visit san francisco 2022

San Francisco   Travel Guide

30 Top-Rated Things to Do in San Francisco

San Francisco is only 7 miles square, but it's packed with activities to delight outdoorsy types, art and culture lovers, foodies and curious wanderers of all ages. San Francisco offers so much more than its iconic landmarks. While Coit Tower and

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Crissy Field & The Presidio Tunnel Tops Crissy Field & The Presidio Tunnel Tops free

Part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Presidio Tunnel Tops is the nation’s newest national park space and reconnects the city to the bay. The 14-acre park, which was designed by James Corner Field Operations (the same team behind NYC ’s High Line ) bridges over the newly tunneled Presidio Parkway. The parkway (formerly Doyle Drive) separated the historic Main Post from the waterfront. Connecting pathways, bluff landscapes and overlooks have made the park a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. 

One of the park’s largest areas, the Golden Gate Meadow, is a popular spot for families for picnics, kite-flying and other outdoor activities. Gardens and accessible cliff walks border the meadow, which also offers views of the Golden Gate Bridge , the bay and the Marin Headlands. A 2-acre play space called the Outpost features huge play structures built from fallen tree trunks, boulders and other things inspired by nature, allowing children to swing, crawl and climb. 

Golden Gate Park Golden Gate Park free

If California had a Central Park equivalent, Golden Gate Park would undoubtedly be it. Though Golden Gate Park sees a small fraction of the visitors its New York counterpart does (Central Park welcomes more than 42 million, while Golden Gate sees more than 24 million yearly), it's about 174 acres bigger (Central Park is 843 acres). The park offers so much to see and do, it could take an entire day to experience all that it has to offer. Trails, picturesque picnic spaces, playgrounds, sports courts, gardens, museums and more can be found within its evergreen borders. With so many options available, it's best to map out what you want to do ahead of time, though some attractions warrant a visit, regardless of traveler taste.

The Japanese Tea Garden is one of those standout sites. This attraction is one of a kind, serving as the oldest Japanese garden in the U.S. It features 5 acres of manicured gardens outfitted with cherry trees, bamboo-lined pathways, koi ponds, a five-story pagoda, a Zen garden and a tea house, among other features. There's also the Conservatory of Flowers, the oldest existing public conservatory in the Western Hemisphere. The conservatory offers visitors a look at a plethora of vibrantly colored blooms and a chance to learn more about the nearly 2,000 species of plants that call the conservatory home. 

Coit Tower Coit Tower

Rising from its position on the peak of Telegraph Hill in Pioneer Park, Coit Tower serves as a vantage point to take in the northwest corner of San Francisco. Visitors might think the 210-foot-tall tower was designed to resemble a fire hose nozzle. While Lillie Hitchcock Coit commissioned the tower as a monument to volunteer firefighters, the concrete pillar's nozzle-like appearance is coincidental. The tower was completed in 1933, while artists painted the murals around its base (and repainted them due to some illustrations containing communist imagery) in 1934. The Coit Tower currently resides on the list of San Francisco Designated Landmarks and the National Register of Historic Places.

Recent travelers enjoyed the murals and 360-degree views of San Francisco from the top of the tower, but have complained about paying to climb stairs. The easiest way to access the Coit Tower is via the N line of the Muni. From downtown, you can take either the No. 30 or No. 45 line to Washington Square, located at the corners of Union & Columbus and transfer to the No. 39 Coit Tower bus.

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Lands End Lands End free

One of the top places in San Francisco to catch the sunset, Lands End offers whimsical, winding trails through rocky cliffs. Located in the northwestern corner of San Francisco, the park sits inside of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The park encompasses multiple historic sites, monuments, multiple trails and a shoreline labyrinth with excellent views of the Golden Gate Bridge .

Visitors often rave about the park’s trails and the views of the Golden Gate Bridge and other San Francisco landmarks. Many have appreciated the historic ruins of the Sutro Baths, which San Franciscans used as a recreational swimming facility from 1898 to 1964. The baths were demolished in 1964, then further destroyed by a fire in 1966, leaving the structure that travelers can visit today. Similarly, the park's iconic Cliff House was destroyed twice by fire, but it was rebuilt each time. Cultural hounds will want to stop by the nearby Legion of Honor museum, which displays European paintings, European decorative arts and sculpture and ancient art from the Mediterranean basin, among other works. The Legion of Honor is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. Admission costs $20 for adults and is free for children 17 and younger.

Golden Gate Bridge Golden Gate Bridge free

The Golden Gate Bridge's vaulting, orange arches amidst the rocky seascape of the San Francisco Bay have made it one of the West Coast's most enduring symbols and the city's most popular tourist attraction. The bridge's name, "Golden Gate," actually refers to the body of water it spans (the Golden Gate Strait that connects the Pacific Ocean with the San Francisco Bay), and was built to make travel between San Francisco and Marin County an easier feat. 

There are plenty of great spots to capture a snap of the majestic bridge. But if you want a truly postcard-worthy shot, head to the Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point, situated high on a hill overlooking San Francisco. If you have extra time, make sure to explore the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The actual span of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area encompasses multiple places in San Mateo (south of San Francisco), San Francisco and Marin counties ( Alcatraz and Muir Woods included), but notable parts of this recreation area can be found just a stroll away from the Golden Gate. From the bridge, travelers will find some scenic, bayside trails, some of which lead to secluded beaches, including Kirby Cove and Black Sands Beach. If you really want a trek, journey to the Point Bonita Lighthouse for sweeping views of the bay, found at the very tip of the Golden Gate Strait.

Ferry Building Marketplace Ferry Building Marketplace free

Attention all foodies: this delectable attraction needs to be at the top of your San Francisco to-do list. The Ferry Building Marketplace is a public food market that features a variety of food stalls that act as small restaurants, snack stops and grocery stores. Here you can find everything from staples, such as seafood, burgers, Mexican food and plenty of coffee, to a Japanese delicatessen, empanada stand, a honey shop and an organic bagel shop.

Many travelers who stopped by the Ferry Building Marketplace enjoyed the lively atmosphere and were impressed with the amount, variety and overall quality of eats available on-site. The Saturday farmers market was a standout for many. Though there are formal restaurants available, some visitors say the best strategy is to pick up a to-go meal and enjoy it along the scenic waterfront. And if you're not one for lines, don't come on the weekends. For a different perspective of the marketplace, view it from the water on a narrated boat tour . Some of the best San Francisco food tours also make stops here.

Alcatraz Alcatraz

U.S. News Insider Tip: Depending on what time of year you visit, tours to Alcatraz can sell out months in advance. Play it safe by not waiting until the last minute to reserve your spot. – Alissa Grisler, Associate Editor

While riding a cable car and getting a snap of the Golden Gate Bridge is a must when visiting San Francisco, both visitors and travel experts tend to argue the same for Alcatraz. This is because Alcatraz is rich with history. Sitting on a small, rocky island in the middle of San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz is best known as being a former federal prison that housed some of society's biggest offenders, the most famous of which was Prohibition-era mob boss Al Capone. Before that, it was a military prison that housed prisoners from the Spanish-American War and Civil War, as well as the site of the West Coast's first operating lighthouse. The prison closed down both times due to high operating costs and was handed over to the National Park Service in 1972 after the island experienced a short occupation from Native American activists. Today, the attraction welcomes more than one million visitors per year. 

California Academy of Sciences California Academy of Sciences

Attention, families: recent visitors said this is the perfect place to bring kids in San Francisco. The California Academy of Sciences brims with plenty of things to see, including an aquarium, a planetarium, a natural history museum and even a rainforest. 

The Steinhart Aquarium is home to about 40,000 animals representing more than 900 different species, including a penguin colony from Africa, a swamp with an albino alligator, a shark lagoon and a separate 100,000-gallon tank that mirrors the ecosystem of the California coast. Meanwhile, the Osher Rainforest houses more than 1,600 animals, including 250 free-flying birds and butterflies, and about 100 reptiles and amphibians in its four-story complex. The Morrison Planetarium is known for its 75-foot-diameter screen, which plays "Tour of the Universe" shows daily. And the Kimball Natural History Museum boasts dinosaur fossils, an interactive science exhibit and a unique earthquake simulator. 

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Palace of Fine Arts Palace of Fine Arts free

The only remaining structure from an early 20th-century world’s fair that helped put San Francisco on the international map, the Palace of Fine Arts is a faux palace surrounded by a lagoon frequented by snow-white swans. That setting combined with the building’s neoclassical design makes the Palace of Fine Arts one of the most popular spots in the city for wedding photos and Instagram shots. 

Described as a Beaux-Arts wonder, the palace was restored in the early 1960s, duplicating the original with a towering colonnade, bas-relief urns and a domed ceiling with allegorical paintings.

Hayes Valley Hayes Valley free

One of the best areas for shopping, eating, and people-watching, Hayes Valley is a cool, revitalized neighborhood located in the heart of the city. The main commercial strip, along Hayes Street between Laguna and Franklin, teems with stylish and unique home decor shops and clothing boutiques interspersed with charming outdoor cafes, dessert spots and a wide array of well-established restaurants and trendy watering holes. The neighborhood also features beautifully restored Victorians, a community garden and an art park.

Past visitors enjoyed the eclectic, European feel of the neighborhood and the quintessentially San Francisco experiences they've had there. These include customizing your own bag at the original Timbuk2 store , grabbing a coffee at Blue Bottle Coffee 's first brick-and-mortar tucked into a garage or enjoying a made-to-order ice cream at Smitten's kiosk overlooking the lively urban park, Patricia's Green .

Dolores Park Dolores Park free

On the western edge of The Mission , this 16-acre park is billed as one of the city’s most popular – because of its views of the San Francisco skyline and beyond, as well its ample green space. On sunny days, the park is a favorite among families who flock here to picnic on the grassy lawns that are shaded by palm trees. There’s also a playground and two off-leash dog play areas, as well as several sports courts. If you’re hoping to bring a picnic to enjoy at the park, experts suggest stopping by Tartine Bakery, Rhea’s Market & Deli and Nopalito.

Interestingly, the park is situated on land that was once a Jewish cemetery. In 1905, the city purchased the land and created the park. A year later, it became a refugee camp for hundreds of residents who became homeless after the historic 1906 earthquake and fire. 

The Mission The Mission free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Walk along Valencia Street between 20th and 22nd streets for unique and creative shops and affordable restaurants. Check out local favorites like sustainable bag brand Baggu, Dog Eared Books and Paxton Gate. – Lili Weigert

The Mission has attracted San Francisco's young bohemian crowd in the past decade, but its history is rooted in Hispanic heritage. After all, its namesake is the city’s oldest building, Mission Dolores. This is the place that introduced the burrito to the wider world, so be sure to check out Latinx-owned businesses like La Taqueria, Taqueria La Cumbre and El Farolito for some tasty eats loved by both locals and travelers alike. The Mission is also a great neighborhood for getting away from the heavily visited tourist attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman's Wharf , plus it's a popular stop on many of the city's best walking tours .

San Francisco's Chinatown San Francisco's Chinatown free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Did you know that fortune cookies were invented in San Francisco? While in Chinatown, stop by the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory where you can watch the cookies being made and sample different flavors and toppings. – Lili Weigert

While New York City 's Chinatown tends to take center stage in the U.S., San Francisco's Chinatown is just as much of a star. San Francisco's Chinatown hosts one of the largest Asian communities outside of Asia, and is considered one of the oldest in North America. Chinese immigrants first started coming to California in search of fortune during the Gold Rush. After being driven out of the gold mines due to discrimination and restrictive legislation against Chinese immigrants, the Chinese moved to build businesses of their own in the area that is now Chinatown – one of the city's most visited neighborhoods. 

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Haight-Ashbury Haight-Ashbury free

Named for the intersection of Haight and Ashbury streets, this neighborhood is best known as the center of the 1960s counterculture movement. Remnants of the long gone hippie culture endure, including the former Grateful Dead house at 710 Ashbury St., and the Jefferson Airplane house at 2400 Fulton St. Both are private residences, but remain perennial attractions. 

These days, trendy has replaced hippy. Colorful Victorian homes line the hillsides and restaurants and boutiques crowd the streets. Along Upper Haight, you’ll find flamboyant clothing shops, piercing and tattoo parlors, and hip restaurants. Downhill on Haight Street, you’ll find dive bars, consignment stores and music shops. 

Ocean Beach Ocean Beach free

U.S. News Insider Tip: After a walk along the beach, cross the Great Highway for brunch or happy hour at The Beach Chalet. Enjoy the ocean view from the spacious dining room or head around back to the Parc Chalet for outdoor seating and a more relaxed atmosphere. – Lili Weigert

Located in the northwestern corner of San Francisco, Ocean Beach separates attractions like the San Francisco Zoo and Golden Gate Park from the Pacific Ocean. This 3 ½-mile stretch of sand is a welcome respite from the city's bustling downtown. Visitors and locals can walk the beach, while experienced surfers brave the frigid water in search of the perfect wave. While swimming is not encouraged here due to strong currents, travelers can build a bonfire and hang out and soak up the scenery by one of the 16 fire rings that pepper the beach. Average temperatures at the beach typically hover around 50 degrees. Also, keep in mind that fog shrouds the shore during the late spring and summer, while the sunniest months are September and October.

Muir Woods National Monument Muir Woods National Monument

U.S. News Insider Tip: You won't find great cell service here, so download anything you need before you enter the park. – Leilani Osmundson, Digital Producer

What better exemplifies California's dramatic landscape than sky-high redwood trees? That's what you'll find at Muir Woods, the beautiful and expansive national monument just 16 miles north of San Francisco. This attraction is a must-see for anyone looking to get up close and personal with some of California's most famous topography, not to mention a nice break from the bustle of the city. The largest redwood tree in Muir Woods measures about 258 feet tall. To give you a better visual, imagine 45 six-foot-tall individuals stacked on top of each other. And if that wasn't enough to impress, the average age of redwoods in Muir Woods is 600 to 800 years, and that's not even some of the oldest in the park at the moment.

Japantown Japantown free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Navigating this part of town can be hectic, so if you drive, the best place to park is the Japan Center Garage. As an added convenience, the garage's website shows the number of spaces available in real time. – Lili Weigert

There are only three Japantowns left in the country, and San Francisco's is both the largest and the oldest, dating back to 1906. It's a vibrant and colorful community where you can immerse yourself in Japanese culture and experiences. The neighborhood offers a huge variety of Japanese items calling out to be purchased or consumed, including plenty of affordable options for the budget traveler.

Cable Cars Cable Cars

Chances are, you've seen a television show, movie, postcard or some type of San Francisco memorabilia emblazoned with the city's iconic cable car or trolley. So, of course, to fully experience San Francisco's charm, you should hop on board. San Francisco's cable car system is the last of its kind in the United States, given the title of a National Historic Landmark in 1964. The cable car was conceived after Andrew Smith Hallidie, an immigrant from England, witnessed an accident involving a horse-drawn buggy trying to climb a steep San Francisco hill and failing. His father had a patent for wire rope in England and he used that to design a transportation system that relied on just that. Thus, cable cars were born in the late 1800s. 

Though cable cars are seldom used by locals (due in part to their small travel network and high fare), tourists flock to them in droves. More than 9 million visitors ride the cable cars each year, and according to recent travelers, it's easy to see why. Tourists had a blast riding the cable cars up and down San Francisco's vibrant streets. Even though some said they encountered long lines to board, the majority of visitors believe the wait to be worth the experience and a must-do in San Francisco. Though if you're not one for long lines, some say to board at one of the stops along the line instead at the beginning. 

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Presidio Heights Presidio Heights free

U.S. News Insider Tip: This is a great neighborhood for consignment stores. Sprinkled among the many high-end fashionable boutiques, check out local favorites Goodbyes and The Designer Consigner. – Lili Weigert

Presidio Heights is an elegant and immaculate neighborhood known for its stunning views and beautiful homes. It also includes the Sacramento Street Shopping District, which stretches over seven blocks and is where you'll find some of San Francisco's most established and sophisticated design shops and fashion boutiques. Whether you're looking for gifts, keepsakes, ideas or inspiration, it's a lovely area to explore away from the hustle and bustle of the city's other shopping districts.

Oracle Park Oracle Park

The San Francisco Giants have been calling this stadium home since 2000, playing host to multiple World Series games. Oracle Park is regarded as one of the most scenic baseball parks in the United States for its picturesque placement along the San Francisco Bay. The majority of attendees are afforded prime views of the glittering water from their seats all the while being able to enjoy one of America's greatest pastimes. 

Although baseball season runs from April to October, the stadium holds tours year-round (except on game days), providing a behind-the-scenes look at the field, dugout, the press box, luxury suites and more. Make sure to catch a glimpse of the World Series trophies and rings, which are on display on the Promenade Level behind home plate. 

Baker Beach Baker Beach free

While San Francisco isn't known for being a beach town, the city's Baker Beach is often considered one of the best in California . Located in the northwestern area of San Francisco in the Presidio, Baker Beach is primarily known for its sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the neighboring Marin Headlands. The mile-long beach offers travelers plenty of room to spread their legs and features picnic areas and access to nearby Presidio trails. Travelers flock here to snap photos of the bridge, however, if you're looking to catch some rays or get your feet wet, you should go elsewhere: Swimming at Baker Beach is dangerous due to large waves, undertow and rip currents, and the city's fickle weather means it's not always warm enough for sunbathing.

Travelers strongly recommend bringing an extra layer, no matter what time of year you visit. Reviewers also stress that those traveling with families should stick to the south side of the beach: North Baker Beach is clothing optional, and it's definitely practiced. 

Yerba Buena Gardens Yerba Buena Gardens free

After a day of hasty sightseeing, the Yerba Buena Gardens provide travelers with an opportunity to wind down and enjoy San Francisco's weather and unique culture. The gardens include 5 acres of landscaped lawns complete with flowers, trees, water features and public art. The Cho-En Butterfly Garden attracts native San Francisco butterflies with plants (also native) that encourage butterfly growth from eggs to adults. Meanwhile, the Reflection Garden serves as a tribute to the Ohlone Indians as well as a performance area for various oral traditions. The Upper Terrace Garden and the Sister City Gardens, which include plants from San Francisco's 18 sister cities from around the world, are where visitors will find the area's cafes and most of its seating. Additionally, the East Garden houses a variety of sculptures and water features. There are also three spaces designed specifically for kids, including a children’s garden and two playgrounds. 

What's more, attractions like the Children's Creativity Museum and the Yerba Buena Ice Skating + Bowling Center flank the Yerba Buena Gardens, so travelers could feasibly spend an entire day exploring this area of San Francisco. Due to the number of restaurants that also surround the gardens, many past travelers recommend stopping by the Yerba Buena Gardens after grabbing lunch or snacks nearby. They also find the park a great location to relax and enjoy the landscape,

Twin Peaks Twin Peaks free

If you want the best views of San Francisco, take a hike to Twin Peaks. These famous grassy peaks rise 922 feet in elevation, making them the second highest point in the city (after Mount Davidson). From the top, travelers can view multiple San Francisco landmarks, including the Bay Bridge and the downtown skyscrapers. Whether you decide to go during the day or night (some say you should do both), numerous visitors agree that the views are stunning and worth the trek. But make sure to bring a jacket: many recent visitors said it can get windier (and subsequently chillier) up top than at sea level.

The Twin Peaks are open 5 a.m. to midnight and there is free (albeit limited) parking at the top of Twin Peaks Boulevard. The Castro Street station is the nearest Muni Metro stop and the Crestline Drive stop on the No. 37 is the best bus route (picks up from Market Street). The most common way that travelers visit the area is by walking or biking to the north peak parking lot. Many guided tours also stop here. If you’re up for a little more exploration, hike the nearly mile-long trail that ascends the two peaks. There are also more trails that meander along the southern and eastern slopes of the 64-acre park. Be sure to stay on marked trails, as poison ivy can be found in the area. For more information, visit the San Francisco Recreation and Parks  website .

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North Beach North Beach free

Don’t let the name of this neighborhood in northeastern San Francisco fool you: There’s no actual beach at North Beach. The name is more of a geographical marker for the neighborhood’s location on the bay. It’s better known as San Francisco’s Little Italy and remains home to a vibrant Italian-American community, with streets lined with restaurants and cafes. Among the neighborhood staples is Original Joe’s , which has been serving San Francisco residents for nearly a century. If you want a little help navigating the neighborhood’s delectable dining scene, consider signing up for one of the best San Francisco tours ; many of the companies featured lead guided food tours throughout North Beach.

In addition to its Italian restaurants, North Beach also gained fame as the preferred neighborhood for the post-World War II Beat Generation, which included authors Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Neal Cassady and Gregory Corso, among others. You can still see remnants of the Beat Generation in the City Lights bookstore and Vesuvio Cafe, which draws chess players, artists, poets and literary tourists. 

Union Square Union Square free

Situated a couple blocks north of Market Street and southwest of the city's Financial District, Union Square sits at the heart of downtown San Francisco's hustle and bustle. This area is loved by travelers and locals alike for its awesome location and incredible energy. Union Square Park is flanked by tall buildings (some of which are adorned with Times Square -size ads) and busy streets, offering people the unique opportunity to sit in the middle of a busy city and enjoy the atmosphere without the risk of getting hit by a car. The square also acts as a park, outfitted with small grassy spaces and palm trees. There are also multiple seating areas and works of art dotted across the square. The most recognized are the tall Dewey monument, situated in the center of the square, and the regularly photographed Hearts in San Francisco sculpture found at the base of the square. From late November to mid-January, an outdoor ice-skating rink is set up in Union Square Plaza.

Travelers appreciated the abundance of amenities that surround Union Square. There are plenty of hotels as well as dining options left and right. Union Square is pretty well-known, however, for its shopping, with many calling the area a "shopper’s paradise." Just blocks away, travelers will find everything from Neiman Marcus to Sephora. Getting to Union Square via public transportation is much easier than driving. The attraction sits just blocks from Market Street, a hub for all types of public transportation including the bus, Muni Metro and BART. Union Square is only two blocks from the Market St. & 3rd St. Muni Station and about four blocks from the Powell Street BART Station. Union Square can be visited all hours of the day and night for free. For more information on Union Square, visit the attraction's website .

Japanese Tea Garden Japanese Tea Garden

Located in Golden Gate Park , the Japanese Tea Garden offers visitors a slice of tranquility in a busy city. The garden, originally created as a "Japanese Village" for an international exposition in 1894, is the oldest continuously maintained public Japanese garden outside of Japan. 

The 5 - acre site features classic elements of a Japanese garden, including an arched drum bridge, pagodas, stone lanterns, stepping stone paths, native Japanese plants, serene koi ponds, a five-story pagoda and a Zen garden. You’ll want to plan your visit foo March or April when the garden’s cherry blossom trees are in full bloom. The garden is also home to a 9,000-pound Lantern of Peace, a gift given to the United States by Japan after World War II and meant to symbolize friendship between the two countries. 

Angel Island State Park Angel Island State Park

Angel Island State Park is situated in the San Francisco Bay and provides an abundance of outdoor activities for anyone willing to trek across the water by ferry. Some consider it the less famous (and thus, less crowded) sibling to the bay’s other well-known island, Alcatraz . Before the government converted the storied island into a park, it served as a hunting location, a cattle ranch, an immigration station and even a missile base. You can learn more about the island’s role as the West Coast’s Ellis Island with a visit to the Immigration Station, which tells the important story of the Chinese immigrant experience. 

Past visitors suggest taking one of the seasonal tram tours to get a feel for the island. Tickets for the tour cost $18 for adults and $12 for children 12 and younger. They can be purchased on the Angel Island Company's website . Recent travelers also say visitors should allot extra time to hike the roughly 6-mile perimeter loop, which offers excellent views of the water and is relatively easy.

Fisherman's Wharf Fisherman's Wharf free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  For a sweet treat, grab some delicious beignets at Frankie's Pier 43. – Leilani Osmundson, Digital Producer

Fisherman's Wharf is so tourist-laden that some travelers might prefer the quieter, more authentic attractions nearby (like the Castro or Presidio Tunnel Tops ). But if you're looking to explore all of San Francisco – from its alternative underbelly to its mainstream attractions – Fisherman's Wharf really is a must-see. This waterfront neighborhood features a laundry list of things to do, as well as a few popular San Francisco sites. One of these is Pier 39. The Pier features plenty of shopping and restaurant options for tourists and is also famous for offering sweeping views of the bay, as well as the can't-miss attractions that call it home, including Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge . Though while you're there, don't miss an opportunity to snap a photo of the sea lions who have a habit of sunbathing on buoys near the docks.

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Ghirardelli Square Ghirardelli Square free

Named after the famous purveyor of chocolate, Ghirardelli Square sits on the site of the company’s original factory. Framed by stately brick buildings, the square draws lots of tourists, thanks to its proximity to Fisherman’s Wharf and other landmarks. The square is home to shops, galleries, restaurants and, of course, the Original Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop. You can even hang your hat here: the Fairmont Heritage Place, Ghirardelli Square  sits within the complex.

Recent travelers were impressed by the views of San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge , as well as the variety of shopping, and the chocolate.

The Exploratorium The Exploratorium

This museum, or as it refers to itself, "a learning laboratory," features 600 hands-on exhibits that cover a plethora of subject matter, such as engineering, psychology, geography and biology. The museum spreads its knowledge over six main galleries, each with its own standout interactive offerings. Here, visitors can feel what it’s like to be inside a tornado, walk on an outdoor fog bridge, gaze at a bacteria terrarium, swim through the air with an anti-gravity mirror and more.

