Unique things to do in Northern California
AIRBNB EXPERIENCES

Unique things to do in Northern California

Book unforgettable activities hosted by locals on Airbnb.

Top-rated activities

Walking Ancient Pathways
Join us as we explore ancient Native American trails, camps, and villages, and search for new, previously undiscovered sites. We will be hiking a mostly-level 3-5 mile trip, navigating the low altitude grasslands of the Sierra Nevada foothills near Cool, California. The trip leader will discuss the history and natural world of this area, sharing his knowledge of the local Native Americans, as well as the flora, fauna, and geology of the area. Sunday trips, during the summer, will be hosted at a higher elevation petroglyph site, a unique place not known to the general public. This is a rare opportunity to view ancient rock art, with an (amateur) archaeologist present. And it's above the summer heat! Our trip will also explore new areas, if desired, in search for previously unknown, undocumented cultural resources. Any new sites will be passed along to the North Central Information Center for historical preservation. This is your chance to find history! After the hike, participants will receive a detailed map and photos, if desired, from the trip. This is a kid-friendly, dog-friendly walk, so plan on taking your time! Other things to note: This is a hike in the mountains, so plan accordingly. We WILL be hiking off the trail, so be sure you're comfortable doing so. To stay on the trail is to limit yourself.
Private Pottery Wheel Lesson
After being introduced to the space and to each other, I will provide a quick demonstration on the wheel with a small amount of clay. Afterwards, each guest will be allowed time to create a piece on the wheel from beginning to end with personal instruction and assistance from me. Guests are welcome to make anything they would like to on the wheel! Cup, bowl, vase, dish, etc. (Please Read)The firing of pottery is a long process that is separate from the time we spend on the wheel. Each piece requires a two day long firing process in a kiln, and I hand glaze each piece. I offer kiln services out of my personal studio if you have interest in having your piece fired for a *small fee that is not due the day of the experience.* I do not include this in the price of the experience because some guests do not wish to keep their piece. Wear comfortable clothing that you don't mind getting some clay on. Clay will wash out, but you may not want to go out right after. The time noted on the experience, 2 hours, is generally descriptive of a 2 person experience which encompasses the majority of my bookings. In general, the experience is 1 hour per person. If there are 3 or 4 people in the booking, likely the experience will extend the 2 hour session time, and if there is 1 person in the booking it will be closer to an hour.
Vibes & views in the Golden city photoshoot, Donation Based
Please, message before booking. :) Donation based experience. I Kindly Ask if you: Like the experience and photos, donate - $125 (per person) Love the experience and photos, donate - $150 (per person) Had the best experience and photos ever - $200 (per person) * THERE’S NO FEE FOR KIDS* We will walk into the best spots of the historic Mission District neighborhood and secret spots as we explore the area. We'll kick off the iconic Dolores Park with an incredible view of the city's skyline and then weave through Valencia Street's lively atmosphere—home to murals, street art, shops, and hidden gems known only to the locals. Whether you're a visitor or a local, shy or camera-ready, don't worry my friend—I'll guide you through a laid-back, street-style photoshoot, ensuring we capture your best angles and candid moments. You will get a minimum of 30 high-resolution edited photos. Every intimate moment and experience will be captured and blended into a dreamlike sequence, so you can share them with family and friends. P.S. This can be a group experience. There maybe 1 - 3 other people with you during the shoot, just let me know in advance. Other things to note: Have a specific location in mind? Feel free to reach out, and we'll tailor the experience to your preferences. We can explore other hidden gems around the city or visit some iconic spots like the Golden Gate Bridge.
