Creative Retreats & Weekend Getaways Offered by City College SF

Let’s face it, there’s no better time than the present to escape from it all and indulge in whatever adventures excite or energize you to get back to life. OK, we all agree, so where to begin? Simply taking a break from daily routines allows anyone the chance to relax and refocus on one’s self. Planned weekend getaways or art retreats offer numerous benefits for relaxation and creativity. And there is no better way to enjoy a well-deserved break than by joining in with a group of like-minded individuals. Shared experiences give the extra boost that generates collaboration and inspiration.

Weekend getaways often center around workshops or classes where participants learn from artists and other creatives, or improve existing skills in a supportive environment.

Additionally, most retreats are located in scenic areas surrounded by nature, offering outdoor activities that connect with the environment in ways vastly different for our everyday life. 

Fortunately City Extension, the gateway to lifelong learning, provides several exceptional short trips at reasonable cost. Travel with artists and educators who are experts in their fields for enjoyable experiences and personal enrichment, and of course, lasting memories.

Thursday 5/21/2026–Sunday 5/24/2026

NOTE: The enrollment deadline for this workshop is April 20.

This long weekend class will explore watercolor painting, from the technical aspects of color, to fun prompted exercises that, according to instructor Lisa Solomon, “… test out some of the tricks and theories you’ll be learning. We'll even do a short segment on making your own watercolor!“ There is a lot to learn, experiment with, and enjoy in the beautiful hills above Los Altos setting. Read more here.

Included: Lodging, all meals, snacks, coffee, all basic workshop materials.

Not included: Transportation to and from the retreat.

Cost: $1,195.

Thursday 7/30/2026–Sunday 8/2/2026

In this long weekend retreat, participants will work on painting a self-portrait in acrylic paints, finding inspiration in the Redwood wilderness of California’s North Coast. Set in lovely Arcata, at Cal Poly Humboldt, instructor Gina, “will provide guiding insights and demonstrations on both watercolor/gouache and acrylic processes along the way.” Read more here.

Included: Lodging, meals, afternoon snacks and beverages, and basic painting materials for the workshop.

Not included: Travel to and from Humboldt.

Cost: $1,195.

Five Zoom sessions, 6/22/2026 –7/20/2026
Three days of plays in Ashland, 7/31/2026–8/2/2026

Actor and educator Tyrone Wilson accompanies you on an incredible learning and travel experience to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. The pre-trip Zoom sessions will prepare students to learn more about the plays they will attend in Ashland. No doubt this will be an exciting trip to remember! Read more here.

Included: Lodging, ticketed seating for five plays, daily breakfasts, Saturday dinner.

Not included: Travel to Ashland, transportation within Ashland.

Cost: $1,195.

Thursday 9/3/2026–Sunday 9/6/2026

Note: this long weekend quilting and relaxation retreat is currently full and accepting wait listers. Read more here.

For a terrific selection of other creative workshops that take place in San Francisco, read more here.