Though the Exploratorium appears as if it's designed for kids, travelers say it's a great attraction for all ages. Adults report feeling just as excited and amazed at the galleries and exhibits as kids. Though if you prefer to experience The Exploratorium without having to deal with kiddos running around, a few visitors suggested stopping by on a Thursday evening, when the attraction is open to visitors 18 years and older from 6 to 10 p.m. Regardless of the time you arrive, travelers say there is so much to see and do, you could easily spend a whole day there. And though the high price of admission might turn some off, many agree that the experience is worth the price.

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SFTourismTips: An Insider's Guide to the Most Amazing City in the World 

by Jill Loeffler  

San Francisco is one of the most colorful and interesting cities in the world. It offers visitors must-see attractions, thousands of unique events, and several diverse districts.

While you are here, make sure to also step into our celebrated museums, catch a Broadway show, and explore some of our most treasured hidden gems.

Whether this is your first visit or a return trip, you will find so many things to see and do. 

Welcome to SFTourismTips.com, my guide to the best of everything there is to see and do here. It covers information about San Francisco, the Bay Area, and beyond and is the perfect tool to help you plan the most amazing vacation ever.

Top Things to See & Do in San Francisco

Top attractions in San Francisco include the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, & the SF MOMA.

From Broadway shows to local productions, you will find performances on stage around town.

See professional baseball, football, hockey, soccer, and more. 

Planning to visit with the entire family? Discover my 25 top kid and family-friendly ideas. 

Every day, you will find several free things to do from events to attractions to activities.

Explore San Francisco on foot, by bike, on a boat, n a Segway or by bus. 

Head to the theater, grab a beer at a brewery, or catch a concert. 

Learn more about SF's history, see modern art, or enjoy hands-on exhibits.

Upcoming Events by Month

Each month, you will find a variety of fun events. San Francisco is well known for our fun festivals, street fairs and other community activities. While you are here, you can do some wine tasting, sample gourmet cuisines, and enjoy the symphony, ballet, or opera. 

Find the best events each month by clicking on the links below.

Holidays in San Francisco

Holidays are a special time in San Francisco. Every year kicks off with a large New Year's Eve fireworks display over the bay. It continues with fun things for other top holidays such as Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day Weekend, Halloween, Thanksgiving, & Christmas.

If you plan to visit during a holiday, you will find plenty of things to see and do during that time of the year.

Where to Stay

With more than 300 hotels and lodging options all around San Francisco, you are sure to find an amazing place to stay. The two districts with the largest concentration of hotels are Fisherman's Wharf and Union Square. 

In addition to these two, you will also find several great hotels and B&B's tucked away in local districts. Here are a few pages to help you get started on researching hotels for your stay.

Top Districts

Explore Fisherman's Wharf. Discover the mysteries of Chinatown. Admire the Victorians in Alamo Square. San Francisco's districts are unique. Make sure to check out several of them during your stay.

Beyond San Francisco

In addition to all of the great things to do in San Francisco, you will find so many great places an hour or two away. Some of the top options include wine country, Monterey, and Muir Woods. Find out more about these and other fun day trips to check out during your stay.

Sample wine, enjoy food pairing & top annual events. 

Go kayaking, shopping, or visit the Monterey Aquarium. 

Stroll through Coastal Redwoods up to 800 years old! 

Visit Sausalito, Yosemite, & other fun places near SF. 

Frequently Asked Questions

• Should I take the day or the night tour of Alcatraz ?
• What are some tips to walk across the Golden Gate Bridge ?
• Where will I find the Painted Ladies featured in Full House ? 
• What are the best things to see and do during my visit ?
• Should I stay in Fisherman's Wharf or Union Square ?
• What time of year should I visit ?
• How should I pack ?
• What are some tips for getting around San Francisco ? 
• Where are some of the best places to go shopping ?
• Is San Francisco safe ?
• What are some tips for first time visitors ?

About SFTourismTips.com

My goal with SFTourismTips.com is to help you fall in love with San Francisco in the way that I did during my first visit and each time I walk out my door. It's a trip of a lifetime for many and a place that I hope you will return to after your first stay. 

I'm hoping you find everything you need for your stay on my site. If not, please reach out to me with questions and let me know how I can help! 

Enjoy ~ Jill 

Comments? Questions? Suggestions?

I would love for you to join me in my private Facebook group ! 

It's a great place to interact with me and others who know the area well.

You can ask questions, get advice for your upcoming stay, and then share your photos and advice with others when you return home. It's a great community and the fastest way to get answers to those nagging questions about your visit!

Come join the fun here !

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The 16 best things to do in San Francisco

Feb 5, 2024 • 9 min read

From riding cable cars to exploring the city's food scene, these are the essential things to do on a visit to San Francisco © lechatnoir / Getty Images

Famously beautiful,  San Francisco  is one of the most filmed, photographed (and shared on social networks) cities in the world. It’s even better in real life.

Pictures can never capture the taste of mouthwatering, farm-fresh dishes, the clang of the cable car and the truly joyous celebrations of individuality you’ll find on any visit here. But where do you start your urban exploration? From world-class museums to the best in LGBTIQ+ culture and incredible city vistas, here are the best things to do on any visit to San Francisco.

1. Admire the Golden Gate Bridge from these vantage points

Other suspension bridges are impressive feats of engineering, but the Golden Gate Bridge tops them all for its razzle-dazzle. On sunny days, this American icon transfixes crowds with its radiant glow (there are great views from Crissy Field ), made possible by the work of 28 daredevil painters who reapply around 1000 gallons of International Orange paint each week. To inspect their work, duck under the bridge into Fort Point , make your way to the roof and look up: you’ll notice that even on the underbelly of the bridge, not a single rivet is allowed to get rusty.

Planning tip:  Head to the Marin County end of the bridge as the late-afternoon fog rolls in, and you’ll witness the ultimate magic show: now you see the Golden Gate Bridge, now you don’t. Return tomorrow for its dramatic unveiling, just in time for the morning commute.

2. Explore the attractions of Golden Gate Park

Golden Gate Park seems to contain just about everything San Franciscans love about their city, from bonsai and buffalo to flowers, free music and free spirits. The  de Young Museum  offers superb exhibitions of fine art in a striking contemporary building designed by Herzog & de Meuron, while the nearby  California Academy of Sciences  is a research institute and fabulous natural history museum complete with its own rainforest and aquarium. The park is also home to the  San Francisco Botanical Garden , Japanese Tea Garden , Conservatory of Flowers and Stow Lake . Today, everything SF needs is here: inspiration, nature and murals.

Planning tip:  With its myriad attractions, you could wander the park for a week and still not see them all. Select a few, take your time, and end your day enjoying the sunset over the Pacific with a fresh-brewed beer at the Beach Chalet .

3. Photograph the Mission’s 400+ street murals

Love changed the course of art history in the 1930s when modern-art power couple Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo honeymooned in San Francisco. Kahlo completed her first portrait commissions during her time in the city, while Rivera created public masterpieces that inspired generations of San Francisco muralists. Today San Francisco’s Mission District is an urban-art showstopper, featuring more than 400 murals throughout the neighborhood .

Planning tip: Head to  Balmy Alley for some of the oldest murals, while 24th St and the landmark San Francisco Women’s Building are covered with glorious portrayals of community pride and political dissent.

4. Browse the iconic City Lights Books

Free speech and free spirits have rejoiced since 1957, when City Lights founder and poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti and manager Shigeyoshi Murao won a landmark ruling defending their right to publish Allen Ginsberg's magnificent epic poem Howl . Celebrate your freedom to read freely in the designated Poet’s Chair upstairs, overlooking Jack Kerouac Alley. Then load up on zines on the mezzanine and entertain radical ideas downstairs in the new “Pedagogies of Resistance” section.

5. Jump on a cable car – and hold tight

Carnival rides can’t compare to the time-traveling thrills of the  cable car , San Francisco’s steampunk mode of public transport. As the rickety wagons ascend notoriously steep streets, first-timers slide into strangers’ laps – cable cars were invented in 1873, long before seat belts – as regulars just grip the leather hand straps, leaning back and riding the downhill plunges like pro surfers. Follow their lead, and you’ll soon master the San Francisco stance and find yourself conquering the city’s hills without even breaking a sweat.

6. Be inspired at the Asian Art Museum

Inspiration can be found across three floors spanning 6000 years of Asian art at this inspiring museum. Visitors can take in everything from meditative Tibetan mandalas to palace-intrigue Mughal miniatures, with stops to admire intricate Islamic geometric tile work, giddy arrays of Chinese snuff bottles and an entire Japanese minimalist teahouse. Besides the largest collection of Asian art outside Asia – 18,000-plus works – the Asian Art Museum offers excellent all-ages programs, from shadow-puppet shows to DJ mixers. Expanded ground-floor galleries host groundbreaking contemporary installations, from Jean Shin’s melted cell phone towers to teamLAB’s immersive Tokyo dreamscapes.

7. Savor California food culture at the Ferry Building

Global food trends start in San Francisco. To sample tomorrow’s menu today, head to the Ferry Building , the city’s monument to trailblazing local, sustainable food. Don’t miss the Saturday farmers market , where top chefs jostle for the first pick of rare heirloom varietals, and foodie babies blissfully teethe on organic California peaches.

Planning tip: Take a trip to Pier 14, where you can make a picnic from food truck finds as you overlook the sparkling bay – and let lunch and life exceed expectations.

8. Tour Alcatraz, the notorious island prison

From its 19th-century founding as a jail for Civil War deserters and Native American dissidents until its closure by Robert Kennedy in 1963, Alcatraz was America’s most notorious penitentiary. With easy access from the city, a thrilling and unexpected history, daring tales of thwarted escape attempts and stunning views of the San Francisco skyline, “the Rock” garners 1.4 million visitors each year. Freedom will never feel so good as it will on the return ferry to San Francisco, only 1.25 miles across the bay’s riptides.

Planning tip:  For maximum chill factor, book the spooky night tour .

9. Duck down the backstreets of Chinatown

Enter Dragon’s Gate to saunter down Chinatown’s main tourist drag, Grant Ave. It's hard to believe this pagoda-topped, souvenir-shop-packed strip was once the wildest spot in the West – at least until you see the fascinating displays at the Chinese Historical Society of America . Walk Waverly Place , Chinatown’s soul, lined with flag-festooned, colorful temple balconies and family-run businesses. Then duck into Chinatown’s historic alleyways to glimpse a neighborhood that’s survived against daunting odds, listening for mah-jongg tiles, temple gongs and Chinese orchestras as you wander the backstreets.

Local tip: Finish your tour by refueling with some tantalizing traditional dim sum.

10. Trace the history of the avant-garde at SFMOMA

From the moment of its founding in 1935, the  San Francisco Museum of Modern Art envisioned a world of radical new possibilities. SFMOMA was a forward-thinking early collector in such then-emerging media as photography, murals, film and installation. Today, the institution has tripled in size and ambition, dedicating entire wings to new media, room-size paintings, high-tech design and monumental Richard Serra sculptures.

Planning tip:  If you want to visit all seven floors, it's best to set aside a whole afternoon.

11. Go over the rainbow in the Castro

Somewhere over the rainbow (crosswalk), you’ll realize you’ve officially arrived in the Castro district – the most out-and-proud neighborhood on the planet for more than 50 years. Walk in the footsteps of LGBTIQ+ trailblazers along the  Rainbow Honor Walk , get to know civil-rights champions at America’s first GLBT History Museum and join history perpetually in progress at San Francisco’s month-long, million-strong Pride celebrations in June .

12. Take in the city panorama from Coit Tower

Wild parrots might mock your progress up Telegraph Hill – but then again, they shouldn’t expect to keep scenery like this to themselves. The Filbert St Steps pass cliffside cottage gardens to reach SF’s monument to independent thinking: Coit Tower . Fire-fighting millionaire Lillie Hitchcock Coit commissioned this art deco monument to honor firefighters, while muralists captured 1930s San Francisco in its lobby frescoes. Coit Tower’s paintings and panoramic viewing platform show off the city at its best: all broad perspectives, outlandish and inspiring. 

Detour:  SF has 41 peaks, and as you scale those steep hills, your calf muscles will strain, and gravity will seem unkind – but persevere. All grumbling will end once you reach the summit and feel like you have the world at your feet. For different angles, head to hilltop green spaces like George Sterling Park and Ina Coolbrith Park , San Francisco’s crowning glories. Alternatively, go to  Corona Heights  and  Buena Vista Park  for wind-sculpted trees and Victorian turrets.

13. Hear the sea lions bark at Pier 39

Sea lions took over Pier 39 , San Francisco’s most coveted waterfront real estate, in 1989 and have been making a public display of themselves ever since. Naturally, these unkempt squatters have become San Francisco’s favorite mascots, and since California law requires boats to make way for marine mammals, yacht owners have had to relinquish valuable slips to accommodate as many as 1000 sea lions. Night and day, they canoodle, belch, scratch and gleefully shove one another off the docks. It’s a joy to watch.

Planning tip:  These giant mammals can be found on the docks between January and July (and whenever else they feel like sunbathing). 

14. Get hands-on with science at the Exploratorium

Can you stop time, sculpt fog or make sand sing? At the  Exploratorium , San Francisco’s hands-on laboratory of science and human perception, you’ll discover superhuman abilities you never knew you had. But the Exploratorium is not just for kids: there are kid-free hours on Thursdays offering mad-scientist cocktails, technology-assisted sing-alongs and themed exhibits for an 18-plus crowd. 

15. Play vintage amusements at Musée Mécanique

A flashback to penny arcades, the Musée Mécanique  in Fisherman’s Wharf houses a mind-blowing collection of vintage mechanical amusements. Sinister, freckle-faced “Laffing Sal” has freaked out kids for over a century, yet don’t let this manic mannequin deter you from the best arcade west of Coney Island. A quarter lets you start brawls in Wild West saloons, peep at belly dancers through a vintage Mutoscope and get hypnotized by a Ferris wheel made from toothpicks.

16. Sip a cocktail at a Barbary Coast bar

Friendly bartenders were once highly suspect in Barbary Coast, San Francisco’s Gold Rush–era red-light district. Circa 1849, a night that began with smiles and a 10-cent whiskey could end two days later, waking from a drugged sleep on a vessel bound for Patagonia. Now that double-crossing barkeep Shanghai Kelly is no longer a danger to drinkers, San Franciscans can relax over historically correct cocktails at North Beach’s revived Barbary Coast saloons, including Comstock Saloon , Devil’s Acre  and  15 Romolo . Today’s saloon scene is a fitting homage to drunken sailors of yore, with iron stools, absinthe fountains, dim lighting and reassuring barkeep banter.

This article was first published February 2015 and updated February 2024

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What’s New in 2022

San Francisco Shines With New Museums, Restaurants and Parks

The city’s neighborhoods, from the Mission to Russian Hill and the Outer Sunset, are vibrant with packed restaurants and bars, and many are home to new parks and the return of in-person events.

By Lauren Sloss

Lately, it seems like the news headlines from San Francisco have been negative, from the city’s homelessness crisis and highly publicized recall elections to the area’s astronomical cost-of-living and worsening fire seasons.

But San Francisco is still San Francisco. The fog still rolls in from the Pacific to blanket the city’s jumbled hills, the sunset still flames crimson behind the Golden Gate Bridge and the smell of salt and eucalyptus still hits the moment you step outside of San Francisco International Airport. Always a city for lovers of the outdoors, pandemic restrictions led to the near-universal embrace of an indoor-outdoor city life. And at its core, the city’s spirit, a heady brew of creativity, progressivism and experimentation, remains unbreakable.

San Francisco’s pandemic recovery has been slower than other major metropolitan areas in the United States; according to data from the San Francisco Travel Association, forecasts for 2022 estimate 80 percent of 2019’s visitor volume. While the Downtown and Union Square neighborhoods remain quieter than prepandemic times, the city’s singular neighborhoods, from the Mission to Russian Hill and the Outer Sunset, are vibrant with packed restaurants and bars, and many boast of new parks and in-person events. San Francisco no longer imposes a mask mandate, but some businesses will require or request masks; masks are recommended but not required on MUNI and BART, the city’s public transportation systems. Many indoor events, including concerts and theater productions, require proof of vaccination to enter.

New parks and slow streets

San Francisco’s wealth of green spaces has increased thanks to a trio of new parks, including the Presidio Tunnel Tops , 14 acres of new national park land hugging the city’s north coast that opened this month. Boasting panoramic views of the Bay, the park was designed by the same group behind New York’s High Line and is home to a changing roster of food trucks, art installations and performances. For more views, check out Francisco Park in the city’s Russian Hill neighborhood, which opened in April on the site of San Francisco’s first reservoir. In the southeastern Mission Bay neighborhood, largely protected from the city’s frequent westerly winds, Crane Cove Park has become a warm, sunny destination for stand-up paddle-boarding, kayaking and lounging since it opened in 2020.

In addition to new parks, San Francisco has become more walkable and bikeable with the pandemic-driven development of the Slow Streets program, which limits or prohibits car traffic on streets throughout the city. Destination-worthy ones include the Great Highway , which runs alongside Ocean Beach on the city’s western shore (it’s currently closed to car traffic on weekends and often, on windy days) and JFK Promenade in Golden Gate Park , which could be made permanently car-free in November . The one-and-a-half-mile stretch of JFK takes you past destinations like the Conservatory of Flowers and the Rose Garden , plus the Skatin’ Place , where you’ll often find a rocking roller disco .

A return to in-person music events

Golden Gate Park is also playing host to a number of major in-person events this year, including Hardly Strictly Bluegrass , a free, three-day music festival being held Sept. 30 to Oct. 2. This year’s lineup will feature Emmylou Harris, Steve Earle and Buddy Miller, with more artists to be announced next week. The Outside Lands Music Festival is taking place Aug. 5 to 7 with artists including Green Day, Post Malone and Lil Uzi Vert (single-day tickets from $195; three-day passes from $409). Find even more music in the Sunset District at the Stern Grove Festival , now in its 85th year. The series of free weekly concerts, happening on Sundays through Aug. 14, has acts ranging from the San Francisco Symphony to Phil Lesh.

The Portola Music Festival (single-day tickets from $200, two-day passes from $400), a new music festival coming to San Francisco from the team behind Coachella, takes place on Sept. 24 to 25 at Pier 80, and will showcase electronic acts including Flume, James Blake, The Avalanches and M.I.A.

A new destination for contemporary art

With its opening in October, the Institute of Contemporary Art San Francisco aims to provide a fresh approach to the ways in which contemporary art should be showcased and shared. Tied to its core tenets of equity and accessibility, ICASF will have free admission and plans to showcase local artists and artists of color in an environment that is welcoming to all. Opening programming includes a solo exhibition from Jeffrey Gibson , a Choctaw-Cherokee painter and sculptor, a group exhibit curated by the California artists and curators Tahirah Rasheed and Autumn Breon, and work from the local artists Liz Hernández and Ryan Whelan .

Eat and drink

San Francisco’s restaurants have struggled from pandemic restrictions, but also the high operational costs and high costs of living limiting the workforce. Many storefronts remain empty, and a number of legacy businesses closed, including Alioto’s , an Italian seafood restaurant that held court in Fisherman’s Wharf for 97 years, and the Cliff House, an iconic destination hugging the jagged shoreline over the Pacific (a new restaurant may open there by the end of the year).

While undoubtedly challenging, the past two years have had a silver lining: Outdoor dining and drinking cropped up everywhere, from long-established restaurants like Nopa to brand-new spots like Casements , a modern Irish bar in the Mission that opened in January 2020. The bar had originally planned to be a cozy, indoor-only affair, but instead it now serves stellar cocktails (from $12) on one of the best patios in the city, complete with an outdoor semi-private space, live music, D.J.s and colorful murals of Irish rock musicians including Dolores O’Riordan of the Cranberries and Phil Lynott of Thin Lizzy.

While marquee openings are still a major part of the city’s food fabric — recent ones include the opulent Palm Court Restaurant in the new RH Gallery and a new Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience store — some of the most exciting developments center on low-key projects from high-end chefs. In the Mission, Corey Lee of three Michelin-starred Benu opened San Ho Won , a Korean barbecue spot with classic dishes and riffs on tradition, like a blood-sausage pancake and kimchi pozole (starters from $16, barbecue from $26). Matthew Kirk, a sous chef from Lazy Bear, opened Automat , a day-and-night destination in the Western Addition for baked goods, breakfast sandwiches and burgers (sandwiches from $9 to $16).

Natural wine is nothing new in San Francisco, but low-intervention bottles — small-batch, often funky wines made utilizing organic ingredients, native yeast and usually, little to no sulfites — are dominating new restaurants and bars. Shuggie’s , a pop-art explosion with a lively bottle list from the West Coast and beyond, features two-dollar wine shots and a “trash pizza” made from repurposed food waste (wines from $15 for a glass or $51 for a bottle; pizzas from $19). Palm City Wines opened in the Outer Sunset in spring of 2020 as a takeaway-only natural wine bottle shop and deli; now, it also serves small plates, wines by the glass, Northern California beers and forearm-sized hoagies (starters from $8, sandwiches from $19). Upping the ante is Bar Part Time in the Mission, a natural wine-fueled disco with a rotating roster of D.J.s and wine producers.

Where to stay

1 Hotel opened in San Francisco in June on the Embarcadero near the Ferry Building. The striking space features reclaimed wood and native greenery, recyclable key cards and hangers in the 186 guest rooms and 14 suites (from $500 per night), plus a rooftop spa, chef’s garden and beehives. Terrene, the hotel’s restaurant, features a farm-to-table inspired menu and a wide selection of mezcal and tequila.

LUMA , which also opened in June, is the first hotel development in the Mission Bay neighborhood. With 299 rooms (from $329 per night) and a rooftop lounge opening later this summer, the hotel is close to Oracle Park and the Chase Center. And on June 30, the longstanding Sir Francis Drake Hotel in Union Square reopened as Beacon Grand with 418 renovated guest rooms (from $249 per night), a lobby bar and in 2023, will reopen a redesign of the famed top-floor bar, the Starlite Room.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation.

An earlier version of this article referred incorrectly to the curators of a group exhibit planned for the opening of the Institute of Contemporary Art San Francisco . Tahirah Rasheed and Autumn Breon are California artists and curators associated with the collective See Black Womxn. They are not members of the collective and Ms. Breon lives in Los Angeles, not Oakland.

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43 Best Things to Do in San Francisco — From Famous Sites to Can't-miss Attractions

Planning a trip to the Golden City? Here are some of the top things to do in San Francisco.

San Francisco is a city filled with iconic American landmarks, fascinating history, must-try culinary delights from cioppino to Ghirardelli chocolate, diverse cultures, and quintessential California nature. Even the people who live there couldn't get bored with all there is to see and do in the bustling and beautiful West Coast metropolis.

The next time you find yourself planning a trip to the Golden City (soon, we hope), allow this list of things to do in San Francisco to inspire your itinerary.

Walk or bike over the Golden Gate Bridge.

Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure

The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most recognizable sights in the U.S. The 1.7-mile-long, brick-red structure spans the strait for which it's named, allowing both cars and pedestrians to travel between San Francisco and Marin County. Walking or biking across the bridge is almost mandatory during a first visit to the city. There are two sidewalks on the bridge — east and west — and there are rules about which should be used for walking and cycling depending on what day of the week and time of day you cross it. Check the website before you go.

Find fresh air at the Presidio.

The Presidio , a one-time military post now transformed into a 1,500-acre public park, is an excellent space to roam outdoors. It's the place to go for a hike or bike ride on the 24 miles of trails, as well as to get an epic view of the Golden Gate Bridge from one of the lookout points. San Francisco is surrounded by beautiful nature, and this is one of the best places to escape the bustle and find a moment of peace.

Take in the view from the Presidio Tunnel Tops.

The Presidio Tunnel Tops provide green space above a six-lane highway. The 14 acres of parklands, which opened in 2022, connect the main post of the former military base to the Crissy Field waterfront and offer some of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge (you can even reserve one of the picnic tables with the best view for an unforgettable experience). There are also plenty of opportunities for recreation and learning, such as weekend campfire talks led by National Park Service rangers.

Admire art that pushes boundaries.

Sure, you'll find many places to admire art in this intensely creative city, but the  Institute for Contemporary Art San Francisco is different: It's nonprofit, non-collecting, and "dedicated to experimenting." It's the antidote to artistic pretentiousness. The pieces here range from photography to textile to video to mixed media, and you won't pay to see any of it thanks to free admission.

Feel a sense of pride in the Castro.

xavierarnau/Getty Images

The Castro is as iconic as neighborhoods get. As one of the first predominantly gay neighborhoods in the nation, it became a symbol of hope for the LGBTQ+ community. The neighborhood remains a vibrant place to visit and is still home to the famed Castro Theatre and GLBT Historical Society Museum , plus Pink Triangle Memorial Park , a site dedicated to remembering the gay men persecuted in Europe during World War II.

Do anything but drive on JFK Promenade.

Before 2022, JFK Drive in Golden Gate Park was car-free only on weekends. Then, San Francisco voters elected to make the road permanently pedestrian-only. Now you can walk it, bike it, skate it, or make your way along it any way you want without having to worry about traffic. On the route, you'll be treated to art installations, chairs set up for kicking back, and public pianos.

Travel by cable car.

San Francisco is a famously hilly city. Unless you're hoping to get a major leg workout, it may be beneficial to get around on public transportation. The city's celebrated cable car system, an attraction in itself, has been transporting people around the city since 1873. The cable cars remain both an excellent mode of transit and a super Instagrammable experience you must try. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks around the city and cost $8 for a one-way ride.

