WinterOff season ~56°F highs

Things to do in San Francisco in December

December is off season (quieter, and often cheaper) to visit San Francisco, with average highs around 56°F. Museums and indoor sights come into their own, with fewer crowds outside.

Plan a December weekend Where else in December

Best picks for December

What's famous here, weighted toward what shines in December.

1Indoor escape

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

modern art museum in San Francisco, California, USA

Golden Gate Bridge

suspension bridge on the San Francisco Bay

3Indoor escape

USS Hornet (CV 12)

Holidays in December 2026

Christmas Day · Fri, Dec 25

Expect busier roads and pricier stays around these dates. See long weekends.

What’s on in San Francisco in December

Concerts, games and shows in the next few weeks. Tickets open on Ticketmaster.

Tue, Dec 1 · 8:00 PMGolden State Warriors vs. Utah JazzChase Center Plan a weekend around it

San Francisco in December: quick answers

Is December a good time to visit San Francisco?

December is off season (quieter, and often cheaper) to visit San Francisco, with average highs around 56°F. Museums and indoor sights come into their own, with fewer crowds outside.

What is the weather like in San Francisco in December?

Average daytime highs are around 56°F, compared with 70°F in the warmest month. Check the forecast a week out; our planner favors indoor stops on rainy days.

What are the best things to do in San Francisco in December?

Top picks for December: San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, Golden Gate Bridge, USS Hornet (CV 12), de Young Museum, Exploratorium.