South San Francisco, located in San Mateo County, California, is a dynamic city founded on the grounds of Rancho Buri Buri.
Initially purchased by Henry Miller and Charles Lux, who established an expansive estate, the area was soon bought by Peter Iler, who developed it into South City.
This vibrant city has developed over time to become a highly acclaimed biotechnology hub home to Genentech.
In addition to biotechnological research and development, South San Francisco has seen much industrialization throughout its history.
Its businesses include steel fabrication, chemical production, and meatpacking industries.
South San Francisco is a vibrant city, perfect for enjoying the sweeping views of the picturesque bay and exploring its rich industrial history.
Why don’t you check out the free things to do in South San Francisco, California?
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Step out onto the Oyster Point Fishing Pier and take in its 170 feet of pure aquatic bliss.
Nestled amongst Marina Boulevard, this pier is more than a remarkable seafront stroll; it offers fantastic angling opportunities too!
Swept by an impressive tidal flow that flows around the rock-studded ridge, the sea bed provides an excellent habitat for fish like top smelt and jacksmelt.
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From the end of the Oyster Point Fishing Pier, there’s an unobstructed view.
To one side lies unfolding waterside beauty with birds soaring above ever-changing shorelines at Oyster Point Marina.
Further along the pier lies parts of the original shoreline, barely discernible among sheer white cliffs beyond the cove’s waters stretching towards land ahead.
South San Francisco Dog Park is the perfect place for pups and their owners to enjoy quality time together.
Located in Centennial Way Park, this sprawling 1.8-acre park features two distinct areas where off-leash play is allowed: one for large dogs and another for small or timid breeds.
All dogs will adore the agility equipment set up in both zones of the park, allowing them to exercise while sharpening their minds.
Keeping their humans comfortable is a priority, too, as there are numerous on-site locations with seating and shade options.
To top it off, water fountains and waste bags are readily available, so you never have to worry about packing your supplies.
You can also see American sculptor Dale Rogers’ crown jewel, “American Dog,” at South San Francisco Dog Park, bringing even more tranquility to this bustling city oasis.
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Orange Memorial Park is the perfect place for outdoor recreation and relaxing picnics!
Located on Orange Avenue, this park offers a variety of amenities that are great for all ages.
Enjoy an afternoon playing on its playgrounds and basketball courts, or stretch your muscles with a leisurely walk or run along its trail.
If you want more competitive activities, a soccer field, skatepark, and bocce court facilities await you!
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Moreover, there’s plenty of space to share meals under the sun’s rays at one of many picnic tables or group picnic areas.
Residents can also check out special events such as movie nights and free concerts held throughout the year.
With its impressive array of activities, there’s no doubt that you’ll find plenty to keep your family entertained during an enjoyable day out in nature.
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The towering Wind Harp is an impressive sight, measuring 92ft high.
The Wind Harp was exquisitely crafted in 1967 by Lucia and Aristides Demetrios.
Located on a hilltop in a South San Francisco industrial park, it is one of the largest aeolian harps worldwide.
You can see it from the East Bay and the airport.
On a windy day, you can hear the incredible music this sculpture creates.
An aeolian harp is a neutral instrument played purely by the movement of the wind.
It creates harmonious vibrations that combine with nature’s powerful rhythms for an unforgettable listening experience.
If you’d like to enjoy this exquisite music, visit the Wind Harp and marvel at its engineering ingenuity and musical prowess.
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The San Bruno Mountain State and County Park offers an exciting opportunity to explore the beautiful bay area.
Easily accessed from Brisbane, South San Francisco, or two other nearby cities, visitors are exposed to a unique blend of habitats, including grassy meadows, wetlands, and forests.
The San Bruno Mountain State and County Park hosts endangered plants, butterfly species, and abundant diversity among birds and other creatures.
The park offers a plethora of outdoor possibilities, and hiking is by far the most popular.
Three access points, a peak viewpoint, a trailhead parking area, and park entry lead to 12 miles of paths.
It is perfect for hikers, horseback riders, or bikers looking out for thrills!
With beautiful sights overlooking San Francisco Bay Area available year-round, this spot offers something special no matter when you plan your trip!
Journey to North San Mateo County and take in the stunning views of the magnificent San Francisco Bay at Sign Hill Park.
This 65-acre preserve is more than just a place for outdoor recreation.
It is also an essential wildlife habitat that many creatures call home, earning recognition from the National Register of Historic Places in 1996.
Those venturing there in spring will be treated to a stunning palette of wildflowers, such as California poppies and hummingbird sage, as well as several types of birds, like Anna’s hummingbirds and dark-eyed juncos.
Sign Hill Park truly is a remarkable oasis fittingly set against the backdrop of one of California’s most significant historical sites.
Pack your hiking boots to prepare for a memorable experience in this paradise on earth!
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The 500-mile San Francisco Bay Trail is a monumental undertaking to encircle the bay that bears its name.
The route connects 47 cities throughout nine counties, offering several linkages to nearby employment centers, transportation, parkland, open areas, and other civic centers.
More than 300 miles of off-road trails with a wide range of terrain types and sections of bike lanes and walkways have opened since 2017.
It increases public awareness of and esteem for the bay while providing breathtaking opportunities for wildlife observation.
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Additionally, it offers significant transit advantages by giving walkers and bicycles an alternate mode of transportation for commuting and connecting them to various transportation hubs.