Ferry over to Alcatraz.

Kelly Griffin/Travel + Leisure

Visiting a jail may not seem like a very vacation-like thing to do, but Alcatraz isn't any old jail. The long-closed penitentiary, located on the namesake island in the middle of San Francisco Bay, housed some of the nation’s most notorious criminals (some of whom tried to escape by swimming across the treacherous waters). The prison is so famous it even made its way to the big screen with movies like "Bird Man of Alcatraz" and "The Rock." Anyone can take the ferry over to the island, now part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area , for a guided tour of the prison to learn more about its fascinating history.

Tour North America's oldest Chinatown.

San Francisco’s Chinatown , whose entrance is marked by the Dragon Gate at Grant Avenue and Bush Street, is the oldest one in North America. Spanning 30 square blocks, the neighborhood is its own little bustling metropolis. Come to peruse the shops, feast on world-class dim sum or traditional congee, sip boba, or grab a green tea-flavored fortune cookie from the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory .

Watch the Giants play at Oracle Park.

Rooting for the home team in San Francisco means cheering on the Giants at Oracle Park . Baseball fanatics will want to sit in the 100s, close to the field, but the upper deck at this waterfront stadium offers stunning views of the bay. Seriously, this is where sitting in the nosebleeds can really pay off. Just bring a glove and be ready to catch a foul ball (or homer) if you need to.

Walk down Lovers' Lane.

For an outdoor treat, take a quiet stroll down Lovers' Lane , the oldest footpath through the Presidio. The roughly half-mile trail is the perfect place to find a moment of solitude amid the trees, and it's an ideal spot to stroll hand-in-hand with the one you love while vacationing in San Francisco. The trail is paved and rated easy to moderate. It takes only about 30 minutes to walk it.

Stand in awe at the Palace of Fine Arts.

For the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exhibition, architect Bernard Maybeck designed the neoclassical  Palace of Fine Arts as a Roman ruin to be dismantled after the fair ended. Instead, a determined group of citizens saved the beloved structure, which really did become a ruin by the late 1950s. Rebuilt during the following decade in a more permanent fashion, it remains a stunning landmark. The free attraction features a gorgeous open-air rotunda, 162 feet tall, flanked by two Corinthian colonnades and overlooking a tranquil lagoon, all set in a park at the edge of the Presidio. It’s a great place for a walk, a meeting place, or your next Instagram shoot.

Picnic at Alamo Square Park.

Alamo Square Park is one of the most photographed places in San Francisco, mostly because it's the perfect vantage point for capturing the pastel-colored Painted Ladies (aka the Victorian-style homes of Full House fame). But it also offers a spectacular view of the entire city on all sides. Pack a blanket and a snack to sit out and people watch to your heart's content.

Flip through Beat classics at City Lights Bookstore.

As far as bookstores go, City Lights is San Francisco's most famous. Peter D. Martin and poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti opened it as America’s first all-paperback shop in 1953, eventually attracting (and sometimes publishing) the likes of Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg. Today, the indie North Beach landmark remains committed to bringing customers the best of Beat literature, though it does have a little bit of everything. Go to sift through poetry, fiction, historical, and philosophical books and possibly find a literary souvenir to take home.

Find a hidden gem at TreasureFest.

San Francisco is home to some seriously stellar vintage shopping, but there is perhaps no better spot to find a few unique items than at TreasureFest . Formerly known as Treasure Island Flea, the open-air market includes clothing, antiques, handmade products, and more. There are plenty of food trucks on hand to feed the hungry masses as well. Check the website for a schedule and locations as this flea is open only a few weekends each year.

Cruise the bay.

Get a different perspective of the city by hitting the water on a bay cruise. This will allow you to get up close to several attractions including Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Keep an eye out while on the water for seals and other sea life, too. You can book an hour-long tour with the Blue and Gold Fleet or an adventurous 90-minute excursion by inflatable raft with Bay Voyager . There are many boat tours to choose from.

Build something new at the Exploratorium.

The Exploratorium is a museum and a "public learning laboratory" that allows anyone to become a mad scientist. Visitors can use the tools available to become active explorers and create whatever they pull from their imaginations. Unsurprisingly, the place is a hit among children, but you can attend child-free during the museum's adult-only Thursday evenings. Otherwise, go anytime to learn from regular speakers and interact with the exhibits.

Lose yourself in art at SFMOMA.

To say the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is huge would be an understatement. The museum has seven gallery floors and more than 45,000 square feet filled to the brim with contemporary pieces, photographs, sculptures, and so much more. You could easily spend an entire day (and then some) wandering SFMOMA and experiencing all this vast institution has to offer.

Grab a snack at the Ferry Building.

Looking to get a tasty treat? Head to the historic Ferry Building , a marketplace offering local delights from sweet snacks at the Donut Farm to frothy beers offered by Fort Point Beer Co . If you're lucky, you'll even visit on a market day — Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays — when local purveyors descend on the space to sell their goods straight from the farms (or straight from the studio).

Stop and smell the flowers at San Francisco Botanical Garden.

The San Francisco Botanical Garden stretches across 55 acres and showcases the most magical flora in the city. You'll feel like you're in the Andes one minute and the Mediterranean the next as you wander through the different gardens. This place is particularly well known for its magnolia collection, so make sure to walk by and get a whiff if you're visiting during the blooming season, December through March.

Sip a tiki drink in the Tonga Room.

The city is filled with excellent bars and restaurants that will happily serve you a drink, but arguably none are as iconic as the Tonga Room . The tiki-style bar inside the Fairmont San Francisco has long been a favorite of travelers because it just feels so out of place in the Bay Area, yet somehow, it works. Get a fruity cocktail and a few island-inspired bites and feel transported to the tropics.

Tour the Mission Murals.

Get out and see some fabulous street art for free with a self-guided tour of the Mission Murals. The best way to view them is by taking a stroll down Caledonia Alley, Clarion Alley, Balmy Alley, and Horace Alley, though really, you can just walk around the area and find your own favorite mural out of the more than 1,000 that line the streets.

Have afternoon tea at the Palace Hotel.

Want to feel a little more regal? Head to the Palace Hotel for afternoon tea. On Saturdays, the hotel hosts a traditional ceremony in its Garden Court dining room, where stands of classic English bites like scones and finger sandwiches decorate the tables and serve as the perfect pick-me-up for peckish tourists and locals alike.

Peruse a dispensary.

Keen to have a quintessentially San Francisco experience? Pay a visit to one of the city's many dispensaries. Even if you don't partake, it can still be fun to check out the thriving marijuana business up close. Since 2016, adult-use cannabis has been legal in the state, and now it's become a full-service lifestyle. Think of it like going to a wine shop. If you need any help, just ask a friendly "budtender." Check out Weedmaps to find a location.

Climb the Filbert Street Steps.

Take in more sights and get a great glute workout at the same time with a walk up Telegraph Hill via the famed Filbert Street Steps. This set of stairs starts at Samson Street and takes you up to Coit Tower, a columnar concrete landmark of San Francisco's skyline. Along the way, you can marvel at the stunning gardens on either side and use the displays as a great excuse to stop and catch your breath.

Take in a San Francisco Symphony performance.

A show at Davies Symphony Hall, in the Civic Center neighborhood, is a feast for both the ears and eyes. Go for a traditional concert, or visit during one of the San Francisco Symphony's special film nights, during which a blockbuster movie plays on a big screen while the orchestra provides a live soundtrack. Check the schedule on the  symphony's website .

Get an Irish coffee at Buena Vista.

Come for a cup of coffee with a twist at Buena Vista . The café claims to be the spot where the Irish coffee was perfected in America in 1952. Warm yourself up with one at the bar and see whether it lives up to your standards. If not, that's OK. The restaurant has a full menu of items to choose from, including crab cake eggs Benedict, "scrambled" lobster, and more.

Indulge at Ghirardelli Square.

If the name Ghirardelli Square rings a bell, odds are you have a sweet tooth. The entertainment and retail complex, located between Fort Mason and Fisherman's Wharf, was once home to the famed chocolate company of the same name. Ghirardelli moved its operations to nearby San Leandro in 1966, but its Chocolate Experience — featuring a pick-and-mix bar and a sundae station – pays faithful homage to the property's history. Head in for a taste, or visit its neighboring restaurants and bars for a larger bite.

Stroll the Japanese Tea Garden.

The Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco is an absolute treat for any anthophile. The five-acre gem in Golden Gate Park is filled with stunning plant life, traditional pagodas, tranquil koi ponds, and an authentic tea house where you can sip and savor for as long as you'd like. If you visit during the spring — specifically March or April — don't miss the cherry blossoms.

Drive down the "crookedest street in the world."

The place that best represents San Francisco's characteristic hilly and winding landscape is Lombard Street, otherwise known as the "crookedest street in the world." It takes eight sharp turns in zig-zag fashion on the hill between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets. It's a fun little stretch on which to take a slow drive, but if you're prone to motion sickness, you can walk the street and check out the houses along the way instead.

Spot sea lions at Pier 39.

Being right on the water means that San Francisco's "locals" include some sea critters — namely the California sea lions that live on K-Dock at Pier 39 . Some years ago, hundreds of them descended on the pier and quickly ousted the boaters. Now, you can stand at the viewing area near the north end of the pier to wave from a distance, watch them bask in the sun, and hear their adorable barks.

Get nostalgic at the Walt Disney Family Museum.

The Walt Disney Family Museum is a must-see for any Disney fan making their way through San Francisco. The museum showcases the personal side of the man behind the brand with interactive exhibits and plenty of insider knowledge. On display are original storyboards, retro movie posters, some of Walt's own personal belongings, Disney memorabilia, and more. You'll surely leave feeling inspired, or at the very least, you'll want to rewatch your favorite animated classic.

Attend an outdoor music festival.

Avid festivalgoers are likely familiar with Outside Lands , one of the highest grossing music festivals in the world. Every August, dozens of first-rate bands and hundreds of thousands of people descend on Golden Gate Park for the three-day festival. Less famous but still worth attending are the Stern Grove Festival and Yerba Buena Gardens Festival , both of which feature free outdoor concerts throughout the summer, and the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival , which closes out the season with sweet folk sounds.

Listen to the ocean at the Wave Organ.

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Did you ever put your ear next to the opening of a conch shell and "listen to the ocean" inside of it? Well, San Francisco's Wave Organ is sort of like that but on a much larger scale. Designed by architect Peter Richards and built on a jetty in the Marina District by stonemason George Gonzalez, the sculpture contains PVC and concrete pipes laid out alongside the bay in a way that makes the tides literally sing as the waves hit and pass through the tubes. The acoustic sculpture has been part of the city's waterfront since 1986.

Peruse the exhibits at the California Academy of Sciences.

Kids and adults alike can easily lose an afternoon regarding prehistoric fossils, spotting colorful marine life, and learning all things natural history at this Golden Gate Park museum. The California Academy of Sciences is more than just a collection of exhibits — housing 46 million specimens, no less — it's also an interactive lab where children can touch a real condor wing, practice insect collecting, and get their hands wet building a model boat and testing it on the winding Riveropolis.

Get groovy at an old-school roller disco.

A 125-year-old church in the Fillmore District has been transformed into a funky disco skating rink. "Rolligion" is the new foundation of this formerly holy institution. At the aptly named Church of 8 Wheels , you can rent skates, take a lesson, watch performances, or take to the floor during an open skate session to test your coordination.

Eat your way through Little Italy.

North Beach is San Francisco's Little Italy, packed with pasta joints and plenty of cafés to sip an espresso outside like a true Italian. Have a cannoli from Victoria Pastry, try a Neapolitan-style slice from Tony's Pizza Napolitana , dig into the cioppino (seafood stew) at Sotto Mare , or sit and savor a glass of wine at Bodega North Beach .

See masterpieces old and new at the Asian Art Museum.

Thousands of artworks from Asia and by Asian artists live in this museum , one of the most comprehensive collections of Asian art in the world. Here, you'll find a permanent collection with masterpieces dating back to the fourth century, as well as rotating exhibits showcasing anything from kimono couture to Chinese furniture. Arrive after 5 p.m. on any Thursday and you'll get half off the admission price. Or, go on the first Sunday of the month for free.

Experience Sausalito's small-town charm.

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The picturesque seaside village of Sausalito is just across the Golden Gate in Marin County and best accessed by bike or ferry. On a sunny day, you might feel like you're somewhere in the Mediterranean thanks to the small town's colorful architecture, hilly nature, and relaxed aura. Many liken it to Positano, Italy. Spend some time touring the neighborhood by bike (rental shops abound), making sure to stop at Lappert’s for an ice cream and at Waldo Point Harbor to admire the elaborate houseboats.

Forget you're in the U.S. inside this French Gothic cathedral.

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Grace Cathedral feels like a slice of 12th-century Europe in the heart of San Francisco. Despite the French Gothic style of the structure, it was actually finished in the 1960s (and opened with a sermon by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.). Today, the grand exterior lures many a Nob Hill tourist inside to see intricate murals, medieval-esque labyrinths, and stained glass that drenches the space in color when the sun shines.

Get a bird's-eye view from Twin Peaks.

Twin Peaks is a park comprising two near-identical hills offering 360-degree views of the city and surrounding Bay Area. The park is the second-highest point (922 feet) in San Francisco, only 16 feet shy of Mount Davidson's height, and sits conveniently near the center of the sprawling metropolis. A trail just 0.7 miles long scales both peaks and provides incredible photo opportunities.

Shop for vintage in Haight-Ashbury.

Flower children will develop a soft spot for this neighborhood famed for its hippie culture. You'll feel like you've time traveled back to the 1960s as you flip through bins of vintage vinyl and racks of bohemian fashion. Deadheads — or anyone who appreciates the counterculture of said decade — must stop by the Grateful Dead House at 710 Ashbury, where most of the band lived from 1966 until early 1968. You can also walk past Janis Joplin’s former pads (635 Ashbury and 122 Lyon), but the real stars of the neighborhood may be the Four Seasons houses – a stunning quartet of Queen Annes at the corner of Waller and Masonic designed to represent winter, spring, summer, and autumn.

Take your clam chowder in a bread bowl.

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

Clam chowder is a staple of San Francisco's food scene, but to experience it like a local, you need to order it right: with a fluffy, golden bread bowl as the vessel. Some of the best of San Francisco's clam chowder bread bowls hail from Boudin Bakery at Fisherman's Wharf, which serves its creamy New England-style chowder in sourdough. Really, though, you can find this signature dish on just about any seafood menu.

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The best things to do in San Francisco right now

From Mission burrito joints to laid-back wine bars, here are the best things to do in San Francisco right now.

San Francisco is a city like none other—its charming streets, famous landmarks, sweeping views,  world-class restaurants , boundless nature and vibrant culture make it one of the most beloved places to visit in the world. While the city's top tourist attractions, like the Golden Gate Bridge  and  Alcatraz  are worth seeing—if you want to experience the city like a local, we have you covered.

From eating burritos  in the Mission to rooftop bar hopping  to hanging out on a sunny day at Dolores Park , we have rounded up the best ways to truly get a taste of this wonderful city. So, grab a sweater to keep you cozy and some sneaks to get you up our iconic hills, and get ready to leave your heart in San Francisco. 

RECOMMENDED: The best museums in San Francisco

This guide was updated by San Francisco-based writer Clara Hogan . At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines . 

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Best things to do in San Francisco

1.  Presidio Tunnel Tops

What is it:  An expansive new park  opened in 2022  on  top of the Presidio Parkway highway tunnels,  connecting the Presidio to the Crissy Field waterfront—designed by the same people behind New York's High Line. 

Why go:   The 14-acre federal parkland offers tons of green space by the water and is now  one of the best spots to take in views of the  Golden Gate Bridge . If you have kids in tow, they'll love the Outpost, a natural-themed playground, and the Field Station, where they can draw butterflies, discover maps and get hands-on with science.

2.  Rooftop bar hopping

What is it?  Take in sweeping views of San Francisco and the bay with a craft cocktail in hand.

Why go? Rooftop bars  used to be hard to come by in the city—until recently. The past few years have brought a series of sky-high venues that are now some of the hottest places to drink in town. Personal favorites include the recently reopened Starlite , a nearly 100-year-old cocktail bar on the 21st floor of the Beacon Grand Hotel. Other hot spots include  Cavaña , a Latin American-inspired bar in Mission Bay, and Rise Over Run , a lush drinking destination on the top floor of the LINE Hotel.

3.  Golden Gate Bridge

• Things to do

What is it?  The world’s most photographed bridge (and for good reason). 

Why go?  The iconic 746-foot-tall orange towers of the Golden Gate Bridge have stood sentinel over the San Francisco Bay since 1937. Even when shrouded in fog, the bridge never fails to impress. The view is spectacular when passing over this span, with cityscapes on one side, nature on the other, and a beautiful shock of blue below. Come prepared wearing extra layers; Karl the Fog doesn’t mess around when it comes to the Golden Gate. 

4.  Ferry Building Marketplace

What is it?  San Francisco's largest farmers market and beloved permanent home for local artisan producers. 

Why go?  Waiting inside the historic Ferry Building are merchants like Dandelion Chocolate and Fort Point Beer Co., but for three days a week, the real action is found outdoors. On Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am until 2pm, and Saturdays from 8am until 2pm, regional farmers and ranchers converge to hock fresh veggies, flowers, meats, and other small-batch beauties. On market days, the food stalls give indoor brick-and-mortar restaurants a serious run for their money.

5.  North Beach

What is it? Dubbed San Francisco's "Little Italy," North Beach is one of San Francisco's oldest and most loved neighborhoods.

Why go?  With European-style cafe seating, iconic bookstore City Lights , and buzzy coffee shops, a day in North Beach is a day well spent. Dine at Italian-American classics like Original Joe's  (open for more than 100 years), Tony's Pizza Napoletana or  Café Zoetrope .

Don't miss:  Stop by for a glass of wine or two at  Waystone , a delightfully unpretentious wine bar that's quickly become a local favorite. 

6.  Alcatraz

• Walks and tours
• San Francisco

What is it? A former maximum-security prison in the middle of the San Francisco Bay. 

Why go? Converted from a lighthouse station to a military prison in the 1870s, Alcatraz  is a formidable fortress in the middle of San Francisco Bay that was home to the early 20th century’s most notorious criminals. Today, you’ll only make it to “The Rock” via ferry from Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing. Once there, the self-guided audio cell house tour narrated by former inmates and guards will fill you in on harrowing escape attempts, prison riots, and the 19-month-long occupation of the site by Native Americans demanding reparation for broken treaties in 1969. 

Don’t miss: To get a more creepy bang for your buck, try a night tour. Plan to spend about three hours round trip and bring a jacket to protect you from heavy year-round fog and the agonized spirits of the island’s former residents. 

7.  Have a spa day

What is it?  Unwind at one of the city's best day spas.

Why go?  San Francisco has a spa for everyone. Looking to splurge? Book a treatment at the Bamford Wellness Spa , followed by an outdoor bath soak on the rooftop terrace. Looking for more amenities? Head to the more approachable  Burke Williams Day Spa , which features a large selection of treatments in addition to a jacuzzi, steam room and sauna. Up for experiencing something new—with a side of nudity?  Archimedes Banya  is a massive co-ed bathhouse that blends wellness rituals from around the world. 

Don't miss:  A quick pop-in for a foot rub at one of the many Chinatown massage shops.

8.  Treat yourself to a fancy dinner

What is it?  After the Golden Gate Bridge and cable cars, San Francisco may be most famous for its incredible restaurant scene. 

Why go?  Book a reservation at one of San Francisco's many Michelin-starred restaurants  for a dining experience that's sure to blow you away—including the city's newest star earners,  Aphotic and Nari . If you're looking for a memorable prix fixe experience without shelling out a small fortune, try newcomer 7 Adams , which offers a five-course tasting menu for $87 from Michelin-starred chef David Fisher and partner Chef Serena Chow Fisher.

9.  Chinatown

What is it?  The oldest and most storied enclave of Chinese immigrants outside of Asia.

Why go?  After passing through the Dragon Gate at the corner of Bush Street and Grant Avenue, get revved to explore Chinatown 's historic buildings, pocket parks, and shops. Considered the birthplace of American Chinese food like chop suey and fortune cookies, as well as credited with introducing dim sum to the Western palate, you'd be remiss not to stop for a bite at an eatery like   Good Mong Kok Bakery .

Don’t miss:  The Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory  (56 Ross Alley) , where some 20,000 fortune cookies are made every day—folded by hand as they come off an ancient-looking cookie conveyor belt.

10.  PIER 39 + Fisherman's Wharf

• Fisherman's Wharf

What is it? Where you can   see a plethora of playful, barking California sea lions. 

Why go?  It wasn’t until after the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake that sea lions began “hauling out” on K dock at Pier 39 . Why they chose this location is a mystery, but the protected bay, teeming with the fish and squid pinnipeds prefer, has kept them coming back for 30 years. Watch the group, mostly made up of younger males, frolic all year long from the wooden walkway behind Pier 39.    

11.  Mission burritos

What is it?  SF’s quintessential dish. 

Why go?  It is common knowledge that burritos, as we know them today, are an American invention. And no burrito is more famous than SF’s Mission-style burrito formed in the '60s. There is still some debate as to who created the first Mission-style burrito.  Taqueria La Cumbre  is generally credited with the creation—they introduced the tortilla-wrapped combination of beans, rice, meat, and cheese in 1969. Their neighborhood competitor,  El Faro  (2399 Folsom St) , also claims to have originated the delicacy, serving it up to local firefighters as early as 1961. If you want the best, though, head to  La Taqueria (2989 Mission St), which consistently appears on top restaurant lists year after year thanks to its behemoth, rice-free foil-wrapped bombs.

12.  Golden Gate Park

• Golden Gate Park

What is it?  Twenty percent larger than New York’s Central Park and just as iconic, Golden Gate Park is 1,000-plus acres of rolling hills, groves of trees, gardens, and hidden treasures. 

Why go? Golden Gate Park  houses some of San Francisco’s most beloved institutions—the Victorian-era glass-ensconced Conservatory of Flowers, the de Young Fine Arts Museum, and the Academy of Sciences, among them—as well as less famous attractions such as the bison paddock, Shakespeare’s Garden and the north and south windmills. On Sundays, the main drive is closed to cars. Bicyclists, rollerskaters, and eager Lindy Hop aficionados take over the streets. 

Don’t miss:  Snacks can be found throughout the park, but for a meal, the  Beach Chalet  and  Park Chalet  on the park’s western edge offer lovely views and house-brewed beer.

13.  Lombard Street

What is it? One of the most famous sights in the city is  Lombard Street , also known as the "Crookedest Street in San Francisco."

Why go? The zig-zag road makes eight sharp turns across Russian Hill—start at the top for a great view and walk down the steps to take in the surrounding mansions and gaze upward. Or if you have a car, you can try the drive for yourself. Tip: The Hyde Street cable car will drop you off at the top of the street.

14.  The Painted Ladies

• Alamo Square

What is it?  Colorful Victorian and Edwardian houses, many of which feature three or more colors. 

Why go?  The most famous ones—there are hundreds of houses—can be found in NoPa, the Lower Haight, Haight-Ashbury, and Cole Valley neighborhoods. But there’s one row, in particular, so iconic that it’s simply referred to as “the Painted Ladies” (or sometimes “Postcard Row”): the houses of 710-720 Steiner Street at the corner of Hayes Street. These gals have appeared in an estimated 70 movies, ads, and TV shows, including, yes,  Full House . You can’t enter the Painted Ladies (real people live there), but you can get a great view and a photo of your own from the east-facing hillside of Alamo Square across the street. 

15.  Dolores Park

What is it?  Once a Jewish cemetery, today Dolores Park is one of San Francisco’s favorite warm-weather destinations.

Why go?  It may be miles from the ocean, but sunny Mission Dolores Park might just be the most popular 'beach' in San Francisco. Any weekend above 60 degrees and every green inch of the park is guaranteed to be packed with barbecues, locals lounging on inflatable couches, hula-hoopers, and tightrope walkers. Recently expanded restrooms and an updated playground for little ones make the convergence a little more comfortable. The southwest slope offers the best views of the downtown skyline and a variety of manscaping on what is known as the 'Fruit Shelf'.   

16.  Palace of Fine Arts

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• Marina District

What is it? Local architect Bernard Maybeck's pièce de résistance, this Greco-Roman rotunda is one of the only surviving structures from the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition. Why go? You will feel like you have stepped onto a movie set watching the swans skim across the reflections of the Greco-Roman columns and rotunda of the Palace of Fine Arts . Originally constructed of wood and burlap for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exhibition, the structures were so beloved they were preserved and rebuilt in the 1960s. Bonus: The Palace is an easy, descending walk from the also-picturesque Lyon Street Steps.

17.  Daily Driver

What is it?  The city's first urban creamery, where you can see butter, cream cheese and cheese made fresh daily. 

Why go? A perfect first stop in your day's activities, Daily Driver offers wood-fired bagels, paired with its hand-batted organic butter and cream cheese, plus small batch coffee. Gobble down your bagel, and then watch the butter and cheese making in action. You can even take more to go. 

18.  City Lights Bookstore

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What is it?  For more than 60 years, City Lights bookstore has been a beacon of free speech and radical ideas. 

Why go?  Co-founded in 1953 by poet-artist Lawrence Ferlinghetti, City Lights is where Allen Ginsberg’s  Howl & Other Poems  was first published, putting the Beat Generation on the map. The creaky wooden shop and publishing house is still a center of progressive politics and indie-literary voices, which it stocks alongside a huge inventory of new and used fiction and nonfiction.

