What’s On

Top 50 Things to Do in San Francisco in 2022

Matthew Murphy

San Francisco is a city with something for everyone. There’s always something new and exciting happening in this city by the bay, and this year, there’s no shortage of top-notch attractions and events to check out. No matter what your interests are, San Francisco is sure to have something to keep you busy.

Every year, tourists come to the city to see its iconic landmarks and enjoy its diverse culture. If you’re planning on visiting San Francisco in 2022, below you will see the best 50 things to do in SF and events to visit.

Broadway Performances in San Francisco

Broadway shows in San Francisco are the perfect way to experience the city’s unique culture and energy. With world-class performers, lavish sets, and enthusiastic audiences, you’re sure to have a night to remember.

June 7–July 3, 2022

Hadestown at Orpheum Theatre San Francisco

June 21–July 17, 2022

The Prom at Golden Gate Theatre

September 7–November 6, 2022

Moulin Rouge! The Musical at Orpheum Theatre San Francisco

November 9–December 4, 2022

Ain’t Too ProudThe Life and Times of The Temptations at Golden Gate Theatre

Broadway theatrical productions at Orpheum Theatre in San Francisco are worth seeing because they offer an unforgettable experience. The theatre is beautifully designed, and the productions are top-notch. You’ll be blown away by the talent of the performers and the skill of the production crew. The shows are also great for families, as there is something for everyone to enjoy. If you’re looking for a fun and unique night out, be sure to check out a Broadway production at Orpheum Theatre San Francisco. There’s nothing like a Broadway theatrical production. The costumes, the sets, the music—it’s all so grand and exciting. And if you want to experience a Broadway show without having to travel to New York, then head to Orpheum Theate or the Golden Gate Theatre in San Francisco, a historic theatre that has been staging Broadway productions since 1922, and it’s been a favorite of theatre-goers ever since. The Golden Gate Theatre is the perfect place to see a show—the intimate atmosphere and perfect sound quality make for an unforgettable experience.

Classical, Enjoyable, and Intellectually Stimulating

There’s something about classical music that just seems to transcend time and space. Whether you’re sitting in an ancient amphitheater or a modern concert hall, listening to the notes flow from the orchestra is an experience that’s both timeless and transporting. The city has a rich history of classical music and is home to some of the world’s most talented musicians. Whether you are a fan of Bach, Beethoven, or Brahms, you are sure to find a concert that will interest you. San Francisco’s classical music scene is constantly evolving, so you can be sure that you will always be able to find something new and exciting to experience.  And one of the best places to experience classical music is right here in San Francisco, at Davies Symphony Hall. This world-famous concert hall has been the site of countless unforgettable performances over the years, and it’s still one of the most popular venues for classical music in the world.

March 30, 2022

Lang Lang: Goldberg Variations at Davies Symphony Hall

Pianist Lang Lang
Lang Lang: Goldberg Variations. Photo by Robert Ascroft
April 3, 2022

Chamber Music at Davies Symphony Hall

April 7–9, 2022

Guerrero Conducts Corigliano & Piazzolla at Davies Symphony Hall

May 5–8, 2022

Zhang Conducts Dvořák’s New World Symphony at Davies Symphony Hall

May 7, 2022

Music for Families: Superheroes at Davies Symphony Hall

June 2–5, 2022

Daniil Trifonov Plays Mason Bates at Davies Symphony Hall

June 16–19, 2022

Pines of Rome at Davies Symphony Hall

June 23–25, 2022

Stucky, Adams & Sibelius at Davies Symphony Hall

The Comedians Who Will Make You Laugh

Comedies in San Francisco are the perfect way to spend an evening. You’re sure to see some up-and-coming talent as well as some of your favorite comedians. You’ll laugh until you cry, and you’ll definitely have a good time. So why not check out the comedy scene in San Francisco?

March 26, 2022

Jim Norton at Cobb’s Comedy Club

April 2, 2022

Watch What Crappens 10th Anniversary Hunky Dory Tour at The Independent

April 20–23, 2022

Ricky Velez at Punch Line Comedy Club – San Francisco

April 30, 2022

Tom Segura: I’m Coming EverywhereWorld Tour at The Masonic

Tom Segura
May 2, 2022

Welcome To Night Vale at Palace of Fine Arts

May 7, 2022

Jo Koy—Funny Is Funny World Tour at Chase Center

Gary Gulman at Sydney Goldstein Theater

Amazing Live Music Experience

There’s nothing quite like live music. The energy in the air, the anticipation of the show, and of course, the music itself. If you’re looking for an unforgettable live music experience, then you need to check out the concerts in San Francisco. The city has a rich music history, and its concert venues are some of the best in the world. From legendary venues like the Fillmore and Warfield to up-and-coming spots like The Chapel and Rickshaw Stop, there’s something for everyone. You can see everything from huge international stars to up-and-coming local bands, and there’s always something new to see. No matter what genre of music you’re into, there’s a concert in San Francisco that’s worth seeing. 

