Bay Area Activities

This is a list I've compiled of local attractions for fun dates for Dan and I. We've been to a few of them, and the rest are on our to-do list. I'll let you know which ones we like best!

Chabot Space and Science Center
Set amid 13 trail-laced acres of East Bay parkland, with glorious views of San Francisco Bay and the Oakland foothills, Chabot is a hands-on celebration of sights, sounds, and sensations. Adult admission, $13.
Website: www.chabotspace.org/visit

USS Hornet Museum
The Aircraft Carrier USS HORNET Museum is a national treasure, having participated in two of the greatest events of the 20th century -- World War II and the Apollo 11 manned space mission. Adult admission, $14.
Website: http://www.uss-hornet.org/explore_ship/index.html

Oakland Museum of California
The Oakland Museum of California provides unique collections, exhibitions and educational opportunities designed to generate a broader and deeper understanding of and interest in California's environment, history, art and people. Adult admission, $8.
Website: http://www.museumca.org/

The Oakland Zoo
Open 10-5 on weekends, admission is $10.50.
Website: http://www.oaklandzoo.org/

John Muir National Historic Site
Adult admission is $3.
Website: www.nps.gov/jomu

Conservatory of Flowers - Golden Gate Park
A spectacular living museum of rare and beautiful tropical plants from around the world that will engage visitors physically, intellectually and emotionally. Tu-Su 9am-4:30pm. $5 for adults
Website: www.conservatoryofflowers.org

Presidio of San Francisco - Presidio
Formerly a military post, the Presidio is a national park and recreational paradise featuring spectacular vistas, meandering trails, and historic and architectural treasures. Open daily, year-round, free admission.
Website: www.presidio.gov

Scharffen Berger Chocolate Maker
Free public tours of our factory to learn how chocolate is made, about our history and partake in a delightful chocolate tasting. M-Sa 10am-6pm, Su until 5pm.
Website: www.scharffenberger.com

Anheuser - Busch Consumer Hospitality Center
Free, 45-minute tour includes brewing, presentation, packaging video, and product sampling. Tours Sept-May, T-Sa 10am-4pm and June-Aug, M-Sa 10am-4pm.
Website: www.budweisertours.com

Charles Chocolates Factory Store & Chocolate Bar
Premium chocolatier products include gourmet chocolate bars, handmade confections and chocolate covered nuts. Free factory tours. Optional $10 per person chocolate tasting offered after the tour. W, F, Sa and Su 11:30am and 2:30pm.
Website: www.charleschocolates.com

Golden Gate Fields
Live thoroughbred racing with the Golden Gate Bridge as a backdrop. Admission for live racing Grandstand $4, Clubhouse $6, Top of Stretch $2, Turf Club $10-15.
Website: www.goldengatefields.com

Submarine USS Papanito
This authentic, World War II submarine - with near perfect restoration - offers visitors an unforgettable experience. Many original artifacts are on display. Summer hours: Th-Tu 9am-8pm, W 9am-6pm; Winter hours: M-Th 9am-6pm, F-Su 9am-8pm. Admission $9 adults.
Website: www.maritime.org

Winchester Mystery House
Guided tours of this beautiful but bizarre 160-room California Historical Landmark reveal the eccentricities of Sarah Winchester, heiress to the Winchester rifle fortune. Open daily 9am-5pm except Christmas. Approx. $25.
Website: www.winchestermysteryhouse.com

California Academy of Sciences
Adult admission $25.
Website: www.calacademy.org