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The 24 Best Things to Do in San Francisco

By Kimberley Lovato and Carey Jones

Don’t let San Francisco’s small seven-mile by seven-mile footprint  (under 10 percent the size of Los Angeles) fool you. This cosmopolitan, mini-metropolis surrounded by the bay and Pacific Ocean is awash with outdoor adventure, Michelin-star restaurants, historic sites, world-class museums, and independent mom-and-pop shops—all tucked into a tapestry of hilly neighborhoods lined with Victorian houses, green parks, and an independent ethos. Invigorating hikes through nature and walks along the city-proper trails and beaches are as much a part of life in San Francisco as Karl the Fog (yes, San Franciscans have named their most famous weather pattern), which can creep in at a moment’s notice in all four seasons. Whether you’re looking for a music- and art-filled visit, diverse food, or you simply can’t wait to fulfill your dream of riding a cable car or crossing the Golden Gate, this guide has you covered. Here are 24 of the best things to do the next time you’re in San Francisco.

Read our complete San Francisco guide here .

Golden Gate Bridge Arrow

Arching over the Golden Gate Strait, which connects the Pacific Ocean to the San Francisco Bay, the defining landmark of the city links San Francisco to Marin and Sausalito. At just under two miles, it's walkable by foot but also easy to see by car. It's hard to understand the magnitude or beauty of the bridge until you cross it. Stop outside the Welcome Center at the statue of Joseph Strauss, the bridge's designer, and look for the plaques explaining the bridge’s history and, of course, grab the obligatory snapshot. For more insights of the bridge’s backstory, sign up for a free walking tour of the bridge with San Francisco City Guides .

Edible Excursions: Japantown Food Tour Arrow

Edible Excursions is run by a team of expert guides obsessed with San Francisco, food, and showing off Japantown. Small groups walk and nibble, sip and savor, for around two hours while hearing stories about the neighborhood and meeting family-run business owners. This is a neighborhood where you can't be afraid to step through doors because behind them teems friendly people, delicious foods, and a community passionate about their heritage and culture. At first, Japantown appears quiet, but once inside a restaurant, a grocery store, or even a mall, your perception changes. For curious visitors and backyard travelers who want to learn more about San Francisco’s Japantown, its history, and its food, and for anyone who loves trying dishes they might not make or find at home, this is a can't-miss.

Muir Woods National Monument Arrow

The towering trees of Muir Woods National Monument might be known as Sequoia sempervirens to botanists and naturalists, but to travelers like us, they are California coastal redwoods and are some of the tallest and oldest trees on earth. This 558-acre preserve was named after conservationist John Muir and proclaimed a national monument by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1908. It is home to one of the last remaining ancient redwood forests in the Bay Area. Every step you take here is a do-not-miss wonder. There are around six miles of trails within the park, that wind among the mammoth trees to areas such as Cathedral Grove and Bohemian Grove, and along Redwood Creek. More experienced hikers can extend their treks to the adjacent Mount Tamalpais State Park.

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art Arrow

SFMOMA stands out among other elite museums in the city for its innovative, exciting exhibits in a cutting-edge building. Located by a BART station and right off MUNI bus lines, it's accessible in a busy downtown location. Architecture firm Snøhetta spearheaded an innovative expansion, which includes a two-story-high and half-block-long "living wall" covered in native plants, as well as fiberglass-reinforced panels on the exterior that evoke the waters of the Bay. The collection is full of heavy hitters and the Museum Store is packed with wonders, ranging from Lichtenstein-inspired vases to glowing book-shaped lamps, delicate silver necklaces to a chess set with San Francisco landmarks for pieces. Spending an entire day here is certainly not out of the question.

Harrison Pierce

María Casbas

CNT Editors

The Legion of Honor Museum Arrow

The Legion of Honor museum is not only one of San Francisco's best, but one of its most beautiful buildings, built as a replica of Paris ' Legion d'Honneur. It's home to more than 800 European paintings, including works from Picasso, Monet, and Rembrandt, as well as more than 90 sculptures by Rodin, most notably The Thinker. Save some time for a walk along the grounds, for breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge .

San Francisco Cable Cars Arrow

Horses and carriages long had trouble conquering San Francisco's steep hills, and so in 1873 the cable car system was born—three lines of the original eight remain today. They are a symbol of San Francisco, the world's last manually operated cable car system, and one of the city’s most popular attractions. An estimated 9.7 million people hop aboard each year–the vast majority are tourists, but some residents still use these moving monuments to crisscross the city, just as was intended more than 150 years ago. Riding is a blend of an open-air bus and a slow-moving roller coaster. When you board, you'll either sit on the wooden benches for a more comfortable ride, or seek thrills and stand on the car's exterior, gripping the poles as the car moves up and down the steep streets of San Francisco.

Lands End Trail Arrow

You know the well-worn piece of advice, not to spend too long in California, or it’ll ruin you? This hike will ruin you. Snaking along the rocky clifftops at the city’s wild edge, the Coastal Trail at Lands End follows the Golden Gate Strait out to the Pacific Ocean, delivering jaw-dropping views along the way. The 1.7-mile path wends around corners and over hills, through wide-open spaces and cathedral-like groves of trees, tracing the path of a long-gone railway that once ferried pleasure seekers to Sutro Baths and Ocean Beach. You’ll get there, too, but don’t hurry—this is a hike to be savored.

California Academy of Sciences Arrow

An impressive science and natural history museum in Golden Gate Park, the museum was completely rebuilt in 2008, and the new Renzo Piano-designed building features unique architectural elements like a rooftop covered in native plant life. The "living exhibits" are probably the highlights. There is a rainforest populated by plants, frogs, and free-flying birds and butterflies, with a flooded rainforest tunnel filled with Amazonian fish. Other live animal exhibits include a recreated swamp, where you can peer down at Claude, the resident albino alligator with ruby-red eyes, plus a colony of playful African penguins who share a tank with pyjama sharks and sea stars, where they swim and do flips. There's also the Steinhart Aquarium, with jellyfish and a living coral reef. The less “live” exhibits include Shake House, an immersive exhibit that allows visitors to (safely) experience the kinds of tremors that shook the Bay Area during the city’s two biggest quakes—the Loma Prieta Earthquake and the Great Earthquake of 1906.

Sutro Baths Arrow

These Instagram-worthy ruins overlooking the Pacific draw hikers and visitors during the day, especially at sunset, when the views are unforgettable. They are all that remains from a complex opened by Mayor Adolph Sutro in 1896, that burned down 70 years later. The spooky beauty makes this place stand out in a city with many outdoor spaces. Where else in San Francisco can you find sprawling ruins on the edge of the sea? It's practically like something out of the ancient world.

Chinatown Arrow

San Francisco’s Chinatown looms large in our collective imagination, and rightly so. Born during the California Gold Rush years, the neighborhood dates back further than any other Chinese community in North America. With  30 square blocks to explore, it’s also the largest neighborhood of its kind outside Asia. Explore Chinatown’s nooks and crannies on foot and you’ll find something new and wondrous beneath the swaying red lanterns and neon signs. Down one side alley sits Tin How Temple, a quiet, incense-filled space where locals gather to pray; down another sits Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory, a small shop where workers rapid-fold fortune cookies beneath a soundtrack of whirring machinery. You’ll see a real cross-section of humanity here—families  eating dim sum , older Chinese men and women playing mahjong in Portsmouth Square, dressed-up foodies making a night of it at Michelin-star Mister Jiu’s, gorgeous Empress by Boon, or the exclusive Eight Tables,  and tourists hunting for souvenirs (prices are cheaper here than in Union Square and Pier 39). 

Alcatraz Island Arrow

You may know it by its real name or you may know it as “The Rock” (thanks Nic Cage!). It is the prison that was open as a federal penitentiary for 29 years and, at one point, housed gangster Al Capone. It became notorious for failed escape attempts—the island is just 1.25 miles offshore and, lured by the glittering lights of the city, 34 prisoners tried their hand at swimming through the frigid, choppy waters to freedom. Today, you can take a 12-minute ferry ride out to the island and take in the infamous prison up close. Audio tours guide visitors through the main cell block, laundry facility, and chow house. Don’t miss the ruins of the 15-room Warden’s mansion, where lavish parties were held. It was burned to the ground during the 19-month-long occupation of Alcatraz Island by Native American activists in 1970. Outdoor spaces to see are Eagle Plaza, the Recreation Yard, and the island’s colorful gardens, maintained by volunteer gardeners of the  Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy .

Ferry Building Arrow

The Ferry Building becomes San Francisco’s prime food destination during the Saturday Ferry Plaza farmers’ market, which brings more than 80 farmers and purveyors to the plaza surrounding the building, selling everything from rare citrus to small-batch miso to California olive oil. There's much to eat at other times, too, any time of day. Start your day with organic bagels at Daily Driver or vegan donuts from Donut Farm, washed down with Red Bay Coffee.  The ever-popular Hog Island Oyster Company has an outpost here serving briny delights pulled from its  flagship location on Tomales Bay . Also in the building is Grande Creperie, serving sweet and savory Brittany-style crepes in a French café setting. And recently opened  Reem’s  brings Arab street food, such as their popular mana’eesh and sharable mezze, from James Beard-nominated restaurant owner Reem Assil to the space vacated by Cowgirl Creamery. The Ferry Building outdoor seating currently holds 100 chairs and 50 tables on the back plaza, while all indoor dining areas are back to full seating capacity.