Ultimate SF Electric Bike Adventure- food, icons, local gems
The best way to see San Francisco in a day is on an electric bike tour. You'll get the rich history of the best walking tour, local eats of the finest food tour, and an immersive culture & nature experience all in one unforgettable adventure. This is the most fun, authentic, and extensive way you can explore San Francisco, just see the reviews :) Highlights of this e-bike tour: • SF’s best electric bikes - super easy to climb hills and so fun! • Ride the Golden Gate Bridge! • Explore Golden Gate Park • Discover the Presidio, SF’s other grand nature area  • See SF’s famous Painted Lady Victorian houses • Enjoy a pastry (included!)  from once of SF’s best local bakeries  • Experience 12 must-visit local neighborhoods • Wireless Headsets so you get turn-by-turn commentary and the safest ride possible! • Uncover hidden gems & get tons of ideas for things to explore - an extensive local guide to the city is included at the end of the tour! • Begin & end in the must-visit Haight-Ashbury neighborhood, 1 block from GG Park >>For more info just look up Dandyhorse SF Bike Tours<< Each tour led by Nick, SF’s most experienced bike tour guide. For the most awesome experience I all offer PRIVATE TOURS & TEAM BUILDING TOURS - Just send me a note. LANDMARKS WE’LL EXPERIENCE Golden Gate Bridge Alcatraz Painted Ladies Twin peaks Land’s End Crissy Field Japanese Tea Garden So much more!!
Beginner Surf Lesson - San Francisco
This 2.5-hour group clinic was designed with the beginner in mind – we welcome complete newbies as well as people who have tried surfing on their own for a while and still need help. We will walk you through all the basics to get you started and catching waves! The class starts with a short land lesson covering safety, paddling mechanics, and how to catch waves and get up on the board. After that we'll head out in the water and instructors will rotate around helping each person 1-on-1. You can expect approximately 1:30-2 hours of "water time" in the 2.5-hour total lesson. Maximum ratio of 4 students per instructor. Other things to note Arrive 20+ mins early! Parking costs $8 (subject to change). This is a group class, we cannot hold up others for late parties. Arriving late is same as a no-show and will forfeit your registration.

Loved by locals

⭐️Rug Tufting Workshop
Dive into tufting and craft your own rug or wall art! No experience needed—beginners welcome! You’ll use a top-quality tufting gun, a 20"x20" frame, and endless vibrant yarns to create your masterpiece. You will finish your session by taking home your creation immediately. Book Your Spot! Turn an ordinary day into a festival of creativity and fun. --- Workshop Flow: ➼ WELCOMING ➼ INTRODUCTION (2 mins) ---Free snacks, tea & Turkish coffee :) ---Don't forget to: stretch, hydrate, eat ➼ EXPLORE STUDIO (5 mins) ---How to use the canvas? ---What patterns are good for beginners? ---Safety rules! ➼ LET’S DIVE IN! (10 mins) ---How to feed the yarn? ---How to use tufting gun? ---Practice with everybody (individually) ➼ TUFTING (2 hr) ---You will start tufting your art ---Last Checks ➼ COMPLIMENT SERVICES (5 mins) ---Backing ---Gluing ---Shaving ➼ GOLDEN TOUCH (surprise) :) Location: 209 Kearny St, San Francisco, CA 94108 Features: 40 seats available / session, +40 Different Color of yarn, 2-3 Hours FAQs: **Private Events? Yes, for 8+ people. **Team Building? Ideal for teams; we've hosted from top firms. **Adjust Time? 2-3 hours flexibility. **Group Discount? See private event page. **Max Size? 40/session; multiple sessions available. **Children? Yes, 14+ with waiver. **Patterns? Simple, adjustable on-site. **Beginner-Friendly? Yes, mainly first-timers.
⭐️Mosaic Lamp Workshop
Unlock a world of color and light at our! Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop! Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned crafter, this 2-hour workshop is a perfect fit. Design and create your very own mosaic lamp using a palette of 16 vibrant glass colors. It’s beginner-friendly and great for kids aged 7 and up! **** Workshop Highlights **** -- Color Your World: Choose from 16 beautiful colors to craft your personalized mosaic lamp. -- Step-by-Step Guidance: Our expert artisans make learning easy and fun—no prior experience needed! -- Refreshments on Us: Enjoy complimentary snacks, coffee, tea, and water while you craft. -- Custom Add-Ons: Enhance your lamp with extras like a chic hanger, a handy to-go DIY kit, and a Smart LED with touch on-off functionality. (ask for add-ons in the studio) ** Duration: Spend 2 fulfilling hours creating something beautiful that lights up your space. ** Family-Friendly: A fantastic activity for families with children 7 years and older. Create lasting memories together! ** All-Inclusive: We provide all the materials. Just bring your enthusiasm and leave with a lamp that adds a personal touch of warmth to your home. Join us for an afternoon of creativity, relaxation, and fun. Make more than just a lamp—make a day to remember!
