Dreamforce 2025: What’s On in San Francisco?

If you’re heading to San Francisco for Dreamforce 2025, you’ve probably already filled your agenda with keynotes, hands-on sessions, and networking opportunities. But when you’re ready to step away from the Dreamforce scene, San Fran has plenty to offer beyond the Moscone.

Whether this will be your first time in San Francisco or you know the city like the back of your hand, we’ve got something to help make your trip unforgettable. 

Classic Tourist Activities

San Francisco is home to no end of tourist attractions that shouldn’t be missed. Take some time to tick these sights off your list!

• Golden Gate Bridge: The iconic landmark of the city. Get up close and snap some pictures with the famous red-orange suspension bridge, or you could even brave the 1.7-mile walk across.
• Golden Gate Park: With museums, gardens, and even a herd of bison, you could easily spend a day wandering around.
• Alcatraz: Take a boat trip to the former maximum-security federal prison to see where Al Capone was held and enjoy views of the city skyline.
• Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39: Got a craving for clam chowder? Head here and enjoy great seafood on the waterfront.
• Cable Cars: The historic cable cars offer a scenic and iconic ride. Hop on, carefully hang off the side, and snap some pics.
• The Mission: If street art is your vibe, look no further. 
• Chinatown: North America’s first and largest, with museums, art exhibitions, and – of course – food!
• Wave Organ: An acoustic sculpture built on a jetty – the waves “play” the music. Take a seat, listen, and enjoy.

Here’s some snaps the SF Ben Team took around San Fran over the years…

The Experiences Most Dreamforce Attendees Miss

If you have a little more time to spare, then a day trip is always a great way to see more of the area.

• Muir Woods (~35 min drive from the city): Walk among giant, centuries-old trees and get back to nature before or after all of the tech talk from Dreamforce. And for movie buffs, scenes from Star Wars: Return of the Jedi and Rise of the Planet of the Apes.
• Vineyards (~1 hour drive from the city): California is renowned for its wine, and Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley are only a car ride away from the city. Book a tour, then enjoy learning about the wine-making process and a glass of wine (or two).
• Yosemite (~3 hour drive from the city): Take a day trip to visit ancient sequoia trees, Tunnel View, El Capitan, Yosemite Village, and more.
• Mount Diablo State Park (~1 hour drive from the city): Clear your head with a hike up to the summit of Mount Diablo.
• Death Valley (~8 hour drive from the city): Okay, maybe more of a weekend trip than a day trip, but this national park is worth it! Differing somewhat from the Dreamforce park, it’s North America’s lowest, hottest, and driest location.

Specific Events During Dreamforce Week

Though Dreamforce is the highlight of the Salesforce calendar, there are so many other events happening in the city – and sometimes it’s good to get away from Salesforce, even if just for a little while.

• Fleet Week: Hitting San Fran in early October, if you’re in the city the weekend before Dreamforce, you could catch the final weekend of Fleet Week and enjoy air shows, ship parades, concerts and more.
• Litquake: Take a break from tech and get stuck into some literature. San Francisco’s literary festival is on from October 9-25 with events through the day and into the evening. 
• World of Dumplings Food Festival: Looking to energize before Dreamforce? There’s no better way than eating the dumplings of the world. Head to the Ferry Building on October 12 and prime yourself for the week ahead.
• Potrero Hill R&B Festival: If you’re sticking around in the city and looking for a change of pace, enjoy music, food, and fun on October 18.

Food That Lives Up to the Hype

The food is always okay, but if you’re looking to satisfy your palate a little more, check out some of these hype-worthy eateries.

• Swan Oyster Depot: Seafood lovers rejoice. This classic counter has all of the fruits de mer you could possibly crave.
• House of Prime Rib: Looking to impress clients? Opened in 1949, this San Fran institution will definitely deliver.
• Zuni Café: Boasting impressive menus that change daily, enjoy seasonal food in an inviting atmosphere.
• Gott’s Roadside Burgers: A recommendation straight from the SF Ben team. A casual, counter-service burger joint. According to our Director of Technical Content, Peter Chittum,: “Think Five Guys meets Jamie Oliver”.
• Mandalay: San Fran is known for its Burmese food, and this establishment has been in the area since 1984.
• Taqueria El Farolito: If you fancy a bite to eat after a long conference day, satisfy your cravings with some tacos or a burrito.
• Good Mong Kok Bakery: You may have to wait in line, but it’s worth it for fresh dim sum. Be sure to try the BBQ pork buns.

Final Thoughts

With any luck, you’ll be leaving San Francisco with experiences you will never forget. The options above range from the classic tourist sightseeing to those a little edgier and off-the-beaten track, but all promise you an unforgettable experience – alongside all your Dreamforce memories.

But if you are looking to stay more focused on Salesforce, check out our Dreamforce parties and events guide and fill up your extracurricular calendar…