top things to do in san francisco
Explore a range of neighborhoods, see famous sites, and immerse yourself in the exciting and diverse city of San Francisco. Popular San Francisco activities include the following:
THE GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE
Explore the world’s most recognizable landmark, the Golden Gate Bridge. Cross the bridge to Sausalito by foot or bicycle, or stop at sites like Battery Spencer to take in the magnificent view. It’s much farther than you might expect and not suitable for novice bikers. Packages bike and ferries are available.
Pro Tip: From April through September, there is no motorized traffic on Saturdays, allowing you to run, cycle, or stroll across the bridge.
CABLE CARS
Take a ride on the iconic cable cars to discover the essence of San Francisco. There are beautiful trips throughout the city on the Powell-Hyde (Ghirardelli Square to Union Square), and Powell-Mason (Fisherman’s Wharf to Union Square) lines.
FERRY BUILDING MARKETPLACE
Discover a wide range of fine dining establishments, specialty food stores, and handcrafted goods at the Ferry Building Marketplace. One attraction is the farmers’ market held on Saturdays.
FISHERMAN’S WHARF
Experience the lively waterfront neighborhood of Fisherman’s Wharf, which is home to a variety of eateries, shops, and activities. Visiting Pier 39, observing sea lions, and enjoying clam chowder in a bread bowl at Boudin at the Wharf are all considered tourist attractions. It is something you must do once.
CHINATOWN
Explore the bustling Chinatown of San Francisco, which is among the biggest and oldest in North America. You may tour the Fortune Cookie factory, enjoy Dim Sum, and go shopping at this fantastic location.
GOLDEN GATE PARK
Golden Gate Park is a sizable urban park featuring gardens, museums, and leisure spaces. Spend some time there. Stop by the Japanese Tea Garden, the de Young Museum, and the California Academy of Sciences.
PRESIDIO PARK
Combining history, recreation, and scenic beauty, The Presidio of San Francisco provides tourists with a wide range of activities to enjoy which include Crissy Field (a waterfront area with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay), Fort Point (a historic fort located at the southern side of the Golden Gate Bridge which also offers panoramic views of the bridge and the bay), and outdoor art installations, such as “Wood Line” and “Spire” by Andy Goldsworthy.
MARINA DISTRICT OF SAN FRANCISCO
San Francisco’s Marina District is a bustling district well-known for its elegant stores, numerous dining options, and stunning views of the waterfront where you can marvel at places such as the Palace of Fine Arts, Crissy Field and Wave Organ.
MUIR WOODS
Situated north of San Francisco in California, Muir Woods National Monument is a stunning and tranquil redwood forest. Among the tallest trees on Earth are the coastal redwoods found at Muir Woods. Admire these magnificent giants, some of which are over a thousand years old, while strolling along the well-kept paths.
Pro Tip: It can get crowded at Muir Woods, particularly on weekends. To enjoy a more tranquil experience, try going during the weekdays or early in the morning.
SAUSALITO
From San Francisco, this is another well-liked outing. Sausalito is a great place to visit for lunch or in the afternoon if you visit Muir Woods early in the morning. With its charming houseboats and stunning skyline view, it’s a terrific location for pictures too.
MISSION DISTRICT
Explore the dynamic Mission District, renowned for its bright murals, street art, and varied gastronomic offerings. You can visit this outdoor art exhibition for free. Some are just vibrant pieces of art, while others make political messages.
In the Mission District, street art is present all over the place. There are two lanes, though, that have vibrant murals all over them; Balmy Alley and Clarion Alley
TWIN PEAKS
In the heart of San Francisco are two hills at 925 feet. The best view of the city at sunset is accessible by driving to the summit. Pack layers because it’s going to be really windy. Climb the Twin Peaks steps for expansive views of the city and the bay, especially during clear skies. It’s also a fantastic location for nighttime city light viewing.
THE TILED STEPS
San Francisco has many locations where one can take stunning pictures of tiled steps; 16th Avenue Tiled Steps (on Lomita Ave. and Moraga Street), Hidden Garden Steps (on Kirkham Street and 16th Ave.), and Lincoln Park Steps (on California Street and 32nd Ave.).
LAND’S END
Savor the breathtaking scenery of Lands End, a coastal path with views of the Marin Headlands, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Pacific Ocean.
EXPLORATARIUM
Though primarily intended for children, this interactive, hands-on science museum is also very popular with adults. Add this enjoyable educational experience to your list of things to do when visiting San Francisco with children.
LOMBARD STREET
Even if you don’t intend to drive there, you should at least see San Francisco’s most crooked street (with eight hairpin curves), if you are a first-time visitor.
Pro Tip: Since you can only view the first two turns from the top, the bottom offers the best photo opportunities.
COIT TOWER
Another expansive view of San Francisco is available from the top of Coit Tower.
SEE THE PAINTED LADIES
Admire the Painted Ladies, a row of vibrant Victorian homes that are a symbol of San Francisco, from Alamo Square Park. This park is a great spot for a picnic and to pretend that you’re in the opening credits of Full House.
Pro Tip: For the perfect shot, go in the middle of the morning on an overcast day, just as the sun is starting to show through the buildings across the street.
GHIRARDELLI SQUARE
Ghirardelli Square is a historic chocolate factory converted into a shopping and dining area. Enjoy delights made with chocolate there.