Paint & Sip at Cool River Pizza in Rocklin
You will walk into the restaurant where the painting party is being held and will be directed to our art space. The table will be set with everything you need to create your masterpiece: tabletop easel, brushes, water cup, palette of paints, and an apron to protect your clothing. You will meet your talented instructor, who will make you feel at ease and welcome at this venue! Guests can order drinks, appetizers, and even a full meal to enjoy during the class from our excellent wait-staff at the venue. Once settled in your prime painting position, class will begin. Our master Artist will walk you through the steps of the painting from beginning to end. You will start with the background, working from the top of the canvas down. Then you will add in your foreground subject matter. We will offer tips and tricks for your color-mixing, blending, and brushstroke techniques throughout the class. Finally you will add in finishing touches and details, and sign your one-of-a-kind masterpiece. At the end of class, we will take photos of you & your group for an added memory of your fun time with Painting & Vino! No experience necessary! Just come willing to try something new and have a great time! We will be using Acrylic paint, this can stain clothing, Aprons are provided. *Wine is not included in ticket price.
Life With Farm Animals At Rancho Roben Rescues
We will begin at the red barn where you will learn about this 12 acre sanctuary and the stories behind the 100+ rescue farm animals living on it. From there we will explore three different pastures that include horses, goats, sheep, pigs, chickens, ducks, dogs, cats and a goose. While you are here we are thrilled to guide you through an up-close experience with all of these amazing creatures while they roam freely. Many of these animals will walk right up to you to take a snack from your hand or allow you take a close-up photo with them! During your 90+ minute visit, you will: -meet a tiny rooster -groom a pony -give a belly rub to a pig -feed a snack to a goat -stroll through the hills where our livestock guardian dogs work -take pictures with a sheep (or any of the other animals) -explore our garden orchard -learn about composting (with worms) Throughout your experience you will hear stories about the animals and get answers to your questions about how we give the love and care required for all of these farm animals. We will finish with a discussion about how you can incorporate different aspects of farm life into your living space, be it on the balcony of a tiny apartment or in a sprawling suburban backyard. For guests who wish to make this an overnight experience, please check out our converted school bus: https://abnb.me/ISFQMIHQrb
Learn how to cook & throw the Ultimate Dumpling Dinner Party
* Now booking through June, plus a Father's Day Wagyu Brunch * Dumplings are a San Francisco staple, you'll learn how to make them from scratch in this hands-on cooking class & 3-course dinner party! Discover the secrets of creating fresh dumpling wrappers, building flavorful sauces, and mastering the art of folding beautiful dumpling pleats. It's perfect for a unique date night, as a family cooking activity, as a team building offsite, or just on your own -- a class suitable for all levels, from new to seasoned chefs. Start with a blind tasting of my favorite soy sauces to deeply understand and appreciate umami. Then, learn traditional dumpling making skills: dough kneading, skin rolling, and pleating. We'll use a family recipe for a mouthwatering pork stuffing. (For non-pork eaters, a delicious tofu-based stuffing is offered) Once you've created your batch of dumplings, you'll create your very own secret dipping sauce. We'll also enjoy a pork belly braise: a classic Shanghaineese dish that highlights the umami of soy sauce using local, organic pork, and finish with a red bean dessert -- you'll be in a food coma at the end of the experience! You'll also take home a recipe guide. Private bookings available for team builds and custom classes! Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or expanding your cooking skills, the Dumpling Dinner Party is a must-try experience.

