FRIDAY FIVE
Part of the fun of living in California is that when winter rolls around and the rest of the country is posting miserable photos of the snow, we can still fill our weekends with patio drinking, urban hikes and beach time.
Unfortunately, winter in California also means dryer temperatures, which—as we’ve seen over the last two years—can result in absolutely catastrophic fires. By now you know that three fires are raging across the state, the Camp Fire in Butte County being the deadliest, having unleashed a smoke storm in the Bay Area. Experts are calling the air “unhealthy” and suggesting you stay inside.
Since we’re headed into another smoke-filled weekend in the Bay Area, here are some indoor activities to indulge in. Have other suggestions? Leave them in the comments.
1. San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Leave all your anxieties outside in the smoke, and get lost in art for the day. If you haven’t been to SFMOMA, this is the the time to do it. Since reopening in 2016 (it was previously closed for an expansion), SFMOMA has drawn exhibits from unique artists all around the world. Currently, the exhibition Art and China after 1989: Theater of the World has been a popular stop. Described as a “raucous party” that has “a morning-after feel to it” by the San Francisco Chronicle, this peculiar exhibit definitely piques our interest.
TBI tip: If you’re feeling really bougie, try to snag a table at Benu for dinner after.
https://www.sfmoma.org/ | 151 3rd Street, SOMA
2. Church of 8 Wheels
In the words of the one and only Lady Gaga, sometimes the best way to get through a crisis is to “just dance” —and we recommend doing so at the Church of 8 Wheels. Situated in Hayes Valley, this old abandoned-church-turned-roller-skating-rink is a great place to lift your spirits and get some exercise. The Church of 8 Wheels is open to the public only on Saturday nights for free skating over the weekend, so this is a nighttime activity. If you want to take a “learn to skate” lesson, stop by from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday. Otherwise, plan to be there at 7:00 p.m. sharp (it can get crowded) to boogie like it’s 1979.
TBI tip: Wear retro skate gear, and bust out your favorite wig. You won’t regret it.
http://www.churchof8wheels.com/ | 554 Fillmore Street, Hayes Valley
3. Urban Putt
Remember when you were a kid and your parents took you miniature golfing? Fortunately, San Francisco has an adult version of that. Located in the heart of the Mission, Urban Putt is an indoor miniature golf course that brings out the inner kid in all who dare to step foot in this little oasis. The best part is that each hole has a very specific San Francisco theme (we won’t give too much away, but yes, there’s an earthquake-themed hole).
TBI tip: Don’t worry about dinner before or after—the restaurant in Urban Putt has great pizza.
https://www.urbanputt.com/ | 1096 S Van Ness Avenue, Mission
4. Nob Hill Spa
Wouldn’t it be nice to lie out by a pool for the day without having to jet to Mexico? It’s possible. Yes, you read that correctly—it’s possible. If you’re feeling especially lavish, book a Saturday or Sunday 50-minute spa appointment at Nob Hill Spa, located in the Huntington Hotel, and get access to the beautiful and relaxing indoor infinity pool. If you just want to hang out by the pool, you’ll have to go on a weekday, but they do provide non-guests with day passes for $65.
TBI tip: If you haven’t been inside Grace Cathedral yet, it’s right across the street.
http://www.nobhillspa.com/ | 1075 California Street, Nob Hill
5. Conservatory of Flowers
The Conservatory of Flowers is a great way to spend time in nature without having to actually be outside. If you usually spend your Saturdays meandering through Golden Gate Park, paying a visit to the Conservatory of Flowers might be your best bet if you’d like to still adhere to your routine. The conservatory is full of carefully curated flowers and plants from around the world. This San Francisco landmark is open on weekends from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
TBI tip: If you’re worried about parking, check to see if the free Golden Gate Park shuttle can help you out.
https://conservatoryofflowers.org | 100 John F. Kennedy Drive, Golden Gate Park
Hey! The Bold Italic recently launched a podcast, This Is Your Life in Silicon Valley. Check out the full season or listen to the episode below featuring Hunter Walk, former head of product at YouTube. More coming soon, so stay tuned!
