Free Things To Do This May 2025 in San Francisco
San Francisco in May balances between spring breezes and early summer energy. If you’re hoping to keep your plans low-budget without cutting back on quality time, the city offers a long list of events and activities that cost nothing. With outdoor festivals, public art, live performances, and local traditions returning, there are plenty of ways to spend a day without spending a dime. You don’t need tickets or fancy reservations to enjoy some of the best parts of the city. Here’s a breakdown of free things to do in San Francisco this May that are worth penciling into your calendar.
Free Things You Can Do This May In SF
1. Yerba Buena Gardens Festival
The Yerba Buena Gardens Festival continues through May, bringing live performances and activities into the heart of downtown. From Afro-Caribbean music to modern dance, the programming is diverse and open to all. It’s an easy lunchtime break if you work nearby or a relaxing afternoon option during the weekend. Bring a blanket, find a spot on the lawn, and stay as long as you’d like.
- Location: Yerba Buena Gardens, Mission St., between 3rd and 4th St., San Francisco
- Website: ybgfestival.org
- Dates: May through October
- Cost: Free
- Contact form
- View the events calendar
2. Carnaval San Francisco
Carnaval returns to the Mission District with a two-day festival full of music, dance, food vendors, and cultural showcases. The event highlights Latin American and Caribbean communities across the Bay Area. Sunday features the grand parade, with performers in costume, floats, and drumlines. It draws thousands, so public transportation is highly recommended.
- Website: carnavalsanfrancisco.org
- Dates: May 24–25, 2025
- Location: 1333 Florida Street San Francisco, CA 94110
- Admission: Free
- Contact form
3. Stern Grove Walking Trails
While the Stern Grove Festival doesn’t begin until June, the park itself is open year-round and offers quiet trails and open meadows. It’s a solid option for a morning walk or a calm afternoon. The eucalyptus trees and steep ravines make it feel more removed from the city. You won’t find crowds here compared to other parks.
- Website: sfrecpark.org
- Location: 19th Ave and Sloat Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94132
- Hours: Daily, 5:00 AM – Midnight
- Email: rpdinfo@sfgov.org
- Cost: Free
4. Fort Point National Historic Site
Located at the south anchorage of the Golden Gate Bridge, Fort Point is a Civil War-era military fort with views of the bay and historic architecture. The open courtyard and walk-through exhibits offer a different way to engage with local history. You don’t need to be a history buff to enjoy the atmosphere or the vantage points. It’s also a great spot for photography without needing a permit.
- Website: nps.gov
- Location: Long Ave & Marine Dr, San Francisco, CA 94129
- Hours: Friday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Roof access closes at 4:30pm on days Fort Point is open
- Cost: Free
- Phone: (415) 561-4959
5. People in Plazas Concert Series
Downtown comes alive in May with the People in Plazas concert series, featuring lunchtime performances in various public spaces. Performers range from jazz ensembles to rock bands to world music groups. It’s designed to make city life more lively during the workweek. Pack lunch and catch a show in between meetings or errands.
- Website: peopleinplazas.org
- Locations: Various plazas near Market Street from the Embarcadero to Fourth Street
- Hours: Check website for updated schedule
- Cost: Free
- Contact form
6. Crissy Field
Part of the Presidio, Crissy Field is a wide-open shoreline with trails, grassy areas, and views of the bridge and bay. It’s often used by locals for jogging, biking, or just sitting with friends. On warmer days, it’s common to see people flying kites or walking their dogs. May brings comfortable temperatures, making it one of the better times to be out here.
- Website: parksconservancy.org
- Location: Crissy Field, 1199 E Beach, San Francisco, CA 94129
- Hours: Daily, 7:58 AM – 7:00 PM
- Phone: (415) 561-3000
- Cost: Free
7. Golden Gate Park Bandshell Concerts
Every Sunday, the historic Bandshell in Golden Gate Park features free concerts from local and traveling musicians. The lineup includes symphonies, community jazz groups, and multicultural music projects. There are benches, but regulars bring their own chairs or picnic blankets. The atmosphere is casual, and the music is often surprisingly good.
- Website: sfrecpark.org
- Location: Music Concourse (Golden Gate Park), 75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr., San Francisco, CA 94118
- Dates: View the May schedule here
- Hours: Varies (check schedule)
- Email: ggpbandshellproduction@gmail.com
- Cost: Free
8. Ferry Plaza Farmers Market
While you might be tempted to buy something, the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market is also a good browsing spot. Walk through the outdoor stalls, check out seasonal produce, and watch cooking demos from Bay Area chefs. It’s a way to interact with local food culture without spending money. Early mornings tend to be the least crowded.
- Website: foodwise.org
- Location: Ferry Building, One Ferry Building, San Francisco, CA 94111
- Days: and Times Year round; Saturday: 8 am – 2 pm; Tuesday & Thursday 10 am – 2 pm
- Email: info@foodwise.org
- Cost: Free to stroll
9. Union Street Festival
The Union Street Festival is a lively street fair held in the Marina District, featuring local artisans, food vendors, and live entertainment. It’s an excellent opportunity to explore the neighborhood and enjoy a festive atmosphere without spending a dime. The event also includes activities for children, making it suitable for families. Strolling through the festival offers a chance to appreciate the community’s creativity and culture.
- Website: sunsetmercantilesf.com
- Location: Union Street between Gough and Fillmore, San Francisco, CA
- Dates: May 31 – June 1, 2025
- Hours: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Cost: Free to attend
- Dogs on leash are permitted
10. Free Museum Admission Days
Several San Francisco museums offer free admission on specific days in May, allowing visitors to enjoy art, culture, and history without an entry fee. Participating institutions include the Asian Art Museum, de Young Museum, and the Conservatory of Flowers. These free days provide access to permanent collections and, in some cases, special exhibitions. It’s advisable to check each museum’s schedule in advance, as dates and times may vary.
- Participating Museums:
Asian Art Museum: about.asianart.org - Address: 200 Larkin Street, San Francisco, CA 94102
- Email: inquiries@asianart.org
de Young Museum: famsf.org - Address: Golden Gate Park, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, San Francisco, CA 94118
- Email: contact@famsf.org
Conservatory of Flowers: gggp.org - Address: Gardens of Golden Gate Park, 1199 9th Avenue, San Francisco, California 94122
- Contact form
Cost: Free on designated days
11. Palace of Fine Arts
The Palace of Fine Arts is a historic structure in the Marina District, known for its classical architecture and serene lagoon. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk around the grounds, take photographs, or relax by the water. The site is open to the public daily and does not charge an admission fee. It’s a peaceful spot for contemplation or a casual outing with friends.
- Website: palaceoffinearts.com
- Location: 3601 Lyon St, San Francisco, CA 94123
- Hours: Open daily; hours may vary
- Phone: 415 608 2220
- Cost: Free to visit
San Francisco doesn’t have to be expensive. This May, the city opens itself up with events and spots that are free to attend and explore. Whether you’re into music, nature, culture, or simply walking without a destination, there’s something on the calendar worth checking out. And since most of these events are outdoors or in public spaces, they work well for a solo outing or a low-key day with friends. As always, check websites in advance for last-minute changes due to weather or scheduling.
If you don’t mind spending a little to see what other things San Francisco has to offer, check out these events and programs happening around the city in May.
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