Activities near top attractions

Mission Dolores Park1,244 locals recommend
Union Square817 locals recommend
Fisherman's Wharf713 locals recommend
Monterey Bay Aquarium668 locals recommend
Oracle Park596 locals recommend
Alcatraz Island503 locals recommend

All activities near Northern California

Walking Ancient Pathways
Join us as we explore ancient Native American trails, camps, and villages, and search for new, previously undiscovered sites. We will be hiking a mostly-level 3-5 mile trip, navigating the low altitude grasslands of the Sierra Nevada foothills near Cool, California. The trip leader will discuss the history and natural world of this area, sharing his knowledge of the local Native Americans, as well as the flora, fauna, and geology of the area. Sunday trips, during the summer, will be hosted at a higher elevation petroglyph site, a unique place not known to the general public. This is a rare opportunity to view ancient rock art, with an (amateur) archaeologist present. And it's above the summer heat! Our trip will also explore new areas, if desired, in search for previously unknown, undocumented cultural resources. Any new sites will be passed along to the North Central Information Center for historical preservation. This is your chance to find history! After the hike, participants will receive a detailed map and photos, if desired, from the trip. This is a kid-friendly, dog-friendly walk, so plan on taking your time! Other things to note: This is a hike in the mountains, so plan accordingly. We WILL be hiking off the trail, so be sure you're comfortable doing so. To stay on the trail is to limit yourself.
Private Cacao Ceremony
PRIVATE CACAO CEREMONY A unique experience for couples or small groups. . Learn about the Mayan Calendar . Expand your awareness . Connect with the Sacred . Rejuvenate your physical body . Transform your emotional body . Live a unique experience Immersed in the forest at The Rejuvenation Sanctuary (close to Grass Valley downtown) or at your Airbnb. Under careful guidance ceremony participants are invited to reconnect to the natural world, to bring curiosity to their experiences of life and to ignite new paths for bliss. Cacao became a legend in the Mayan and Olmec world 3500 years ago. The seeds used by ancient ceremonialists and farmers have since passed down to modern times. Cacao is rich in antioxidants, iron, magnesium, manganese, zinc, copper, calcium, phosphorus, beta carotene, and amino acids. In the ancient Mayan culture, it has been an integral part of the diet, complementary to corn. By stimulating the heart center, cacao further aids in creating a sense of openness for expansion and Love. Mood elevating compounds anandamide and tryptophan allow you to access deeper states of euphoria and relaxation. Julie facilitates ceremonies open to all, and will craft the experience depending on your intentions.
Experience Scottish Highand Cows
This experience is only available in the winter & spring. Memorial Day weekend will be our last available tour dates until 2025! We look forward to hosting you all next year, photo sessions return this November for Christmas! Come spend time with highland cows! Guests will be able to see and interact with highland cows and calves on our farm located in Linden, Ca. Each experience will last approximately an hour and will include a farm tour, education about the breed and interaction with the animals such as brushing/feeding the highlands.
⭐️Rug Tufting Workshop
Dive into tufting and craft your own rug or wall art! No experience needed—beginners welcome! You’ll use a top-quality tufting gun, a 20"x20" frame, and endless vibrant yarns to create your masterpiece. You will finish your session by taking home your creation immediately. Book Your Spot! Turn an ordinary day into a festival of creativity and fun. --- Workshop Flow: ➼ WELCOMING ➼ INTRODUCTION (2 mins) ---Free snacks, tea & Turkish coffee :) ---Don't forget to: stretch, hydrate, eat ➼ EXPLORE STUDIO (5 mins) ---How to use the canvas? ---What patterns are good for beginners? ---Safety rules! ➼ LET’S DIVE IN! (10 mins) ---How to feed the yarn? ---How to use tufting gun? ---Practice with everybody (individually) ➼ TUFTING (2 hr) ---You will start tufting your art ---Last Checks ➼ COMPLIMENT SERVICES (5 mins) ---Backing ---Gluing ---Shaving ➼ GOLDEN TOUCH (surprise) :) Location: 209 Kearny St, San Francisco, CA 94108 Features: 40 seats available / session, +40 Different Color of yarn, 2-3 Hours FAQs: **Private Events? Yes, for 8+ people. **Team Building? Ideal for teams; we've hosted from top firms. **Adjust Time? 2-3 hours flexibility. **Group Discount? See private event page. **Max Size? 40/session; multiple sessions available. **Children? Yes, 14+ with waiver. **Patterns? Simple, adjustable on-site. **Beginner-Friendly? Yes, mainly first-timers.