Don’t miss:  You’ll find the shop on the corner of Jack Kerouac Alley (so named after being renovated and reopened to the public in 2007) and across from  Vesuvio Cafe , the bar where Kerouac, Neal Cassady, and other Beat heavyweights once held court. 

19.  San Francisco Botanical Garden

What is it?  Seasonal blooms bring new life and color to this beautiful garden. 

Why go?  The 75-year-old San Francisco Botanical Garden sprawls across 55 acres in Golden Gate Park. While the native plants are plentiful, it's known for its assortment of flora from around the world, including the forests of Central America, South America, and Southeast Asia. The garden claims the fourth most significant collection of magnolias on the planet. Wander amid mosaic-paved trails and stone-laden paths, and you'll find the ancient plant garden, a quiet redwood grove, the rhododendron garden, and the dwarf conifer pond.

Don't miss:  One of the most popular areas is the Garden of Fragrance, where plaques encourage visitors to sniff sweet-smelling plants like cascading rosemary, rockrose, lemon verbena, chamomile, and lavender.   

20.  The Buena Vista

What is it?  The birthplace of the Irish Coffee. 

Why go?  Although the Buena Vista has been slinging drinks for seafaring folk since 1916, it wasn’t until 1952 that the cafe got its big break. That year Joe Sheridan, an Irish chef, invented the Irish Coffee. These days, the restaurant’s white-jacketed bartenders serve up to 2,000 of the froth and whiskey concoctions daily from behind the long, mahogany bar. 

Don’t miss:  Alongside their specialty, the Buena Vista has a menu featuring a variety of seafood options like clam chowder and Dungeness crab cocktail, befitting its Fisherman’s Wharf location. 

21.  Japanese Tea Garden

What is it?  The oldest public Japanese gardens in the country are at the heart of Golden Gate Park.

Why go?  The Japanese gardens burst with color and beauty in the early spring as maples flame and cherry blossoms bud. Walk stone paths through manicured terraces, through pagodas, and over the impossibly arched drum bridge, or meditate on the zen garden before heading to the picturesque Tea House for a cuppa.

Don’t miss:  For over a century, the Tea House has served fortune cookies, believed to be the first to be introduced to the United States. They are still on the menu, tucked into cookie plates and bowls of arare.  

22.  Urban hikes

What is it?  Unusually for a modern American metropolis, San Francisco is crisscrossed with dozens of hiking trails .

Why go?  Some treks like the Creek to Peaks trail at Glen Canyon Park traverse steep, rocky terrain. Others, such as the Presidio’s Bay Ridge Trail, are better suited for a leisurely wander. Whatever level of difficulty you choose, your path will expose you to the city’s natural landscape, which rivals the built one that made it famous in beauty. Still have energy? The trails at Mt. Davidson, Lands End, Bernal Heights Park, and Buena Vista Park are also very popular.

23.  San Francisco Whale Tours

What is it?  A short boat ride out of San Francisco Bay affords you a front-row seat to one of the most spectacular wildlife migrations when some 20,000 gray whales travel south in January and back north in the early spring months.  

Why go?  From April through November, humpbacks and blue whales—the largest animals to have ever lived—frequent these anchovy-rich waters.  San Francisco Whale Tours  and the  Oceanic Society  offer tours led by expert naturalists.  

Don’t miss:  For the more seaworthy, full-day expeditions circle the Farallon Islands, home to massive breeding colonies of sleek Common Murres and clownish Tufted Puffins. Round that out with seals and sea lions, dolphins, killer whales, and the peculiar ocean sunfish, and you’ll feel like David Attenborough for a day. 

24.  The Presidio

What is it?  A former military base boasting more than two square miles of swaying eucalyptus trees and gorgeous views. 

Why go?  From the oceanside Crissy Field with its immaculate views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz to the Disney Museum on the Main Post, and from the abandoned military forts on the shore to the Yoda monument, the Presidio  is full of surprises. Hike or bike around this park, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and larger than Golden Gate Park, or take the free  PresidiGo shuttle .

Don’t miss:  Check out the Presidio's buzzy new restaurant openings, Mediterranean restaurant Dalida  and casual Italian-inspired cafe, Il Parco . 

25.  Boudin Sourdough Bakery & Café

What is it?  At the flagship Boudin Bakery on Fisherman’s Wharf, tangy loaves are still made from a mother dough first cultivated here in 1849.

Why go?  Discovered by Gold Rush-era bakers, sourdough became so beloved so quickly that miners seeking their fortune in the nearby Sierra Nevadas snuggled up to their yeast starters (“mothers”) on cold nights to keep them alive. The bacteria responsible for the sour flavor,  lactobacillus sanfranciscensis,  has since even been named after the city—and this is  the  place to sample sourdough, period. 

Don’t miss:  Watching the bread-making process from the railing overlooking the showcase kitchen, sampling it at the café, and buying a few loaves to bring home with you. 

26.  Mission murals

What is it? The Mission District ’s alleys and buildings are decorated with over 200 distinct murals, many reflecting the neighborhood’s Latino heritage and themes of social justice. 

Why go? Thanks in large part to the efforts of artist Susan Cervantes and the Precita Eyes Mural Arts Center , you’ll find the most concentrated outdoor galleries at Caledonia Alley (at 15th Street), Clarion Alley (at Valencia Street), Balmy Alley (at 24th Street), Horace Alley (at 25th Street), Cypress and Lilac Alleys (at 26th Street) and Osage Alley (at 25th Street).  Keep an eye out for Mary Nash’s Las Milagrosas: Tribute to Women Artists  on Balmy Alley.

27.  Dispensaries

What is it?  A new "crop" of recreational cannabis dispensaries with lounges for on-site smoking.

Why go?  Since recreational marijuana use became legal in 2018, San Francisco’s weed dispensaries have slowly ramped up to offer not just ever-wider varieties of edible and smokable strains but full-on Amsterdam-inspired weed cafes. (Architectural Digest even named  Apothecarium  one of the best-designed dispensaries in the country). At the  Barbary Coast Dispensary , the brick-walled bud bar and damask wallpapered lounge channel Gold Rush-era San Francisco. Try the dabs on tap or purchase a pre-rolled joint to smoke in the high-backed leather booths. Volcano vaporizers laid out on tables at SoMa’s  Sparc  are available for quick sit-and-hit or longer stays. 

28.  Tartine Bakery

• Mission Dolores
• price 3 of 4

What is it?  A Mission bakery where you can munch on tried-and-true pie varieties baked to perfection, from the creamy pumpkin to the oat-walnut crumble-topped apple.

Why go? Tartine ’s master bakers, husband and wife team Chad Robertson and Liz Prueitt, have taken home numerous local and national awards for their rustic approach to pastry and bread. The line around the block of food lovers seeking heavenly Croque monsieurs, fresh fruit bread puddings, frangipane tarts, and their famous crusty country bread hasn’t budged since the bakery opened in 2002. And it is still worth the wait. 

Don’t miss:  Don't have time to queue? At Tartine Manufactory, you will find Robertson and Prueitt’s beloved baked goods along with some of the city’s best artisan ice cream, coffee, and more. 

29.  Angel Island

What is it? The Ellis Island of the West.  

Why go? Angel Island  is a hidden gem that serves a perfect mix of history and nature for an easy day trip from the city. Tour the U.S. Immigration Station, where over a million Chinese immigrants were processed from 1910 to 1940 and sometimes detained for years. (Chinese poetry can still be seen carved into the walls of the barracks.) Afterward, hike to the summit of Mt. Livermore, bike the 5-mile Perimeter Trail, or take a break at several picnic sites.   

30.  Divisadero Street

What is it?  What Valencia Street was to the Mission 10 years ago, Divisadero Street is to the Alamo Square/NoPa—a corridor filled with some of the city's best eateries and bars with more on the way.

Why go?  There are so many fantastic restaurants and bars packed into these six blocks of Divisadero Street you'll have trouble choosing your favorites. For brunch or a light snack, try  Brenda's Meat and Three , which serves some of the city's best soul food, or  The Mill  for freshly baked toast and  Four Barrell coffee . At dinner, head to Italian favorite  Che Fico  or the original neighborhood dining powerhouse,  NoPa . For drinks, try cocktail bar  Horsefeather  or  Club Waziema , an Ethiopian restaurant with a beloved dive bar up front.

31.  Breweries

• Potrero Hill

What is it?  The Bay Area has a bevy of intoxicating options for suds savants. 

Why go?  Sipping your way through SF's famed breweries might be the best (or at least buzziest) way to spend an afternoon. There's  Almanac Beer Co.  (known for its farm-to-barrel brewing techniques),  Anchor Brewing Company  (a pioneer dating back to 1896),  Fort Point Beer  (an expert in low-ABV brews), and many other great breweries that will keep any hops-head happy. 

32.  Dogpatch

• Ice cream parlors

What is it?  Once an industrial neighborhood, the Dogpatch is reinventing itself as a go-to for craft brewers, wine bars, and cocktail experimentation.

Why go?  Where should we start? Breweries? Sure, the Dogpatch has those. Cocktails are on order at the drinks-and-jerky bar  Third Rail  and the lounge  School Night  atop event space The Pearl. You can also  take a deep dive into the classic Victorian stylings of  The Sea Star . 

Don’t miss:  Ungrafted , an industrial-cool, family-friendly wine bar with a menu of grown-up comfort food.

33.  Colorful stairways

What is it?  Nearly 400 different stairways , some of them built more than a century ago, connecting San Francisco’s 42 hills.

Why go?  These steep passageways not only get you off the grid but offer some of the city’s best views, from the 290-step Lyon Street stairway (between Green Street and Broadway) to the delightful, garden-accented Pemberton Steps (starting at Corbett and Clay Streets). On Moraga Street in the Inner Sunset 163 mosaic tiled steps connect 15th and 16th Avenues. Macondray Lane (off Leavenworth St between Union and Green Sts) inspired Armistead Maupin’s secretive, leafy green Barbary Lane in his  Tales of the City  series. 

Don’t miss:  The Filbert Street Steps, arguably the most spectacular of them all, climb through tropical gardens from the bottom of Sansome Street to Coit Tower in North Beach.

34.  Tony’s Pizza Napoletana

• North Beach

What is it?  Tony Gemignani, the first American to win the World Champion Pizza Maker title in Naples, has made his namesake pizzeria one of North Beach’s top destination dining spots.  

Why go?  Don't come to Tony's Pizza Napoletana  looking for New York-style pizza. This is Gemignani's paean to Napoli, complete with ten different kinds of pizza baked in seven different ovens, ranging in temperature from 550 to 1,000 degrees. Crowds line up sometimes hours to sample one of these perfectly blistered creations. And there are no reservations, so put in your name and be prepared to wait. 

Don’t miss:  Heavenly Tomato Pie, with hand-crushed tomato sauce and cooked in a coal-fired oven, and the Margherita, with San Felice-flour dough and San Marzano tomatoes. 

35.  San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

• Art and design
• Yerba Buena

What is it? SFMOMA  is the stylish go-to for top-notch modern art. 

Why go?  Reopened to much fanfare in May 2016, this new-and-improved institution features a ten-story 170,000-square-foot addition that nearly triples the space of its original Mario Botta-designed building. On display alongside favorites from the museum’s permanent collection are sixteen special exhibition galleries, works specially commissioned for the new museum, and 45,000 square feet of ground-floor exhibits.

36.  San Francisco Cable Cars

What is it?  A chance to take in Nob Hill, Fisherman’s Wharf, Russian Hill, and the bay while hanging off the running boards Doris-Day-style. 

Why go?  In the late 1800s, San Francisco’s cable cars ran 23 routes to move people around the city’s 49 square miles. Today, though most locals have switched to more efficient modes of public transportation to get around, a ride on one of the three remaining cable car lines is still a classic San Francisco treat. Hop aboard one of these and a National Historic Landmark and shoot back to simpler times.  

Don’t miss:  Make a stop at the  Cable Car Museum  at Mason and Washington Streets to learn more about the history of the cars and get a glimpse of the giant wheels turning the underground cables that power 'em.   

37.  Exploratorium

• Science and technology

What is it?  A massive museum for the child in everyone.

Why go?  At its home on the Embarcadero waterfront, the Exploratorium  uses play and experimentation to introduce visitors to scientific principles. From the storage lockers that play tones when you touch them to the outdoor fog bridge by artist Fujiko Nakaya, everything in the museum is hands-on. New exhibits appear regularly, but even the museum’s most beloved mainstays—the Sweeper's Clock, a fascinating movie loop in which two street sweepers keep time by pushing around piles of trash; the toothpick diorama of San Francisco; and the Tactile Dome, a sensory-deprivation crawl-through maze—are worth returning for again and again. 

Don’t miss:  Upstairs on the second floor, the glass and steel Bay Observatory and the sustainable seafood restaurant Seaglass , which offers stunning views of the Bay.

38.  Stern Grove Festival

• Music venues

What is it?  The longest-running non-profit music festival in the country, these   free weekly concerts in the summer at Stern Grove take place in the middle of a eucalyptus forest.

Why go?  A summer of free shows at this idyllic outdoor amphitheater in Golden Gate Park featuring major names from across the music industry. Keep an eye out for the lineup; it is guaranteed to be stellar.  

39.  Oracle Park

• Sports and fitness
• South Beach

What is it?  Overlooking the bay, Oracle Park is home to the San Francisco Giants.

Why go?  With over 700 Wi-Fi access points, the park is one of the largest public wireless hotspots in the world. It was the first Major League ballpark to receive LEED Silver Certification. It was ranked the Most Vegetarian-Friendly Ballpark by PETA in 2014, 2011, 2006, and 2005. And it is where Kanye West proposed to Kim Kardashian in 2014. Sure, things eventually turned sour, but they'll always have Oracle Park. 

Don't miss:  Grab a perfectly greasy slice of Tony's Pizza, a North Beach classic joint. 

40.  California Academy of Sciences

What is it?  An incredible showcase of all things science. 

Why go?  The Cal Academy  offers a bit of everything for science-loving folks. Budding marine biologists should make a beeline for the Steinhart Aquarium, which takes up the entire lower floor and has exhibits like the world’s deepest living coral reef. Are you into ecology? Check out a four-story living rainforest that boasts butterflies, birds, and a variety of tropical plants. The living roof is home to 1.7 million native plant species.

Don't miss:  The Morrison Planetarium is state-of-the-art and great for aspiring astronomers. 

41.  San Francisco Symphony

• Civic Center
• price 4 of 4

What is it?  Whether you’re a classical music connoisseur or can’t tell Bach from Beethoven, you’ll find something to love about the San Francisco Symphony’s film nights . 

Why go? Watching a Hollywood movie on the big screen while a full orchestra performs the score is the ultimate surround sound and a glimpse of movie magic. It’s also a high-wire act for the musicians who have to stay in perfect sync scene to scene while channeling adrenaline and shmaltz.

42.  Coit Tower

What is it?  Added to the San Francisco skyline in 1933, this monumental love letter to the city remains an iconic welcome for travelers westbound across the Bay Bridge. 

Why go?  Named for Lillie Hitchcock Coit, a wealthy eccentric whose $118,000 bequest to the city resulted in Coit Tower 's construction, the tapered, fluted tower stands 180 feet tall at the crest of Telegraph Hill. At the top is the tower’s observation deck with 360-degree views of San Francisco and the Bay. 

Don’t miss:  A rotunda at its base, covered in Depression-era WPA murals depicting socialist images painted by more than two dozen artists, some of whom studied under Diego Rivera.  

43.  TreasureFest

What is it?  A festival held on Treasure Island on the last weekend of each mont with live music, food vendors and amazing views.   Why go? The rebrand to TreasureFest from Treasure Island Flea is a fitting upgrade for this kid- and dog-friendly outdoor extravaganza. Expect handcrafted jewelry and ceramics, vintage clothing, antique art, and furnishings. Sip a sangria, show off your pooch, and hunt for that perfect pair of vintage Levi’s. Bring cash for extra haggling power.

44.  Castro Theatre

• Movie theaters
• Independent

Note: The theater is currently closed as it undergoes renovations.

What is it?  The chance to dress up and catch a show at a historic LGBTQ+ community landmark.

Why go?  The Castro Theatre  always has a full entertainment line-up, so check the calendar. Catch an indie flick, attend a podcast pop-up or see a comedy show—no matter what you book tickets for, you'll be in awe of the beauty of this architectural gem. 

Don't miss:  What started out as an excuse for Castro District denizens to don dirndl dresses and do their best Julie Andrews impressions has blossomed into regular sing-along sessions to some of the biggest live-action and Disney musicals of the last 100 years, including  Grease ,  The Little Mermaid ,  West Side Story , and  Frozen . 

45.  Tonga Room and Hurricane Bar

What is it?  A kitschy, island-themed Tiki Bar born in the Bay Area.

Why go?  The tiki kitsch is at its best at the historic Tonga Room and Hurricane Bar , where the walls drip with tropical storms and a band plays on a floating island in the middle of what was once the pool of the Fairmont Hotel.

Don't miss:  Local band the Island Groove, who plays nightly at 7pm ($15 cover)

46.  El Rio LGBTQ bar

• Bernal Heights
• price 1 of 4

What is it?  The chance to take in San Fran's rich LGBTQ culture (and a few drinks). 

Why go?  San Francisco—home of the country's first openly gay elected official (Harvey Milk), the birthplace of the rainbow flag, and the first city in the United States to legalize gay marriage—remains a major LGBTQ epicenter. While the Castro serves as the community’s beloved home with plenty of gay-friendly bars, for great live music, try Bernal Heights’ Latin-themed former Brazilian leather-cum-lesbian bar, El Rio .

Don't miss: Daily happy hour from 4-7pm with $1 off well drinks and draft beers

47.  Church of 8 Wheels

• Lower Haight

What is it?  An old church where you can roller skate to funky beats. 

Why go?  Each weekend at the Church of 8 Wheels  Godfather of skate, D. Miles, Jr., holds the 'rolliest' of services at the Church of 8 Wheels. Strap on some skates (available for rent for $5) and join the Holy Rollers, the groovy costume-wearing regulars, beneath the twinkling mirror ball. It is the most spiritual of skating experiences.

Don’t miss:  Want to take the party outside? On Fridays, the Rollers host an alfresco 12-mile skate. It all kicks off at Ferry Plaza. 

48.  Musée Mécanique

• Special interest

What is it?  An homage to turn-of-the-century mechanization, with more than 200 coin-operated games.

Why go?  A museum in name only, everything at the Musée Mécanique can, and should, be played with. Many of these amusements were salvaged from San Francisco’s now-defunct seaside amusement park, Playland at the Beach. Gypsy fortune tellers, giant moving dioramas, can-can-girl stereoscopes, carnival strength testers, player pianos, and a looming Laughing Sal (the cackling Playland greeter) are just as amusing for adults as they are for kids. 

Don’t miss:  When you’ve had your fill of fun, check out the earthquake memorabilia and early photos of San Francisco along the walls of the arcade.

49.  Audium Theater of Sound

What is it?  A one-of-a-kind theater for blowing your sonic mind. 

Why go? Inside the Audium , t hroughout a two-hour performance, theater-goers are left in darkness to be bathed in “sound sculptures” from the 176 speakers surrounding the circular 49-seat theater. The sound calls attention to its speed and movement, but any more than that is hard to explain; you’ll just have to experience it yourself.

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Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

San Francisco Travel Guide

Last Updated: July 17, 2023

To me, visiting San Francisco is all about the outdoors and the food. You come here to dine on some of the best Asian food in the country, relax in a chill cafe, and then head out to the parks to lounge away the day.

While it is one of the most expensive cities in the United States , there are still plenty of ways to visit on a budget (even I, a person used to living in New York City , get sticker shock when I visit).

This travel guide to San Francisco can help you plan a fun and affordable trip!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on San Francisco

Top 5 Things to See and Do in San Francisco

1. Tour Alcatraz

Alcatraz Island is the site of an abandoned federal prison, the oldest operating lighthouse on the west coast (built in 1909), and 19th-century military fortifications. Its best known for Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary, a notorious maximum security prison that operated from 1934-1963. Take a tour to learn about the island’s past and its famous inmates (including mobster Al Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly). Be sure to book the ferry early as it fills up fast. Day-tour tickets cost $41 USD, night-tours are $51 USD, and behind-the-scenes tours cost $96 USD.

2. Walk the Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge is an engineering marvel and one of San Francisco’s most iconic landmarks. When it opened in 1937, it was the longest and the tallest suspension bridge in the entire world and was named one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. You can walk the 1.7 miles (2.7 kilometers) across the bridge, visit the visitor’s center to learn the history of the bridge, or just stare at it from every angle and take a stupid amount of pictures like I did.

3. Visit Golden Gate Park

This gigantic park spanning 1,017 acres features a Japanese garden, an art museum, an arboretum, a tulip garden, a herd of wild bison, and tons of hiking and walking trails. At 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) long and stretching some 30 blocks, it’s 20% bigger than New York’s Central Park! Walking from end to end can take half a day! The park itself is free to visit, though most of the museums and gardens charge admission.

4. See Wine Country

Near the city are the world-famous Napa and Sonoma wine regions. If you love wine and have time to leave the city, you obviously need to come here. Organized day trips with Tower Tours cost $145 USD. That said, at around 1.5 hours one-way from the city, it’s far better to spend the night. It can be a pricey place to visit, but I’ve found that it is indeed possible to visit Napa on a budget .

5. Visit the Palace of Fine Arts

The Palace of Fine Arts is the only remaining remnant of the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition. Meant to emulate a decaying Roman ruin, the outdoor rotunda (and its lagoon) is one of the city’s most photographed sights. Take a leisurely stroll around the lagoon, relax under the rotunda, or enjoy a picnic on the grass. Admission is free.

Other Things to See and Do in San Francisco

1. hang out in the mission.

The Mission District is one of the oldest neighborhoods in San Francisco; in fact, the oldest building in the city is located here (Mission San Francisco de Asís, built in 1791). The neighborhood is the epicenter of the city’s Mexican community and has long been an alternative artist enclave as well. After a busy day, relax in Dolores Park for great views of the city (the famous “Full House” house is here), grab a drink at the cool bars, and dig into incredible Mexican food. There’s an eclectic food scene in general in the area, including several Michelin-starred restaurants.

2. Ride the cable cars

Riding the cable cars is an excellent way to tour the city and experience the various neighborhoods of San Francisco. Originally built in 1823, the city’s cable cars are the last manually operated system in the entire world. Of the 22 lines that were originally created in the 19th century, only three are still in operation. They are fun to ride and will save you lots of time since the city is so hilly. A one-way fare on a cable car is $8 USD and a single-day pass is $13 USD.

3. Visit Lombard Street

This is the world’s windiest street. Surrounded by gardens and flowers, it’s made up of eight hairpin turns. The roads were made this way during the 1920s when people in San Francisco were beginning to drive around in automobiles. Since many of the city’s famous hills were too steep to navigate, the idea of using a curved street to help vehicles move downhill was embraced. This took the hill’s incline from 27% to 16%. Today, you can watch cars and bikers navigate the sharp turns as tourists gawk at them.

4. Head up Coit Tower

Perched atop Telegraph Hill, this art deco tower was built in 1933. Standing 180 feet (55 meters) tall, it’s home to over 25 murals and offers a panoramic view of the city. The murals here were painted in 1934 by local artists and depict life in San Francisco during the Depression. The tower became a San Francisco Designated Landmark in 1984 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2008. It’s free to visit the ground floor, though if you want to take the elevator to the top and see more artwork on the second floor it’s $10 USD.

5. Head to Chinatown

After New York City , this is the most famous Chinatown in the United States (it’s also the biggest). Immigrants from China first arrived on the West Coast and set up shop in San Francisco. Due to racial segregation, this neighborhood became predominantly Chinese. Though mandatory segregation is over, the area has remained Chinese and the area has some of the best places to eat Chinese food in the country, as well as wonderful teahouses, bars, souvenir stalls, and fortune cookie makers.

6. Take a harbor tour

Take an afternoon cruise of the bay to see the city from the water. There are many tour companies available, but a budget way to see the harbor is to take the public ferries starting at $7 USD (prices vary depending on which route you take). Same views, lower price. If you really want to do a tour, go with Red and White Fleet . Their tours start at $38 USD.

7. Hang out in the Castro

Since the 1960s, the Castro has been known as the LGBTQ district of San Francisco. The area has lots of trendy restaurants serving local and seasonal food, as well as the GLBT Historical Society Museum ($10 USD admission) and the Rainbow Honor Walk, a walk of fame for LGBTQ members who left a significant impact on society. Plus, there are a plethora of lively bars and clubs that cater to the LGBTQ community (but are fun for everyone!).

8. Explore Haight-Ashbury

The birthplace of America’s counter-culture, the Haight was ground zero during the summer of 1967, a.k.a. The Summer of Love. Hippies used to live here (including Janis Joplin and the Grateful Dead), but yuppies have since moved in, buying up all the colorful Victorian homes and replacing head shops with high-end boutiques, chic restaurants, and hip cafés. Flower Power Walking Tours run in-depth and informative hippie history tours throughout the neighborhood for $25 USD.

9. Take a walking tour

Free SF Tours runs daily free walking tours that can show you the main sights of the city. You’ll not only get to learn about the city but you’ll have access to an expert local guide who can answer all your questions. Just be sure to tip at the end! For more in-depth paid tours, check out Take Walks .

