Updated: July 31, 2023

20 Fun Group Activities in San Francisco, CA

You found our list of the best group activities in San Francisco, California.

Fun group activities in San Francisco are first-rate experiences that help employees strengthen bonds and develop new skills in novel and enjoyable ways. Examples include taking a bay cruise, visiting fascinating museums, strolling over the Golden Gate Bridge, or seeing a show. These activities improve team bonds, stimulate innovation, and increase output.

These ideas are examples of group activities for adults and team building events. The activities are similar to corporate events in San Francisco and Bay Area team building activities.

This article contains:

  • small group activities in San Francisco, CA
  • large group activities in San Francisco, California
  • group activities for adults in San Francisco
  • fun things to do in San Francisco as a group
  • group activities in the Bay Area

Here we go!

List of fun group activities in San Francisco

The following is a list of fun things to do in San Francisco as a group.

1. San Francisco Mission Bay Photo Scavenger Hunt (Popular)

If you are looking for large group activities in San Francisco, California, then consider the San Francisco Mission Bay Photo Scavenger Hunt!

Here is what you can expect:

  • a talented host to share unique facts and stories about the area
  • an engaging 90-minute photo hunt beginning at Oracle Park
  • exciting trivia questions and picture challenges
  • a winning team and a final team picture

In the end, staff members will leave with great photos and even better memories! For an engaging afternoon activity, be sure to check out our photo scavenger hunt.

Learn more about San Francisco Mission Bay Photo Scavenger Hunt.

2. Espionage! (Team Favorite)

espionage banner

Your team can go on an exhilarating adventure with Espionage! Participants will unravel the mysteries, expose hidden spies, and accomplish daring mission objectives. This captivating game of social deduction will put your team’s instincts and intellect to the ultimate test!

Here is what to expect:

  • 90 minutes with a skilled host who will guide players through each activity
  • high-energy puzzles, challenges, and strategic maneuvers
  • covert teams of spies and agents
  • group discussions to unravel secret identities and expose the truth

Also, you can choose any location, and we will bring all the necessary game materials. During this captivating experience, prepare to sharpen your communication and critical-thinking skills.

Learn more about Espionage!

3. Field Day (Top Choice)

Field Day is a dynamic outdoor experience that brings colleagues together. Participants go head-to-head in exciting field games!

Here is what you can expect:

  • 90 minutes with a world-class host
  • nostalgic games and thrilling competitions
  • chances to capture candid team photos for office mementos or social media
  • childhood activities that spark great memories

In addition, we will meet you at the venue of your choice with all the game equipment. Each game in Field Day fosters teamwork, effective communication, problem-solving, and strategic thinking.

Learn more about Field Day.

4. Japanese Tea Garden

The Japanese Tea Garden is one of the best group activities in the Bay Area. This location dates all the way back to 1894 when it was originally opened as a “Japanese Village” for the California Midwinter International Exposition. Makoto Hagiwara was the site’s caretaker until 1942, and he reportedly brought the original fortune cookies to the US. The garden itself has an on-site tea house that features a custom-designed irori, or farmhouse-style family table. Visitors can enjoy classic tea flavors like sencha, hojicha, and jasmine tea. Additionally, the tea garden serves food like udon, miso soup, and dango. Before heading out, guests can swing by the gift shop to pick up tea sets and collectibles.

Learn more about the Japanese Tea Garden.

5. Ferry Building Marketplace

The Ferry Building Marketplace houses local farmers, artisans, and restaurants. Visitors can check out dozens of vendors. For example, you can shop for coffee, mushrooms, pastries, and wine. The farmers market is open three days a week and features fresh, local produce. Shoppers can find fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, meats, and eggs from regional producers. During market days, vendors sell food out front, like wood-fired pizza and sandwiches. The marketplace also hosts regular events, like live music, plant markets, and cookie-decorating classes. If you are looking for an activity to do all day, then be sure to stop by!

Learn more about the Ferry Building Marketplace.

6. Urban Putt

Teams looking for a great outing should check out Urban Putt, an indoor mini-golf course and restaurant! Urban Putt is located in a historic Victorian building and takes decoration inspiration from Jules Verne and Rube Goldberg. This course features 14 high-tech mini-golf holes with intricate architecture and exciting themes. Play takes around 40 minutes to an hour. Available meals include sliders, pizza, and tacos. Additionally, Urban Putt offers a full-service bar. If you are interested in hosting a private party, then you can book the entire space.