Four Neighborhood Tour with Cable Car Ride
Get in your steps for the day while exploring the historic sights with a native San Franciscan and professional tour guide! Visit Fisherman's Wharf, ride a cable car, see the crooked Lombard Street, explore Union Square, eat your way through Chinatown and North Beach (aka Little Italy) and more, all on this jam packed itinerary! During this 4 hour tour you'll hear incredible tales of SF's colorful past, all while soaking in amazing views. We will be walking the majority of the day so be prepared. The route is designed to avoid all major inclines and steep streets but there are a few. Please come prepared for all weather conditions.
Cultura y Comida Mission District Mural Tour
Come see why we call it "El Corazon de la Mision" or "The Heart of the Mission"! With one of the most vibrant culinary scenes in the world, our rich Latino heritage, and over 500 breathtaking murals, no visit to San Francisco is complete without a visit to Calle 24, the heart of the Latino Cultural District! Come learn why we have the best weather, how it turned into the highest concentration of murals in San Francisco, and all about the historical movements that took place on these streets! There is no better way to experience the Mission than through the eyes of a sixth generation Mission native! We'll also talk about local traditions like Carnaval and our Dia de los Muertos parade, legendary institutions like Discolandia and Precita Eyes Muralists, and historical figures who left their permanent mark on the neighborhood, like Frida Kahlo and Carlos Santana. Food inclusions are optional: enjoy tasty pupusas (a traditional Salvadoran dish), nopales (cactus) tacos, carne asada tacos, and/or a traditional latin pastry. Message us to arrange! Come curious and leave happy- this experience is guaranteed to nurture your heart and soul! You can even practice your Spanish here too!
Sea Lions and Ghirardelli Fisherman's Wharf Family Tour
Visit some of SF's top attractions along the waterfront. You'll visit iconic landmarks and hear incredible stories about the gold rush, cable car system, earthquakes and so much more. Starting at Pier 39, come be awestruck by the colony of sea lions that reign over the bay. Walk a portion of the historic Barbary Coast trail while your host tells you about it's colorful past. Learn about our famous food scene, from Ghirardelli chocolate to delicious Dungeness crab or the most famous sourdough in the world! No visit to SF is complete without ticking this off your must-do list. What better way to take in an overly crowded and often overwhelming area then with a local. I will give you an overview of the city that will set up the rest of your trip for success. Come join me!
American River Foraged Rattle Class
I will guide you on a one mile loop total to a river and back. I will teach you of some of the local plants and what they provide. I will teach you how to make your very own unique rattle. I will provide many items to create the Rattle. Such as crystals, wood plastic glass beads trinkets ( and special piece you can bring to incorporate) wood shaped rattles bells ECT. Items hold energy learn how to heal by release and breaking up stagnant energy. Adding color and sound to intent can be extremely moving and therefore healing. I will teach the spiritual meanings of the items place on your rattle and how they help to aid us in our self-healing. Come learn Heal and relax down by the river.
American River Foraged Dream Catcher
First off we'll gather in the parking lot at Dave Moore's nature area equipped with handicapped porta potty and trail map. after introduction I will point out a few of the things surrounding the parking area I will describe the surroundings and what nature brings in the immediate location after that we will start our lovely stroll on a packed sand gravel walkway equipped for handicapped and challenged. It is a 1-mile loop to the river and back to the parking lot. We will collect are ring for the base of a dreamcatcher I will share its properties along our trial trail I will also point out a few of nature's edibles and medicinals. I will describe and explain what's sinue is which I will have a synthetic sinue which will be the web of our dreamcatcher. We can collect trinkets along the way like stones and feathers for the fringe. At the river we will assemble our dream catcher and adfix the remaining favors. In addition to I will be giving some mug Wort other known as the dream herb to attach to our lovely dream catcher. Other things to note During some seasons there may be rattlesnakes on the trail so be wary where you step. The river fluctuates with the releasing of the damn water to accommodate the rafters. Water levels fluctuate frequently on a daily basis and quite sudden.
American River Medicine Bag making Class
Assemble a medicine bag. All items completely provided and explanations of the herbs and identification along the way. We will have dream herb called mugwort. Apache tear crystal. Your choice. Of stones. And of material for bag. We can use a bench if need to be off the ground. Which is not next to river there are two rest areas along the way. Light terrain.