Mission District Street Art Arrow

The Mission's famous street art, which spills out of alleys, splashes across the exterior of grocery stores and bodegas, and covers homes, is one of its most pronounced characteristics. Some pieces are commissioned, others more spontaneous, but all of it contributes to the neighborhood’s character.  The spots you should make sure to hit if you’re touring around are Balmy Alley, just off Mission and 24th Streets, and Clarion Alley near the 16th Street BART station. If you have a bit more time, check out the neighborhood’s major mural corridors, 24th Street from Valencia to Portrero Avenue and Mission Street from the corner of 15th Street to Cesar Chavez. For a real deep dive, contact Precita Eyes Muralists, a nonprofit that runs street art tours of the neighborhood.

Angel Island Arrow

Once the port of entry for hundreds of thousands of immigrants from Asia and the Pacific Rim, Angel Island is a state park in the middle of San Francisco Bay. Hop on the ferry (your ticket includes the cost of admission), to get here from Tiburon or San Francisco. Once you get off, it's a lush scene for the eyes. The island is loaded with native plants and animals, and has views of both San Francisco and Marin. This is a great half-day activity: You can walk or bike the whole island in a few hours. You can also visit the Angel Island Immigration Station as well as the Angel Island Immigration Museum (AIIM), which opened in 2022 inside the former hospital building.

City Lights Booksellers and Publishers Arrow

Founded in the 1950s by poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti and college professor Peter D. Martin, City Lights became famous for publishing Howl by Allen Ginsberg (and undergoing an obscenity trial as a result) and developed a reputation as one of the country's most interesting bookshops . Today, City Lights still publishes some of its own books, with a particular focus on poetry and titles that speak to vital political and social issues, and runs a well-stocked bookstore. If you want to supports artists, discover a new writer published by a small press, to imagine yourself in Kerouac's shoes, or to kill an hour before meeting someone for dinner, this is your place. Their selection is great and, for poetry lovers, the Poetry Room upstairs—with its vast, comprehensive collection—is a place of legend. You needn’t look far for signs of fans’ love of the place. During the pandemic, when it was thought the store might close indefinitely—and the store’s CEO posted a heartfelt GoFundMe asking readers for support—City Lights devotees donated $500,000 in four days to help the iconic store survive.

The Presidio Arrow

A National Park established in 1994 from a massive converted Army base, the Presidio is a sprawling, scenic, wild-feeling park in San Francisco proper. The grounds have plenty of attractions, but the real appeal is visual, with trails leading to scenic overlooks of the city skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge . It is perfect for folks who want a remote-feeling walk without wanting to invest time or energy in a full out-of-town hike. The Batteries to Bluffs (.7 miles), Bay Area Ridge (2.5 miles), and Lovers' Lane trails (.6 miles) are all tremendously scenic without being strenuous and, a new addition: Hikers on the Tennessee Hollow Trail can walk through a new section of restored wetlands habitat, which stretches from Thompson Reach all the way to Crissy Field.

Tiburon Arrow

 This former railroad and maritime town is picturesque in a classic-New England-meets-laid-back-California kind of way, and an easy day trip for a bite and shopping. Just 30 minutes across the bay on the Golden Gate Ferry, Tiburon is practically another neighborhood of San Francisco and is fast becoming a culinary destination too. Here and you can visit a museum, sample caviar and champagne, sip California wine, pick up some hand-blended spices, and grab brunch on an outdoor deck, all in an afternoon. For budget minded travelers, Tiburon can be spendy, especially if you tack on a restaurant visit to the cost of a ferry ticket. That being said, there is no cost to simply walk around Tiburon and enjoy the atmosphere. There are also places to simply grab a coffee or a sandwich, or BYO picnic if you prefer. The ferry runs on a strict schedule so check ahead for departure and return times.

Park Life Store and Gallery Arrow

Located on Clement Street in the foggy Richmond District, the eclectic Park Life fits right in with the neighborhood's diverse restaurants, cozy coffee shops, unfussy dim sum joints, and other independent stores. Like an indi-mart married an art gallery, Park Life is a champion of emerging global artists and designers who create one-of-a-kind paintings, quirky curios, interesting books, and unconventional home accessories. The inventory is ever-changing, and art and design products collected from around the world are stacked on the tables, shelves, floors, and walls of the 1,400-square-foot space. Here you might page through a book featuring maps from National Parks spanning the last 100 years, spot an oil and acrylic painting of a pink tulip that’s just right for your new office, or pick up an embroidered throw pillow or colored pencils for your studio. 

Asian Art Museum Arrow

Housed in an airy 1917 Beaux-Arts Building—the former location of the city’s main library—the Asian Art Museum is home to a massive collection, with works from India, China, Korea, Japan, Tibet, Southeast Asia, and more. The museum’s vast holdings include pottery, carvings, calligraphy, and unusual artifacts such as coffins, pipes, weapons, snuff bottles, even an entire reconstructed Zen Japanese tea room. The collection of Chinese bronze sculptures is one of the best outside of Asia. If that sounds like a lot to take in, remain calm: in the fall of 2020, the museum unveiled redesigned collection galleries, structured around 15 strikingly displayed masterpieces. Chosen for their beauty, rarity, and significance, these objects give visitors a useful lens through which to view the other 2,500 works on display. Of special note: On the first Sunday of the month, the museum offers free admission.

Japanese Tea Garden Arrow

The oldest continuously operating public Japanese garden in North America, the Japanese Tea Garden, located in Golden Gate Park , is a wonderful spot to relax while exploring the park, but it's also worth a trip in its own right. Sitting among the perfectly pruned trees, small Japanese-style buildings, and gently flowing water features, sipping tea, it’s impossible not to relax, even on those Saturdays when the place gets a bit busier. Locals get a discount on entry ($7 instead of $10), so be sure to bring your ID.

Marrakech Magic Theater Arrow

Step off the busy streets near Union Square and make your way downstairs and into the Oasis Lounge, a former speakeasy with Moroccan tile, velvet banquets, and flickering lanterns adjacent to the 35-seat jewel box theater. This is the exclusive venue of mentalist and magician Jay Alexander, whose show is a little bit Broadway, a little bit Vegas, and a little bit comedy club. It begins in the lounge with close-up magic and sleight-of-hand. The main event moves to the adjacent theater–with Alexander on stage, the interactive performance brings in the audience for mind reading, human lie detector tests, and extraordinary stunts of mind-bending magic. Even skeptics will be convinced that magic is real!

Golden Gate Ferry San Francisco-Sausalito Arrow

The Blue & Gold Fleet, San Francisco’s largest ferry company, takes passengers to big-name destinations around the bay: Alcatraz , Tiburon, Angel Island . In 1997, the company launched a San Francisco to Sausalito ride. The journey begins, really, at the departure point: Fisherman’s Wharf. This is the city’s thrumming tourist heart: bicycle taxis fly down the street, aspiring soul-savers hand out pamphlets, the Silver Man poses for photos, and vendors sell T-shirts and knit caps. Once you board the ferry, though, you’ve entered another realm. The engine rumbles to life, and you’re heading out onto the bay. The sounds of the pier fade gradually; then suddenly, all you can hear is the water splashing off the ship, and the low hum of the motor. As the boat cuts through the water, the city starts to shrink and fade, the familiar forms of Coit Tower, Salesforce Tower, and the Transamerica Pyramid growing ever smaller, the rest of the city a sea of matchstick buildings in eggshell and gray and white and dusty rose. Then, perhaps before you even realized it, the boat’s engines decrescendo. Sausalito emerges, a vision in green.

Amoeba Music San Francisco Arrow

Think of Amoeba Music as the mascot of Haight-Ashbury, San Francisco’s famously countercultural neighborhood and the epicenter of the Summer of Love. Born in 1997—the same year as Radiohead’s OK Computer and the Notorious BIG’s Life After Death—Amoeba is colorful and fascinating, a riot of color and sound. An independent music shop thriving in the age of Spotify and Amazon, the whole place has a punky, free-spirited vibe: The walls are papered with band posters, cheeky merch abounds (Iron Maiden bobbleheads, Bob Ross action figures, a Nicolas Cage prayer candle), and the staff deejays, playing ear-catching CDs of their choice from bands you may have never heard before.

San Francisco Crosstown Trail Arrow

Conceived nearly a decade ago by volunteers, neighborhood activists, and outdoor enthusiasts, San Francisco’s Crosstown Trail finally became a reality when it opened in 2019. The epic 17-mile path takes walkers, runners, and bikers diagonally across the city, from the southeast near Candlestick Point Recreation Area to the northwest corner at Sutro Baths. Along the way, you’ll traverse city streets, meander through community gardens and neighborhoods, pass cafes and restaurants (for much-needed food and water breaks), and climb up hillsides and stairways where the city and bay views don’t disappoint. Walking, running, biking the trail is free, but to do the entire thing in a day would take 8-10 hours–break it up into small sections, being sure to pass the south end of sandy Baker Beach, a perfect place for a selfie with the Golden Gate Bridge in the background.

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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

• Event spaces
• 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

• price 2 of 4

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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50 Essential Things To Do In San Francisco At Least Once In Your Life

If you're looking for the best things to do in San Francisco, here's your ultimate guide to SF's famous tourist attractions, restaurants, and citywide events.

It’s nearly impossible to capture all the best things to do in San Francisco, and there are more than a few activities that stand out. Whether you’re a tourist wanting to see the sights or a local looking for new ideas, we’re sure these recommendations will help point you in the right direction. How many have you tried?