Learn more about Urban Putt.

7. John McLaren Park

An obstacle course or ropes course is an excellent option for groups in the San Francisco region, especially if your staff enjoys spending time in the great outdoors. Obstacle challenges like this activity foster communication and group awareness. In particular, ropes courses help groups realize which team members need assistance and how to provide it.

Your group will exclusively use the ropes course at John McLaren Park for a private event. The facility’s instructors may modify activities to fit the entire team, not just the skilled few. The ropes course includes low challenges only a few feet from the ground. These tests strengthen both personal confidence and team cohesion.

Team members may try their hand at obstacles several feet from the ground during the “high” climbing activities and can engage in exercises that test teamwork and collaboration. Harnesses are available to keep you safe.

Learn more about John McLaren Park.

8. Cobb’s Comedy Club

Your team could go to Cobb’s comedy club for some entertainment. Your employees may learn about each other as they enjoy a night out laughing together at a comedy show. A live show is a social activity without uncomfortable silences since the group will be too busy watching the performances. Viewers will have time to talk in between acts. Sharing a good laugh as a team is a tried-and-true method of fostering a positive work environment.

Learn more about Cobb’s Comedy Club.

9. Parties That Cook

One fun technique to encourage teamwork is to host a cooking class for your staff. Group members may gain new skills and bond over a shared interest in cooking by taking a class together. Parties That Cook organizes and hosts corporate cooking activities all across San Francisco. These events focus on building communication, teamwork, and time management skills.

Your group can participate in one of their competitive courses. For example, you could divide your group into smaller teams and compete in a “Sushi Showdown” or “Cupcake Challenge.” The “Kitchen Challenge” course is like an episode of “Iron Chef.” Each team has access to a complete pantry but may only use three major and occasionally uncommon components to produce their dish.

You can also try their “Small Plates” class to learn how to cook in a low-stress environment. As a team, you may bond while making tasty treats from across the world.

Learn more about Parties That Cook.

10. Fisherman’s Wharf

With its waterfront setting, Fisherman’s Wharf is one of San Francisco’s most iconic destinations. Fisherman’s Wharf is full of must-see attractions. This location is home to the famous Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, Pier 39, and some of the most incredible seafood in the world. You and your team will have a terrific time even if you have never caught a fish.

Learn more about Fisherman’s Wharf.

11. 1AM San Francisco

The team graffiti from 1AM San Francisco is unique. 1 AM’s tailored team workshops teach your team the fundamentals of spray painting and producing graffiti. After your team members have had some freestyle practice, the teacher will help participants create and paint group artwork on an enormous wall or an optional 4′ by 6′ canvas. Furthermore, every team member will make their own tote bag using a unique stencil and spray paint. Your workplace would benefit greatly from a graffiti mural depicting your team’s name and logo.

Learn more about 1AM San Francisco.

12. Play With Clay

This Ceramics Class takes place at the ceramic arts studio in the scenic Nob Hill district of San Francisco, hosted by Clay By the Bay. In this two-hour private workshop, professionals will show your group how to make pottery from start to finish. After the workshop, your group’s clay works will undergo firing and glazing and will be available for pickup four to six weeks later. Up to 25 participants may enroll in any class, making it perfect if you want small group activities in San Francisco, CA.

Learn more about Play With Clay.

13. SF Charters

Sailing lessons that focus on teamwork are available from SF Charters. You can have a more organized event or a less structured event. The lessons can take between six to 48 participants at a time. Each squad member plays a specific role, like trimming sails, steering, and calling tactics. The crew will then switch places so that every participant can experience all the sailing parts.

Team members will learn the fundamentals of sailing and take turns at the helm throughout the challenge. Due to the interdependence of the sails and the steering, the crew must work together to set sail. You should take one of SF Charters’ sailing adventures if you want your team to relax and have fun together while out on the ocean.

Learn more about SF Charters.

14. San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art houses some artwork of the highest quality and intellectual depth. The museum has thousands of outstanding works in various forms. Since the museum was the first to dedicate itself exclusively to contemporary art, it has become one of the most popular destinations in the region. You will find innovative sculptures, paintings, buildings, and photographs on display. This museum also has an astonishing variety of fascinating artifacts.