Classic Dim Sum and More on a Food Tour in San Francisco
Join me, Guide Isabella, and my expert team, and get to know San Francisco’s food scene like a local with this unforgettable food tour through the Chinatown neighborhood. We’ll explore the bustling markets and tiny secret restaurants tucked away in back alleys and corridors with adventure and surprises around every corner. As we explore Chinatown, you’ll meet chefs that form fortune cookies by hand and local artisans practicing their craft, showcasing traditional, time-honored techniques. Along the way, we’ll sample authentic dim sum and handmade dumplings while experiencing the heart of this intriguing neighborhood on an unforgettable food tour.
Create an Heirloom Toy From Reclaimed Cedar or Redwood
The more the merrier, so all groups of 2 or more will receive a 15% discount. This activity will be tailored to your level of woodworking skills; from beginner to experienced. You will be reclaiming cedar or redwood to create an heirloom, movable, durable toy to enjoy or pass on to someone special. Some of these toys, that were made 30 years ago, are still being displayed by my nephews and nieces. The day will begin with 2-3 hours in the shop cutting, shaping and gluing parts for your toy. To allow time for the glue to dry, you will have 1 hour of private time in the afternoon to: - hike on trails through the woods on our 30 acres - walk or drive down (1/3 mile) to the year-round creek to swim or simply commune with the natural forest here on our property - pick vegetables from our large, seasonal garden for a luncheon salad - simply relax in creekside hammocks or patio furniture - explore the wonderful historic and forested charm of Nevada County - use our hot tub overlooking our creek and wooded canyon The afternoon will involve 1-2 additional hours in the shop to complete your heirloom toy to take home and relish the accomplishment of having created an amazing product. OTHER THINGS TO NOTE: When working around power tools it is highly recommended that you wear closed shoes and have no loose hanging jewelry or shirt sleeves that may get snagged in the machines.
Private sound healing journey into tranquility & bliss
Take a time out from the hustle and gift your mind-body-spirit with a sonic tune-up. In this private session we will come together in my sanctuary space and sink into deep relaxation with multi-dimensional healing tones. I use many instruments, such as planetary gongs, crystal singing bowls, Tibetan singing bowls, drums, rattles, chimes, pyramids, nature sounds, tuning forks and voice. There is nothing to do but show up and receive. Sound healing is an ancient practice that transmits vibrational patterns to entrain the body's frequencies into a more coherent state, transmuting those that are not in our highest health. Healing can occur on a cellular level: structuring internal waters, moving stagnant energy, balancing brain hemispheres, aligning chakra centers, calming anxiety, quieting the monkey mind - all providing better sleep and more vitality. We enter into a journey deep within and a state of awareness that lifts resistance to healing that we might be subconsciously carrying. As I play, I integrate loving intention, reiki healing energy and light language. The session will close with warm tea to ground you. You'll leave feeling recalibrated, rejuvenated and blissed out. It's truly a unique and powerful experience. Dates / times are flexible, so if you'd like to adjust the time or request a date that you don't see here, I may be able to accommodate.
Hands on Cheese-making Class
The Epicurean Connection is offering private hands on cheesemaking class with award winning Cheesemaker/Chef Sheana Davis & Wine Educator/Cheesemaker Ben Sessions. Class included hands on cheesemaking class, a cheese cloth, cheese ladle, cheese recipe card and cheese trail map, artisan cheese tasting and complimentary Rose. The guests will make a 2-3# Creme de Ricotta wheel of cheese and or flavor the Creme de Ricotta from our Spice Bar. Please bring a cooler to take-home your cheeses. Class is hosted by award winning cheesemaker Sheana Davis & Ben Sessions, The Epicurean Connection. Class is 90 minutes. . Thank you, Sheana Davis & Ben Sessions
Sonoma - Winery hop in a vintage VW
We will welcome you in one of our vintage VW Buses! Explore three of the best wineries in Sonoma Valley. We choose from places like Anaba, Buena Vista, Winery Sixteen 600, Gundlach or other awesome Sonoma wineries. We'll enjoy a picnic lunch at our second stop on us. We will order from Sonoma’s Best Deli on us! *Guests pay for wine tasting at each location, anticipate between $40-50 in tasting fees per person for each winery. Look for our Napa experience too. Please note that we have a 72-hour cancellation policy on all tours. https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/118276?source=p2