Of course, we have a few other lists that could help expand on this one. Be sure to check out our list of free things to do , things to do on a rainy day , things to do alone , things to do with kids , and things to do this weekend in San Francisco , just to name a few.

1. Cross the Golden Gate Bridge

San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge receives over 10 million visits a year and is one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks. The 1.7-mile-long suspension bridge was built in  1937 and has remained a symbol of world-class engineering and local pride ever since. Many visitors like to bike  across the bridge to Sausalito, and then take a ferry back. You could also sail underneath the bridge on an SF Bay boat cruise.

2. Spend a perfect day at Golden Gate Park

At 1,017 acres, Golden Gate Park is one of the largest public parks in the world. Any trip to the park is different in its own special way, whether you want to bike down JFK Drive or have a picnic in the East Meadow. Some popular stops include the Japanese Tea Garden , SF Botanical Garden, Conservatory of Flowers, bison paddock , Stow Lake, AIDS Memorial Grove, and the Dutch Windmill .

3. Join a raucous crowd of runners at Bay to Breakers

This wild, energetic footrace through SF’s most iconic neighborhoods has been a local staple for over 100 years and just keeps getting better. Get ready to run, walk, or dance your way to the finish line while enjoying  live music along the route  and plenty of unforgettable costumes. Save the date for this year’s race on May 19, 2024.

4. Get inspired at the Exploratorium

The Exploratorium isn’t your average museum experience – in fact, they’ve been making their own interactive exhibits since 1969! Explore and play with over 650 fun exhibits including the mysterious Fog Bridge . This is one of the most fun things to do in San Francisco for kids, but be sure to check out theirThursday After Dark events for adults.

5. Greet the sea lions at Fisherman’s Wharf

The SF waterfront is a fun and lively place to visit, albeit a little touristy. You could see the sights at Pier 39 , strike a pose at Umbrella Alley , visit sea creatures at Aquarium of the Bay, and play vintage arcade games at Musée Mécanique . Don’t forget to tour the historic boats at Hyde Street Pier for a fun trip back in time. You can also set sail on a boat cruise for a memorable day on the water.

6. Spend Memorial Day weekend at Carnaval SF

Carnaval San Francisco is back for its 46th annual festival this Memorial Day weekend on May 25-26, 2024. The free festival showcases 50 local performing artists across 5 stages ; 400+ food and art vendors; and the Jardin de Hierba Buena, a popular permitted cannabis garden.

5. Stuff your face at Tony’s Pizza Napoletana

This San Francisco staple is one of the city’s most famous pizza places, helmed by 13-time World Pizza Champion Tony Gemignani. Order from dozens of pizzas ranging from Sicilian to classic American to coal-fired. Take a culinary tour around the Italian neighborhood of North Beach while you’re at it.

6. Walk through the Eliasson tunnel at SFMOMA

SFMOMA (San Francisco Museum of Modern Art) is easily one of SF’s most famous museums with a frequent rotation of large- and small-scale art exhibitions from both local and international artists. One of the most-photographed is Olafur Eliasson’s One-Way Colour Tunnel , which feels like stepping into a kaleidoscope. The museum grants free admission to Bay Area residents on the first Thursday of every month form 1-8pm.

7. Go wild at SF Pride

The world-famous SF Pride parade and celebration takes over the city on June 29-30, 2024. As the nation’s largest gathering of the LGBTQ+ community and allies, it’s an epic celebration of the city’s vibrant Queer community. The free event generally happens at Civic Center Plaza with performances across 8 different areas and nearly 1 million attendees.

8. Explore the CA Academy of Sciences’ indoor rainforest

With some of the most advanced research facilities in the world, this famous SF museum is capable of putting together some seriously fascinating and creative exhibits including a four-story indoor rainforest aflutter with free-flying birds and butterflies. You’ll want to spare about half a day to catch a show at the state-of-the-art planetarium, step onto the massive living roof, and visit the comprehensive natural history museum.

9. Catch the view from the de Young Museum’s observation deck

The  de Young Museum  has been one of SF’s most iconic  fine art museums since it was founded in 1895. The building features a  144-foot observation tower offering 360-degree views of Golden Gate Park, and it’s free for the public to visit whether or not they hold a museum ticket. Their collections include African art, arts of the Americas, oceanic art, photography, and textiles. Bay Area residents can enjoy free admission every Saturday, and the general public can get in for free on the first Tuesday of every month.

10. Have an unforgettable time at Outside Lands

Outside Lands is the country’s largest independently-owned music festival, taking place every year in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park. The festival began in 2008 and is managed by Another Planet Entertainment, Superfly Presents, and Starr Hill Presents.  This year’s festival will happen from Aug. 9-11, 2024, and the lineup was just announced! Get ready for headliners The Killers, Sturgill Simpson, Jungle, Tyler, The Creator, and more.

11. Take a tour of Alcatraz

Alcatraz Island is an essential part of San Francisco’s history, most famously serving as a federal prison from 1934-1963 housing the likes of Al Capone and Machine Gun Kelly. It was later the site of a  Native American civil rights movement before becoming part of the Golden Gate Recreation Area in 1972. The audio tour is one of the best things to do in San Francisco for tourists, but even locals will have plenty to learn on a visit to this historic island.

12. Ride a cable car

SF’s cable cars are the only moving national landmark in the United States, dating back to 1873. There are 2 types of historic cable cars in service in San Francisco today:  12 California cars , which are larger and may be operated from both ends; and  28 Powell cars , which are slightly smaller and operational from one end only. You can learn more about the cable cars at SF’s free Cable Car Museum .

13. Catch a free concert at Stern Grove Festival

Stern Grove Festival has hosted free summer concerts for over 85 years, making it the oldest outdoor music festival in the Bay Area. Headliners have included everyone from Grammy winners to rising stars, including names like Mitski, The Doobie Brothers, Carlos Santana, Pink Martini, and Janelle Monae. Although we’re still waiting on 2024 details, you can bet on the series recurring on Sundays between June and August.

14. Sip on an Irish Coffee at the Buena Vista

Buena Vista Cafe is credited as the first and arguably the most famous place to serve Irish Coffee in the US starting back in 1952. The famous cafe serves up to 2,000 Irish Coffees per day in an elegant performance, using freshly-brewed coffee, sugar, and Tullamore D.E.W. Irish whiskey topped with freshly whipped cream. If you’re spending time in the Fisherman’s Wharf neighborhood it’s a non-negotiable stop.

15. Discover the Palace of Fine Arts

The Palace of Fine Arts was built as a temporary exhibition space for the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition . When the fair ended, prominent philanthropist Phoebe Hearst helped to preserve the beloved Palace structure and saved it from demolition. The structure is designed to depict a decaying Roman ruin, featuring a 162-tall rotunda and large colonnades. Many visitors to the Palace enjoy taking a picnic to eat on the grass surrounding the lagoon.

16. Drink tea and enjoy the view in the Japanese Tea Garden

The  Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park is the oldest public Japanese garden in the United States, dating back to 1894 when it debuted as a “Japanese Village” at the California Midwinter International Exposition. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing cup of tea and Japanese refreshments in the tea house, or visit during March and April to catch the cherry blossoms . The  five-tiered wooden pagoda recently underwent a $2M renovation and the garden is looking better than ever.

17. Attend a candlelight concert in a stunning SF venue

Candlelight is present in  over 100 major cities worldwide, and we’re lucky to enjoy these captivating classical concerts at the magnificent International Art Museum of America and St. Ignatius Church in San Francisco. Listen to talented musicians perform works by iconic singers and composers including Coldplay, Schubert, and Joe Hisaishi while surrounded by hundreds of flickering candles.

18. Go vintage shopping in Haight-Ashbury

Whether you’ve come to admire the historic Victorian houses or grab a drink on your way to Golden Gate Park, Haight-Ashbury has something for everyone. Essential stops include the tie-dye paradise that is Love on Haight , Amoeba Music, and the gorgeous Four Seasons Houses , but it’s also worth simply wandering down the street to take in the eclectic neighborhood as a whole.

19. Check out the floating rooftop paradise that is Salesforce Park

San Francisco’s  Salesforce Park  is an amazing modern marvel in the Financial District. The verdant oasis rests 70 feet above the street atop the Salesforce Transit Center, and it’s completely  free and open for the public to visit at any time. It also hosts a collection of free events  every week including yoga classes, bootcamps, live music, bird walks, and garden tours.

20. See the view from Coit Tower

This simple white tower has embellished San Francisco’s iconic skyline since 1933. , when Lille Hitchcock Coit left a bequest upon her death “for the purpose of adding to the beauty of the city I have always loved.” Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the 212-foot-high tower and marvel at 360° views of San Francisco including Alcatraz, Angel Island, the Golden Gate Bridge, the Transamerica Pyramid, and Lombard Street. Don’t forget to tour the Depression-era frescoes inside the base, which were painted by PWAP artists commissioned by the U.S. Government.

21. Take a lap around the Ferry Building

SF’s Ferry Building is a center for events, pop-ups, a farmers’ market, and countless excellent merchants who sell their wares daily in the building’s many stalls. Their expansive  outdoor dining area has excellent views of the Bay and it’s a fun spot for grab-and-go food. This is also one of the more famous historic buildings in San Francisco, as it was built in 1898 and survived both the 1906 and 1989 earthquakes with minimal damage.

22. Drive down Lombard Street

This famous red-brick street in Russian Hill attracts 2 million tourists per year. The iconic street features 8 sharp turns in a 1-block stretch, surrounded by lush landscaping and always teeming with cars and foot traffic. You can take the Powell/Hyde cable cr to the top of Lombard, but don’t forget to see one of the city’s best views a block away at Hyde and Chestnut.

