The best hidden gems of the Bay Area suburbs

Foster's Bighorn Rio Vista

This is a place that will either delight or freak you out. The restaurant displays Bill Foster's massive collection of taxidermy animals from around the world. Foster assembled the collection in the 1930s so that locals could see wildlife from around the world. less Foster's Bighorn Rio Vista

This is a place that will either delight or freak you out. The restaurant displays Bill Foster's massive collection of taxidermy animals from around the world. Foster assembled ... more Photo: MIKE KEPKA, SFC Photo: MIKE KEPKA, SFC Image 1 of / 104 Caption Close The best hidden gems of the Bay Area suburbs 1 / 104 Back to Gallery

A few years ago, we put together our list of San Francisco's best hidden gems and secret spots. The concept was so popular we added a second installment of reader's picks. Now, we're expanding our search because — as we all know — the entire Bay Area is filled with cool things to do.

One of our favorite hidden gems is Green Valley Falls, a spot so secret the City of Vallejo asks that hikers refrain from posting pictures of it on social media.

The waterfall is on private property in Solano County, and is called "one of the most picturesque places" in the area and among "most beautiful" waterfalls in the entire Bay Area. Hikers are required to sign up for a tour with the Bay Area Ridge Trail. They offer a smattering of dates each year, limited to 30 people per date. Dates haven't been announced for 2019 yet, but they're usually listed on the events page.

MORE: The best free things for tourists to do in San Francisco

Photo ID is also required for each member of the hike and, as mentioned before, sharing photos is prohibited to deter trespassers seeking the site.

Let us know your favorite hidden gems of the suburbs in the comments — or keep them a secret. We won't blame you for wanting to keep some things to yourself.