, all in North Beach.

In San Francisco, you can conquer some of your biggest fears in a fun and creative ways.

Afraid of heights? Scale the steps to some of San Francisco's highest points. Drive or hike to the top of Twin Peaks, one of the highest points in San Francisco with 360° views of the entire Bay Area. Maybe rent a bike and ride over the Golden Gate Bridge, 746 feet above the water.

Uncomfortable on the water? We have so many delightful bay cruises that you'll quickly get your sea legs.

Not a fan of animals? Visit the Sea Lions at PIER 39, or explore the California Academy of Sciences and the San Francisco Zoo and conquer your fear of animals above and below the surface! 

San Francisco is known for having some smart cookies around town. You can see the works of bright minds and innovative thinkers, from both here and abroad, at any of San Francisco's must-see museums.

Explore the natural world's many wonders at the California Academy of Sciences or the Conservatory of Flowers. Experience wild interactive displays at The Exploratorium. Dive deep into the visual arts, both ancient (at the Asian Art Museum) and modern (at SFMOMA). Or maybe get both at the de Young and Legion of Honor. There is a museum for everyone in San Francisco. We even have The Walt Disney Family Museum! 

Here's your first lesson: buy tickets early and save!

Believe it or not, San Francisco is the perfect place to learn how to stretch your budget. The city is full of free events, free activities, budget-friendly adventures, and even free activities for families! Don't forget about all the beautiful parks to explore that won't cost you a dime! 

You can also save money and still experience the best the city has to offer by buying attraction passes in advance. 

Of course, the easiest way to save money on your visit to San Francisco is to book early—so get started by finding your hotel room now!