23. Visit the Painted Ladies at Alamo Square

This line of Queen Anne Victorian homes is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The houses were built between 1892 and 1896 and have been featured in movies such as  Mrs. Doubtfire  (1993) and television shows like  Full House (1987-1995). You’ll find that the homes are perfectly placed against a dramatic backdrop of the San Francisco skyline, and “postcard row” is now one of the most-photographed views in SF.

24. Check out the new Presidio Tunnel Tops waterfront park

The highly-anticipated Presidio Tunnel Tops Park opened in 2022, connecting the Presidio’s Main Post with Crissy Field through a series of bluff landscapes and pathways. Explore nearly 200,000 native and drought-tolerant plants , lounge on the giant grassy amphitheater-style Presidio Steps, or take your kids to the 2-acre Outpost play area. Keep an eye out for NPS ranger talks, public art installations, and weekly events.

25. Take a candlelight tour of Fort Point

Fort Point National Historic Site was instrumental in protecting California’s coast during the Civil War. It’s worth a visit any time of day, but these candlelight tours are a next-level way to truly immerse yourself in the site’s history. Each guest will get a hand-held lantern for the 90-minute tour led by a park ranger, which takes you through all four levels of the historic fort including the roof.

26. Eat a Mission burrito at Dolores Park

This popular 16-acre green space is the city’s favorite spot for people watching, catching up with friends, and enjoying amazing views. Take a walk around the Mission District , grab a burrito from nearby El Faro or La Cumbre , and enjoy an afternoon on the grass.

27. Head to Ocean Beach for NorCal’s biggest sandcastle competition

The  Leap Sandcastle Classic  is a favorite at Ocean Beach every year, drawing thousands of people for the ultimate sandcastle contest. You can watch teams build absolutely enormous sand sculptures while enjoying  live music, performances, and local food trucks. 2024 details are still TBA, but the event usually happens in October.

28. Order a juicy steak at the House of Prime Rib

This old-school English restaurant is one of the top-rated restaurants in the city , and for good reason. Find high-quality prime rib to enjoy alongside excellent wines and cocktails, set against a cozy backdrop of traditional decor and jolly fireplaces.

29. Taste fresh California produce at a weekend farmers market

If you live in the Bay Area, you know that we have access to some of the best produce in the country. That’s why farmers markets are a must for countless SF residents who enjoy getting their food from local sources. Some of our favorites are the Alemany Farmers Market , the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market , and the Heart of the City Farmers Market .

30. Check out the view from Twin Peaks

These 2 adjacent peaks in the city stand 922 feet tall, making them second only to Mt. Davidson. The park itself is 64 acres, and you can see breathtaking panoramic views of the Bay by hiking the 0.7 mile trail network to the top. You can also simply visit via a laidback drive, which makes for a quick and rewarding trip to one of the best sunset spots in the city.

31. Watch the Chinese New Year Parade in Chinatown

San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest Chinatown in North America. A must-see event is the annual Chinese Lunar New Year Parade  in February which dates back to 1851. Visit the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory and top it off with a Chinese Mai Tai from Li Po Cocktail Lounge .

32. Attend a film soundtrack concert by SF Symphony

San Francisco Symphony has an absolutely stellar lineup of concerts all year long, but one of our favorites will always be the Film Series . Watch screenings of classic movies to the music of a live orchestra at these unforgettable performances.

SF Symphony is right near several other fun performing arts venues in Civic Center including SF Opera out of the War Memorial Opera House and the Jay Alexander Mind Tricks show out of Marrakech Magic Theater.

33. Go whale-watching in and around SF

California’s coastline is the perfect spot to catch several whale migration seasons – gray whales from January through April, orcas between February and May, and humpbacks between April and December. While you’re at it, keep an eye out for elephant seals!

34. Take a day trip to Muir Woods

We’re extremely lucky to live so close to the largest and tallest trees in the world. These old growth coastal redwoods are breathtaking, and most have been there between 600 and 800 years.

Some of our other favorite day trips from SF include Napa Valley, Filoli Estate & Gardens , and Bolinas .

35. Snag a frangipane croissant at Tartine

Tartine has been a San Francisco staple forever! They’re well-known for their excellent breads , but the pastries themselves receive the same amount of careful attention. Take home a loaf of their classic country levain bread, or opt for the extra soft whole-grain porridge loaf or the Danish-style rye. Whether you stop by for a tasty sit-down meal or picking up a fresh sourdough to go, the iconic SF bakery is a must in the Inner Sunst and the Mission.

36. Walk on the Castro District’s rainbow crosswalk

SF’s historically gay neighborhood is world-famous with essential stops including the Castro Theater and the Rainbow Honor Walk . Don’t forget to take a pic on the rainbow crosswalk at 18th and Castro Street, and save the date for the Castro Street Fair in October.

37. Get a pic at Andy Goldsworthy’s Wood Line at the Presidio

The city of San Francisco began at the Presidio in 1776 when Spain established a military fort there. World-renowned artist Andy Goldsworthy’s Wood Line is a beautiful sculpture winding through the eucalyptus trees, but there’s no shortage of hidden gems. Leave plenty of time to explore the 1,500-acre park, with plenty of hidden gems including Lobos Valley Overlook, the Pet Cemetery, and Mountain Lake.

38. Hike the Lands End Trail

The Sutro Baths at Lands End are one of San Francisco’s largest historical relics. Make the 3.4-mile hike out there and you’ll find the remnants of an enormous public bathhouse that accommodated up to 10,000 people back in the late 1890s. See more of our favorite local hikes here.

39. Have a bonfire at Ocean Beach

This stunning beach along the west coast of the city is perfect for bonfires (March through October) or for windy sunset beach walks along the coast. Look for the historic Cliff House and Camera Obscura up on the bluffs. Be advised that beaches in San Francisco are unsafe for swimming due to powerful sneaker waves and rip currents.

40.  Cover your ears during Fleet Week

San Francisco Fleet Week has been a fixture on the Bay Area cultural calendar since 1981. The Air Show is Fleet Week’s most highly anticipated event, where the U.S. Navy Blue Angels perform a choreographed show between the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz. The best viewing is at Pier 39, Crissy Field, and Aquatic Park, but you’ll hear it from just about anywhere in the city.

41. Devour a plate of cioppino at Scoma’s

Scoma’s has been serving some of the best seafood in SF at Pier 47 for half a century. It even has its own fishing boat for crabs and salmon, meaning you’re guaranteed  the freshest catch from local waters. Try their “Lazy Man’s” Cioppino or the lunchtime Fisherman’s Special.

42. Get lost in SF Botanical Garden

The San Francisco Botanical Garden is a beautiful, relaxing green space with  7,700 types of plants across 55 acres and i t’s free to visit for all SF residents. Some events to look out for include magnolia season from January-March and Flower Piano in September.

43. Explore SF’s most famous mural collections

Clarion Alley and Balmy Alley each house vibrant, diverse displays of murals by mostly local artists . Some of these masterpieces go back decades into Bay Area history, meaning you can pinpoint certain social movements, artistic styles, and more.  Discover more of our favorite public art pieces here.

44. Take a slippery ride down the Seward Street Slides

Thrill-seeking adults and children have enjoyed these legendary concrete slides near the Castro since the 1970s. They were designed by a 14-year old girl named Kim Clark, who grew up nearby. The super steep slides will get your heart racing, especially if you bring cardboard for an extra smooth ride. Find them in Seward Mini Park, and heads up that it’s closed on Mondays.

45. Sip on a mai tai at the Tonga Room

The Fairmont Hotel’s Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar is one of the longest continually running tiki bars in the U.S.  They serve a mix of classic and original tiki cocktails, including the “1944 Mai Tai” which is particularly tasty when enjoyed next to the restaurant’s indoor lagoon . Settle into the kitschy tropical paradise for a lively experience that’s one of the most legendary things to do in San Francisco.

46. Bring a group of friends to Hardly Strictly Bluegrass

Hardly Strictly Bluegrass is a completely free and noncommercial music festival that takes place in Golden Gate Park every year at the end of September. With over 50 food vendors and 6 stages, this is a real treat that’s totally iconic to the city. It all started in 2001 when SF venture capitalist Warren Hellman founded it as a “Strictly Bluegrass,” a bluegrass-only event that has since evolved to showcase all sorts of genres.

47. Satisfy your sweet tooth at the Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience

The enormous and newly renovated  Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience Store reopened even bigger and better in 2022. Customers can enjoy the world’s largest Pick and Mix as well as limitless sundaes, milkshakes, coffees, hot cocoa, and plenty more. Make sure you leave plenty of time to explore Ghirardelli Square, an iconic SF shopping center with all sorts of fun stores and restaurants to try.

48. Cheer on the Giants at Oracle Park

SF’s iconic baseball stadium Oracle Park is located right on the waterfront in SoMa. You can join a year-round tour to see the stadium up close or grab tickets to cheer on the Giants at a home game between March and September. Baseball season brings tens of thousands of people to the neighborhood every year, so if you’re not sure where to grab a bite nearby, be sure to read our Oracle Park dining guide .

49. Experience a yoga session like no other at Grace Cathedral

Hundreds of people flock to  Yoga on the Labyrinth at Grace Cathedral for a spiritual experience like no other. The session is a gentle Hatha yoga practice accompanied by live music in one of the most beautiful buildings in SF. For $15 you can join a graceful yoga class open to all ages and abilities led by well-known local yoga teacher Darren Main.