Learn more about the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art.

15. Alcatraz Island

Despite its portrayal in popular movies like “Escape From Alcatraz” and “The Rock, ” Alcatraz is a genuine prison.” Alcatraz Island is no longer serving its original purpose and is now a tourist attraction. If you want a glance into one of the most intriguing aspects of San Francisco’s history, a trip to Alcatraz will be memorable for your group.

While walking through the halls, you can sense the creepy history of this old jail, which previously imprisoned infamous gangsters like Al Capone. The boat trip across offers breathtaking views of the island and jail. Alcatraz Island is interesting to visitors because of its wide variety of activities. You need to book a journey to the island by ferry in advance via Alcatraz Cruises.

Learn more about Alcatraz Island.

16. Flourish

During this activity provided by Flourish, each team member will learn to make their own succulent terrarium to brighten up their desk. The hosts provide you with the necessary supplies, including guidance and tutorials. Team members who did not consider themselves natural plant handlers before the training may leave feeling more at ease in a natural setting. Having a plant or other natural object on one’s desk can significantly reduce stress levels at work.

Learn more about Flourish.

17. Mission Cliffs

Mission Cliffs combines the modern with the classic. While Mission Cliffs may be the oldest climbing gym in San Francisco, they are the ones leading the pack because of their dedication to improvement and innovation. The state-of-the-art facility is perfect for any participant who wants to climb walls five stories high, practice yoga, or lift weights.

Indoor rock climbing at Mission Cliffs is a fun activity. This exercise helps build self-assurance and camaraderie among teammates as they push each other to achieve their personal bests. You can expect your team to have to use their problem-solving talents in an unfamiliar setting during this activity. Rock climbers must plot the most efficient route to reach the highest possible point.

Learn more about Mission Cliffs.

18. Chinatown

While there are other Chinatowns around the United States, San Francisco’s is the best. This Chinatown was the first, and for over 150 years, it has been home to immigrants and their descendants. Chinatown, San Francisco, is a great place to experience a wide variety of unique activities. The stores and restaurants in this district are incredible. If you are looking for a taste of another culture while still in the United States, then a visit here should be at the top of your list of fun things to do in San Francisco as a group.

Learn more about San Francisco’s Chinatown.

19. The Yerba Buena Gardens

Yerba Buena Gardens is a popular tourist destination and a great area to hang out and have fun in San Francisco. At Yerba Buena Gardens, good times are just around every corner, with different entertainment options, including theaters, museums, restaurants, and even bowling alleys. In addition, you will find several spots to sit back, relax, and take in the incredible flora and fauna of the region.

Learn more about Yerba Buena Gardens.

20. Exploratorium

The Exploratorium is a fantastic educational resource for groups in San Francisco. Your team will have a good time and find numerous opportunities to develop critical thinking skills. If you are looking for a way to reconnect with your inner kid while visiting San Francisco, then the Exploratorium is one of the best options.

Some of the most outstanding elements of the Exploratorium include activities concentrating on chemistry, arithmetic, and physics. These topics get a hands-on approach with many in-depth explanations.

Learn more about the Exploratorium.

Conclusion

Organizing a fun outing for your group is a terrific way to boost morale and create bonding experiences for every employee. These activities also increase productivity and morale. Team performance will skyrocket when team-building activities are a regular workplace culture. You should remember that the event is a success if every team member is happy and pleased at the end.

Next, check out these lists of scavenger hunt ideas for adults and work happy hour ideas.

FAQ: Fun group activities in San Francisco, California

Here are some frequently asked questions about fun group activities in San Francisco.

What are some good group activities in San Francisco, CA?

Some good group activities in San Francisco, CA, include Indoor Rock Climbing, Play With Clay, and Team Graffiti. Team members may get to know each other better via enjoyable group activities throughout San Francisco, CA.

How do you plan fun activities for groups in San Francisco?

If you want your fun group activity to be enjoyable and productive, you should set its goals in advance. You should also decide the budget and the location and get every group member on board with your plans. You may then choose the package that suits your requirements.

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Author:

People & Culture Director at teambuilding.com.
Grace is the Director of People & Culture at TeamBuilding. She studied Industrial and Labor Relations at Cornell University, Information Science at East China Normal University and earned an MBA at Washington State University.

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