10. Eat at the Ferry Building

This iconic historic building on the San Francisco waterfront used to be one of the busiest transportation terminals in the world. Today, it’s home to a massive food marketplace and is my top place to eat in San Francisco. This place is a foodie dream. Inside, you’ll find restaurants and food vendors selling specialty food items as well as butchers, cheesemongers, a wine bar, and more. On the weekdays, food stands set up outside the building and on the weekends, there’s a big farmer’s market. Come here with an appetite!

11. Visit Crissy Field

This park located near the Golden Gate Bridge used to be a US Army airfield. After its closure in 1974, it was derelict for years until it reopened in 2001 as a park. Today, it has a beach, some restaurants, piers where you can see locals fishing, and plenty of green space to relax. It offers sweeping views of the harbor, making it a laid-back place to come in the summer to have a picnic, lounge in the sun, read a book, and watch life go by.

12. Explore Japantown

Come here for amazing sushi, Japanese food, Korean food, and kitchen ingredients. Shabu Sen has amazing ramen, and Yama-chan has delicious onigiri (rice balls) and takoyaki (octopus balls). To learn more about the food and the neighborhood, you can take a food tour with Edible Excursions for $122 USD (they have a specific Japantown tour, as well as other food tours around the city). Tours last around 3 hours.

13. Explore Fisherman’s Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39, and Ghirardelli Square cover numerous blocks along the waterfront and visiting this area is one of the most popular (touristy) things to do in the city. There are street performers, souvenir shops, and tons of overpriced restaurants. This is a good place to wander and explore for people watching, but don’t eat here. The food is overpriced and, to be honest, not that good. If you want to try some of the mouthwatering seafood that San Francisco is famous for, I liked Waterbar and the Anchor Oyster Bar.

14. See Muir Woods

Named after famed naturalist John Muir, Muir Woods is the closest place to San Francisco where you can see giant redwood trees (it’s just 17 miles/27 kilometeres outside of the city). You don’t get to encounter the huge, iconic redwoods (which are sequoias and further away at Sequoia National Park), but if you’re looking to see something close to the city, this is as good as it gets. Admission is $15 USD in addition to either a parking reservation ($9 USD) or a shuttle reservation ($3.50 USD round-trip). You can also do a guided tour with Get Your Guide for $89 USD (including transportation).

15. Explore Oakland

Just across the Bay Bridge, Oakland is considered the Brooklyn to San Francisco’s Manhattan. In recent years, Oakland has developed a niche for craft beer and specialty restaurants. There are tons of bars and breweries, and they even have their own “Ale Trail” if you want to wander the city and sample its best drinks. You can also visit Oakland Redwood Regional Park, Lake Merritt, or catch a baseball game at Oakland Coliseum. There’s a lot you can do in Oakland and you can easily spend a day or more here!

16. Visit the Beat Museum

Dedicated to the Beat Generation (the 1950s counter-culture), here you’ll find original manuscripts, rare books, letters, and more from authors like Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg. Founded in 2003, the museum has over 1,000 pieces of memorabilia including Ginsberg’s typewriter and a first edition copy of Kerouac’s novel  The Town and the City . They also hold regular events (and walking tours) so check the website to see if anything is happening during your visit. Admission is $8 USD.

17. Visit Berkeley

Across the bay and close to Oakland is the city of Berkeley, home to music, hippies, students, and the University of California – Berkeley. Here you’ll find a plethora of vegan and vegetarian restaurants, street performers, and eclectic shops (including booths selling jewelry and other goods on the streets). Don’t miss the University of California Botanical Garden, which has over 10,000 plants! Admission is $15 USD and advance reservations are required.

For more information on other cities in the United States, check out these guides:

• Austin Travel Guide
• Boston Travel Guide
• Chicago Travel Guide
• Hawaii Travel Guide
• Las Vegas Travel Guide
• Los Angeles Travel Guide
• Miami Travel Guide
• New York City Travel Guide
• Philadelphia Travel Guide
• Seattle Travel Guide
• Washington D.C. Travel Guide

San Francisco Travel Costs

Hostel prices – In peak season, a bed in a 4-6-bed dorm costs around $46-57 USD, while off-peak season costs $35-46 USD. For a dorm with 8-10 beds (or more), expect to pay $42-44 USD in peak season and $32-35 USD in off-peak season. Private double rooms cost $130-160 USD per night in peak season and $100-130 USD in off-peak season. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels have self-catering facilities. Quite a few of hostels include free breakfast as well.

Campgrounds are available outside the city starting at $30 USD per night for a basic plot for two people without electricity.

Budget hotel prices – Budget two-star hotels start at $125 USD per night. Expect basic amenities like free Wi-Fi, TV, AC, and a coffee/tea maker.

There are lots of Airbnb options in San Francisco. A private room averages about $105 USD per night while an entire home/apartment starts at $160 USD. Expect to pay double (or more) if you don’t book early.

Food – Although eating out here can be expensive (there are lots of fancy restaurants and rich techies driving the cost of food and rents up), you can keep your spending in check by going to the local supermarkets, markets, food trucks, and mom-and-pop restaurants. It’s easy to find street food like burritos and falafel for $10 USD. Pizza costs around $15 USD while fast food (think McDonald’s) is $10 USD for a combo meal.

Eating Chinese food is a must in San Francisco because it’s delicious and also less expensive than other choices. Expect to spend $10-15 USD for a main dish.

A meal at an inexpensive casual restaurant costs around $20 USD. A three-course meal with a drink costs closer to $50 USD (if not more).

There are lots of high-end dining options in San Francisco. You can find a 6-8 course tasting menu for about $150 USD (but some go for nearly double that). A plate of pasta or fish starts from about $20 USD, while a steak dinner costs about $45 USD. A glass of wine costs at least $12 USD.

Beer is around $8 USD, cocktails are $13-16 USD, and a latte/cappuccino is $5 USD. Bottled water is $2 USD.

If you cook your own food, expect to pay around $60-70 USD per week for basics like pasta, rice, vegetables, and some meat.

Two restaurants you shouldn’t miss are Naan ‘N’ Curry and Old Siam.

Backpacking San Francisco Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking San Francisco, expect to spend about $75 USD per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm, cooking all of your meals, using public transportation to get around, and sticking to mostly free activities like the parks and free walking tours. If you plan on drinking, add $10-20 USD per day to your budget.

A mid-range budget of $210 USD you can stay in a private hostel or Airbnb room, eat out for most meals at Chinese restaurants and fast-food chains, have a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like museum visits and visiting Alcatraz.

On a “luxury” budget of about $390 or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, rent a car to do some day trips, and do more guided tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

San Francisco Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

San Francisco is one of the most expensive cities in the United States. You’re going to spend a lot of money here if you go out a lot, see lots of attractions, and decide to drink. But, like any major city, there are lots of ways to cut costs if you know where to look. Here are some ways to save money in San Francisco:

• Get the CityPASS – Getting a city sightseeing card is always a good idea if you plan on seeing a lot of attractions. CityPASS is good for nine days and costs $76 USD. It includes admission to 4 of the city’s main attractions (California Academy of Sciences and Blue & Gold Fleet San Francisco Bay Cruise along with your choice of 2 others). If you want to see these more expensive attractions, this will save you money.
• Get a GoCity Pass – If you want a more inclusive option than the above CityPASS, GoCity offers all-inclusive options in 1-5-day increments. The one-day pass costs $67 USD while the 5-day pass is $156 USD.
• Eat cheap in Chinatown – San Francisco’s Chinatown has some of the best places to eat Chinese food (especially dim sum) in the country, with teahouses, bars, souvenir stalls, and fortune cookie makers. Eat your heart out here!
• Find the oyster happy hours – There are lots of restaurants that offer an oyster happy hour at least once a week for about $1-1.50 USD per oyster. Waterbar and Waterfront Restaurant are good places to start.
• Take a free walking tour – This is the best way to see the main sights on a budget. I always do one when I visit a new city. Free SF Tours has a great tour that provides a solid intro to the city. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is the best way to meet locals and save money. You’ll get to meet a local whose brain you can pick for tips and suggestions all while getting a free place to stay. Just be sure to send your request well in advance.
• Save money on rideshares – Uber and Lyft are way cheaper than taxis and are the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to take a bus or pay for a taxi.
• Fly into Oakland Airport (OAK) – OAK is nearly as close to downtown as SFO is and sometimes flights there are cheaper. Make sure you make a comparison before you book your trip.

Where to Stay in San Francisco

Accommodation is extremely expensive in San Francisco. Before you book, make sure you have a hostel in the location where you want to spend most of your time. Here are some recommended places to stay in San Francisco:

• HI San Francisco – Downtown
• Green Tortoise Hostel
• HI San Francisco – Fisherman’s Wharf

How to Get Around San Francisco

Public transportation – The subway can get you all over the city, as well as to the airport and eastward to places like Oakland and Berkeley. Fares depend on where you’re going but cost at least $2.75 USD. You can use either a cash ticket or a Clipper card to tap in and tap out. Although the Clipper card is $3 USD to purchase, it’s cheaper in the long run because each regular ticket costs $0.50 USD more than a fare purchased with a Clipper card. You can also download the Clipper app, load your fare, and use tap-to-pay.

San Francisco’s bus system is even more extensive than the subway. If you want to save money, download the MuniMobile ticket app or use a Clipper card. One-way rides are $2.50 USD with the Clipper card or $3 USD cash (exact change is required).

You can also get a single-day Visitor Passport for unlimited use across the bus, cable car, and streetcar network. If you purchase the Visitor Passport through the MuniMobile app or Clipper card, it costs $13 USD. If you purchase a paper Visitor Passport, it costs $24 USD. A 3-day passport is $31 USD ($36 USD for paper), and a 7-day passport is $41 USD ($47 USD for paper).

Cable cars are a fun way to travel between the waterfront and Union Square. Their website (sfmta.com) has a listing of all routes and schedules. Single rides cost $8 USD, however, a Visitor Passport gives you unlimited rides.

The historic streetcars are an excellent way to see certain parts of San Francisco, especially the touristy places along the Embarcadero (which stops at Fisherman’s Wharf, the Ferry Building, etc.). Streetcars are part of the MUNI system, so prices are the same as for the bus.

Ferry – You can get a Golden Gate Transit ferry to Sausalito or Tiburon for $13.50 USD. A Blue and Gold Fleet ferry to Tiburon costs $14.25 USD. The ferry to Alcatraz is included with your ticket ($41 USD).

Bicycle – Bay Wheels (operated by Lyft) is San Francisco’s biggest bike-sharing program. To unlock a bike, it’s $3.49 USD, which includes 30 free minutes (past that, it’s a hefty $.30 per minute, which adds up quickly). When you’re using your Lyft app, you’ll see a bicycle icon show up on your app’s home screen when you’re in the bike service area. Just return your bicycle to the nearest Bay Wheels station when you’re done.

Taxis – Taxis are expensive. Everything is meter-based, starting at $3.50 USD and then an additional $3 USD per mile after that. Avoid them!

Ridesharing – Uber and Lyft are cheaper than taxis and are the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to take a bus or pay for a cab.

When to Go to San Francisco

Summer (June-August) is the busiest time of the year as people flock to Cali for some fun in the sun. The weather averages around 65-68°F (18-20°C) during this time.

Winter is an excellent time to come for the lowest accommodation prices and the least number of visitors. It can be chilly during this time, though, with temperatures averaging about 57°F (14°C) in December and January.

Personally, I think September-November is the best time to visit San Francisco. It offers warm temperatures (70°F/21°C) but with much fewer crowds compared to the summer.

Spring starts out cool and rainy, but temperatures eventually get a bit more comfortable, ranging from 57-64°F (14-18°C) from the beginning and end of the season.

Regardless of the time of year, bring some rain gear and pack some warm clothing for when temperatures dip.

How to Stay Safe in San Francisco

San Francisco is a relatively safe place to travel but you have to keep a vigilant eye. Petty theft is the most common crime here, with a particularly high rate of car break-ins. If you have a rental car , make sure it is locked at all times. Don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Keep an extra eye out at night.

Keep an eye on your belongings at all times, especially while taking crowded public transportation.

If you’re concerned about getting ripped off, you can read about common scams to avoid here (there aren’t many here though).

Unfortunately, there’s a serious drug and homeless problem in San Francisco though, and there’s no way to sugarcoat this situation. It’s not uncommon for visitors to witness drug use in the streets, as well as mental health episodes. The city is making moves to resolve these issues, but you’ll still need to stay aware of your surroundings. The soituation has only gotten worse since COVID and, while there’s not a lot violence, you’re going to be careful of where you walk, especially at night.

The Tenderloin (one of the city’s neighborhoods) is especially known for its street drug activity, and it’s near enough to the city’s touristy areas that you might find yourself in the neighborhood at some point. You’re better off avoiding this area altogether at night (especially the intersection of Turk and Taylor).

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

San Francisco Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

San Francisco Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on United States travel and continue planning your trip:

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24 Best Things to do in San Francisco, California

San Francisco is one of the most fabulous cities in the US.

It is hip, vibrant, bohemian, trendy, and yet pretty casual – a uniquely Californian blend!

From its famous fog to the many rolling hills of the city, San Francisco is all about fun and excitement.

And innovation – this is, after all, Silicon Valley!

San Francisco has a unique history.

Since the Gold Rush era, it is known as ‘the City’ – because for a long time it was the only big city on the West Coast.

San Francisco’s devastating 1906 earthquake caused a fire that severely destroyed the city.

However, it was soon rebuilt into the city that we know today that you can easily visit as part of a San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip .

San Francisco was one of the earliest cities to adopt a liberal mindset and is home to the hippie movement, which you can still observe in the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood.

Also Read: Ultimate San Francisco Itinerary: 3 to 5 days trip ideas for first-time visitors

Best Things to do in San Francisco

Visiting San Francisco is an incredible experience.

From the popular Golden Gate National Recreation Area and Union Square to hidden gems such as North Beach and San Francisco Zoo, there are innumerable San Francisco things to do for everyone!

See the iconic bridge, visit the beaches, and go hiking. Then, explore the rest of the city and its colorful neighborhoods. 

Here are our favorite things to do in San Francisco on your first visit.

Experience the iconic Golden Gate Bridge

The famous Golden Gate Bridge is a San Francisco icon.

The suspension bridge, constructed in 1937, is a much-admired engineering marvel.

The bridge was once said to be too difficult to build, considering the strong currents and winds in the Golden Gate strait.

The orange bridge has beautiful Art Deco architecture.

Fun fact – Designer of the Golden Gate Bridge, Leon Moisseiff, also designed the famous Manhattan Bridge in New York City!

Also Read: 24 Best Places to Visit in California in winter

Walk, bike, or drive the bridge – best things to do in SF!

Visiting this beautiful bridge for the very first time is a thrilling experience.

There are a couple of ways to experience the bridge: driving, walking, or biking.

Parking near the bridge is limited so the last two are our favorites.

In addition to having 6 lanes for car traffic, the bridge also allows pedestrians and bikers to use the sidewalk.

The bridge, made from steel, is 1.7 miles long and a delight to walk.

From the middle of the bridge, you can see stunning views of the bay below.

Once you cross the bridge, there are several viewpoints with a stunning view of the bridge.

If biking, you can rent the bikes near Fisherman’s Wharf and ride across the bridge to Sausalito and return via ferry.

We have done this twice – even with kids in tow – and loved it – but you need to have three to four hours to complete the adventure and return to San Francisco.

On the bike route, you can experience many San Francisco attractions including Pier 39.

For a longer ride, consider the trip out to Tiburon.

You will bike through redwood trees and along the shore of the San Francisco Bay.

From San Francisco to Tiburon, it takes 3 hours one way – making this a full day ride. 

Read our post on Things to know before biking the Golden Gate Bridge for more details.

If you can’t walk or bike the bridge, then we recommend driving across the bridge and parking at Battery Spencer to avoid the crowds.

The route that you will be taking across the bridge is Highway 101 or SR 1 – they converge here.

The drive is equally beautiful at night – the bridge is lit by floodlights and looks impressive. 

While you are visiting the bridge, you should also visit the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center.

Here, you can know more about the construction of the bridge and its history.

You will learn nuggets of information including facts such as the bridge took 4 years to complete and it was opened to traffic on 28th May 1937.

The city has many vantage points over the bridge from where you can photograph the bridge in all its glory. 

Take in the buzz of activity at Fisherman’s Wharf

Historic Fisherman’s Wharf is San Francisco’s famous waterfront area.

It is one of the best things to see in San Francisco and hence, always crowded.

The area surrounding Fisherman’s Wharf is great for people watching.

While it is fun and boisterous during the day, it really lights up at night when visitors of all ages are having fun on the piers.

This is where you board a cruise to Alcatraz or Angel Island or take the ferry to Sausalito or book a sightseeing cruise around the bay.

You can even book your own fishing or sightseeing charters here.

For families, the best place to visit on the Fisherman’s Wharf is Pier 39.

Pier 39 of Fisherman’s Wharf has everything from seafood restaurants, cruise operators, tour sellers, bike rentals, souvenir shops, carousels, gaming arcades, street buskers, and more.

One of our favorite activities on Pier 39 is to spot the sea lions sunning themselves on the docks.

You can watch them splash and swim in the water and even catch a fish and eat it. Our kids love looking at the sea lions and hearing them bark.

You can spot a fleet of restored 19th and 20th-century ships along the waterfront at the Hyde Street Pier of the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park.

There is also a Maritime museum and visitor center located on-site.

Another popular activity nearby is the Aquarium of the Bay where you can spot local marine life. 

Also Read: Portland to San Francisco Road Trip Itinerary

Other museums and attractions in the area include Madame Tussauds, Ripley’s Believe it or not museum, and the Musee Mecanique or the Mechanical Museum.

In this last one, you will find musical instruments and arcade game machines.

It is located at Pier 45 and a fun visit for the entire family.

Read our other California posts: Northern California road trip itinerary How to plan a Big Sur day trip San Francisco to LA along the Pacific Coast Highway

Eat sourdough clam chowder at Boudin Bakery Cafe

While the clam chowder is a New England specialty, the bread bowl serving makes it an iconic San Francisco dish.

While almost all restaurants and eateries in and around the Fisherman’s Wharf serve clam chowder soup in a sourdough bread bowl, our personal favorite is the Boudin Bakery Cafe.

Boudin is a San Francisco institution; the one that started it all.

Located at Pier 39, they were the first ones to create the dish.

They serve really delicious clam chowder soup and have a variety of animal-shaped sourdough bread for sale.

The hot soup feels really good on a chilly day.

Boudin also has many locations in the city, so you’ll always be near one no matter where you go! 

Take the cruise to Alcatraz

Alcatraz is America’s most notorious prison.

It was operational for over 30 years.

Famous inmates include Al Capone, Alvin Karpis, and Birdman.

The country’s most dangerous and violent prisoners were sent to this island prison because escape was nearly impossible.

Prior to being a federal prison, Alcatraz was a Civil War fort and a military prison.

You can actually tour the penitentiary located on Alcatraz Island in the San Francisco Bay.

The ferry ticket includes round trip ferry service, access to the island, and a cell house audio tour.

You can tour the civil war era buildings, cannons, the prison cells, and the historic exhibits at the Rock.

The island is also a popular nesting spot for sea birds so we would recommend bringing a pair of binoculars for birding.

Alcatraz also offers a special night tour and a behind the scenes tour if you are interested in exploring more.

We recommend advance ticket reservations as the ferry service is extremely popular.

You will need a minimum of 3 hours to explore the island and return to San Francisco, though we would recommend keeping aside 4 hours to half a day for the experience. 

Ride San Francisco’s cable cars

Since they were first introduced in 1837, the cable cars have become a famous San Francisco icon.

Navigating the steep hills of San Francisco in a cable car is a treat.

Here’s something you might not know: they even survived the earthquake of 1906!

While you can take a cable car ride anywhere to get around in the city, we recommend riding the Powell – Hyde line for its amazing views.

The cars on this line go down the northern side of Russian Hill which means you are treated to brilliant views of the San Francisco Bay.

You can even spot Alcatraz Island in the distance.

The line connects Fisherman’s Wharf with Downtown so it’s also a good way to go sightseeing.

We recommend doing the ride early in the day as it gets super crowded later on.

You can pay the cable car driver directly for your ticket which was $7 when we last visited.

The cars run every 10 minutes from 6 am to 12 pm.

Here’s a tip: while seating, ensure that the bay is to your left for best views!   

Explore bustling Union Square

San Francisco’s Union Square is a popular tourist destination and the city’s main shopping area.

It is also the center of the Financial District and home to many corporate headquarters, San Francisco hotels, and skyscrapers.

During winter, it hosts the city’s Christmas tree and is home to a large ice skating rink.

Get your chocolate fix in Ghirardelli Square

No visit to San Francisco is complete without seeing the famous Ghirardelli Square.

This iconic square has been home to the famous Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory since 1895.

For tourists, it is one of the most popular places in San Francisco to shop and eat quality chocolates and ice creams.

Even though the factory no longer exists in Ghirardelli Square, the square is home to world class restaurants and high end fashion stores.

Of course, there are many ways to enjoy the famous chocolatier’s creations in Ghirardelli Square.

Most people love to try chocolate fudge, chocolate ice cream, and truffles when they visit the iconic square.

We recommend the Original Ghirardelli ice cream and chocolate shop, Ghirardelli chocolate marketplace, and the San Francisco Chocolate store to buy some authentic chocolates as souvenirs of your San Francisco trip.

But even apart from Ghirardelli, there are many things to do in Ghirardelli Square.

It is home to several different chocolate stores that are popular the world over.

If you want to get gifts for your loved ones, then Teuscher chocolates, Recchiuti Confections, and Ginger Elizabeth chocolate are among the few world-renowned stores nearby.

Some other famous attractions in the Square include shopping in boutique stores, dining at restaurants, wine tasting, etc.

The square also has frequent events and celebrations and is great to people watch in the evening.

See the view from Twin Peaks

For unparalleled views of the city and the bay area, make the trip out to Twin Peaks.

The reason the Twin peaks are so immensely popular among tourists is that they offer a panoramic view of the entire city of San Francisco.

Located right in the middle of the town, these peaks are along the scenic 49-mile drive of San Francisco and can be reached via different modes of transportations.

The views from here are legendary.

We recommend visiting the Christmas Tree Point Overlook area for the best views.

You will not only see the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay Bridge from here, but you will also get a 360-degree view of the entire San Francisco skyline.

Apart from the gorgeous views of the architectural landmarks, you will also get to see the San Francisco Bay and Mount Diablo from the top of the Twin Peaks.

But the views are not what Twin Peaks are all about.

There are many other things to do in the area.

There are several nature trails in the Twin Peaks Natural Area.

While hiking you can spot coyotes, rabbits, migratory birds, and squirrels.

The Twin Peaks are also home to the endangered Mission Blue butterfly.

If you are lucky, you can get a glimpse of the Mission blue butterfly – it is one of the most exquisite butterflies in the world.

Do not forget to click the breathtaking pictures of San Francisco while you are up there.

The views of the city from Twin Peaks at night are something else.

Another reason many travelers prefer to visit the Twin Peaks at night is that they have a clear view of the Salesforce Tower light show from there.

Salesforce Tower is the tallest building in San Francisco and the animated light show on its top stories is incredible. You can read more about it here .

The best thing about the Twin Peaks viewing area is that it is always free to visit.

There is ample parking here.

Since the Twin Peaks are 922 feet tall, it is often very windy here and we recommend layering with jackets, scarves, and caps – well into spring and summer. 

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Take a stroll around the Golden Gate Park

The Golden Gate Park is San Francisco’s famous urban park.

Sprawled across an area of 1017 acres, this park is one of the largest in the country – even bigger than New York’s Central Park!

Opened in 1870, the park faced a lot of backlash initially as to whether transforming the sandy dunes into a green land was feasible.

However, despite the doubts, Golden Gate Park was successfully designed to be the most popular green space in the city.

The park is home to many attractions including some of San Francisco’s most famous museums.

If you are an art lover, the De Young Museum is a must as it is home to some of the most renowned paintings in the country.

Its collections include modern American Art, African art, sculptures, and photography.

Visit the California Academy of Sciences, a natural history museum, and research institute to see exhibits such as Foucault’s pendulum, an enclosed rainforest exhibit, aquarium which is home to a colony of penguins, and even see scientists at work on live projects.

This museum is a hit with children.

The park is a haven for outdoor lovers.

It has hiking and biking trails.

There are also guided biking tours that will help you explore every nook and corner of the park.

Many visitors prefer to skateboard or roller skate in the park while others have picnics under the shady trees.

The main plaza is called Music Concourse.

It is adjacent to the two museums and here you will find food trucks, statues, and fountains.

Last but not the least, make sure to visit the Japanese Tea Garden and the San Francisco Botanical Garden.

The Japanese Tea Garden inside the Golden Gate Park is a beautifully landscaped area.

You will be amazed to see the resemblance of Mount Fuji in the clipped hedges.

Other features worth seeing include the Zen garden, a beautiful Tea House, Drum bridge, and the Lantern of Peace.

The San Francisco Botanical Garden is home to trees like Wisterias, Azaleas, and maple trees.

Eat dim sum in Chinatown

San Francisco’s Chinatown is the biggest Chinatown in the country.

The Chinese immigrants settled in San Francisco around 1848 and built a neighborhood of oriental buildings that stretched 24 blocks along Grant Avenue.

The area was destroyed in the San Francisco earthquake but was rebuilt to what is today known as Chinatown.

Chinatown is one of the top tourist spots in the country and gets more visitors than the Golden Gate Bridge.

Our favorite activity in Chinatown is eating the dim sums.

