With everything so close together—Moscone Center, great food, waterfront paths, and historic neighborhoods—it’s easy to make room for real experiences even on a tight schedule. And if you brought family or a partner, they’ll find plenty to enjoy while you’re in sessions.
Turn your conference trip into a vacation you’ll actually look forward to.
Our 5-star San Francisco tours make it easy to explore between sessions and give your partner or family a chance to experience the San Francisco people fall in love with.
From redwoods to city highlights, each experience is designed to help you see the real San Francisco between your conference sessions.
This guide walks you through everything you need for a smooth visit — where conferences happen, the best neighborhoods to stay in, how to move around without stress, and easy ideas for what to do in San Francisco to make the most of your free time.
Quick Notes For Upcoming Conferences in San Francisco 2026
- Most conferences are centered around Moscone Center in SoMa or Union Square, so you’ll be close to food, parks, and transit no matter where you stay.
- If you bring a partner or family, they can explore the city with ease while you’re in sessions. Our award-winning San Francisco tours are a fun, comfortable way for them to see city’s top highlights without needing a car
- SFO is the easiest airport for arrivals, with direct BART service into downtown. Rideshare works well once you’re in the city, and walking is often faster than driving.
- San Francisco weather changes throughout the day. Pack a light jacket, comfortable shoes, and layers you can adjust between sessions.
- Parking near major conference hotels is limited and expensive, so skipping the car usually saves time and stress.
- Short breaks near Moscone Center put you steps from museums, cafés, outdoor spaces, and easy photo spots.
- If you have free time — even an hour — our Private Open-Air City Tours make it simple to see San Francisco at your pace. Choose from 1-, 2-, or 3-hour options that fit perfectly around conference sessions.
These quick notes will help you get oriented, but the real value comes from learning the city through people who know it best. Our award-winning local team has spent over 20 years showing guests how to experience San Francisco the right way, and you’ll feel that difference the moment you start exploring.
Keep reading for neighborhood tips, transit basics, and the easiest ways to enjoy San Francisco between meetings.
Why San Francisco Is a Leading Conference Destination
San Francisco stays at the top of conference lists because everything a visitor needs sits within a compact, walkable area. It also happens to be one of the most stunning cities on the planet, with parks, coastline, and natural beauty woven right into the urban grid. You don’t want to fly all the way here and only see the inside of a conference room.
Hotels, the Moscone Center, restaurants, transit, and after-hours activities are all within minutes of each other, which keeps your days efficient and stress-free. Whether you’re moving between sessions or heading to dinner with colleagues, you’ll spend less time traveling and more time actually enjoying your trip.
Explore San Francisco: What to Do Before, After, or Between Conference Sessions
One of the advantages of attending a conference or academic workshop in SF is how much you can experience without needing a full day free. Most hotels and event venues sit within a compact part of downtown, so parks, museums, waterfront walks, and iconic viewpoints are always close. Whether you have 20 minutes or a few hours, there’s something easy to enjoy nearby.
Below are the best options to sightsee San Francisco based on how much time you actually have.
Experience San Francisco Between Sessions with Our Award-Winning Tours
Even an hour in San Francisco can turn into something you remember for years. If you have 1–3 hours free, you can see the city’s biggest highlights, soak in views you’ve only seen in photos, and add real adventure to a packed conference day.
Private Open-Air City Tours (1, 2, or 3 hours)
Our private open-air tours are designed for conference schedules, giving you a fast, refreshing way to see the city between sessions. Each route includes iconic stops such as Lombard Street, Coit Tower, the Palace of Fine Arts, Chinatown, and sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Tours begin at our North Beach departure point—just minutes from Fisherman’s Wharf and a quick rideshare from Moscone Center—making it easy to experience the city without committing to a full day. With open-air seating and a local guide who brings the stories of San Francisco to life, this is one of the easiest ways to see a lot in a short amount of time.
The Lombard Leap (90 minutes)
A quick, high-energy tour that hits Chinatown, North Beach, Coit Tower, Fisherman’s Wharf, and a drive down Lombard Street. Perfect between morning and afternoon sessions or right after your day ends.
If you have a longer break: Dylan’s Famous Tour with Muir Woods (Half Day+)
If your conference gives you a full morning or afternoon off, Dylan’s Famous Tour is one of the best ways to explore the Bay Area. You’ll see classic San Francisco neighborhoods, cross the Golden Gate Bridge, walk beneath the redwoods at Muir Woods, and enjoy scenic time in Sausalito. It’s a seamless way to experience a bigger adventure without needing a rental car or extra planning.
