Living in the Bay Area

people marching in a parade in downtown San Francisco

 

Not only do UCSF residents and fellows benefit from access to world-class healthcare systems and a thriving biotechnology and technology ecosystem, life outside the hospital is equally rewarding.

In the cities of San Francisco and Oakland, residents enjoy vibrant food scenes, diverse neighborhoods, and a rich arts and cultural landscape. Further afield, the Bay Area offers various possibilities to enjoy outdoor activities year-round—from hiking among redwood forests and exploring coastal trails to visiting nearby wine country or skiing in Lake Tahoe. 

When you come to the Bay Area, you can explore:

San Francisco

Living in the Bay Area affords ample opportunities to explore all the amenities a major city has to offer: arts, entertainment, sports, food culture and more. And beyond the city itself are nearby treasures such as Marin County, Lake Tahoe, Napa Valley, and Yosemite National Park.

Oakland

Across the Bay from San Francisco is UCSF Benioff Childrens Hospital Oakland. Like San Francisco, the Oakland's rich and unique history is evident in a vibrant arts scenes and diverse dining options. The East Bay boasts expansive regional parks and frequent local festivals as well. 

woman dancing on AIDS Walk day in GG Park
Golden Gate Park hosts events from music festivals (some like Hardly Strictly Bluegrass are free!) to awareness walks, like the AIDS walk.
two women in front of a painted wall in SF's Mission District
The Mission District of San Francisco is known for the colorful murals of Balmy Alley and the many authentic taquerias where you can grab a bite. 

 

people walking by a colorfully painted wall outside Glide Memorial church
There are many ways to get involved in the larger San Francisco community through UCSF, like "Care with Heart" at Glide Memorial church in the Tenderloin.

 

Chinese New Year celebratory lion dance
San Francisco is home to the oldest Chinatown in North America. Chinese New Year is a city-wide celebration with Lion Dances, festivals and a televised parade.