Our favorite is City View, where they serve a variety of dumplings on pushcarts and you can pick whichever you like.

There are many other restaurants in Chinatown that serve high-quality dim sums as well.

Some of them are Good Mong Kok Bakery, Hang Ah tea room, Lai Hong Lounge, and Palette tea house.

Besides dim sum, some other things to try in Chinatown include Peking duck, noodle soups, egg tarts, rice cakes, and milk teas.

While you are there explore Chinatown and its alleys.

You will find many shops selling herbal essences, kites, souvenirs, oriental home decor, and fresh produce.

You can also see beautiful oriental architecture in Chinatown.

Start at the famous Dragon Gate located at intersection of Grant Avenue and Bush Street.

This gate has dragons and lions standing guard over the neighborhood.

Then walk along Grant Avenue.

Spot the famous Chinese lamp posts and red lanterns on the street. You will also see many colorful murals. 

See the famous Sing Chong and Sing Fat buildings located at the intersection of Grant and California.

Then visit the historic Old St. Mary’s Church that was built in 1853.

This is the only Chinatown building that survived the disastrous earthquake of 1906.

The Old Telephone Exchange, located at 743 Washington Street, is also worth a look. 

To experience the vibe of Chinatown, visit Portsmouth Square.

Here you will see Chinatown residents playing checkers, chess, and other games.

You will see traditional music and dance performances.

The square also has a play area for kids.

You must also visit the TransAmerica Pyramid Redwood Grove – see redwood trees in the center of San Francisco!

You can end your expedition by exploring the alleys of Chinatown and have a peek at the life of the locals.

See the beautiful artwork inside the Palace of Fine Arts

The Palace of Fine Arts is one of the most beautiful buildings in San Francisco.

Originally the palace was built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition held in San Francisco.

It is the only building standing after the exposition.

The palace was rebuilt in 1965 and since then is home to concerts, music shows, and art exhibitions by renowned artists.

Today, it is one of the most popular Instagram spots in the city.

The architecture of the building is spellbinding.

Inspired by Roman and greek designs, the Palace of Fine Arts leaves visitors astounded.

The columns and rotunda are beautiful as are the ground and the pond.

The Palace looks beautiful at night when it is lit up and its reflection shimmers in the water.

The Palace of Fine Arts has also been the locale of several films.

Some of them are Vertigo, The Five-year engagement, Big Eyes, Murder in the first, and Jade.

Wondering how to get to the Palace of Fine Arts?

You can go there, quite easily, by taking a public bus from the most popular attractions in San Francisco.

The best thing is that you will not have to pay any fee to explore the site, as entry is free.

You can explore the entire structure within thirty to forty minutes but we recommend an hour to relax on the benches and take photographs.

The Palace of Fine Arts is also kid-friendly and an excellent place to bring the kids.

See a game of San Francisco Giants

Sports lovers must watch a game of San Francisco Giants at their home stadium, AT&T Park!

The San Francisco Giants are one of the most iconic baseball teams in history.

So whether you’re a diehard Giants fan or just looking for a fun summer activity, head to AT&T Park and see the Giants take on their rivals.

For a taste of Paris, visit the Legion of Honor

When you first visit the California Palace of the Legion of Honor, you will be struck by the striking similarities to the Palais de la Légion d’Honneur in Paris.

The building was established in 1924 to honor Californian soldiers who died in World War I by Alma de Bretteville Spreckels, the wife of San Francisco sugar magnate Adolph B. Spreckels.

Since then the building is considered as a gift from the Spreckels to the city of San Francisco.

Designed in the neoclassical French style, the building rises prominently above Lincoln Park, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Pacific Ocean.

Seeing this beautiful building is reason enough to visit the Legion of Honor.

This impressive building today functions as one of SF’s most beloved museums with a collection spanning thousands of precious artwork.

The exhibits offer unique perspectives into the artistic, cultural, and social art movements of the past 4,000 years.

The museum collection comprises European paintings, ceramics, Egyptian artwork, ancient Mediterranean crafts; and a large gallery of sculptures including over 100 by Rodin.

You can see works by Van Gough, Monet, and Picasso among others. 

The Legion of Honor also has special exhibits and free guided tours and organ concerts.

The museum is located in Lincoln Park and has plenty of free parking.

Lincoln Park and the nearby area of Land’s End has stunning panoramas of the Bay and Golden Gate bridge and is worth a stroll.

We recommend walking along the Coastal Trail to see spectacular views.

On the way, you might also spot migrating whales.

Marvel at the murals of Mission District

To explore some of the best street art in San Francisco, you need to head down to the Mission District.

The Mission District is a free open-air museum of urban art.

Walls and fences throughout the area are decorated with colorful murals depicting subjects varying from cultural traditions to socio-political issues.

The first murals appeared around Balmy Alley in the mid-80s in response to human rights abuses and corruption prevalent in central America.

New murals continue to appear today about current issues including gentrification, discrimination, and suppression.

Walking along the streets of Mission District is like exploring an art gallery.

Seeing the murals by yourself is quite easy.

To see the best murals, walk along the 24th street between Mission and York streets to see the most famous murals in the area.

Explore side streets including Lilac Street and Cypress Street among others.

And off course, don’t forget Balmy Alley where it all began.

Clarion Alley is another hot spot as is the adjacent Women’s Building for its MaestraPeace Mural.

Parking in the area remains a problem.

Travel tip: Car break-ins in Mission district streets are pretty common!

That’s why we would recommend taking public transport to the place or while parking, ensure that no valuables are visible inside the car.

Alternatively, you can also take a guided tour of the area. 

Mission District also happens to be the best place in San Francisco to eat a burrito.

In fact, the burritos here are called the Mission-style burritos and the taquerias of the area are full of burrito lovers.

The Mission burritos are large, cheap, and delicious – you can customize it as you want!

To get your fill, we recommend Taqueria Los Coyotes or El Faro or La Taqueria – to see more popular restaurants, read here .

Besides the murals and burritos, there are many other things to do in the Mission District.

You will find some of the best nightlife – including pubs and dive bars – in San Francisco in the Mission District.

You can also browse book stores and thrift stores and take a stroll in Mission Dolores Park, which has great views of downtown SF.

While you are in the area, visit the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts and the Mission Dolores, which is the oldest building in San Francisco.

Go on a food tasting spree at the Ferry building

From the Gold Rush to the 1930s, ferry boats were the only way to reach the city and the Ferry Building, built-in 1898, was soon the focal point in SF for anyone traveling by sea.

Passengers coming from the ships entered an impressive two-story building with grand internal arches and overhead skylights.

With the completion of the bridges, the building fell into disuse and deteriorated.

The building was restored for public use in 2003 and since then, is a jewel of the city.

The Ferry Building is another of San Francisco’s icons for a number of reasons.

First is its strategic location on the Embarcadero of San Francisco.

Second, is its Beaux-Arts style of architecture.

Third, is its famous clock tower – which has been a San Francisco waterfront landmark for more than a hundred years and is visible all the way on Market Street.

The Ferry Building Marketplace and the surrounding farmer’s market are a must-visit for foodies.

The marketplace is one of the best food halls in the country – you will find several vendors lined up along the Nave, the central public area.

You can buy produce and artisan goods including coffee, cheese, bread, olive oil, and more.

You will also find eateries serving everything from pastries and donuts to seafood, burritos, and even sushi.

Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your San Francisco Ferry Building visit.

The building is easily accessible via public transport including streetcars and ferries.

There is a parking lot at the ferry building if you are driving.

While you are there, the nearby Rincon Park is a good stroll.

Enjoy solitude at Ocean Beach

Literally, in the shadow of the Golden Gate Bridge is one of San Francisco’s best kept secrets: Ocean Beach.

The length of sandy coastline stretches out below massive cliffs, and has been a popular spot for locals and tourists alike for decades.

Sunbathing, playing in the waves, volleyball, and kite flying are some popular activities here.

Strolling along the beachfront path offers up stunning views of the bridge as well as the city skyline.

Get your Disney fix at the Walt Disney Family Museum

This San Francisco Museum is a must-see for any fan of the legendary animation studio.

Located in the Presidio of San Francisco, it’s home to countless artifacts and stories from the life of Walt Disney himself.

The museum features exhibits on his work as an artist, filmmaker, and entrepreneur.

There’s also a theater where you can watch clips from classic Disney movies, and a store where you can buy souvenirs.

Find the “Full House” homes

If you are an 80s kid, chances are you know Full House.

The original show’s opening scenes or even the 2016 sequel “Fuller House” show famous places in San Francisco including the Tanner House.

Well, did you know that you can actually visit that house while in San Francisco? 

It’s a little complicated. In the series, the Tanner family had the address:1882 Girard St. However, this address is fictitious!

The house used in the outside shots is actually on 1709 Broderick Street.

However, the row of houses featured in the opening credits is actually called the Painted Ladies and you can find them on Postcard Row – next to Alamo Square Park where the family is shown to be having a picnic!

So which should you visit? We recommend doing both.

However, remember that Broderick Street is a residential neighborhood so be discreet while you take photos and do not stand on the house steps – that’s trespassing!

Postcard Row is much easier to photograph and one of the San Francisco’s top Instagrammable spots. 

Walk down the curves of Lombard Street

One of the best things to do in SF!

Lombard Street is known as the most crooked street in San Francisco.

This east-west street is popular for a steep one-block segment of eight hairpin turns.

You will find this block along the Russian Hill and North Beach neighborhoods.

It is a major tourist attraction and attracts about two million tourists per year and even up to 17,000 per day on busy summer weekends!

You can easily reach it via the Powell/Hyde cable car line.

For a challenge try driving down Lombard Street’s sharp curves.

Set your GPS to 1099 Lombard Street and then go all the way down.

Or walk along the sidewalk, like us – that’ll definitely give you more time to take photographs.

Enjoy seeing the pretty homes on either side of the street.

There are many notable homes along this red brick road.

Most popular is the apartment in Vertigo at 900 Lombard Street.

The Real World: San Francisco house is located at 949 Lombard Street.

Lombard Street is also a popular filming locale.

Many chase scenes have been shot on Lombard Street and it has been featured in movies including Antman and the Wasp, Vertigo, and the animated film Inside Out.

Lombard Street’s famous residents include Rowena Meeks Abdy, an American Modernist painter who had her home and studio on this street.

Needless to say, Lombard Street is one of the most popular Instagram spots in San Francisco.

Visit Lombard Street early in the morning to avoid crowds and traffic.

Explore the neighborhood of Haight-Ashbury

While the entire city of San Francisco is hip, to see the hippest part of the city you need to visit Haight Ashbury .

This area was home to the 1967 Summer of Love movement that took the country by storm.

Here is where the hippie culture and its counterparts: drugs, music, and the love-peace message originated.

Thousands of youngsters from all over the country moved to Haight Ashbury to be at the center of it all.

The neighborhood retains its counterculture atmosphere even today.

While you can just stroll around the neighborhood to enjoy its bohemian vibe, we recommend a DIY tour to see its most notable sights.

Start at the famous intersection of Haight and Ashbury.

This gives the area its name and is a popular photo spot.

Then see the Grateful Dead House at 710 Ashbury Street.

This is where the band’s founders lived during the 1960s.

Many free concerts were conducted here during that time.

Apart from the famous houses, most homes in the area are beautiful Victorian mansions and worth a look.

They are brightly painted and have many ornate architectural details.

The most colorful ones can be found on Central Ave between Haight and Page.

Another good photo op is the homes on Waller known as the Four Seasons. 

Shop at the Booksmith – a popular independent bookstore at 1644 Haight which also sells books on different artists, literary journals, tote bags, and more.

Drink coffee at Coffee to the People. Music lovers will love Amoeba Music.

Here, in addition to contemporary music, you will find obscure tapes, cassettes, vinyl records, and movies.

This is the perfect place to find new artists and rediscover old gems.

The store also has excellent graffiti on the outside. 

In fact, you will find graffiti throughout the neighborhood.

Haight Ashbury also has great nightlife.

Step into Club Deluxe for live jazz or the Alembic for a gastropub experience.

Last but not least visit Buena Vista Park.

This is the oldest park in San Francisco and has great views of the city due to its location on a hilltop.

The annual street fair is also a popular time to visit the neighborhood.

See the redwoods at Muir Woods

Most visitors think that the redwood trees are found further along the coast in Northern California.

However, did you know you can see them right here at Muir Woods National Monument?!

This beautiful forest is home to towering redwoods that are sure to take your breath away.

There are plenty of hiking trails for visitors that take you up close to these giants.

Have a picnic in the Yerba Buena Gardens

Located in the heart of downtown San Francisco, Yerba Buena Gardens is a nexus of culture and leisure.

The gardens occupy four blocks near the city’s iconic Ferry Building and offer lush natural landscapes.

Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll by the floral displays and waterfalls, admire Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, have a picnic, or simply enjoy a sunny day!

See the exhibits at the Asian Art Museum

The Asian Art Museum in San Francisco is one of the largest museums in the world dedicated to Asian art.

Its vast collection of artifacts from Asia spans over 6,000 years of history.

The exhibits includes everything from ancient pottery and sculpture to contemporary paintings and calligraphy, making it an essential stop for anyone interested in learning more about Asian culture.

Drink the Irish coffee at Buena Vista Cafe

One of my favorite things at Fisherman’s Wharf is drinking the Irish Coffee at Buena Vista Cafe.

This cafe is said to be the place where the Irish Coffee was first recreated in San Francisco.

You can read the story of the experiments here .

The cafe has featured on Food Network and many other culinary shows.

Since then, Buena Vista is a must on the San Francisco foodie list.

The cafe serves over 2000 Irish coffee every day!

The Irish Coffee that they serve is one of the best I have tasted, except maybe the one sold at Molly’s at the Market in New Orleans.

Apart from the regular Irish Coffee, you can also try many variations including a chocolate Irish coffee and also a dessert – bread pudding with Irish whiskey sauce!

The cafe also makes an ideal date in San Francisco.

We hope you like our post on our favorite things to do in San Francisco.

Did we miss out on any spectacular attractions? Let us know in the comments.

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Beaches Near San Francisco

Camping Near San Francisco

San Francisco's Best Parks

Top San Francisco Museums

Live Music in San Francisco

Itinerary: 48 Hours in San Francisco

Day Trips From San Francisco

Fine Dining in San Francisco

San Francisco's Best Bars

Breweries in San Francisco

The Best Time to Visit San Francisco

San Francisco Weather & Climate

San Francisco Airports

Neighborhoods to Know

Getting Around in San Francisco

Top Things to Do

The 20 Best Things to Do in San Francisco

San Francisco packs an incredible variety of must-see attractions and cultural landmarks into its 49 square miles. Each district has a distinct character and many things to do, whether it’s restaurants, museums, art, music, and pretty much everything in between. Best of all, the small size of the “City by the Bay” allows visitors to catch many different sights on a single trip, even if it’s just a couple of days. Nearby natural parks also offer a chance to plan some enticing day trips around Northern California.

Visit the Palace of Fine Arts

Robert Mackinlay / Getty Images

A shining gem of the city's Marina District, the Palace of Fine Arts was initially built in 1915 to exhibit artworks for the World's Fair. Today, it is one of the most picturesque places in San Francisco and a perfect destination for taking photos or attending a performance in the theatre. The most striking building is the open dome on an artificial lake decorated with 26 large sculptures. Initially designed by Bernard Maybeck, the rotunda has appeared in many films, including Alfred Hitchcock's "Vertigo." Its design takes its inspiration from classical European architecture.

Take a Day Trip to Muir Woods

If it's your first time in Northern California, a short day trip to a nearby Redwood grove is a must-have experience. Redwoods are the tallest trees on the planet, and from San Francisco, it's an hour's drive to Muir Woods National Monument, a part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area . The park has 6 miles of hiking trails, and the Main Trail, which starts at the visitor center, is wheelchair accessible for one mile. The park can get particularly crowded on the weekends, so a weekday visit would be best.

Cruise the Bay

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One of the easiest ways to see the city from every angle is to hop aboard a sightseeing cruise. You can take many different types of cruises, from Hornblower's dinner cruises to standard sightseeing cruises and excursions to Angel Island , which is home to the city's historic Immigration Station and a few picturesque campsites and hiking trails. For the best views and photographs, try to time your cruise for sunset. Don't forget your jacket and motion sickness medication, as this famously foggy city can produce some rough and cold conditions on bad weather days.

Catch a Game at Oracle Park

TripSavvy / Melissa Zink

Home of the San Francisco Giants, Oracle Park is a beloved baseball stadium. Many design aspects of the stadium pay tribute to the team's history, such as the 24-foot high right-field wall, which pays homage to the number of Willie Mays, the most famous Giants player, and outside the park statues are dedicated to some of the team's best players. The stadium sometimes hosts football and soccer games if baseball isn't your thing.

Cross the Golden Gate Bridge

Katrin Engel / EyeEm / Getty Images

One of the most recognizable bridges in the United States—and arguably the rest of the world—the Golden Gate Bridge stretched for nearly 2 miles over the Golden Gate Strait connecting the Pacific Ocean to San Francisco. While most people get their first impressions of this stunning bridge while driving across to enter the city, the Golden Gate is something you’ll want to experience without any distractions. There’s a pedestrian walkway available to cross the bridge by foot, a bike path , or you can head to one of the bridge’s popular vista points to get some incredible views of the famous bay.

Take a Tour of Alcatraz

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A former federal prison placed on a rocky island about 1.5 miles offshore from the city, Alcatraz has remained one of San Francisco’s top tourist highlights since it opened to the public in the early 1970s. Currently, visitors can reach the island through the ferry from Pier 33 (the trip takes less than 15 minutes) and tour the prison and surrounding grounds. Along with the infamous prison that housed notorious names like Al Capone in its heyday, Alcatraz was also the site of an 18-month long protest that helped spark the Native American civil rights movement.

Explore Chinatown

 TripSavvy / Melissa Zink

Established around 1848 during the California Gold Rush era, San Francisco’s Chinatown is older than any other Chinese community in North America. Take your very own self-guided walking tour starting at the much-photographed Dragon Gate at the intersection of Bush Street and Grant Avenue, and explore the vibrant neighborhood as it takes you past unique souvenirs, local temples, Chinese herbal shops and authentic dim sum restaurants.

Stroll Through Golden Gate Park

Brimming with lush gardens, museums, lakes, and meadows, Golden Gate Park is on the northwest end of San Francisco. It was initially built in 1871, converting a vast stretch of unincorporated dunes known as Outside Lands (a name that later inspired the music and arts festival held annually within the park's boundaries). Horticulture fans will have plenty to see at the San Francisco Botanical Garden and the Conservatory of Flowers, two important landmarks protecting rare tropical plants and flowers from around the world.

Buy Local at the Ferry Building

Some of Northern California’s best culinary delights, such as cheese from Cowgirl Creamery, coffee from Blue Bottle, and oysters from Hog Island Oyster Company, can be found at the edge of the water in the city’s historic Ferry Building. It isn’t just food, but also crafts and souvenirs ranging from books and clothing to candles and ceramics, so one can easily spend several hours perusing the shops and enjoying lunch. Each Saturday, the restored structure opens up to local vendors for the Ferry Plaza farmers market and tons of seasonal, fresh produce.

Visit One of the City’s Many Museums

There’s truly something for everyone when it comes to San Francisco’s great museums. The California Academy of Sciences celebrates the world of natural science. The Exploratorium offers hands-on learning for children and adults alike. The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art holds one of the largest collections of modern art in the United States. The city also provides opportunities to learn about San Francisco’s rich history at the San Francisco Railway Museum and the Cable Car Museum , and individual cultures at the Museum of African Diaspora and the Contemporary Jewish Museum .

Walk Along Pier 39

Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf are tourist hotspots for a reason. The area is famous for shopping and souvenir hunting, along with the population of local sea lions who’ve been hanging out on the K dock next to the pier since the 1990s. Take a walk along Pier 39, and you’ll likely find yourself staring at various street performers, a vintage carousel, and a whole host of specialty shops selling unique souvenirs and gag gifts—all surrounded by gorgeous views of the San Francisco Bay.

Ride a Cable Car

San Francisco’s cable cars were built in the late 19th century to respond to the city’s notoriously steep hills, and they’re still transporting people today as the only working system of cable cars left in the world. Three separate cable car lines run through the city streets: the Powell-Mason Line, the Powell-Hyde Line, and the California Line. Both Powell lines take off from the same hub at Union Square and continue to the Fisherman’s Wharf area, while the California line starts at California and Market and climbs up to Van Ness Avenue.

Take in the View at Twin Peaks

Alexander Spatari / Getty Images

Named for the pair of towering peaks located near the city's center less than 4 miles from downtown San Francisco, Twin Peaks boasts a stunning 360-degree view of the Bay Area. On clear days, it's even possible to spot the Santa Clara Valley to the south and Mount Diablo to the east. Most visitors drive the winding road to the top and choose from the selection of natural trails to access the best viewpoints from there.

Celebrate the LGBTQ+ Community in the Castro

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San Francisco’s Castro district isn’t just the heart of the city’s LGBTQ+ community—it is also a thriving neighborhood full of colorful nightlife, restaurants, shops, museums, and landmarks. The Castro Theatre, built in 1922, is one of the only theaters left in the country with an authentic pipe organ player, while the Anchor Oyster Bar has some of the best seafood in the city. The former home of Harvey Milk, internationally recognized human rights leader and the first openly gay elected official in California’s history, the Castro is an invaluable piece of San Francisco’s character and the perfect place to explore the history of the LGBTQ+ movement.

Eat Pasta in North Beach

Gerald French / Getty Images

The city’s own “Little Italy,” North Beach is nestled near Washington Square and Columbus and Grant Avenues. The district is known for its classic Italian restaurants, bakeries, delis, and European-style cafes. Still, it’s also a great neighborhood for simply walking around to people-watch and window shop. Don’t leave without browsing the aisles at City Lights Books, and consider making the trek to Coit Tower on Telegraph Hill for a fantastic view of the Golden Gate and Bay Bridges.

Relax at the Japanese Tea Garden

John Elk III / Getty Images

Located inside Golden Gate Park, the Japanese Tea Garden is North America’s oldest continuously operating public Japanese garden. With its perfectly manicured trees, soft water features, and classic Japanese structures, it’s difficult not to feel relaxed inside this three-acre garden in the middle of a bustling city. The tea house serves hot tea all year round, but the landscape is breathtaking in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom or the fall when the leaves change .

Have a Picnic at the Presidio

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Now a national park and historical site, the Presidio was once a thriving military base that officials converted into scenic grounds with a natural vibe in the 1990s. Today, the space spans nearly 1,500 acres, home to miles of hiking trails, restaurants, bars, and museums. Located along the main Presidio promenade is Crissy Field, a sprawling grass field popular for picnics, recreation, and lounging.

Go Thrifting at Haight and Ashbury

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The Haight-Ashbury district of San Francisco—named for the intersection of Haight and Ashbury streets—was the epicenter of the city’s hippie movement in the 1960s. Venture down upper Haight Street for an incredible selection of vintage clothing shops, bookstores, dive bars, and record shops. Don’t leave without visiting the music lover’s paradise at Amoeba Records , or just explore and marvel at the neighborhood’s Victorian homes, murals, and colorful sights.

Watch the Sunset at Baker Beach

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One of the undisputed best beaches in San Francisco, Baker Beach is as stunning in the evenings as it is during the day. With views that combine a rocky shoreline with rolling hills and the famous Golden Gate Bridge, the beach here puts on an excellent display once the sun begins to set in the early evening, providing some genuinely breathtaking photo opportunities along the way. You'll find Baker Beach on the city's northwest side in the Presidio district.

Admire the Murals in the Mission

Come for the vibrant murals that line the streets of the Mission District, and stay for the trendy boutiques, eclectic stores, and incredible Mexican restaurants. This historic neighborhood is home to Dolores Park, a popular hillside hangout centered around a rich Latino heritage. A walk around Clarion and Balmy alleys will show off the bulk of the Mission’s murals, but there are also plenty of art galleries around the neighborhood to experience as well.

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The Ultimate San Francisco Itinerary

From the Golden Gate Bridge and the fortress of Alcatraz, to the murals of the Mission District and the bright lights of Chinatown – this San Francisco itinerary will give you a great introduction to the city.

Welcome to San Francisco! Surrounded by lush hills and Californian coastline, and filled with famous monuments such as the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco has plenty to offer visitors.

You can satisfy your food cravings in Chinatown, marvel at the vibrant murals of the Mission District, and tour the city in a traditional cable car. And don’t worry about that ethereal fog that sometimes looms over the bay – it’s all part of what makes this city unique.

To help make your travel dream a reality, I’ve put together the ideal itinerary for 3 days in San Francisco, aimed at first time visitors and taking in some of the city’s best sights, sounds and smells.

If you’re looking for things to do in San Francisco, simply use my San Francisco itinerary, travel tips and guide for inspiration!

Oh, and if you fancy making your trip extra special, check out my pick of the best hotels in San Francisco with a view .

Best Time to Visit San Francisco

In terms of weather, San Francisco is known for the fog that descends in the bay area. Added to that, its coastal location means that the city never gets too hot, even in peak summer. Winter and spring, however, can be unpredictable and rainy, so to experience the best weather, I’d recommend visiting in autumn. Temperatures hover around 22 degrees Celsius, the main sights won’t be too crowded, and you’ll get to see the Californian forests in their colourful autumn tones.

San Francisco Itinerary

Cross the golden gate bridge.

Nothing can quite prepare you for the sight of the gleaming Golden Gate Bridge, which spans the mile-long strait connecting San Francisco to Marin County. This breath-taking feat of human engineering is the iconic symbol of the city, and crossing it is one of the most popular things to do in San Francisco.