Quick Breaks Near Moscone Center
If you have 20–40 minutes between sessions, there are several great spots near Moscone Center where you can relax, grab a quick bite, or take a short walk without leaving the conference district.
Yerba Buena Gardens (3 minutes away)
One of the most peaceful places near Moscone Center. Shaded benches, fountains, lawns, and quiet corners make it perfect for a quick reset between panels or meetings.
SFMOMA (5 minutes away)
Even if you only explore the free ground-floor exhibits, the art and architecture offer a stimulating but calming break from screen time and crowded rooms.
The Metreon (3 minutes away)
A reliable pick for fast food, coffee, indoor seating, and restrooms. Ideal if you need something quick without losing time.
Salesforce Transit Center Rooftop Park (10–12 minutes away)
An elevated rooftop park with walking paths, gardens, and skyline views. It’s one of the city’s hidden gems and a great choice for fresh air between sessions.
Local tip:
For fast coffee near Moscone Center, try Blue Bottle (Mint Plaza), Philz Coffee (Mission Street), or Sightglass (7th Street). All are walkable and conference-friendly.
Evenings in the City: Food, Views and Relaxing Walks
When your conference day wraps up, evenings are the easiest time to explore. These neighborhoods are close to most downtown hotels, well-lit, lively, and safe for walking after dark.
The Embarcadero Waterfront
A scenic, flat walk with Bay Bridge views. Ideal if you need quiet after a long day. The Ferry Building stays active into the evening with food and drink options. If you want a quick list of what to eat there, check out our Guide to Ferry Building Restaurants.
North Beach
One of the best neighborhoods near Union Square for dinner. Italian restaurants, cafés, and gelato shops make it a popular choice for conference attendees looking to unwind. Check out our guide to the best restaurants in North Beach for Italian food you won’t find anywhere else.
Chinatown
Just a short walk from Union Square and the Financial District. Lantern-lit streets, dim sum spots, bakeries, and small shops stay open later than most downtown corridors.
Union Square
Bright, busy, and easy to reach from most hotels. You’ll find restaurants, bars, and casual dining options without needing a reservation.
Local tip:
If you plan to grab dinner with colleagues or new contacts from your sessions, book ahead. Conference weeks fill restaurant tables quickly, even midweek.
Discover Innovation, Tech, Artificial Intelligence, Medicine, and Healthcare Conferences
Many of the city’s biggest gatherings focus on innovation, tech, AI, information systems, medicine, and healthcare. These events thrive here because the region is home to leaders in research, software, biotechnology, academia, and digital health. Speakers, innovators, and major companies are already nearby, which makes San Francisco a natural meeting point for anyone working at the intersection of science, technology, and real-world solutions.
Major Seminars, Conventions, and International Conferences
The 2026 calendar highlights fast-growing areas such as artificial intelligence, fintech, environmental engineering, global health, and applied research. Expect forums, conventions, seminars, and international conferences featuring hands-on demonstrations, strong speaker lineups, and sessions built for discussion and networking. Most take place near the Moscone Center, so you can easily mingle, discover new ideas, and explore the city between events.
Moscone Center: The City’s Main Convention Hub
Moscone Center is the heart of San Francisco’s event scene. Located in SoMa and spread across North, South, and West buildings, it hosts major technology, healthcare, finance, and research gatherings year-round.
The complex sits steps from hotels, restaurants, Yerba Buena Gardens, and multiple transit lines, which keeps everything simple during busy conference weeks. If your event is large, there’s a good chance it will be here.
Union Square and the Westin St. Francis: Home to Essential Healthcare Forums
Union Square is another major anchor for business and scientific gatherings. The Westin St. Francis regularly hosts healthcare forums, clinical meetings, and professional events that take advantage of its central location and large ballroom spaces. Staying in this neighborhood puts you within walking distance of Moscone Center, the theater district, and dozens of shops and cafés — a convenient setup for full schedules.
Other Venues for International Conference Events Across the City
Several additional venues host international conference events throughout the year. Hotels in SoMa and the Financial District offer flexible meeting rooms for small and mid-size gatherings, while spaces near the Embarcadero attract groups that want waterfront views. You’ll also find unique settings like Fort Mason and the Presidio for specialized events. No matter where your meetings take place, the city’s compact design makes navigation straightforward.
