Bay to Breakers is one of the most raucous parties San Francisco throws all year, and the big day is rapidly approaching. This Sunday, tens of thousands of runners—some serious athletes but most costumed and tipsy—will run from the Embarcadero all the way across town to Ocean Beach. While many locals along the race route host huge soirees, most of us aren't lucky enough to have friends with party pads along Alamo Square. If you're looking for a public spot to keep the post-race party going, look no further:
1. Baker Beach: While the crowds might wrap up the race at Ocean Beach, a more low-key party will be underway just over the hill at Baker Beach. Cold beer and hot bods will flood this picturesque oasis throughout the day, so arrive early if you plan to park in one of the small beach parking lots or score prime sand space.
2. El Rio: This lively Mission bar with a fabulous outdoor patio is hosting a Third Sunday dance party, Daytime Realness. Heklina, Stanley Frank & DJ Carnita will present us with an afternoon of drag, dancing and debauchery, followed by Heartbreak Karaoke at 8:30pm.
3. Dolores Park: Dolores Park is always a hot spot on a sunny Sunday afternoon, but this weekend will be off the hook at the park in the heart of the Mission. Bring your own snacks and drinks, because the lines at Bi-Rite will be unbearable.
4. A rooftop bar: The gods will be smiling upon Bay to Breakers this weekend—at least when it comes to weather. Sunday should be sun-drenched! A rooftop cocktail is always a fun idea, but the city's rooftop bars will be especially hopping come Sunday afternoon.
5. Finish Line Festival: Bay to Breakers hosts their own post-race party at Ocean Beach. If you're willing to wade through the masses of racers and promotional booths, there's food, drink and live music available all afternoon.
6. The Ramp: Might sleep through the entire race? You're not alone. Take advantage of the fact that half of the city is stumbling around the west side of town and settle into a plastic chair at The Ramp, a dive-y outdoor restaurant and bar along the Dogpatch docks. We're particularly fond of their massive Bloody Marys and even bigger brunches.
7. Fort Mason: Fort Mason will be the same scene as Dolores Park, minus the marijuana and plus chilled rosé. Corn-hole games abound at this preppy weekend hangout, where many of the cheekily costumes racers will end up (and pass out).