March 29, 2022

Guided by Voices at Great American Music Hall

March 30, 2022

Monster Energy Outbreak Tour Presents: Zero 9:36 at Brick & Mortar Music Hall

April 1, 2022

Tiffany Day at Cafe Du Nord

April 7, 2022

Eric Bellinger & Sammie: Vibes on Vibes Tour at August Hall

April 11–12, 2022

Girl in Red at The Regency Ballroom

April 19, 2022

Viagra Boys at The Independent

April 21, 2022

Ben Jones: Love Songs at Feinstein’s at the Nikko

April 23, 2022

James Arthur: It’ll All Make Sense Tour at The Masonic

April 25–26, 2022

The Magnetic Fields at Palace of Fine Arts

May 3, 2022

Lorde: Solar Power Tour at Bill Graham Civic Auditorium

May 14, 2022

Penny and Sparrow at The Chapel

May 21, 2022

The Antlers at Bimbo’s 365 Club

July 7, 2022

Brit Floyd at Warfield

August 30, 2022

HansonRed Green Blue 2022 Tour at The Fillmore

September 7, 2022

Def Leppard/Mötley Crüe/Poison/Joan Jett and the Blackhearts at Oracle Park

October 12, 2022

Pet Shop Boys & New OrderThe Unity Tour at Chase Center

Seeing a Movie With an Orchestra Playing Live

There’s something truly unique and special about watching a film while listening to an orchestra playing live. The beauty of the music combined with the excitement of the movie can create an unforgettable experience.

San Francisco is home to some of the best orchestras in the world, and there’s no better place to experience their talents than at a movie theater. Whether you’re a fan of classic films or new releases, there’s sure to be a screening with an orchestra playing that’s perfect for you.

March 27, 2022

Buster Keaton’s The General—Silent Film With Organist Cameron Carpenter at Davies Symphony Hall

July 1–2, 2022

The Matrix—Film With Live Orchestra at Davies Symphony Hall

San Francisco Symphony

San Francisco is a Hot Spot for Jazz and Blues Concerts

The soulful sounds of the saxophone, the rhythm of the drums, and the virtuosity of the piano can transport you to another world. The city is home to some of the best jazz clubs in the country. You can listen to some of the top jazz artists perform in intimate settings, and you’re sure to be blown away by their talent.

March 31, 2022

2022 Nea Jazz Masters Tribute Concert at SFJAZZ Center

April 1–3, 2022

Dianne Reeves at SFJAZZ Center

April 15, 2022

John Scofield & Dave Holland at SFJAZZ Center

May 13, 2022

Moonchild at The Independent

Experience Art, History, and Science

San Francisco is home to some of the world’s most renowned museums and galleries. Here, visitors can explore everything from renowned paintings and sculptures to historical artifacts and cutting-edge technology. Below are just a few of the many reasons why San Francisco’s museums and galleries are worth seeing. 

March 12–July 10, 2022

Alice Neel: People Come First at de Young Museum

June 25–October 30, 2022

Robyn Horn: Material Illusions at Museum of Craft and Design

October 23–30, 2022

To Teach and Inspire: The Julia Brenner Textile Collection at de Young Museum

Leaving You With a Lasting Impression

One of the things that makes opera so special is its ability to transport you to another place and time. San Francisco’s opera houses are some of the most beautiful in the world, and their grandiose architecture is the perfect setting for these epic tales. Operas are staged here throughout the year, with a wide variety of productions to choose from. Whether you’re a longtime opera fan or are just getting started, there’s sure to be a performance in San Francisco that’s right for you.

June 4–July 2, 2022

Don Giovanni at War Memorial Opera House

Set design mock up for Don Giovanni
Set design of “Don Giovanni.” Photo by Erhard Rom
June 14–July 3, 2022

Dream of the Red Chamber at War Memorial Opera House

Enjoy Immersive Theater Experience

San Francisco is a hotbed for theater. The city has a long and proud history of producing world-class theatrical productions, and the talent and creativity on display is second to none. From intimate venues to large performance halls, San Francisco offers an impressive variety of stage productions. And there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a fan of drama, comedy, or musicals. Plus, many of the theaters are historic landmarks, adding to the experience of seeing a show.

March 23–September 3, 2022

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at Curran Theatre

March 24–May 1, 2022

Fefu and Her Friends at A.C.T.’s Strand Theater

April 20–May 22, 2022

The Lehman Trilogy at A.C.T.’s Geary Theatre

May 19, 2022

Criminal at Palace of Fine Arts

Experience the Magic of San Francisco’s Vibrant Arts and Culture Scene

Encore Spotlight is your one-stop website for all the hot upcoming shows, concerts, and performances in the city, so you can plan your next night out in advance. Whether you’re into rock, jazz, classical, or anything in between, we’ve got you covered. Check out Encore Things To Do list of upcoming concerts and events in San Francisco