Where to Stay: Best Hotels Near Moscone Center and Union Square
If your conference is at Moscone Center, staying nearby saves time and reduces stress. You’ll be able to walk between your hotel, the venue, and dozens of restaurants without needing rideshare or transit.
Most walkable choices:
- Marriott Marquis (right across the street)
- InterContinental San Francisco (3–5 minutes)
- The W Hotel (5 minutes)
- Park Central (5–7 minutes)
Why this area works well:
- You can return to your room between sessions.
- Dinner options are plentiful, from casual cafés to upscale spots.
- The walk to Moscone is flat and fast — a big plus on busy days.
- Perfect if your schedule is packed from morning to evening.
Local tip: If your days are long, choose a hotel with a large lobby or quiet workspace. It gives you a comfortable spot to regroup without returning to your room. For help choosing the right place to stay, explore our complete guide to the best hotels in San Francisco.
Neighborhoods That Make Conference Days Easier
If you want to balance your work schedule with a bit of leisure, these neighborhoods offer the best mix of convenience and comfort.
Union Square
- 10–15 minute walk to Moscone
- Best for travelers who want restaurants, shopping, and transit at their doorstep
- Vibrant during the day, lively but safe in the evenings
Choose Union Square if:
- You want restaurants and shopping nearby
- You prefer a more classic San Francisco experience
- You’re bringing a partner or spouse
SoMa
- Closest to Moscone by far
- Great for early mornings or tight schedules
- Modern hotels and a more low-key atmosphere
Choose SoMa if:
- Your schedule is packed
- You want the shortest walk
- You like staying close to the venue
Financial District / Embarcadero
- Quiet in the early mornings
- Beautiful waterfront walks
- Simple BART and Muni access
- Great for travelers who prefer calmer streets after a busy day
Choose the Financial District if:
- You want quiet early mornings
- You prefer fresher air and less foot traffic
- Your sessions start later in the day
Local tip: If you’re sharing a room with colleagues or working remotely, the Financial District typically has larger rooms at lower rates outside peak business travel weeks.
How to Get Around San Francisco During Your Conference
San Francisco is one of the easiest cities in the U.S. to navigate without a car — and during a conference, that’s a major advantage. Most venues, hotels, restaurants, and neighborhoods you’ll visit sit within the same compact area, so getting around is surprisingly simple once you know your options.
Below are the most reliable transport options in SF, plus local tips to help you stay on schedule.
Transit Basics: BART, Muni, Cable Cars and Rideshare
BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit)
Best for: airport transfers and getting downtown quickly
- SFO → Powell Street (Moscone/Union Square area): ~30 minutes
- OAK → Embarcadero or Montgomery: ~25 minutes
- Clean, predictable, and avoids traffic
Muni Metro + Buses
Best for: short city trips and avoiding rideshare surges
- Easy access to SoMa, Mission, Castro, Embarcadero
- Great backup option during peak conference traffic
- Clipper Card or tap-to-pay makes it seamless
Cable Cars
Best for: quick transfers between Union Square and Fisherman’s Wharf
- Not the fastest option, but fun if you have a few minutes
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Best for: mornings when you need to get somewhere fast
- Most reliable door-to-door option
- Moscone Center has dedicated pickup zones
- Surge pricing is common when conferences end — walk 2 blocks to lower the price
Local tip: BART + walking is often faster than rideshare during heavy conference hours. Always check Google Maps travel times before requesting a ride.
Walking Routes Between Major Convention Locations
San Francisco’s event districts are designed for walkability. If your conference is downtown, walking is often the fastest, most predictable way to get around.
Walk times from key areas:
- Union Square → Moscone Center: 10–15 minutes
- Financial District → Moscone Center: 12–18 minutes
- Embarcadero → Moscone Center: 20 minutes (flat, scenic)
- SoMa hotels → Moscone Center: 2–7 minutes
Why walking works well:
- No traffic delays
- Plenty of coffee shops en route
- Easy to weave in quick photo stops or breaks
- Safe, lively streets during conference hours
Local tip: If you’re moving between meetings, bring comfortable shoes — many streets around downtown are gently sloped.
Airport Arrivals and Travel Times for Conference Participants
Best airport:
- SFO → easiest, most transit-friendly, and closest to downtown
- OAK → good second option, especially for budget travelers
- SJC → only if you find a strong fare; ~1 hour away without traffic
Travel time to downtown:
- SFO → BART: ~30 minutes
- OAK → BART: ~25 minutes + short shuttle
- Rideshare from SFO: 25–40 minutes
- Rideshare from OAK: 30–50 minutes
Local tip: If you’re arriving during weekday rush hour (4–7 pm), BART is almost always faster than rideshare.