The San Francisco Bay Trail offers spectacular views of the bay, from Eastshore State Park to Hayward Regional Shoreline.
Enjoy a peaceful stroll past Martin Luther King Regional Shoreline and stop for fresh seafood at Oyster Bar, perfect for a refreshing outdoor experience!
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Point San Bruno Park is located on Forbes Boulevard, off the beaten path but well worth the journey.
You can also enjoy different local flowers and a stunning water view.
There’s a picnic area for you and your family to enjoy while taking in the gorgeous view of the bay area that spreads out before you.
As a perfect spot to recharge your spirit and de-stress, Point San Bruno Park is a peaceful and quiet place.
You can bring your pets, watch planes take off from San Francisco International Airport, or even try your luck at fishing.
A bonus for outdoor enthusiasts is a fantastic road bike track with beautiful views along the bay.
Tanforan neighborhood and Lomita Park village are also close to Point San Bruno Park.
Visiting Point San Bruno Park promises an experience you won’t forget!
Westborough Park is a peaceful haven nestled in Galway Drive.
Visitors can revel in the lushness of nature’s bounty and enjoy recreation with playgrounds and basketball courts.
There are also picnic shelters and grills for barbeques, perfect for an afternoon escape.
The area’s highlight is a recreation building providing year-round local activities space.
If outdoorsy people want to do something longer than a casual exploration stroll, then the short trail for hiking in the woods is perfect.
Westborough Park will leave you feeling refreshed after your excursion.
A preschool uses the recreation area during the day.
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The Grand Avenue Library has been a staple of the South San Francisco community since its opening in 1916.
It was all made possible due to the valiant efforts of one woman, Rue Clifford.
She rode a horse around the neighborhood to gain support for the construction, which eventually tallied up to $10,000 from Andrew Carnegie.
Those looking to explore the culture and history of South San Francisco are in luck: a vast local collection is available by appointment.
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This library has everything from pictures, photo books, and oral histories to Spanish-language selections such as kid-friendly books, magazines, and CDs.
After renovations from 2015 to October 2016, the beloved Grand Avenue Library reopened its doors.
Clay Avenue Park is the perfect place to spend quality time with your kids.
Clay Avenue Park is an oasis of fun and adventure nestled among tall, inviting trees.
Kids can explore the playground with swings, slides, and challenging climbing structures like monkey bars and wall-climbing towers!
If they’re feeling competitive, a game on the basketball court awaits them, no matter their age!
Moreover, it’s great for socializing with other parents and their children as you bond with yours.
So why wait? Get outside, enjoy time away from screens, and explore Clay Avenue Park with your kids today!
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The Centennial Way Trail is a popular route for pedestrians and cyclists.
Stretching from San Bruno to South San Francisco, it travels alongside the BART line, offering gorgeous views of wildflowers and a low-maintenance landscape design.
The 10-foot wide asphalt trail comes with two-foot-tall granite shoulders, making it safe and comfortable to stroll along.
The trail has pedestrian signals at Spruce and Chestnut Avenue for easy crossing and underground flashing lights at Orange Avenue.
Along your journey, you can take the branch at Antoinette Lane and travel southeast along the canal to reach downtown South San Francisco.
Otherwise, you can continue along Orange Avenue.
Whether you want to relax with friends or burn some energy, Buri Buri Park has it all.
Nestled in Arroyo Drive, the park spans six acres and is the perfect spot for a day out.
Dogs are allowed as long as they remain leashed, and playing areas include a playground and tennis, basketball, and baseball courts.
To top it off, the lighted athletic courts mean games can continue beyond dusk if necessary.
Buri Buri Park is the ideal place to enjoy a leisurely day with friends and family.
Take advantage of its picnic spots, with grills for delicious barbecued treats!
South San Francisco is full of unique activities and attractions.
Additionally, plenty of other things to do nearby South San Francisco will make your stay even more enjoyable!
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Those who appreciate the historical charm of San Francisco need only visit the San Francisco Cable Car Museum located conveniently at Mason Street.
The museum is in San Francisco, California, 21 minutes from South San Francisco.
It is an operating museum where you can learn a great deal about the history and educational exhibitions of the San Francisco cable car system.
Preserved cable cars on display include Sutter Street Railway, which operated in the 1870s, and Clay Street Hill Railroad, the last remaining vehicle from the original cable car company.
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In addition to these remarkable displays, visitors are also given access to view two galleries featuring the powerhouse from above.
You can also see the fascinating cave system beneath Washington and Mason Streets, where large sheaves are used to route haulage cables out to the street.
There’s no need for a ticket; drop by San Francisco Cable Car Museum for a unique and fascinating experience!
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The heart-stopping Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco is just 31 minutes away from South San Francisco.
Stand on the center of the bridge and be enveloped by its spectacular majesty for an unforgettable experience!
Visitors can listen to an excellent orientation at the Welcome Center, where they will learn about its history.
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On either side of the bridge, explore breathtaking vistas at Golden Gate National Recreation Area, one of the biggest national parks in the city.
It’s an incredible destination packed with natural beauty and human ingenuity all in one place!
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South San Francisco is the ideal spot for budget-conscious adventurers looking to make lasting memories without spending a fortune.
From captivating attractions and activities, this charming city promises an unforgettable getaway filled with all kinds of exciting experiences.
Check out the free things to do in South San Francisco, California!
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