50. Bike around the perimeter of Angel Island

Take the ferry from Pier 41 and rent a bike on Angel Island for great views of the Bay, Mt. Tamalpais, and more. The Angel Island Perimeter Loop is 5.9 miles long and pretty flat, save for a few inclines. Plan to stop for photo ops and pack a lunch to enjoy on Perles Beach. If you want to take the experience up a notch, you can even camp on Angel Island as long as you reserve about 6 months in advance.

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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.

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. 

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. 

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 .

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 .

Popular Tours

Napa and Sonoma Wine Country Full-Day Tour from San Francisco

(3851 reviews)

from $ 150.41

Small Group Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco

(2073 reviews)

from $ 224.00

Small-Group Tour: SF, Muir Woods, Sausalito w/ Optional Alcatraz

(922 reviews)

from $ 129.00

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21 San Francisco Travel Tips: Full First-Timer’s FAQ

San Francisco is one of California’s most popular tourist destinations. The city’s wild west Gold Rush history, an open and accepting culture, world class museums, great food and epic views are just a few of SF’s finest features. So, if you are a first time visitor, figuring out where to start can be daunting.

Never fear, we’ve got you covered. We’ve lived and worked in the Bay Area for 26 years and we know what’s what. Our San Francisco travel tips will help you prepare for your trip, give you ideas for cool things to do and help you with on-the-ground logistics.

(This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you choose to purchase, I’ll make a small commission.)

SF Travel Planning Tips

If it’s your first time visit to SF you may be a bit unsure about how to pull together the logistics of the trip. The following SF tourism tips will help you get your ducks lined up for a great itinerary.

How Many Days in San Francisco is Enough?

Try to leave at least three days for a San Francisco trip. SF is pretty compact as large cities go, but there is a lot to do there. Three days will give you enough time to see not only the key (or most popular) sites, but it will also give you some slack time to explore neighborhoods and spend some time simply wandering around.

Where Should I Stay in San Francisco?

The long answer to this question can be found in our SF accommodation guide . It breaks down 5 key neighborhoods and gives specific suggestions on where to stay in each. But the short answer is that most people stay in the Union Square, Financial District or SOMA neighborhoods. They are centrally located and have good public transportation access.

Here are some cool hotel suggestions:

Historic Icon :  The Palace Hotel . The Palace was built in 1875 as San Francisco’s first premier luxury hotel. They have a stunning ballroom and lobby and they offer old-school services such as a signature tea and brunch. Check reviews and rates at  Booking.com .

Rock and roll vibe :  Zeppelin Hotel . The Zeppelin bills itself as an “urban avant garde nirvana”, which you can enjoy while hanging out in their game room and sipping your complimentary welcome beverage. See reviews and rates at  Booking.com .

Fabulous roof deck:   Hotel Via . The Hotel Via is located in SOMA. It’s perfectly situated for the ballpark and warehouse district. They have a rooftop deck with expansive views of the ballpark and the bay. Check reviews and rates at  Booking.com .

What Should I Pre-Book for San Francisco?

You should definitely pre-book the Alcatraz tour . It’s a very popular (and worth it) attraction and the boats have limited capacity. Pre-book the basic tour here .

If you want to do a day trip to Muir Woods , you’ll need to plan ahead for that as well. The site has limited parking and you need to get an advance reservation for either a parking spot or to use the shuttle service. Get a reservation at GoMuirWoods .

If you want to do both Alcatraz and Muir Woods, you can also do a combo tour which includes entry and transportation to both. You can book that here .

SF is a foodie town, so if you want to eat at one of the more iconic and popular restaurants (like Tartine Manufactory, State Bird Provisions, Zuni, Nopa or Sotto Mare), then you’ll want to get an advance reservation.

If you are keen to go wine tasting , you should pre-book that as well, especially if you want to do it on a weekend. Nearly all of the wineries now require reservations. If you want to DIY it, just book directly with specific wineries. Or you can let someone else drive and coordinate the resos by taking a day tour to Napa and Sonoma from SF, which you can book here .

When Should I Visit San Francisco?

For the best weather, you should visit San Francisco in April/May or September/October. The summer can be chilly and foggy and December-March is the rainy season. That said, this isn’t Iceland. Even when it’s foggy/rainy, SF’s mild climate makes it an easy place to visit.

If SF is part of a larger trip, use our guide for when to visit CA to match your interests with the perfect season.

What Should I Wear in San Francisco?

(or…how not to look like a tourist in San Francisco)

We practically invented casual Friday in SF and our easygoing tech culture means that smart casual is the default dress code. So, wear what’s comfortable and be sensible about your shoes because you’ll be doing a lot of walking

Since the city is basically a peninsula with the Pacific Ocean on one side and a huge bay on the other, SF is a patchwork different microclimates. Walk a mile, or even stand still and wait 10 minutes, and the weather can change drastically. So always, always bring layers.

And don’t assume that just because it’s July, it will be warm enough for shorts. When Karl the fog rolls in, you don’t want to be that tourist shivering in a t-shirt and shorts while all of the locals around you are comfortably dressed in jeans and a light jacket.

San Francisco Travel Tips for On-the-Ground Logistics

Once in SF, here are some suggestions for helping you get around safely and efficiently.

How do I get from SFO to Downtown San Francisco

Use our SFO to downtown guide (or Oakland airport to SF ) for the full down-low. Both articles include pricing, logistics and rough travel time. But the short answer is that if you have more time than money, take the BART subway. If you have more money than time, take a cab (more expensive but no waiting) or Uber/Lyft (less expensive).

We’ve also got some advice for you on whether it’s worth renting a car in S F.

Is San Francisco Safe?

In terms of violent crime, SF is about as safe as any other large US city. But there are a few safety considerations that are particular to SF.

SF has been experiencing an epidemic of petty car break-ins. DO NOT leave any valuables in your car.

SF also has a serious homelessness problem. So you’ll find a lot of people panhandling, especially in the Union Square and Tenderloin area just west of Union Square. Donate to (or ignore) them according to your own personal ethic, but just be prepared for it to happen and pay attention to your surroundings.

Pickpockets always congregate in touristy areas and SF is no exception. So pay attention in places like the Powell Street cable car stop and Pier 39/Fisherman’s Wharf.

How Do I Catch Public Transportation in San Francisco?

San Francisco is served by 4 different systems. You can pay for any of them by purchasing and pre-loading a Clipper Card. You can buy an e-version of the card and load it into your phone’s wallet.

• MUNI : This is the bus, light rail and cable car system that serves riders within the city. Paying with Clipper is best, but you can also use cash on the buses and cable cars. MUNI runs all over the city, but it’s not always fast. Popular rides on MUNI include the cable cars and the historic buses that run along the Embarcadero to Pier 39. Here’s out guide for how to ride the cable cars .
• BART : This is the subway system. It serves SF from both the Oakland and SF airports and also has stops within the city in the Mission, Civic Center, Union Square and Financial district neighborhoods.
• FERRY : There is regular ferry service between SF nearby cities. It’s typically used for commuters, but you can have a fun DIY bay tour by taking the ferry over to Oakland’s Jack London Square, a day trip to Angel Island State Park , or walking across the Golden Gate Bridge and taking the ferry back from Sausalito.
• CALTRAIN : This is a suburban train service. You probably won’t be using it unless you need to get to the San Jose airport or elsewhere down the peninsula.

Should I Do the Hop On Hop Off Bus?

We’ve traveled the world and have never been huge fans of the HoHo buses. Sure, they cover the whole city, but that’s the problem. It’s just too much to cover in one day. You’ll never get sufficient time at any given stop to really explore it.

That said, the buses do give an overview of the city with some historical context. We think your money is better spent on Ubers that will whisk you to a smaller number of things that you really want to spend time doing. But if you want to check the bus pricing and scheduled stops, you can look into the HoHo buses here .

What Not to Miss in San Francisco

This is a tough question to answer as we firmly believe that nothing is “must see”. What you “must see” in San Francisco is highly dependent upon your personal interests. And even if you’re a first time visitor to SF and you aren’t sure you’ll ever come again, you don’t want to waste your time pursuing someone else’s idea of a great time.

So our best San Francisco travel tip for you is to be a discerning traveler and focus on what you want. To that end, we’ve broken down this to-do list into some different categories, and you can pick from those things that float your boat.

Cool SF Architecture

• The Painted Ladies in Alamo Square. Take a selfie but be respectful because it’s private property
• Coit Tower . Art deco architecture, WPA murals and epic views.
• The Palace of Fine Arts . Cool photo opp at night.

Foodie Heaven

• The Ferry Building . Historic building with tons of food stalls and thrice weekly farmer’s market.
• The Mission Burrito . Eat a burrito as big as your head. La Taqueria is a popular fave.
• Craft Beers in SOMA . Which you can explore on your own or take a tour .

Great Walks

• Crosstown Walk . Gets way off the tourist trail and transits from the SE to the NW corners of the city. Use our Crosstown walk guide for inspiration.
• Barbary Coast trail . A self-guided tour of SF’s most notorious Gold Rush neighborhood. Use our Barbary Coast guide to walk through historic Union Square, Chinatown, North Beach and The Wharf.
• Land’s End Trail . Get a mix of nice nature, SF history, URBEX and ocean views on the Lands End Trail .

If this is your jam, we have a whole list of our favorite walks in SF and also some cool hikes to take in the Presidio .