If you just want to relax, the Golden Gate Bridge can be admired at your leisure from Crissy Fields, a park which offers excellent views of both the bridge and Alcatraz.

Alternatively, hire a bike at Fisherman’s Wharf, traverse the 1.7 mile-long bridge, and spend the day exploring the coast on the far side of the bay. If you’ve got the energy, it’s even possible to get all the way to Muir Woods by bike, where you can explore the grove of giant sequoia trees.

Grab Lunch at Fisherman’s Wharf

Classic San Francisco destination, Fisherman’s Wharf has become something of a tourist trap in recent years. As the major jumping-off point for tours to Alcatraz, this bustling waterfront is often criticised for high prices and long queues.

However, despite the crowds, Fisherman’s Wharf is definitely worth a visit, if only to taste fresh crab or a delicious clam chowder from the street vendors. Don’t miss the noisy sea lions at Pier 39 – a unique attraction that should definitely be part of your San Francisco itinerary!

Wander Through Chinatown

San Francisco’s Chinatown is one of the best places in the city to wander, explore, and eat to your heart’s content!

Leave space in your San Francisco itinerary for a meal here during your stay, and take advantage of the colourful shops and streets. If you love taking photos, you’ll be in your element.

Ride the Cable Cars

Did you even visit San Francisco if you didn’t ride one of the city’s iconic streetcars?

They transport passengers across the city, all the way from Union Square up to the top of Nob Hill. Atmospheric, creaking and beautifully decorated, a ride on the cable cars is one of the most unusual things to do in San Francisco.

The Powell-Hyde line will take you from Fisherman’s Wharf past some of the city’s most iconic sights. Don’t miss Lombard Street too, the famous flower-clad hill known for its sharp hairpin bends.

Admire Coit Tower

Perched on the top of Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower is one of the city’s most famous landmarks.

Ascend the tower for a fabulous panorama of the city and the bay, or stay at ground level to admire the murals that adorn the base – painted by local artists during the Great Depression of the early 1930s.

Take a trip to Alcatraz

While spending the morning doing an audio tour of a former prison might not sound like a reason to get out of bed, you can’t visit San Francisco and not take the trip to Alcatraz. It was a real highlight for me.

Be sure to book in advance as a lot of the slots sell out. The tour offers a fascinating insight into the various attempted escapes and the big name criminals who used to be imprisoned there. It’s pretty eerie, but will definitely strike a chord.

Eat a Burrito in the Mission District

After a busy day exploring some of the most popular tourist attractions in San Francisco, head to the Mission District for great views over the city from Dolores Park, and some of the best Mexican food you’ll taste in California.

This trendy, diverse neighbourhood offers buzzing nightlife, as well as some of the city’s best bookshops, and vintage clothing stores. When I visited I went on a great food tour , during which I learned all about the history of the area and tasted some incredible and diverse cuisine. I’d definitely recommend adding that to your San Francisco itinerary if you have time.

Chill out in the Golden Gate Park

The Golden Gate Park is a lovely place to spend an afternoon. It features a traditional Japanese tea garden, a beautiful arboretum and several museums, all surrounded by tranquil walking trails.

Don’t miss the California Academy of Sciences – one of the most eco-friendly museums in the world! This vast park is a wonderful place to come in spring and summer, when it’s decorated with colourful flowers in full bloom.

Explore Haight-Ashbury

San Francisco is synonymous with the hippie movement of the 1960s, and Haight-Ashbury is where it all began. Although it’s become somewhat gentrified in recent years, this iconic neighbourhood still belongs on any San Francisco itinerary.

You’ll find vintage bookshops, cool cocktail bars, and colourful painted houses (including the former home of the band members of the Grateful Dead!).

Party in the Castro

Top off your San Francisco itinerary with a night out in the rainbow-clad streets of the Castro.

Home of the LGBTQ+ rights movement, this vibrant part of the city is a wonderful place to explore. You’ll find thrift stores, vintage clothes, bars, and clubs – everyone is welcome and you’ll be in for a fabulous night out.

Stay at a Luxurious Hotel in San Francisco

Palace hotel.

Located in downtown San Francisco, just off Market Street, the Palace Hotel is one of the city’s most glittering jewels. This stunning hotel is decorated in the Beaux Arts style, and has hosted plenty of Hollywood stars and international celebrities over the years.

You’ll find a restaurant decked out in glittering chandeliers and a beautiful domed ceiling, a state-of-the-art spa, and some of the most luxurious rooms in the city.

Check availability and latest prices at the Palace Hotel here

Huntington Hotel

Located in a great location in Nob Hill, the Huntington Hotel is one of San Francisco’s classiest offerings.

This luxury hotel offers spacious rooms and an uber-cool piano bar with regular live music. If long days of sightseeing have worn you out, take advantage of the wonderful spa facilities – the ideal way to unwind during your San Francisco travel itinerary.

Check availability and latest prices at Huntington Hotel here

Loews Regency San Francisco Hotel

The Loews Regency San Francisco Hotel offers, without doubt, the best view of any hotel in San Francisco.

With stunning vistas over the bay and the bridge (the hotel even provides binoculars so you can really make the most of it), it’s hard to beat for location.

What’s more, the service is warm, friendly and attentive, and the hotel has everything you might expect from a luxury place to stay. The ideal spot for those seeking a little luxury in a memorable location.

Check availability and latest prices at Loews Regency San Francisco Hotel here

Search for other hotels in San Francisco using this handy map

Tours in san francisco, straight to the gate: escape from the rock bay cruise.

Alatraz is one of San Francisco’s most notorious monuments, an impenetrable prison located on an offshore island, once home to some of America’s most dangerous and deadly criminals.

This cruise circles the island, giving you the best view of the city, the bridges and the island itself, and you’ll be entertained along the way with some gruesome stories of escape attempts over the decades.

Check prices and availability here

Redwoods and Wine Country

San Francisco offers easy access to some of California’s most beautiful natural spots, and this tour is a great way to experience the best marriage between nature and culture.

In the morning you’ll explore the Redwood Forests, filled with towering, gargantuan redwoods. In the afternoon, you’ll tour some of the Napa Valley’s best vineyards, sampling some wine and learning more about this diverse industry.

Looking for other cool places to visit in California? Don’t forget to check out my Los Angeles itinerary , which is packed full of amazing food recommendations, fun day trips and great views.  

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

1 thought on “The Ultimate San Francisco Itinerary”

About two years ago I visited San Francisco for the first time – it was amazing. Think I covered mostly everything in your itinerary. I didn’t see Redwoods Forest though which was a shame!

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The Best Things To Do in San Francisco in December

San Francisco is a city unlike any other, and no matter the time of year you choose to visit, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.

If you decide to visit San Francisco in December, you’ll often be rewarded with fewer crowds, cheaper hotel rates, and unparalleled holiday light displays. The temperatures do drop to the mid-50s, but as long as you come prepared with plenty of layers, you’re sure to enjoy all that wintertime in San Francisco has to offer.

What to do in San Francisco in December

From holiday lights to chocolate made on the spot, there are plenty of things to warm your spirit in the cold of San Francisco in December. Explore SF foot or hop in a cable car to see the views of the entire city and the bay from the hilltops.

Here are some seasonal ideas to get you started.

The inverted tree at Westfield San Francisco Centre

Take a break from Christmas shopping to check out the bizarrely beautiful 50-foot inverted tree at the Westfield San Francisco Centre. Adorned with crystals, the tree hangs in the Emporium Dome and stars in hundreds of Instagram photos each year.

When to go: The tree is typically lit the first week of December. Check the Westfield SF Centre website for information on this year’s dates.

San Francisco City Hall lights

San Francisco’s City Hall, located by the Civic Center, is known for its frequently changing light displays. In the summer, City Hall’s lights turn red, white, and blue for the Fourth of July, and rainbow colors splash across the building for Pride Month.

In December, visit City Hall to see bright green and red ushering in the holiday season. 

When to go: Holiday lights at City Hall typically shine beginning mid-December until the end of the year. Visit the San Francisco City Hall website for the full scheduling of lightings.

Ghirardelli Square at Fisherman’s Wharf

With signature sundaes, local craft beer, and the famous marquee, a visit to Ghirardelli Square in Fisherman’s Wharf is great any time of year. But a trip in December promises a bit of extra excitement, thanks to a 50-foot Christmas tree in the middle of the square and visits from Santa. See chocolate made from scratch, shop locally made gifts, and, of course, stock up on incomparable chocolate delights.

Fisherman's Wharf Tours

When to go: Holiday decorations — including the giant Christmas tree — at Ghirardelli Square usually go up around the last week of November. Follow @ghirardellisquare on Instagram to stay updated.

Macy’s Great Tree and holiday window displays

Macy’s famous 83-foot tree lights up Union Square in San Francisco every season. The impressive Christmas tree is also accompanied by their holiday window displays, so you can admire (and photograph) both for a festive day out.

When to go: The lighting usually begins the week before Thanksgiving, and the tree will twinkle all the way through the day after New Year’s. Find out more on their website .

Shopping and lights at Fourth Street in Berkeley

Fourth Street in Berkeley lights up in December with sparkling tree-lined streets. Come for the holiday wonderland feel, and stay for the endless shopping all on one street, from big names like Madewell and Apple to local handmade goods. 

When to go: Go on a December evening. You can check out the Fourth Street Shops website in advance to see which stores are currently open.

Illuminate SF Festival of Light

Starting in late November, San Francisco’s Festival of Light brightens the city with over 60 light art installations across the city. These dazzling installations are created by artists all over the world, and some are even up year-round.

From dancing lights on the Bay Bridge to the illuminated Ferris wheel in Golden Gate Park, December is the perfect time to brighten up the long winter nights with dazzling light displays. 

When to go: The light installations are up from Thanksgiving through January. Take a self-guided tour with the Illuminate SF art tour map and learn more on the Illuminate SF website.

Top things to do in San Francisco for December 2022

From boat parades and dancing candy canes to seeing the zoo aglow, there’s no shortage of festive activities in the Bay Area during the holiday season. Here are some of our suggestions for the best winter activities to celebrate the most wonderful time of year.

“Entwined” at Golden Gate Park

When: Beginning Dec. 1, 2022

This year, Golden Gate Park is celebrating the holidays by bringing back their popular immersive LED light display experience, “Entwined.” 

The art installation by Bay Area artist Charles Gadekin will turn the park’s Peacock Meadow into an “enchanted forest” with 2,000 LED lights. “Entwined” promises magic and whimsy with every step.

“The Nutcracker” by the San Francisco Ballet

When: Dec. 8-27, 2022

San Francisco Ballet’s annual performance of “The Nutcracker” impresses each year at the War Memorial Opera House. The incredible dancing is accompanied with a score by the Grammy award-winning San Francisco Orchestra. 

Visit ​​ sfballet.org for tickets and more information.

Holiday ice rink in Union Square

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Union Square Ice Rink (@unionsquarerink)

When: Nov. 2, 2022, to Jan. 16, 2023

Embrace the holiday season by ice skating in the outdoor rank in Union Square at The Safeway Holiday Ice Rink presented by Kaiser Permanente. Enjoy open skating most days throughout the end of the year, and stay tuned for special events like skating lessons, silent skate parties, Drag Queens on Ice, and more. 

Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for children. Purchase tickets and keep up with events on the Union Square Ice Rink website .

San Francisco lighted boat parade

When: Dec. 16, 2022

Watching boats adorned in holiday lights sail across the bay is a yearly tradition for many Bay Area residents.Watch boats of all sizes glide through the marina wearing their holiday best at the Annual Lighted Boat Parade in San Francisco at Pier 39, Fisherman’s Wharf , Fort Mason, or Crissy Field. The event is free to attend.

Gingerbread house competition in Sausalito

When: Dec. 1-31, 2022

Across the Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito celebrates the holidays in style with gingerbread bread houses galore. Walk through downtown Sausalito to view the extravagant gingerbread houses entered in the Annual Gingerbread House Competition.

Cast your vote for the winner on this free and family-friendly tour. You can even download the tour map in advance on their website .

SF Symphony Deck the Hall celebration

When: Beginning Dec. 4, 2022

Visit the Davies Symphony Hall in San Francisco to enjoy the sights and sounds of the San Francisco Symphony with the beloved Deck the Hall celebration. Symphony musicians and special guests join the program to play new songs and holiday classics alike in a series of shows throughout December.Check the SF Symphony website for tickets.

Glowfari at Oakland Zoo

When: Nov. 1, 2022, to Jan. 29, 2023

Glowfari features hundreds of massive glowing animal lanterns throughout the Oakland Zoo, from a 15-foot tall penguin to life-size elephants and giraffes. A ride in the zoo’s aerial gondola (which is also decked out in holiday lights) will give you a bird’s-eye view of the magic.

Tickets are $24 for adults and $20 for children and seniors.

’Tis the Season for Science at the California Academy of Sciences

When: Nov. 18, 2022, to Jan. 8, 2023

The California Academy of Sciences ’ annual tradition, ’Tis the Season for Science, features twice-hourly snow flurries, cookies, and live reindeer. Yes, reindeer.

The Academy’s reindeer, Peppermint and Cookie, are onsite to offer reindeer facts and holiday joy. Learn more on the California Academy of Sciences website .

Did we miss any December activities in SF?

If we missed a fun event happening in San Francisco in December, give us a shout on Facebook . We want to include as much as possible, and there’s so much to see and do here.

Meanwhile, we hope you enjoy a memorable and festive season, and our guides look forward to showing you around San Francisco soon!

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Attend/Get Tickets 2022

Edge effect: june 21–25, 2022, that’s a wrap thank you for attending.

One Passes are still availble to watch replays of events from 2020, 2021, and 2022!

Let’s gather and re-emerge to find inspiration, learn and access resources through the Bay Area lens of Design. We are eager to meet face-to-face to exchange ideas, dreams, challenges and solutions with this years in-person sessions!

NEW REGISTRATION PROCESS: SF Design Week has created a One Pass to give attendees access to 75 events with One Pass. You can choose different tiers of participation: Professional One Pass, Design Leader One Pass, Student One Pass and On Demand Only Pass.

HOW TO GET YOUR ONE PASS:

ALREADY HAVE YOUR ONE PASS?

These are (still) challenging times

Are you struggling because you’ve been directly affected by the pandemic, recently laid off or furloughed or are a member of a marginalized or underserved community? We’ve set aside complementary One Passes for you because price should never be a barrier to participation. Please fill out this quick form. Thank you to Robert Half Talent Group for making this possible.

Sign up for our digital newsletter to stay up to date with official announcements or follow us on social media

View Calendar of Events

To register for events you must login to one pass, facts + questions, about sfdw one pass.

SF Design Week has created a One Pass to access SFDW content and register for all SF Design Week 2022 individual events.

• Professional One Pass $49 This pass gives access to register and attend over 70 in person and virtual 2022 events and includes On Demand videos from past editions of SFDW (Access videos until August 1, 2022) *Excludes Official Party which is an additional registration fee due to limited availability.
• Design Leader One Pass $99 As a Design Leader, you’re dedicated to supporting the local design community and offering opportunities for underserved designers and creatives. The extra cost of your ticket goes towards a free ticket for someone in need so that price is never a barrier to participation. This pass gives access to register and attend over 70 in person and virtual 2022 events and also includes On Demand videos from past editions of SFDW (Access videos until August 1, 2022). *Excludes Official Party which is an additional registration fee due to limited availability.
• Student One Pass $39 Student and educators only. This pass gives you access to register and attend over 70 in person and virtual 2022 events* and also includes On Demand videos from past editions of SFDW for 12 months. Register for future events before ticketing opens up to the general public.(Access videos until August 1, 2022) *Excludes Official Party which is an additional registration fee due to limited availability. *

How does the SFDW One Pass work?

Once you have selected your type of One Pass: Professional, Design Leader, Student or On Demand , you will be directed to create your account with SF Design Week. Once you are in your Account Dashboard, you will be able to view On Demand content, register for virtual, in person, or hybrid events that you wish to attend during Design Week. Please note that select events have an additional cost to attend.

Event Types

For our 2022 Festival events will be In-Person, Virtual and Hybrid format. In person events will follow COVID safety protocols. Prior registration for in person, virtual and hybrid are required to attend.

Who participates in Design Week

We will be announcing participating companies and studios in the upcoming weeks. Past Editions Participants have included Adobe, LinkedIn, Google, One Hat One Hand, Blink UX, Butchershop, Firewood, Lyft, Zahid Sardar, Diane Dorrans Saeks, Accenture, Grayarea, Bay Area Made, Intuit, Ringcentral, Nerdwallet, Frog, Henry Built, Landscape, Pinterest, Salesforce, and more! Look to our Calendar of Events for this year participants!

Important Dates

The full events calendar will be published June 1st and you will be notified by newsletter or attendees will be directly notified by email through the platform.

• Wednesday, June 1st - Purchase your One pass and register for Events Opens
• Tuesday, June 21st - Saturday, June 25th - Join us for SF Design Week 16th Edition 2022!
• Thursday, June 23rd - Official Party!

Visit San Francisco

If you’re visiting the Bay Area to attend San Francisco Design Week check out our guide to make the most out of your experience as an attendee.

On Demand Content

On Demand Content is available to Professional, Design Leader, Student, and On Demand Only Pass. On Demand content are replays of our virtual events from 2020 and 2021. Virtual and Hybrid events from 2022 festival will be available for replay.

Registering and Ticketing

Each event regardless of format will require attendees to Register. Some events will have limited space. We encourage attendees to register as soon as the event opens to ensure your spot at the event. Please note: Some events will require an additional cost to Register for the event.

How do I Register for events I want to attend for Design Week?

The calendar of events is available to view June 1st where One Pass holders can register directly from the individual event page. Professional One Pass, Design Leader One Pass, and Student One Pass account holders will be able to Register to any event they wish to attend or purchase a ticket for events that have an additional fee to attend.

To Register for an event, first log into your Account Dashboard. Once you are logged in, Go to the Calendar of events and click on the event you want to Register for. You can only Register for yourself for each event. Once you have registered, an email confirmation will be sent with any information you need to regarding the event. To view your events, visit your Account Dashboard Page and you will see a list under Registered Events that you are attending.

Can I register more than one ticket for an event for a guest?

Due to our system, every person who registers needs to sign up for an account. Therefore, the system will only be able to register the account holder for the event. If you'd like to bring a guest, please have them register for an account.

Can I register a group for an event?

Due to our system, every person who registers needs to sign up for an account. Therefore, the system will only be able to register the account holder for the event. If you'd like to register a large group contact us at [email protected]

How do I attend an In-Person event that I have Registered for?

After you Register for an In-Person event during DW, you will receive a confirmation email with any specific instructions regarding the event. Instructions could include COVID Guidelines, host message, parking instructions, etc. Each host will have an attendee guest list to check you in. Attendees must bring a valid form of ID that matches the name of their Account Profile and the name on the guest list. You are not allowed to register for anyone else except yourself. Host reserves the right to deny entry if ID and guest list name does not match or if COVID guidelines are not being followed.

I Registered for an In-Person event, where is my ticket?

Attendees must register for all events regardless of the event format. When you Register for an event you will receive an email confirmation with any details specific for the event you Registered for. To check in for In-Person events, attendees must bring a valid form of ID that matches the name of their Account Profile and the name on the guest list. You will not receive a ticket to attend an In-Person Event, a guest list will be at the event where you must show your ID to confirm your entry.

Where do I go for my virtual event?

For Virtual Events, you can access the virtual event several ways. You can visit the event page, where they will be able to join the event directly. OR follow the link in your event confirmation email.

How do I Register for a Hybrid Event?

Hybrid events are unique that they offer the attendees to attend Virtually or In-Person. When you visit a Hybrid Event, attendees will have two options to Register In- person or Virtually . Attendees choose which way they want to participate. Please only Register for the type of format you wish to participate in. If you Register to attend Virtually, you must attend virtually. If you decide to Register to attend In-Person you will be able to attend to the In-Person format. Your confirmation email will confirm your Registration and send any additional information that you will need.

• Professional One Pass Cost $49
• Design Leader One Pass Cost $99
• Student One Pass Cost $39
• On Demand Only Pass Cost $10
• One Pass Waiver: We’ve set aside free tickets for you because price should never be a barrier to participation. Please fill out this quick form. Note: A few of the events may require an additional fee

Will virtual events be recorded?

Yes, most virtual events will be recorded and available for replay. Anyone who has purchased a One Pass will have access to the replay of the virtual or hybrid events.

What time zone does the festival take place?

All times are posted in PST (Pacific Standard Time Zone). International guests, please make a note so you don't miss any of the content, or purchase a One Pass so you can watch the recordings during your own time zone.

What if I purchased a One Pass, but can no longer attend?

Unfortunately, we do not accept refund requests. All funds raised go towards expenses affiliated with producing this event and cannot be refunded. Consider your purchase a donation to support the design community (Thank You!).

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• San Francisco In December: An Ultimate Guide To Witness The Snowy Magic & Charm In The City

23 Mar 2023

San Francisco is a city full of surprises and fabulous experiences enhanced by the vibrant, uninhibited vibes enveloping its streets. Whether it’s the unforgettable sight of the fog-shrouded Golden Gate Bridge or the breathtaking views from Telegraph Hill, the city abounds with unique sites and promises to be an enriching travel destination.

A haven for foodies, San Francisco offers everything from local delights at the famous Ferry Building and delectable seafood at the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf. Art aficionados can marvel at the impressive collection of the Museum of Modern Art as well as eclectic street art adorning the city walls. Get fascinated by the sweeping views from the popular & thrilling cable car rides and amble along Lombard Street, the ‘crookedest’ street in the world to get smitten by the undeniable charm of the City by the Bay!

Best Time To Visit San Francisco

Image Source

Fall season (September-November) is considered the best time to visit San Francisco as the summer rush recedes and the temperatures are amongst the warmest through the year. Even the spring season offers mild temperatures and rain-free days. San Francisco in December is a good idea for bargain hunters and those looking to experience the Christmas and New Year celebrations in the city’s unique festive spirit.

There are numerous special San Francisco events in December to bring in some winter cheer, including some stunning light displays and performances. With lesser crowds, delicious food to warm you from inside and great festivals to keep you engaged, winter in San Francisco can be a fun rollercoaster ride if you’re game.

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Reasons To Visit San Francisco In December

• Visiting San Francisco in December is a great idea for budget travellers as well as all those who’d be happy to make huge savings on the flight fares and hotel prices. December is the time for some hefty discounts and offers on accommodation across all budgets.
• The city hosts some unique events and live performances during the festive month of December. Head to The Golden Gate Theatre or The Curran for some spectacular Broadway hits and award-winning shows.
• Lesser crowds and smaller queues allow you to admire the attractions and enjoy cable car rides at leisure, while you can also click some memorable shots.
• New Year’s Eve celebrations and fireworks are a sight to remember. Opt for some great meal specials at the restaurants by the bay and ring in the New Year with the dazzling fireworks at Ferry Building and crackling parties throughout the city.
• It’s a great time to experience the thrill of ice-skating at the many indoor and outdoor skating rinks across the city where you can easily rent ice skates. The holiday rinks at Union Square and Embarcadero Centre are the most popular.

San Francisco Weather In December

December is amongst the coldest months in San Francisco and is frequented by rains and stormy weather. Yet there are about 9.5 hours of daylight which give you enough time to explore the city and participate in the winter festivities. You just need bundle up well and set out to explore the city with full gusto.

Average Temperature In San Francisco In December: 10 degree Celsius Low temperature (average): 7 degree Celsius High temperature (average): 14 degree Celsius

Best Places To Visit In San Francisco In December

1. alcatraz.

A ferry trip to the erstwhile military prison off the coast of San Francisco is a must-do when you’re visiting San Francisco in December. The self-guided audio tour takes you on a thrilling ride through the prison’s history along with other interesting details. Do take out time to check the view of the bridge from the yard.

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2. Museums in SFO

Museums are the best place to spend some fulfilling hours indoors while it’s cold or rainy outside, and San Francisco has some wonderful ones to keep you engaged. The not-to-be missed ones include California Academy of Sciences, Disney Museum, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, Madame Tussauds and Aquarium of the Bay.

3. Japanese Tea Garden

This beautifully landscaped oasis of tranquillity amidst the sprawling Golden Gate Park is the perfect spot for a rejuvenating experience right in the heart of the city. Stroll along the calm garden complete with a pond, pagoda and restaurant serving variety of Japanese teas and snacks.

4. Muir Woods National Monument

Just 16 miles out of the city, this beautiful and serene place will leave you awestruck by the ancient & towering Redwood trees that are the most recognizable feature of Californian landscape. You can walk along the lovely trails or visit the beaches to unwind in the lap of nature.

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5. Chinatown

A stroll around the 24 blocks of Chinatown in San Francisco allows you to peek into a different world with interesting experiences. You can visit the oldest Chinese temple in the US, pick Chinese herbs and souvenirs as well as watch with wonder how fortune cookies are made!

Best Things To Do In San Francisco In December

The vibrant city is always abuzz with activity, more so in the holiday season so you won’t really have to wonder what to do in San Francisco in December. With myriad exciting events and experiences to choose from, here are some of our top picks for things to do in San Francisco in December including kid-friendly activities that will delight your little ones.

1. Festival of lights and zoo lights

Visiting San Francisco in December gives you a chance to witness some fascinating light displays throughout the city, including the month-long Illuminate SF Festival of Lights showcasing 37 uniquely lit-up art installations. Also experience the sparkling ZooLights at the city’s zoo that transforms into a magical place with holiday lights.

