7 amazing Bay Area things to do this weekend, July 22-24

Got your weekend plans? Well, we are full of all kinds of great ideas, from alfresco dining deliciousness to great concerts, plays and amazing gardens to visit.

If you’re going out to a show or a meal, be sure to check the venue or restaurant website for the latest COVID safety updates before you go.

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1 WATCH: A crazy, thrilling spy movie

Adapted from Mark Greaney’s hugely successful novel, “The Gray Man” is fun, easy on the eyes (and not just because it stars Ryan Gosling) and even easier on the brain. It tops our list of new movies and shows you should know about.

2 EAT & SIP: Take it outside

Yes, the Bay Area is a world class place for dining alfresco. It’s so good it can be intimidating trying to find a place. We feel your pain, so here are 10 outdoor dining spots that will make your weekend.

3 PLAY: Explore a gorgeous garden

The Bay Area is chock full of some of the world’s most dazzling and pleasant public gardens. Here are seven of our absolute favorites, plus a secret garden high up in the Berkeley Hills.

4 SEE & HEAR: Terrific live shows and exhibits abound

From the awesome jazz/blues singer Faye Carol to the world-famous Cabrillo Festival, there are all kinds of great live shows to see this weekend. Here’s a rundown.

5 MAKE & SIP: Sumptuous slushy cocktails

You can impress your friends by whipping up a refreshing strawberry cobbler (yes, it’s a drink) or a new take on the mint julep. Here’s how.

6 SEE: 2 compelling new stage shows

The South Bay is where it’s at for new plays this weekend. There’s a world premiere about the guy who invented the pap smear and a terrific new take on the quirky coming-of-age musical, “Fun Home.”

7 PLAY: A game so good, it’s scary

Lots of gamers got hooked on the terrific “Monster Hunter Rise” last year. Now Capcom has released a new “expansion,” “Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak,” that makes it all even better. Here’s what you need to know.