• The Golden Gate Bridge . Use our bridge visitors guide to explore on and around the bridge.
• The top of Twin Peaks . Nice long view of both downtown and Golden Gate Park.
• Top of the Mark . Cocktails on the top floor of the Intercontinental hotel with lovely nighttime views of downtown.

• The Presidio : This is the largest urban park in the national parks system. Use our Presidio guide to find cool hikes, historic sites and Yoda. And learn about the other 11 National Park sites near SF .
• Golden Gate Park : Two cool museums, a flower conservatory, Japanese garden, arboretum, small lake, walking trails, windmills and even some bison!
• Mission Dolores Park : If it’s a nice day, pack a picnic and some bevvys, and spend a few hours hanging out.

Amazing Art

• SF MOMA : The best modern art museum west of the Mississippi with an excellent photography collection.
• De Young : A wide-ranging art collection and excellent special exhibitions.
• Asian Art Museum : One of the most comprehensive art museums in the world, with collections from all around the continent.

Fun for Kids

• Exploratorium : Hands on science museum that uses its location on the bay as a living exhibit.
• Seward Street Slides : Fun concrete slides built into the hillside (bring you own cardboard).
• San Francisco Maritime Museum : Another national park site with maritime exhibits and tours of historic boats.

Offbeat and Edgy

• Mission Street murals : Use our Mission mural guide for a DIY tour of graffiti and murals that celebrate SF’s Latino and immigrant culture.
• Sutro Baths : Visit the ruins of an old Victorian bathhouse on the western edge of the city. The views of the ocean are great there.
• Mission Dolores Cemetery : Mission Dolores is the oldest intact building in SF and its cemetery is both creepy and historically informative.

Get off the tourist treadmill and check out our article featuring offbeat and unusual things to do in SF .

Should I Visit Pier 39?

Meh. Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf have a lot of negative tourist trappings. It’s crowded, kinda dirty, with overpriced food, t-shirt shops and a wax museum. And we don’t love any of that.

However, there are a few things worth doing, just don’t spend all day there. The kids might like the Musee Mechanique, which features antique arcade games, or the aquarium of the Pacific. There is a resident population of sea lions that are worth a look. And you catch the Alcatraz ferries from there.

Should I Ride the Cable Car in SF?

Most definitely, it is indeed iconic. However, during peak times, the line at Powell street gets very long. You can avoid that by getting over to Ghirardelli Square by other means and then taking the cable car back from there. Or, you can go early or late in the day. Or you can take the California line, which starts at California street and goes to Van Ness.

What are Some Cool SF Neighborhoods to Explore?

Our best pro SF tourism tip is to leave some of your time open and just wander around a few cool neighborhoods.

We are big fans of The Mission . For some good eats, fun stores and murals, stroll 24th Street between Potrero and Mission, Clarion Alley, and Valencia from 20th to 25th. We also like SOMA . You can wander the Embarcadero, go to a baseball game, visit one of the breweries or hang out at the South Park playground.

Hayes Valley has nice upscale boutiques and a ton of great restaurant options. As does Fillmore Street from Sutter to Jackson. Haight Ashbury is still (kinda) hanging onto it’s hippie history and you can still shop for old school records at Amoeba Records. Nearby Booksmith is also a great SF indy bookstore .

3 Fun and Funky Tours to Take in SF

• The San Francisco Love tour is kitchsy, but fun. It’s a blast from an SF hippie past while driving around to some iconic spots in a psychedelic ’70’s Volkswagen minibus. Check the schedule and book it here .
• SF City Guides offers free tours (for a tip) on some very niche topics such as Hitchcock’s SF, “Bawdy and Naughty” Barbary Coast, Castro Pride, and North Beach by night. Check their schedule here .
• Eat your way through Chinatown with this walking (and eating) tour .

But Wait, Here Are More SF Resources

• If you into photography, here’s a guide to 17 places to get great SF photos .
• We also have a guide for finding (and shooting) the best Golden Gate Bridge views .
• Find some quirky things to do with these unique SF guidebooks .
• Read up before you go with these books set in SF .

And Plan a Larger California Vacation

• Go north using this road trip guide from SF to the redwoods .
• Go east on a road trip between SF and Lake Tahoe .
• Take a slow roll down the coast from SF to LA on the PCH .
• Road trip from San Francisco to Yosemite .
• Or road trip from San Francisco to Death Valley OR SF to Las Vegas .

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The culture of San Francisco is diverse and vibrant, which is all too evident in the city’s art, music , and food scenes. Experience a stunning example of the city’s architectural force at City Hall or the San Francisco Palace of Fine Arts. Or, learn a thing or two at the California Academy of Sciences. Sightsee on the cable car and stop at Ghirardelli Square for a hot fudge sundae or take a walk along the Embarcadero in search of barking sea lions. This beautifully historic city is bursting with unique things to discover whether you’re visiting for the first time or have lived there for years.  

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit : The best time to visit San Francisco is in the fall months from September to November. Prices are typically lower, kids have returned to school, and the weather is nice and warm.
• Language : English
• Currency : USD
• Getting Around : Bay Area Rapid Transit, or BART, is the main regional transit system for getting to and from the airport in the city. The San Francisco Municipal Railway, or Muni, is San Francisco's main and most popular public transit system, operating both metro trains and buses that connect downtown to outer areas like Ocean Beach .
• Travel Tip : If there are two things that throw visitors off the most in SF, its hills and fog (so much so that the locals have named the latter). Most residents will agree, always bring a jacket if going out after dark and always wear comfortable shoes if you plan on walking.

Things to Do

It's pretty difficult to pick just a few things to do in San Francisco, so don’t expect to see everything in a day. The mysterious Alcatraz Island, the food-filled Ferry Building, bustling Union Square, the list goes on and on.

There is one attraction that visitors tend to favor, however (especially because it’s pretty hard to miss): The iconic Golden Gate Bridge. San Francisco’s most recognized landmark has operated as the gateway to the Pacific, connecting San Francisco to the North Bay, since its grand opening in May 1937. The city offers countless ways to experience it, too. Just outside of the city on the far side, The Golden Gate National Recreation Area supports 19 distinct ecosystems, over 2,000 plant and animal species   , and some pretty incredible hiking trails. Or, get a great view of the bridge from Golden Gate Bridge Beach .

San Francisco is practically brimming with historic architecture and inspiring artwork. Museums are some of the best places to experience the city’s rich history and delve into its love of scientific exploration. Some of the most popular include the Academy of Sciences, the Asian Art Museum, the Exploratorium, the Fine Arts Museum, and the Museum of Modern Art (known affectionately as “MOMA”)   .

• Golden Gate Bridge : Whether you walk across the bridge for free or take a bike tour to get a better feel for the quintessential landmark, don’t leave without at least catching a glimpse.
• Golden Gate Park : San Francisco’s answer to New York’s Central Park, Golden Gate Park is beloved to locals and visitors alike. Home to botanical gardens and museums, take some time to enjoy this verdant and peaceful park.
• Pier 39 : Catch the best of San Francisco’s famous street performers, the tunnels at the Aquarium of the Bay, and the tourist-favorite sea lions here. 

Explore more attractions to enjoy in the city with our guides to the 20 best things to do in San Francisco , how to get around San Francisco’s best attractions , and the top things to do with kids .

What to Eat and Drink

When it comes to California , foodies can’t do much better than San Francisco. Visitors have the opportunity to experience a wide range of cultures and cuisines on a vacation in this dynamic and spirited city. Grab brunch at a French bistro in the morning, a sourdough bread bowl with clam chowder at Fisherman's Wharf or authentic dim sum in Chinatown for lunch, and hit up North Beach for dinner at a classic Italian restaurant in North Beach. Just as many budget-friendly eateries line the city’s streets as world-class fine dining restaurants, so there is truly something for everyone.

Whether you’re a lover of smokey dive bars, hidden speakeasies, or classy cocktail bars (and honestly everything in between), you’re bound to find some of the state’s best in San Francisco. Cap the night off with a mai tai at a tiki-themed lounge, like the Tonga Room , or a historic Irish pub, like the Irish Bank . You’ll be raising a glass to the “City by the Bay” before the end of the night.

Discover more places to eat and drink with articles on San Francisco’s best bars , the best restaurants in San Francisco , and the top breweries in the city.

Where to Stay

San Francisco may only be just under 47 square miles, but each of the city’s distinct neighborhoods and districts still all have their own charm and culture.   Get the perfect combination of local and tourist in North Beach , stick close to Union Square in Nob Hill , or go back in time to SF’s bohemian days in the Haight-Ashbury . The Castro is the heart of the city’s LGBTQ community and the Mission District is known for funky nightlife and incredible Mexican food. The SoMa neighborhood, located South of Market, is considered by many as the cultural hub of San Francisco, with many of the city’s popular museums contained within its borders. Richmond has some of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge, while the Embarcadero and Fisherman's Wharf are both close to the action and the water.

Get to know San Francisco’s neighborhoods with our recommendations for the city’s best hotels and the best neighborhoods to stay in .

TripSavvy / Melissa Zink

Getting There

The most convenient international airports near the city are located in South San Francisco and about 25 miles from downtown in South Oakland . If you plan to do some additional traveling down California’s Central Coast, the San Jose International Airport in Northwest San Jose is about 60 miles south of the city. To pair your San Francisco trip with a wine tasting adventure in Napa Valley or Sonoma County, the Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport in Santa Rosa offers another option.

Speaking of day trips and side trips from San Francisco, if you’re planning on staying in the city for your entire vacation, you don’t necessarily need to bring a car. There are plenty of options for public transportation, whether it be Muni , trolleys, BART trains, cable cars, ferries, ride sharing, or taxis.

