New year, new adventures: unique BARTable activities

Pick up ping pong this year at SPIN SF. Photo courtesy of SPIN SF. 

Kick off the year with fresh adventures and exciting activities. Whether you’re looking to explore nature, take up a new hobby, work up a sweat, or indulge in some foodie adventures, there’s plenty to do near BART. From bird watching and urban hikes to art workshops and culinary excursions, there’s no shortage of unique BARTable activities. Whatever your interests, this year is the perfect time to try something different and make the most of everything the Bay Area has to offer. Have fun, and don’t forget your Clipper card.

Use BART's Trip Planner for detailed routes and transit options.

Escape in nature near BART

Glen Canyon in San Francisco is a fantastic spot for bird-watching. Photo courtesy of Funcheap. 

Bird watching at Glen Canyon Park | Glen Park

Glen Canyon Park is a hot spot for birders as it's one of the few places in San Francisco to see red-tailed hawks and great horned owls nest. The 66.6-acre open space is full of family-friendly dirt trails that offer everything from leisurely strolls to more advanced treks. Expect flat paths flanked by Eucalyptus trees, steep staircases, dramatic rock formations and even a small creek. One popular route here is the 1.8-mile Glen Canyon Park Loop. Don't forget your binoculars! The park is only 0.4 miles from Glen Park.

Hiking or trail running at Siesta Valley Recreation Area | Orinda

Head to Orinda for a more challenging outdoor adventure near BART. The DeLaveaga Trail at Siesta Valley Recreation Area is a 6.7-mile out-and-back path and is generally considered a moderately challenging route. It's a great spot for both hiking and trail running. There are plenty of wooded areas, rolling hills and grassy meadows. The trailhead is 0.4 miles from Orinda Station.

New hobbies near BART 

Get creative at an art class at The Crucible. Photo courtesy of The Crucible. 

Industrial art classes at The Crucible | West Oakland

One-of-a-kind industrial art classes are open to all levels, from beginning artists to experienced craftspeople. Learn something new with hands-on courses and workshops, like blacksmithing, glassblowing, ceramics, jewelry-making and welding. The Crucible offers a unique opportunity to explore traditional and modern craftsmanship, learn new skills, create stunning pieces and join a community of creatives. Classes are only 0.3 miles from West Oakland.

Ping Pong at SPIN SF | Montgomery St

Whether learning a new game or becoming a ping pong master, SPIN SF is fun, social and conveniently located near BART.  Fast-paced games are enjoyed by all skill levels without the hassle of chasing balls, thanks to SPIN’s ball boys. If ping pong isn’t your thing, or you just need a break from the table, you can try your hand at shuffleboard or corn hole. There are also fusion bites, like Birria Bao Buns and a Mediterranean Sampler, and plenty of cocktails and mocktails to enjoy pre or post-match. Exit BART at Montgomery St for some competitive entertainment and head 0.4 miles to the tables.

Work up a sweat near BART

Learn a dance at Dance Mission Theater. Photo courtesy of Mission Dance Theater. Photo courtesy of Dance Mission Theater.

Dancing at Dance Mission Theater | 24th St Mission 

The Dance Mission Theater in San Francisco’s Mission District is the perfect place to learn various dances, from salsa and hip-hop to Afro-Caribbean and modern dance. They offer classes to adults and youth, cater to all skill levels and foster creativity and community. All classes (except for workshops) are ongoing, meaning you may start at any time. Check out the schedule, and learn some new moves just steps from 24th St Mission. For more unique ways to exercise in 2025, check out our list of fitness classes near BART.

Urban staircase hikes | Embarcadero

Few things compare to the thrill of exploring San Francisco's nooks and crannies. For one truly unique city adventure, exit BART at Embarcadero and head for the water. Take in the bay views until you get to Filbert Street. Head left past Levi Plaza’s Park until you arrive at the Filbert Street Staircase. Meander up, past cute cottages framed by rose bushes and sculpted gardens. You might even spot the flock of wild tropical parrots who call Telegraph Hill home. 

At the top of the staircase, you'll arrive at Coit Tower. Enjoy gorgeous sights from the iconic landmark before heading back downtown via North Beach and Chinatown. Bonus: both neighborhoods are perfect places to stop and grab lunch after your scenic city hike.   

Foodie adventures near BART

Ignite your culinary passion at Kitchen on Fire Cooking School in Downtown Berkeley. Photo courtesy of Kitchen on Fire.

Culinary classes at Kitchen on Fire Cooking School | Downtown Berkeley 

Kitchen on Fire offers hands-on cooking classes that are fun and educational. They cater to all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned home chefs, and are led by professional chefs and nutrition experts. Sharpen your knife skills, make pasta from scratch, explore plant-based cooking and learn the fundamentals of nutrition. With so many unique classes, Kitchen on Fire Cooking School is the ultimate destination to enhance your cooking repertoire this year. Book a class 0.7 miles from Downtown Berkeley. 

Food tours at Edible Excursions | Various (San Francisco, Berkeley, Oakland)

San Francisco, Oakland and Berkeley are vibrant culinary hotspots. Explore one (or all three) with the foodie tour group Edible Excursions. They have knowledgeable guides, and their tours provide a unique opportunity to sample local flavors, meet artisan producers and explore iconic neighborhoods. You'll enjoy farm-to-table food in Berkeley, dynamic bites in Oakland and hidden gems in San Francisco. Take BART to unique, delicious and immersive tours. Taste the best the Bay Area has to offer!

What is your favorite unique BARTable activity?

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