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2. Exploratorium

This fantastic learning laboratory with 600 exhibits spread over six galleries offers an engaging and exciting learning experience for the entire family. The tactile dome and coloured shadow area will amaze kids and adults alike.

3. Winter events and festivals

Amongst the most interesting San Francisco events in December is the Charles Dickens Christmas Fair at Cow Palace that transports you to the charming Victorian era with pubs, food and colourful characters. Other fun events include the SantaCon and Winter Wine Pour.

4. Cable car ride

This quintessential San Francisco experience is touristy yet a whole lot of fun. The hugely popular Powell Hyde line takes you through the twisted Lombard Street and Russian Hill neighbourhood. This thing to do in USA will surely add more fun and joy to your whole trip.

10 Surreal Churches In San Francisco That You Shouldn’t Miss!

5. Ferry building marketplace

This is one stop you cannot miss out on to try the amazing variety of food at the numerous stalls and snack spots offering everything from seafood to burgers, Japanese fare, and Mexican delights. You can eat to your heart’s content at this place and have a gastronomical experience like never before.

What To Pack For Your Trip To San Francisco In December

Once you make up your mind to take a trip to the city in winters, all you have to do is pack the right clothes to stay comfortable in the weather to enjoy the many interesting experiences. Here’s our checklist of essentials for your trip to Berlin in December:

• Layering is the smartest way to beat the chill and stay protected from the cold winds. Full-sleeved shirts/t-shirts, thermal inners, warm fleece and a down jacket will go a long way in keeping you warm and comfortable throughout your trip.
• A long woollen scarf, cashmere wrap and a fleece lined knit cap to protect you from the nippy gusts.
• Comfortable boots to keep your feet warm, as well as warm gloves to protect your hands from the chill.
• Even though the temperatures don’t dip too low, San Francisco in December can get quite rainy so carrying a folding umbrella and waterproof backpack is a good idea.

Travel Tips For Visiting San Francisco In December

• Since the weather is the major deciding factor, it is a good idea to check the forecast for the entire length of your trip and plan your daily itinerary through the city accordingly.
• Do not forget to carry your international driving license, medical insurance and suitable adapters for your devices.
• Purchasing the City Pass Discount Card is a smart way to save on entrance fees to various attractions. The pass includes admission to top museums in the city as well as a fantastic 60-minute bay cruise. It also allows unlimited commute using buses, light trains, street cars and cable cars for 3 days.
• Even though hotels offer discounted rates, it is advisable to book a few weeks in advance to get the best rooms and deals.

10 San Francisco Hotels You Can Make Your Temporary Abode

With so many more fun experiences awaiting you at San Francisco in December, it’s time now to block your dates and take this thrilling roller coaster ride of a lifetime. Just pick a date, plan your trip to USA with TravelTriangle , and indulge in world-class experiences like never before!

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About San Francisco In December

Is December is a good time to visit San Francisco?

If you are looking to avoid the crows and enjoy a relaxing holiday, then winter is a great time to visit San Francisco. The temperature can drop as low as 6 degrees which calls for some delicious hot chocolate. This is also the holiday season with the Christmas and New Year spirit in the air. Since this is not the peak season, you will also find heavy discounts on hotels and accommodations.

What is there to do in San Francisco in December?

San Francisco in December is simply beyond beautiful. A wonderful way to spend the holidays is the visit the Christmas lights at City Hall or go for a free walking tour around the city. You can also pay a visit to Fisherman’s Wharf and be a part of the lighted boat parade. SantaCon is an event that takes place near Christmas which is quite a fun place to take the kids as well.

What should one wear in San Francisco in winter?

When packing for San Francisco in December make sure to pack your woollens and warm clothes. The weather is quite chilly and if you decide to step out, you’ll need your coats and jackets. Also make sure to pack some shoes because you’ll be walking around quite a bit.

What should one buy in San Francisco?

Apart from its high end luxury stores you will also find some vibrant markets in San Francisco. Chinatown is a great place to pick up souvenirs like kitchenware, postcards, clothes, and trinkets. Sausalito is another good choice if you want to purchase some handicrafts like jewelry and paintings.

Is San Francisco safe at night?

Yes, San Francisco is a safe place to visit. However, if you wish to explore the nightlife Fisherman’s Wharf and Chinatown are some great spots.

Where should I stay in San Francisco?

If you are visiting San Francisco for the first time, you should look for accommodation near Union Square. Fisherman’s Wharf is also a good area to accommodate during the holidays.

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Why is a house floating across the San Francisco Bay?

Mystery surrounds a two-story house that has been seen floating on the San Francisco Bay for at least three days.

Crowds were gathering along the waterfront at San Francisco’s Exploratorium to watch the solar eclipse on April 8 when another unusual sight appeared: a big wooden house in the middle of the bay.

The buoyant home navigated its way around Alcatraz Island with help from a slow tow boat.

Nexstar’s KRON tracked the house down on Tuesday and confirmed it is now anchored in Richardson Bay, north of San Francisco offshore from Sausalito.

U.S. Coast Guard officials said the house was able to float around the bay because it’s on a barge.

The houseboat began its voyage somewhere south of the San Francisco Bay, the Coast Guard confirmed.

It’s unclear who owns the home, how long it will remain anchored on the bay, nor where its final destination will be.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.

• Press Releases
• SFMTA Transit and Traffic Advisory for...

SFMTA Transit and Traffic Advisory for Thursday, April 25, 2024 through Wednesday, May 1, 2024

Updated with Street Closure Time for "Pickin' on the Polk" Event

The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) releases the following upcoming event-related traffic and transit impacts for this week from Thursday, April 25 through Wednesday, May 1, 2024.

For real-time updates, follow us on https://twitter.com/sfmta_muni or visit SFMTA.com/EmailText to sign up for real-time text messages or email alerts. For details of Muni re-routes, visit SFMTA.com/Updates . This website will be updated when it is closer to the event date. For additional notifications and agency updates, subscribe to our blog, Moving SF for daily or weekly updates.

San Francisco Giants Baseball Game

Friday, April 26 through Sunday, April 28 : The San Francisco Giants will play three home games at the ballpark. Listed below are start times for these games:

• Three games against the Pittsburgh Pirates : 1) 7:15 p.m., Friday, April 26; 2) 6:05 p.m., Saturday, April 27 and 3) 1:05 p.m., Sunday, April 28.

Street Closures

To accommodate events that will take place at the ballpark, the following street closures will be enforced:

• Two and a half hours before the opening pitch, the SFMTA will close eastbound King Street between 3rd and 2nd streets to vehicle traffic. King Street will reopen after first pitch until the seventh inning.
• From the seventh inning until post-game traffic dies down, the SFMTA will again close eastbound King Street between 3rd and 2nd streets to vehicle traffic in order to reduce congestion on city streets.
• Additionally, the northbound portion of the 4th Street Bridge (Peter R. Maloney Bridge) will be closed to all traffic except Muni, taxis and bicycles during the post-game period.

Taxi Stands

• 2nd Street, west side, between Brannan and King Streets
• 2nd Street, east side, between Townsend and King Streets
• 3rd Street, west side, north of King Street

Special Event Parking Rates

During baseball games and other major events with more than 10,000 expected attendees at the ballpark, parking meters close to the ballpark will charge a special event rate of $10 per hour. These rates help reduce congestion and keep parking spots available in the neighborhoods near the ballpark, discouraging circling for free or cheap parking. Start times for special event rates vary based on the start time of the event. More information on special event parking regulations can be found on www.sfmta.com/special-event-parking .

For additional details and about transportation to ballpark, visit www.sfmta.com/oracle-park .

SFUSD Citywide Youth Arts Festival

Saturday, April 27 : The Citywide Youth Arts Festival that provides SFUSD students the experience to showcase their artistic skills and passion in the neighborhoods in which they live and go to school will take place in the Richmond District. Event hours will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more details visit www.sfusd.edu/citywide-youth-arts .

The following street closures will be required from 5:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday:

• Balboa Street from 35th to 39th avenues
• 37th Avenue from Anza to Cabrillo streets

Muni routes 18 46th Avenue and 31 Balboa Muni route will be affected.

Tenderloin Community Benefit District (TLCBD) Block Party

On Saturday, April 27 , the TLCBD Block Party will take place in the Tenderloin community on Ellis Street between Leavenworth and Hyde streets, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Ellis Street between Leavenworth and Hyde streets will be closed from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday.

There will be no impact on Muni service.

Pickin’ on the Polk

Saturday, April 27 : A musical event will take place at two locations on Polk Street: 1) a main stage at Polk Street and The Broadway with music from Noon to 6 p.m.; 2) a DJ stage at Polk and California streets with music from 7 to 10 p.m. For more details visit www.pickinonthepolk.com .

The following street closures will be implemented for this event:

• Polk Street between Broadway and Pacific Street
• Polk Street between California and Sacramento streets

The 19 Polk Muni route line will be rerouted.

SF Eagle’s 11th Year Anniversary Block Party

Sunday April 28 : The San Francisco Eagle Bar will host its 11th anniversary party from noon to 6 p.m. For more details, visit sf-eagle.com/event/11th-year-anniversary .

The following street closures will be implemented from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday:

• Harrison Street between 11th and 13th streets
• 12th Street between Harrison and Bernice streets
• Norfolk Street between Harrison and Folsom streets

Events at Chase Center

Monday, April 29: The following event is scheduled to take place at the Chase Center:

• Monday, April 29: Performance by AJR The Maybe Man Tour will start at 7:30 p.m. Doors will open at 6 p.m.

Supplemental Muni Service

• Muni will operate supplemental 78X Arena Express service.
• Pre-event express shuttle service from 16th Street BART Station to Chase Center will start two and a half hours before each game/event and will end one hour after game/event starts.
• Post-event express shuttle service from Chase Center on 16th Street to 16th Street BART Station will run until the area clears.

During basketball games and other major events with more than 10,000 expected attendees at the arena, parking meters close to the arena will charge a special event rate of $10 per hour . These rates help reduce congestion and keep parking spots available in the neighborhoods near the arena, discouraging circling for free or cheap parking. Start times for special event rates vary based on the start time of the event. More information on special event parking regulations can be found on www.sfmta.com/special-event-parking .

To accommodate events that will take place at the arena, the following street closures will be enforced two hours before and one hour after each event:

• 16th Street between 3rd Street and Terry Francois Boulevard
• Warriors Way between 3rd Street and Terry Francois Boulevard
• Northbound 3rd Street between 16th Street and Warriors Way will also be closed approximately 30 minutes before and 45 minutes after an event.
• Only local access will be allowed on Northbound Illinois Street between Mariposa and 16th streets.

No Parking Zone

To facilitate loading and pick up for Muni customers and patrons, NO PARKING will be in effect at these locations during events:

• Between the 500 and 700 blocks of Terry Francois Boulevard (TFB)

There is one taxi stand located on southbound Terry Francois Boulevard.

Ramp Taxis should use the loading zone on eastbound Warriors Way at Bridgeview Way.

Additional Passenger Loading

• 4th Street which connects to Chase Center via Gene Friend Way pedestrian path which cuts through UCSF campus.
• Owens Street connects to Chase Center via Gene Friend Way pedestrian path which cuts through UCSF campus.

For details about transportation to the Chase Center, including Muni service and connections from the Bay Area transit system to Muni, visit SFMTA.com/ChaseCenter .

For additional details and about transportation to ballpark, visit www.sfmta.com/chase-center .

CONSTRUCTION WORK AND OTHER UPDATES

UPDATE: L Taraval Improvement Project—Segment B

The L Taraval Improvement Project is a multi-agency collaboration to improve safety, accessibility, and transit reliability, and to rehabilitate aging rails, utility lines and roadway pavement along the L Taraval line between Sunset Boulevard and 15th Avenue and on Ulloa Street near West Portal.

Infrastructure replacement work on sewer and water lines are mostly completed. Track installation is complete. Construction of accessible curb ramps and handrails, barriers and pavers that are part of the boarding islands continues.

Street base work is expected to continue until Friday, May 8. During street-base work, the block will be closed between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. for cement pouring and curing on one side of the street at a time. Parking will be removed on both sides of the street and traffic detoured around the area. Parking and road restriction will be in place and released once the cement cures at the end of the day.

Starting on Monday, May 6, both repaving work for the entire corridor and the special track work at 46th Avenue is expected to begin. Buses will be rerouted around the area.

Construction work performed and at locations:

Taraval Street

• 15th to 19th avenues : Curb ramp, boarding platforms and street-base
• 19th to 22nd avenues : Street base work, build accessible and boarding platform
• 23rd to 31st avenues : Reconstruct sidewalks, boarding islands and accessible boarding platforms and street-base
• 31st to 34th avenues : Construct boarding island and platform
• 34th Avenue to Sunset Boulevard : Track removal and installation

Ulloa Street

• Forest Side to 15th avenues : Sidewalk and driveway reconstruction, street base work and boarding island

Nighttime work is scheduled from Sunday through Friday, from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., Sundays through Fridays

• Ulloa Street between 15th and Forest Side avenues: OCS prep work for installation, removing and reconstructing existing poles, upgrade the Overhead Contact System (OCS) that powers the trains. Work on any given block will vary and is expected to take a few hours to a few days per location. OCS work is expected to be completed in June 2024.
• Overhead Contact System (OSC): OSC preparation work for installation, removing and reconstructing existing poles, upgrade the OCS that powers the trains. The work on any given block will vary and is expected to take a few hours to a few days per location. OCS work is expected to be completed in June 2024.

The L Bus now runs between West Portal and the SF Zoo. Customers can transfer to a train at West Portal Station to travel downtown. An interactive bus reroute map with temporary bus stop relocations citywide during construction can be found on Interactive Bus Reroute .

During construction, the L Taraval bus stops are being relocated. The inbound bus stop at Taraval Street and 15th Avenue has been relocated across the intersection until fall 2024.

The following L Taraval bus stops are being relocated temporarily during construction:

• From Taraval Street and 22nd Avenue to Ulloa Street and 22nd Avenue, southwest corner
• From Taraval Street and 19th Avenue to northeast corner (28 19th Avenue stop)
• From Taraval Street and 17th Avenue to Santiago Street and 17th Avenue, southwest corner
• From Taraval Street and 15th Avenue to northwest corner  
• From 23rd Avenue and Taraval Street to southeast corner
• From Taraval Street and Sunset Boulevard to northwest corner
• From 46th Avenue and Taraval Street to 45th Avenue and Taraval Street, southeast corner
• From 46th Avenue and Ulloa Street to Ulloa Street and 46th Avenue, northeast corner
• From Taraval and 46th Avenue to 45th Avenue and Taraval Street, southwest corner
• From 46th Avenue and Santiago Street to northeast corner
• From 46th Avenue and Taraval Street to 45th Avenue & Taraval Street, southwest corner
• From Taraval Street and 46th Avenue to 45th Avenue and Taraval Street, southwest corner.
• From Taraval Street and 15th Avenue to the southeast side of the intersection

For additional project details, visit   SFMTA.com/LTaravalProject . For construction updates from Monday, Monday, April 22 through Saturday, May 4, 2024, visit the Project Update page.

Masks Recommended

Masks are no longer required, but are encouraged in any SFMTA facilities, transit hubs or on vehicles including Muni buses, streetcars, light rail vehicles or cable cars or in taxis or on paratransit.

ONGOING: Essential Trip Card Discount Program

The SFMTA’s program, Essential Trip Card (ETC) Program, assists people with disabilities and older adults to make essential trips using taxis. The program provides two to three round trips at an 80% discount per month, i.e. rider pays $6 to receive a value of $30 or pays $12 to receive a $60 value. If essential needs require it, riders may receive additional value up to $120 of taxi service per month.

To qualify for the program, customer must be either age 65 or older or an adult with disabilities. Eligible adults may apply for the ETC program by calling the Paratransit Mobility Management office at 415-351-7053. Staff are available weekdays between 9 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. Visit https://www.sfmta.com/etc for additional details and for a list of San Francisco taxi companies, visit https://www.sfmta.com/taxi/directory .

SFMTA’s Shop-a-Round program which offers registered seniors and people with disabilities personalized assistance and rides to and from grocery stores and farmers markets is available as well. For more information, visit https://www.sfmta.com/shop-round .

Poll: Election interest hits new low in tight Biden-Trump race

The share of voters who say they have high interest in the 2024 election has hit a nearly 20-year low at this point in a presidential race, according to the latest national NBC News poll , with majorities holding negative views of both President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump.

The poll also shows Biden trimming Trump’s previous lead to just 2 points in a head-to-head contest, an improvement within the margin of error compared to the previous survey, as Biden bests Trump on the issues of abortion and uniting the country, while Trump is ahead on competency and dealing with inflation.

And it finds inflation and immigration topping the list of most important issues facing the country, as just one-third of voters give Biden credit for an improving economy.

But what also stands out in the survey is how the low voter interest and the independent candidacy of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. could scramble what has been a stable presidential contest with more than six months until Election Day. While Trump holds a 2-point edge over Biden head to head, Biden leads Trump by 2 points in a five-way ballot test including Kennedy and other third-party candidates.

“I don’t think Biden has done much as a president. And if Trump gets elected, I just feel like it’s going to be the same thing as it was before Biden got elected,” said poll respondent Devin Fletcher, 37, of Wayne, Michigan, a Democrat who said he’s still voting for Biden.

“I just don’t feel like I have a candidate that I’m excited to vote for,” Fletcher added.

Another poll respondent from New Jersey, who declined to provide her name and voted for Biden in 2020, said she wouldn’t be voting in November.

“Our candidates are horrible. I have no interest in voting for Biden. He did nothing. And I absolutely will not vote for Trump,” she said.

Democratic pollster Jeff Horwitt of Hart Research Associates, who conducted the survey with Republican pollster Bill McInturff of Public Opinion Strategies, said, “Americans don’t agree on much these days, but nothing unites the country more than voters’ desire to tune this election out.”

The poll was conducted April 12-16, during yet another turbulent time in American politics, including the  beginning of Trump’s criminal trial  in New York and new attacks and heightened tensions  in the Middle East.

According to the poll, 64% of registered voters say they have high levels of interest in November’s election — registering either a “9” or a 10” on a 10-point scale of interest.

That’s lower than what the NBC News poll showed at this time in the 2008 (74%), 2012 (67%), 2016 (69%) and 2020 (77%) presidential contests.

The question dates to the 2008 election cycle. The lowest level of high election interest in the poll during a presidential cycle was in March 2012 — at 59%. But it quickly ticked up in the next survey.

This election cycle, high interest has been both low and relatively flat for months, according to the poll.

McInturff, the Republican pollster, says the high level of interest in the poll has “always been a signal for the level of turnout” for a presidential contest.

“It makes it very hard for us to predict turnout this far in advance of November, but every signal is turnout will be a lower percentage of eligible voters than in 2020,” he said.

By party, the current poll shows 70% of self-identified Republicans saying they have high interest in the coming election, compared with 65% of Democrats who say so.

Independents are at 48%, while only 36% of voters ages 18 to 34 rate themselves as highly interested in the election.

“They just aren’t low interest,” McInturff said of young voters. “They are off-the-charts low.”

NBC News poll: Frequently asked questions

Professional pollsters at a Democratic polling firm (Hart Research Associates) and a Republican firm (Public Opinion Strategies) have worked together to conduct and operate this poll since 1989. (Coldwater Corporation served as the Republican firm from 1989-2004.)

The polling firms employ a call center, where live interviewers speak by cell phone and telephone with a cross section of (usually) 1,000 respondents. The respondents are randomly selected from national lists of households and cell numbers. Respondents are asked for by name, starting with the youngest male adult or female adult in the household.

One of the common questions that critics ask of polls is, "I wasn't interviewed, so why should this poll matter?” By interviewing 1,000 respondents and applying minimal weights based on race, ethnicity, age, gender, education and the 2020 presidential vote, the poll achieves a representative sample of the nation at large – with a margin of error at a 95% confidence level.

NBC News editors and reporters — along with the pollsters at Hart Research and Public Opinion Strategies — all work to formulate the questions to try to capture the news and current events NBC is trying to gauge. Both Hart Research and Public Opinion Strategies work to ensure the language and placement of the questions are as neutral as possible.

Biden trims Trump’s lead

The poll also finds Trump narrowly ahead of Biden by 2 points among registered voters in a head-to-head matchup, 46% to 44% — down from Trump’s 5-point advantage in January, 47% to 42%.

The movement, which is within the poll’s margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percentage points, is consistent with what other national polls have found in the Trump-Biden race.

Trump’s biggest advantages are among men (53% to 37%), white voters (54% to 37%) and white voters without college degrees (65% to 25%).

Biden’s top advantages are among Black voters (71% to 13%), women (50% to 39%) and Latinos (49% to 39%).

The poll shows the two candidates are essentially tied among independents (Biden 36%, Trump 34%) and voters ages 18-34 (Biden 44%, Trump 43%). One of the big polling mysteries this cycle is whether young voters have defected from Biden (as the NBC News poll has found over multiple surveys) or whether Democrats have maintained their advantage among that demographic.

When the ballot is expanded to five named candidates, Biden takes a 2-point lead over Trump: Biden 39%, Trump 37%, Kennedy 13%, Jill Stein 3% and Cornel West 2%.

Again, the result between Biden and Trump is within the poll’s margin of error.

Notably, the poll finds a greater share of Trump voters from the head-to-head matchup supporting Kennedy in the expanded ballot compared with Biden voters, different from the results of some other surveys.

(Read more here about how Kennedy's candidacy affe cts the 2024 race, according to the poll.)

The president’s approval rating ticks up to 42%

In addition, the poll found 42% of registered voters approving of Biden’s overall job performance — up 5 points since January’s NBC News poll, which found Biden at the lowest point of his presidency.

Fifty-six percent of voters say they disapprove of the job he has done, which is down 4 points from January.

Biden’s gains over the past few months have come from key parts of his 2020   base, especially among Democrats and Black voters. But he continues to hold low ratings among Latinos (40% approval), young voters (37%) and independents (36%).

“The data across this poll show that Joe Biden has begun to gain some ground in rebuilding his coalition from 2020,” said Horwitt, the Democratic pollster. “The question is whether he can build upon this momentum and make inroads with the groups of voters that still are holding back support.”

But McInturff, the GOP pollster, points out that the only recent presidents   who lost re-election had approval ratings higher than Biden’s at this point in the election cycle: George H.W. Bush (43%) and Trump (46%).

“President Biden has a precarious hold on the presidency and is in a difficult position as it relates to his re-election,” McInturff said.

On the issues, 39% of voters say they approve of Biden’s handling of the economy (up from 36% in January), 28% approve of his handling of border security and immigration, and just 27% approve of his handling of the Israel-Hamas war (down from 29% in January).

Voters gave Biden his highest issue rating on   addressing student loan debt, with 44% approving of his handling of the issue, compared with 51% who say they disapprove.

Biden leads on abortion and unity; Trump leads on inflation and competency

The NBC News poll asked voters to determine which candidate they thought is better on several different issues and attributes.

Biden holds a 15-point advantage over Trump on dealing with the issue of abortion, and he is ahead by 9 points on having the ability to bring the country together — though that is down from his 24-point advantage on that issue in the September 2020 NBC News poll.

Trump, meanwhile, leads in having the ability to handle a crisis (by 4 points), in having a strong record of accomplishments (by 7 points), in being competent and effective (by 11 points), in having the necessary mental and physical health to be president (by 19 points) and in dealing with inflation and the cost of living (by 22 points).

Inflation, immigration are the top 2024 issues

Inflation and the cost of living top the list of issues in the poll, with 23% of voters saying they’re the most important issue facing the country.

The other top voters is   immigration and the situation at the border (22%) — followed by   threats to democracy (16%), jobs and the economy (11%), abortion (6%) and health care (6%).

In addition, 63% of voters say their families’ incomes are falling behind the cost of living — essentially unchanged from what the poll found in 2022 and 2023.

And 53% of voters say the country’s economy hasn’t improved, compared with 33% who say that it has improved and that Biden deserves some credit for it and another 8% who agree the economy has improved but don’t give him credit for it.

“If I look back to when I had all three of my children in the house — we only have one child left in the house now, and we’re spending more now than what we did when we had a family of five,” said poll respondent Art Fales, 45, of Florida, who says he’s most likely voting for Trump.

But on a separate question — is there an issue so important that you’ll vote for or against a candidate solely on that basis? — the top responses are protecting democracy and constitutional rights (28%), immigration and border security (20%) and abortion (19%).

Indeed, 30% of Democrats, 29% of young voters and 27% of women say they are single-issue voters on abortion.

“I have a right to what I do with my body,” said poll respondent Amanda Willis, 28, of Louisiana, who said she’s voting for Biden. “And I don’t believe that other people should have the ability to determine that.”

Other poll findings

• With Trump’s first criminal trial underway, 50% of voters say he is being held to the same standard as anyone else when it comes to his multiple legal challenges. That compares with 43% who believe he’s being unfairly targeted in the trials. 
• 52% of voters have unfavorable views of Biden, while 53% share the same views of Trump.
• And Democrats and Republicans are essentially tied in congressional preference, with 47% of voters preferring Republicans to control Congress and 46% wanting Democrats in charge. Republicans held a 4-point lead on this question in January.

The NBC News poll of 1,000 registered voters nationwide — 891 contacted via cellphone — was conducted April 12-16, and it has an overall margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percentage points.

Mark Murray is a senior political editor at NBC News.

Sarah Dean is a 2024 NBC News campaign embed.