What to Pack for an Immersive Conference Experience
Packing for San Francisco is all about staying comfortable through changing weather and long conference days. Temperatures often shift from cool mornings to warmer afternoons and breezy evenings, so having the right layers helps you stay focused without thinking about what you’re wearing. Here’s what locals recommend for a smooth, low-stress trip.
- A light jacket
San Francisco cools quickly once the sun drops, especially near the waterfront or in the evenings after sessions. - Comfortable walking shoes
You’ll walk more than you expect — between hotels, Moscone Center, coffee runs, and dinner plans. Slight hills are common, so supportive shoes make a big difference. - A warm layer you can add or remove
Think lightweight sweater or fleece. You’ll appreciate it inside air-conditioned venues or during early-morning keynotes. - Compact umbrella or light rain shell
Useful in winter and early spring. Rain showers are usually brief but can catch people off guard.
Frequently Asked Questions About Attending a San Francisco Conference
What are the biggest conferences in SF?
Major annual events include Dreamforce, RSA, JPM Healthcare, Google Cloud Next, AI and tech summits, biotech and medicine forums, and a growing list of international conferences each year. Most of them take place at the Moscone Center.
Where is the Moscone Center and how do I get there?
Moscone Center sits in SoMa, surrounded by hotels, restaurants, and public transit. You can walk from Union Square and parts of downtown, or take Muni, BART, or a quick rideshare. Parking is limited and expensive, so transit is usually the easiest option.
Where do Dylan’s tours depart from, and is it close to Moscone?
Dylan’s Tours is located in North Beach, which is just a short rideshare from Moscone Center and blocks from many conference hotels. It’s one of the easiest ways to start exploring without leaving the city center.
What makes Dylan’s Tours different from other tour options?
Dylan’s is locally owned, award-winning, and has more than 20 years of experience guiding visitors through San Francisco. The tours are small, personal, and led by guides who know how to show you the city beyond the headlines — perfect for conference visitors who want the best experience in the least amount of time.
Can I see Muir Woods or take a tour during my conference?
Yes. Many attendees book a half-day option like Dylan’s Famous Tour with Muir Woods, or choose shorter experiences such as our 1–3 hour Private Open-Air City Tours or the 90-minute Lombard Leap. These fit easily around a conference schedule.
What can my partner or family do while I’m in sessions?
San Francisco is packed with easy, car-free activities for partners, spouses, and families. Popular options include Golden Gate Park, the Academy of Sciences, Pier 39, Chinatown, and North Beach.
If they want something more memorable, Dylan’s open-air city tours give them a fun, safe, and comfortable way to see the city while you’re at your event.
What are good family-friendly activities during a conference?
Families love Dylan’s open-air city tours because of the open-air vehicles, short time commitment, and frequent stops that make it comfortable for kids and teens. Dylan’s Famous Tour with Muir Woods is also a hit — easy walking paths, fresh air, and plenty of room to explore under the redwoods.
For even more ideas to round out your trip, take a look at our Guide to San Francisco With Kids!
Are Dylan’s tours good if I’m traveling alone for my conference?
Definitely. Solo travelers often choose Dylan’s because our guides are welcoming, the groups are small, and the routes feel safe and social. It’s a comfortable way to explore without navigating the city alone.
What is the JPM Conference in San Francisco?
The JPM Healthcare Conference is held each January in Union Square and the Financial District. It focuses on trends in medicine, pharmaceuticals, biotech, and healthcare innovation, and brings global leaders to the city.
Is San Francisco safe for walking during conferences?
Conference areas—SoMa, Union Square, Embarcadero—stay busy throughout the day. Stick to well-lit streets at night and use rideshares if you’re heading farther out after evening events.
See More of San Francisco with Dylan’s Tours
San Francisco is one of those places where business trips never feel routine. Between the energy of the Moscone Center, the walkable neighborhoods around Union Square and SoMa, and the easy access to food, views, and culture, a conference in SF comes with a built-in chance to explore one of the most iconic cities in the world.
If you want a simple, stress-free way to see more of the city during your visit, our open-air tours, the 90-minute Lombard Leap, and Dylan’s Famous Tour with Muir Woods are great options that fit naturally around conference plans.
Explore all tours and make the most of your time in San Francisco.
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