Money Saving Tips

• There are a surprisingly high number of free activities available to tourists in San Francisco. Taking a hike up Twin Peaks to the highest point of the city or walking across Golden Gate Bridge are some of the most popular.
• Keep an eye out for free museum admission days 
• If you are staying for more than a day, look into a Visitor Passport because they provide unlimited rides on Muni for one, two, or three consecutive days. There are multiple locations to purchase passes, including the city’s Visitor Information Center .
• For those staying in the Presidio neighborhood, be sure to take advantage of the​ PresidiGo Shuttle system, which provides free transp​ortation to an​d around the Presidio from three routes in the city daily.
• The San Francisco CityPASS features a seven-day Muni Pass for unlimited rides on a variety of the city’s public transportation including the cable car and trolley, as well as admission to several attractions and the San Francisco Bay Cruise. You can also look into the Go San Francisco Card , which includes admission to various attractions, too.
• Rates for hotel rooms tend to be highest from August through October. Apart from holiday weeks, a trip in December or January will boast the lowest prices.
• Tours to Alcatraz are limited, so get yours ahead of time to avoid shelling out big bucks on a more expensive organized tour.
•  San Francisco is big on walking, so do as the locals do and plan a free walking tour .

Learn more about visiting San Francisco on a budget with our guides to money-saving tips , the city’s free or cheap museum nights , and the best free things to do in San Francisco .

NPS. "Golden Gate National Recreation Area California." July 16, 2020.

City and County of San Francisco. "Visitors." July 16, 2020.

SF Travel. "San Francisco Neighborhoods and Districts." July 16, 2020.

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2024 NFL Draft: 49ers Listening to Trade Offers, Vikings–Giants Proposals for No. 3 Pick

San Francisco could move either Deebo Samuel or Brandon Aiyuk. Plus, what the Patriots turned down to select Drake Maye.

• Author: Albert Breer

Day 2 of the 2024 NFL draft is here and here’s what we know in front of Rounds 2 and 3 …

• The San Francisco 49ers are going to listen to offers for Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk, but they’re not married to the idea of trading either of them. Selecting Florida receiver Ricky Pearsall, though, does give them a little more flexibility.

At a baseline, taking Pearsall with the 31st pick is a play for 2025. The team has Aiyuk and Jauan Jennings going into contract years, with Samuel signed through ’26. One way or the other, all three won’t be around a year from now, so getting top-end talent in the pipeline now makes sense for a team that doesn’t have many immediate needs.

The 49ers did look at the idea of trading back five or 10 spots for Pearsall. But chose not to due to the tackle supply running thin, a number of receiver-needy teams right behind them (Buffalo Bills, New England Patriots, Los Angeles Chargers and Washington Commanders could take one, too) and Xavier Worthy getting picked by the Kansas City Chiefs in front of them. Second, there was the benefit of getting the fifth-year option on Pearsall.

On the second point, you’d normally associate that concept with quarterbacks, but the events of the past week helped tip the scale here, with Amon-Ra St. Brown getting $28 million per year and A.J. Brown getting $32 million per, and Justin Jefferson and Ja’Marr Chase megadeals coming down the pike (eventually). Having the option helps the 49ers with Aiyuk (a late first-rounder in 2020), and lacking it hurts with Samuel (a high second-rounder in ’19), so there’s another reason for San Francisco to want it with Pearsall.

With Brock Purdy on his rookie contract, the Niners could easily keep everyone. But they could also move someone, and it could be Samuel, who might be more tradeable with the terms left on his contract, with a plan to keep Aiyuk, who’s viewed as the team’s best pure receiver. Either way, having Pearsall, who drew some comparisons to Adam Thielen with the team, gives San Francisco options.

So we’ll see how the next few hours work out.

• So much was made of the Commanders’ mass prospect summit—some 22 players were in town for their 30 visits at once and, yes, the festivities kicked off at Topgolf—and what it meant for Heisman Trophy candidate Jayden Daniels’s chances of, and desire for, landing in the nation’s capital.

Turns out, he did get some special attention.

All four quarterbacks in town got one-on-one time with the football operations people, but the LSU quarterback was the only one to have an extended, exclusive meeting with new owner Josh Harris. The Commanders kept that detail under wraps for obvious reasons as the draft neared, but it telegraphed what was obvious. Daniels was the pick at No. 2—and that was pretty much through the draft process.

The hire of ex-Cardinals coach Kliff Kingsbury, a spread-offense guru, as offensive coordinator was another sign of it, as was the signing of Marcus Mariota to be the veteran bridge quarterback.

Which is to say all the hysteria just wound up being a blip.

• The Minnesota Vikings and New York Giants did make offers to the New England Patriots for the No. 3 pick to take Drake Maye. Earlier this week, Minnesota offered the Nos. 11 and 23 picks, and its 2025 first-rounder, with pick swaps favoring the Vikings as part of the proposal; and that offer ticked up with New England on the clock. The Giants, meanwhile, did wind up putting their 2025 first-round pick in their offer to move from No. 6 to No. 3.

Ultimately, nothing came close to moving the Patriots off their choice. In fact, that Kevin O’Connell and Brian Daboll were the head coaches interested, only emboldened New England to stay put.

The Giants, of course, got a weapon for Daniel Jones, selecting star receiver  Malik Nabers. The Vikings, meanwhile, were emboldened to draw a line in the sand on trade terms, and work within their boundaries by the alternate plan to wait for J.J. McCarthy—knowing that the Atlanta Falcons had a visit with McCarthy canceled, the Giants were Maye-specific at the position, and the Arizona Cardinals, Los Angeles Chargers, Tennessee Titans, Chicago Bears and New York Jets wouldn’t take a quarterback—and use the trade-up assets to build around him. So they let the Michigan star come to them, flipping picks at ith the Jets just to be sure.

• A big part of why the Patriots selected Maye was his makeup, which they hope will lead to the development of his blue-chip traits.

The Patriots were immediately impressed with his football intelligence, and how driven he is by the sport. Then, there were the leadership qualities he very clearly brought to the table, and were displayed when New England drilled him on his 2023 struggles. With conditions around him changing after his breakout ’22 season, Maye’s play suffered last year. Yet, he refused to blame anyone else, player or coach, or anything else for any of it.

That kind of accountability went a long way for the Patriots staff.

• As for the quarterback who went after Maye with the eight pick, the Falcons did plenty of homework on Michael Penix Jr. A big group, led by GM Terry Fontenot, coach Raheem Morris and offensive coordinator Zac Robinson, flew from Atlanta to Seattle on the morning of April 6 to work Penix out privately, and to get to know him better.

Rumors thereafter percolated that the Falcons had fallen for Penix, who crushed the workout, and the McCarthy workout being called off solidified that they were a one-quarterback team like the Giants were with Maye.

Few figured the Falcons would actually take Penix at 8. Fewer knew just how much Atlanta liked him. He was the third quarterback on the Falcons’ board, behind only Chicago’s Caleb Williams and Daniels, and some in the organization actually had him second. And so with owner Arthur Blank said to be fond of the idea of having a succession plan at the position—something Atlanta lacked at the end with Matt Ryan—an idea became a reality.

• The Chargers’ decision to take Notre Dame OT Joe Alt may have been one of the simpler decisions any team made in the first round. Coming out of meeting with Alt, GM Joe Hortiz scrawled in his notes, You’d love to have this guy .

Now, he and coach Jim Harbaugh do.

Alt’s athleticism, length, presence, demeanor and intelligence painted the picture—in the Chargers’ eyes—of a guy with a very high floor nowhere near his ceiling. L.A. thinks he’ll get there because of his drive, and here’s where the Joe Thomas comps we had earlier in the week come into play. Thomas’s tape coming out of Wisconsin could be seen, at times, as unspectacular. But that was only because he was so smooth and athletic, and made things look easy. And where you could nitpick Thomas, he’d do the same, and fix problems.

All of that goes for Alt, too. Add that to the background of Harbaugh and Hortiz, who’ve always poured resources into their offensive line and the match was, again, easy.

• Two inquiries shot down over the past few weeks: The Chargers trading Justin Herbert (and a few teams called spurred by the idea that Harbaugh might go get McCarthy in the draft) and Washington trading the second pick.

• Iowa’s Cooper DeJean is among the best available players, and the Bills, sitting at 33, would be an excellent fit. Buffalo’s also taken calls on moving the pick.

• We mentioned Monday that Texas RB Jonathan Brooks could be in play for the Dallas Cowboys in the second round. Well, Jerry Jones said as much Thursday. Which means, if a teams wants him, it might want to take him ahead of Dallas, which picks at 56 tonight.

• How the tackles come off the board will be interesting, with New England (No. 34) and Washington (Nos. 36 and 40) having a big need, and Houston’s Patrick Paul, BYU’s Kingsley Suamataia and Washington’s Roger Rosengarten available, too.

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When is the best time to visit San Francisco?

Feb 9, 2024 • 8 min read

San Francisco is a city with lots to offer throughout the year © Klaus Vedfelt / Getty Images

San Francisco’s mild weather makes it a consistent year-round attraction, which is a bonus for visitors looking for flexible travel dates.

Our peninsula-shaped city is often covered with a comforting blanket of fog (known affectionately as Karl ), formed by the hot sun evaporating ocean waters that then collide with cold air created from a coastal cold-water current. This is then sucked in through the Golden Gate and pushed by Easterly winds.

