Marin Blog · Outdoor Adventures Collection

Ready, Set, Cheer! A Guide to Sports Madness

Posted in Blogging Marin on Friday, January 17, 2025 by MCVB Staff

As San Francisco gears up for exciting sports events in 2025, make Marin County your home base for a unique combination of fun and relaxation. Just a quick drive or ferry ride away, Marin offers a peaceful escape with breathtaking views, outdoor activities, and various dining experiences. Whether exploring nature or simply taking in the calm surroundings, Marin gives you the perfect setting to unwind after a day at the games.

Get Ready for NBA All-Stars and WNBA Action

2025 is set to be an unforgettable year for basketball enthusiasts. The 74th NBA All-Star Game will take place on February 16, 2025, at the Chase Center in San Francisco. This year’s All-Star Weekend promises an exciting new format, featuring a tournament-style event with four teams—three composed of the NBA’s top 24 All-Star selections and the fourth made up of Rising Stars event winners.

The weekend’s events will run from February 14–16, with games hosted across various Bay Area venues.

Golden State Valkyries: A New Era

If you're a fan of women’s basketball, don’t miss the debut of the Golden State Valkyries, the newest team in the WNBA, set to take the court from May to October 2025. This new team marks a significant milestone for women’s basketball, adding fresh excitement to the league. With a focus on strength and valor, the Valkyries are sure to become a fan favorite, bringing competitive energy to the WNBA.

Check out their schedule for the season and FAQs for more details about the team!

 

Explore Local Basketball Leagues and Events

While you're in the Bay Area for the 2025 NBA events, don’t miss out on the chance to dive into some local basketball action right here in Marin.

Attend Local Games in Marin
The Marin County Athletic League (MCAL) hosts various basketball matches throughout the season, featuring talented teams from across the region. Check out the MCAL Basketball page for schedules and game details.

Join a Pickup Game or League
Marin also has several drop-in leagues and open play sessions for those who prefer to play. The Strawberry Recreation Center offers a Thursday night adult basketball drop-in session, perfect for anyone looking to shoot hoops, get a workout, and have fun with friends.

Explore Local Teams and Facilities
If you are looking for more organized basketball or simply want to support local teams, Branson School has a strong basketball program. Their teams compete throughout the year, and you can find their schedule here. It’s a great opportunity to catch competitive games while supporting your local community.

 


Witness Tennis History: The Laver Cup in SF

The Laver Cup, one of tennis’s most exciting events, is coming to San Francisco in September 2025. For the first time, the prestigious competition will be held at the Chase Center, bringing together some of the world’s best male tennis players for an unforgettable three-day event from September 19–21.

A Thrilling Showdown of Tennis Legends
This year’s Laver Cup promises an epic clash of tennis titans. Team Europe, led by four-time Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz, will face off against Team World, which American No. 1 Taylor Fritz will head. Watch as the top players battle it out in a unique team format that will keep you on the edge of your seat!

 

Join a Local Tennis Match


While you await the Laver Cup, why not step onto the court yourself or cheer on our local tennis stars? The Branson School, for example, has a strong varsity tennis program with regular matches throughout the season. Attending these games not only supports local talent but also offers a chance to see future tennis stars in the making!

Check out the team schedule here to plan your visit and catch some exciting high school tennis matches before the big games kick off!

 


Discover What’s Coming for Super Bowl in 2026


The San Francisco Bay Area is set to host two of the biggest sporting events in 2026: Super Bowl LX and the FIFA World Cup. The highly anticipated Super Bowl LX will return to Levi’s® Stadium in Santa Clara 10 years after hosting Super Bowl 50. The event comes with numerous activities throughout Super Bowl Week, including NFL Honors, the Super Bowl Experience, and community programs.

FIFA World Cup 2026

Meanwhile, the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be held across North America, with San Francisco among the host cities. This tournament will be the largest in history, featuring 48 teams. Mark your calendars for 2026, as these iconic events promise unforgettable experiences for fans worldwide!

Cheer for Local Football Teams in Marin
Get into the football spirit by supporting local high school teams in Marin through the Marin County Athletic League (MCAL). Schools like Marin Catholic, Redwood, and Tamalpais host exciting games filled with talent and community pride.

Attending these games is a great way to enjoy the action, connect with neighbors, and cheer for young athletes as they give their all on the field. Check the MCAL website for schedules and updates.

 


Marin County’s Go-To Places for Sports and Great Food

Marin offers sports fans a wide range of lively venues to enjoy the games while savoring great food and drinks. These local favorites promise a fantastic game-watching experience no matter what sport you're into.

Perry’s Novato

This local gem combines a classic American menu with a welcoming atmosphere. The spacious bar features three big-screen TVs, perfect for catching all the action. Both indoor and outdoor dining areas include cozy fireplaces, making it a top spot for sports fans.

Floodwater

This Mill Valley favorite features a modern-rustic vibe with a 30-seat bar, multiple TVs, and a California-inspired menu. Be it relaxing in the cozy den or mingling under the 40-foot ceilings, Floodwater delivers a vibrant game-day experience.

HopMonk Tavern

Known for its spacious beer garden, HopMonk Tavern is perfect for Sunday Night Football or a casual sports night. Pair your favorite game with specialty brews and tasty small plates for a memorable outing.

The Flatiron

With an 80-inch screen in the back room with numerous other TVs, The Flatiron in San Rafael ensures you won’t miss a second of the game. Enjoy an extensive menu with festive events like trivia nights and live music.

 

Where to Rest and Recharge in Marin County During the Big Games

Marin County offers convenient places to stay during the game season. These accommodations provide comfort and easy access to San Francisco and the airport.

Courtyard by Marriott Larkspur

Enjoy direct transportation to San Francisco via the Larkspur Ferry Terminal. For easy access to SFO Airport, board the Marin Airporter from Larkspur.

Courtyard by Marriott Novato

Travel to San Francisco using the SMART Train to the Larkspur Ferry Terminal. From there, connect to SFO Airport via the Marin Airporter.

The Lodge at Tiburon

This hotel offers direct ferry transportation from Tiburon to San Francisco, making game-day travel a breeze!

Acqua Hotel & Holiday Inn Express, Mill Valley

Both hotels provide convenient access to SFO Airport through the Marin Airporter, departing from nearby Manzanita or Seminary stops.

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Rafael

From the Civic Center, hop on the SMART Train to the Larkspur Ferry Terminal. Complete your journey to SFO Airport with the Marin Airporter.

Each hotel guarantees comfort, convenience, and efficient transport options for an exceptional game day experience!

 


From thrilling game-day venues to cozy accommodations, Marin County has it all! For the best places to stay in Marin, visit the Marin CVB at visitmarin.org/hotels.

Marin County is more than just a destination; it's an experience. With its stunning landscapes, top-notch amenities, and the dedicated support of the Marin CVB team, an event in Marin is sure to be a success. Start planning your unforgettable Marin County event today!