First-time summer visitors often end up shivering in shorts and hastily wrapping up in SF sweatshirts acquired at the nearest gift shop. Just in case you were in doubt – summer is not the warmest time to visit. There are vibrant summertime events that still make a visit worthwhile, but sun lovers should wait until late summer or early fall to visit SF for perfectly warm (but not too hot!) sunny days.

That said, there are still distinctive seasons to experience throughout the year, resulting from a combination of nature and our lovely, quirky, diverse SF cultures. Spring blooms, seasonal farmers markets, both wholesome and raunchy street festivals, and migrating whales are just some of what various months have to offer. Here’s how to judge the perfect time for you to visit San Francisco.

March through October is best for building a beach campfire

When you want to balance bar-hopping nightlife and shopping with a little nature downtime, or if you need a family-friendly activity, consider the fact that March through October is Burn Season at Ocean Beach on the westernmost edge of the city.

The 16 fire rings are open from 6am to 9:30pm daily on a first-come-first-served basis, but first, check online for no-burn days due to occurrences like wildfires or Spare the Air days. If the rings are full, ask to share and offer to contribute firewood or snacks. Burn season also includes the summer solstice in June – the longest day when the sun sets after 9pm, giving you time to enjoy a leisurely, brilliantly orange sunset well into the evening.

Wear layers to withstand the wind and BYO firewood, which is available nearby at Safeway on La Playa and Fulton streets, or the 7-Eleven on 46th Ave and Judah St. There are parking spots and bathrooms nearby. For public transport options, take Muni buses 5R or 18, or Muni metro line N Judah.

March to November is best for farmers markets

California grows much of the country’s produce, and San Francisco’s farmers' markets get the freshest, most peak-season goods since we’re so close to growing regions such as Salinas (“America’s Salad bowl”), Gilroy, San Joaquin Valley and many more.

A handful of farmers markets here only operate roughly March through November, but we’re lucky that the majority of the city’s 20-plus farmers markets open year-round. Still, nothing beats the abundance of produce available during the non-winter months. Get juicy, ruby-red strawberries and cherries during the summer (if you can get in line early enough – competition can be fierce), and tart, citrusy nopales (cactus pads) through fall.

Some favorite farmers markets include Civic Center’s vital Heart of the City Farmers Market, the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market (go on Saturdays, which are Saturdays), the sprawling Outer Sunset Farmers Market and Mercantile  and a new farmers market in the Bayview created by Dragonspunk.

February to May is best for whale-watching

Majestic gray whales, orcas and humpbacks all pass by our state’s coastline during their respective migration seasons. While it’s possible to spot at least one species’ migration year-round, the overlap months for all three species usually runs from February to May.

Since a 1985 international moratorium on whaling, the population has made a healthy comeback. Climate change’s recent warmer ocean temperatures have also driven the increased number of whales closer to SF and, at times, actually into the Bay itself. During peak whale season, you don’t even need binoculars (though, of course, they’re helpful). Some whales get close to shore – and in clusters – so it’s easy to spot them by their blowhole activity, then watch their flippers and long bodies breach and lobtail.

If you want to stay in SF proper, sign up for whale boat tours with San Francisco Whale Tours or Oceanic Society . Or plant yourself at Lands End Lookout . Otherwise, there are tons of whale-watching spots up and down the coast. For places relatively close to the city, consider Point Bonita Lighthouse north in Marin, or go a bit south of SF to Mussel Rock on the Daly City-Pacifica border.

April through October is best for festivals

Our April and October might look and feel similar weather-wise, but the city creates distinctive seasons through the vibrant street festivals offered spring through fall. Whether cold and foggy or sunny and clear, the vibes are always celebratory.

Two highlights of the festival season begin a little early with indie music-filled Noise Pop Festival and SF's famous Chinese New Year Parade in February. Then spring brings the 50-year-old Nihonmachi Street Fair (aka Cherry Blossom Festival) in April in Japantown, which is only one of three Japantowns in the nation. The side block parties along the 12K Bay to Breakers route in May definitely count as their own festival, and film fans can enjoy CAAMFest during AAPI Heritage Month .

June brings the very SF celebration of LGBTIQ+ Pride Month and its highly anticipated parade. The free Stern Grove Festival concert series has a lovely long runtime on Sundays from June through August, and the historic Fillmore Jazz Festival  takes place in July. Major musical headliners pack Outside Lands in August, in addition to having become a huge food and beverage event on its own. BDSM-themed Folsom Street Fair basks in September’s late summer weather.

The free Hardly Strictly Blue Grass rocks Golden Gate Park in late September and early October. SOMA Pilipinas’ UNDSCVRD night market takes over the district a few times a year, including in October. 

May is best for mind-blowing super blooms

Even though Karl the Fog helps make the city’s year-round mild weather a draw, there’s still an awakening in the air once the rainy season is over and wildflowers and people alike start to peep their heads out. It’s no joke that April showers bring May flowers.

If the rainy season was particularly heavy, outdoor lovers will be treated to wildflower super blooms seemingly everywhere, from unexpected clusters of richly orange California poppies on freeway medians to what news outlets named the best super bloom of 2023 at Mori Point in Pacifica, just south of SF. The hillsides were flooded with thick carpets of buttery yellow goldfields and white-ended tidy tips. While blooms may peak in late April or early May, plenty of destination-worthy blooms can often remain in the city, and around it, well into June.

Burning Man (usually late August to early September) is the best time to snag a dinner reservation

There is still plenty of counterculture and a deeply creative community in San Francisco. That’s why seemingly half the city clears out during the annual Burning Man festival in Black Rock City, Nevada , during the week leading up to and including Labor Day (the festival’s headquarters are in SF). The rest of San Francisco relishes this time, when going out on a Saturday night is a breeze in certain parts of the city.

SF has been a bit quieter in its post-pandemic state, but restaurant reservations have been ticking up, and it’s still worth checking out places you would usually never consider around this time. You can find parking almost anywhere and snag a normal-time dinner reservation for places that usually seem impossible, like the new California State Bird Provisions , modern Italian American Flour + Water , or Michelin-starred contemporary Korean San Ho Won . Waltz into the belly of the Mission District’s bar scene around 16th and Valencia, or other bar-heavy areas like Hayes Valley.

Late August through mid-October is San Francisco’s true (late) summer

It’s very on-brand that our summer months are actually extra foggy, and August in particular is referred to as “Fogust.” The culmination of hotter summer weather surrounding SF creates intense marine layers that, in turn, create more fog. For fog aficionados, hang out in the southwestern neighborhoods , like the Outer Sunset, to experience the thick of it.

As ocean temperatures get warmer in September, less fog forms, plus hot inland air gets blown toward the coast. Make way for the late summer season, which usually lasts until mid-October. The warm weather and subsequent relaxing vibes are perfect for outdoor activities, whether hiking, a street festival, or just sitting in a park. Visiting SF during our late summer also works out budget-wise, as traveling during fall tends to be cheaper.

December is best for stunning light displays

SF’s winter weather is mild (unsurprisingly), albeit slightly cooler and perhaps a bit rainy compared to the rest of the year. Even if you don’t celebrate Christmas, the holiday light displays around the city are still a cheerful foil to the early winter darkness. Typical tourist destinations one might normally avoid really deliver with the holiday lights, like  Fisherman’s Wharf and  Pier 39 . Next to their extravagant lights and decorations are also winter outdoor ice rinks that pop up on The Embarcadero and in  Union Square .

City Hall employs 220 LED lighting fixtures that bathe the majestic exterior in red and green during Christmas, plus other year-round light combinations like a rainbow for Pride month in June and blue and gold for Golden State Warriors’ victories. Fancy hotels like the Ritz-Carlton have annual holiday light and decoration extravaganzas, and the Fairmont creates a life-sized gingerbread house . Cruise through some of the city’s ritzier neighborhoods like Pacific Heights for huge, glittering displays.

A bonus to visiting the city during the holidays is SPCA’s annual window displays of puppies and kittens available for adoption at Macy’s Union Square — not a physical light display, but something that will certainly light up your heart.

This article was first published February 2021 and updated February 2024

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Authorities search for former Slack CEO's teenager who is considered a runaway

Authorities in California are searching for the teenage child of former Slack CEO Stewart Butterfield.

Mint Butterfield, the ex-tech co-founder's child, is considered a runaway, the Marin County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement Tuesday. Mint was last seen Sunday in Bolinas and reported missing Monday morning, it said.

Bolinas is about 30 miles northwest of San Francisco.

A sheriff's spokesperson said Thursday afternoon that Mint is 16 years old and that the search is ongoing.

Mint is believed to be in the Tenderloin neighborhood of San Francisco, a law enforcement official familiar with the case said. Mint and Stewart Butterfield are estranged, but officials are concerned about making the family connection public, the source said.

San Francisco police are assisting in the search, and the sheriff's office is working with the child's mother to locate the teen, the agency's spokesperson said.

Mint’s parents could not be reached for comment Thursday afternoon.

Mint, who has brown and red curly hair, is about 5 feet tall, weighs about 100 pounds and has pierced eyebrows, the sheriff’s office said.

Mint was last seen wearing a black sweatshirt, flannel pajama pants and black boots. The teen may have a gray suitcase, the sheriff’s office said.

Anyone with information about the teen's whereabouts is urged to call the Marin County Sheriff's Office at 415-479-2311.

Andrew Blankstein is an investigative reporter for NBC News. He covers the Western U.S., specializing in crime, courts and homeland security. 

Antonio Planas is a breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital.