san francisco why visit

Is San Francisco Worth Visiting? 43 Pros and Cons to Consider

Are you considering a trip to the West Coast and wondering if San Francisco is worth visiting? Well, you’re in the right place! In this blog, we’ll explore the iconic city of San Francisco and delve into its unique charms, famous landmarks, diverse culture, and captivating history.

From the Golden Gate Bridge to Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco has a reputation that precedes it. But is it all hype, or does this city truly live up to its reputation? In this blog, we’ll uncover the reasons why San Francisco is a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world, and discover if it’s worth adding to your travel bucket list. Let’s dive in and find out if the “City by the Bay” is truly worth visiting!

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Is San Francisco Worth Visiting?

For most travelers, San Francisco is definitely worth visiting . The city boasts a rich history, diverse culture, world-class cuisine, and numerous attractions that cater to all ages and interests. There are many iconic landmarks, and the city’s neighborhoods offer a unique charm , from the colorful Victorian houses in Haight-Ashbury to the bustling streets of Chinatown.

San Francisco is also home to some of the best museums in the country , including the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and the California Academy of Sciences. Visitors can also enjoy the city’s famous cuisine , including seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf, sourdough bread, and local wines.

While the city has its challenges, such as high prices and homelessness , the city’s vibrancy and character make it a top destination for travelers from all over the world.

PROS – Why San Francisco IS Worth Visiting

1. Beautiful Scenery: San Francisco is known for its picturesque views, including the Golden Gate Bridge, the bay, and the surrounding hills.

2. Historical Significance: San Francisco has played an important role in the history of California and the United States, including the Gold Rush, the Beat Generation, and the LGBTQ rights movement.

3. Iconic Landmarks: The Golden Gate Bridge , Alcatraz Island , and the Painted Ladies are just a few of San Francisco’s most famous landmarks.

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4. Cultural Diversity: The city is home to a diverse mix of cultures, which is reflected in its art, music, and food. Explore neighborhoods such as Little Italy and Chinatown with culturally unique restaurants and shops.

5. Delicious Food: San Francisco is known for its diverse culinary scene, including fresh seafood, Mexican cuisine, and fusion cuisine.

👉🏽 Get a taste of the diverse food with a walking food-tasting tour!

6. Festivals and Events: San Francisco hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, including the Chinese New Year Parade, Pride Parade, and Outside Lands music festival.

7. World-Class Museums: The city has many renowned museums, including the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art , the de Young Museum , and the California Academy of Sciences .

8. Outdoor Activities: The city offers many opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, and boating. Plus, there are many incredible national parks and natural attractions within easy driving distance of the city such as Yosemite and the Giant Sequoias , Muir Woods , June Lake , and more.

9. Nightlife: The city has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues.

10. Shopping: San Francisco has many unique shopping areas, including Union Square , Haight-Ashbury, and the Ferry Building Marketplace .

11. Film and TV: San Francisco has been the setting for many iconic films and TV shows, including Vertigo, Mrs. Doubtfire, and Full House.

👉🏽 Check out this SF Movie Sights Tour!

12. LGBTQ Community: San Francisco has a long history of supporting the LGBTQ community and is home to the famous Castro District.

13. Street Art: San Francisco is home to many stunning murals and street art installations.

14. Tech Industry: The city is a hub for the tech industry, with many startups and established tech companies calling San Francisco home.

👉🏽 Get an introduction to the tech industry with a tour of Silicon Valley.

15. Beaches: The city has several beautiful beaches, including Baker Beach and Ocean Beach. Or, take a day trip down to the popular beach city of Santa Cruz for famous surf spots and the Beach Boardwalk.

16. Architecture: San Francisco has many stunning examples of Victorian and Edwardian architecture.

17. Performing Arts: San Francisco has a thriving performing arts scene, including the San Francisco Ballet and the San Francisco Opera .

18. Cable Cars: San Francisco’s cable cars are a unique form of transportation and offer a fun way to see the city.

19. Farmers’ Markets: San Francisco has many farmers’ markets, offering fresh produce and artisanal goods. Some of the best include Alemany (Saturdays, 7am to 5pm), Castro (Wednesdays, 3pm to 7pm, from April 6 through Nov. 16), and Ferry Plaza (Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10am to 2pm, Saturdays 8am to 2pm).

20. Wine Country: The city is located close to many world-renowned wine regions, including Napa and Sonoma.

>>> RELATED POSTS: Is Napa Valley Worth Visiting? Where to Stay in Napa Valley on a Budget

21. Coffee Culture: The city is known for its coffee culture, with many independent coffee shops and roasters.

22. Public Transportation: San Francisco has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses, trains, and ferries.

⭐️ More information on how to get around San Francisco.

23. Sports Teams: The city has several professional sports teams, including the San Francisco Giants and the Golden State Warriors.

24. Family-Friendly Activities: The city has many attractions and activities for families, including the California Academy of Sciences , the Exploratorium , and the Aquarium of the Bay.

25. Friendliness: San Francisco is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great place to visit and explore.

26. The Presidio: This former military base is now a beautiful park and recreational area, offering hiking trails, museums, and stunning views.

👉🏽 Check out this Presidio walking tour.

27. Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART): San Francisco’s BART system is a quick and convenient way to explore the city and its surrounding areas.

28. Street Fairs: San Francisco is known for its many street fairs, including the Haight-Ashbury Street Fair, the North Beach Festival, and the Fillmore Jazz Festival, offering live music, food, and arts and crafts.

CONS – Why San Francisco Is NOT Worth Visiting

29. High Cost of Living: San Francisco is known for having one of the highest costs of living in the United States, with high prices for housing, food, and transportation.

30. Noise: The city can be noisy, especially in the downtown and tourist areas.

31. Steep Prices for Tourist Attractions: Many of San Francisco’s most popular attractions can be expensive to visit.

32. Homelessness: San Francisco has a significant homeless population, and some areas of the city may have visible signs of poverty.

33. Crime: Like any major city, San Francisco has some areas with higher crime rates.

34. Limited Parking: Parking can be difficult to find and expensive in San Francisco.

35. Public Transportation Issues: While San Francisco has a comprehensive public transportation system, it can have issues with delays and overcrowding.

36. Traffic Congestion: Traffic congestion can be a problem in San Francisco, especially during rush hour.

37. Limited Beaches: While San Francisco is located on the coast, the city has relatively few beaches compared to other coastal destinations, and the water can be chilly for swimming year-round.

38. Political Climate: San Francisco has a reputation for being politically liberal, which may not appeal to everyone.

39. Limited Space: San Francisco is a compact city, with limited space for new development.

40. Steep Hills: San Francisco’s many steep hills can be challenging for some visitors to navigate.

41. Crowds: San Francisco is a popular tourist destination, so some areas of the city may be crowded, especially during peak season.

42. Earthquakes: San Francisco is located in an area with a history of earthquakes, which can be a concern for some visitors, though infrastructure and safety technology has improved.

43. Weather: San Francisco’s weather can be unpredictable, with fog and cool temperatures common throughout the year.

How Many Days Should I Spend in San Francisco?

The number of days you should spend in San Francisco to make your trip worthwhile can vary based on personal preferences and interests. Generally, it’s recommended to spend at least 3-4 days in San Francisco to see the major attractions and get a feel for the city’s unique culture.

However, if you’re interested in exploring the surrounding areas such as Napa Valley or the coast, you may want to extend your stay to a week or more . Additionally, San Francisco has a vibrant food and arts scene, so if you’re interested in exploring these aspects of the city, you may want to plan for extra time.

On the flip side, if you’re not as much of a city person , you may want to consider taking a Pacific Coast Highway road trip to explore more nature and coastal cities. Visiting for a quick weekend might be plenty of time for you before moving on to smaller cities and natural regions. Ultimately, the ideal length of your stay will depend on your individual interests and goals for the trip.

Is San Francisco Safe?

San Francisco, like any major city, has its share of crime and safety concerns. While it’s important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, San Francisco is generally considered a safe city for visitors.

The city has a visible police presence in tourist areas, and many neighborhoods have active community organizations and safety patrols. However, certain areas of the city, such as the Tenderloin district and some parts of the Bayview-Hunters Point neighborhood , have higher rates of crime and should be avoided, especially at night.

It’s always a good idea to take precautions, such as not leaving valuables in plain sight in a parked car or not walking alone in poorly lit areas. If visitors exercise common sense and take necessary precautions , San Francisco can be a safe and enjoyable destination that is worth the visit.

Best Parts of San Francisco to Stay In

There are several neighborhoods in San Francisco that are popular with visitors, each offering a different experience. Here are three top locations to stay when visiting San Francisco:

Union Square: This is the heart of San Francisco’s shopping and theater district and a great location for first-time visitors. Union Square is home to several high-end hotels and is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy to explore other areas of the city.

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Fisherman’s Wharf: If you want to be near the waterfront and some of San Francisco’s most popular attractions, such as Pier 39 and Ghirardelli Square, Fisherman’s Wharf is a great option. There are plenty of hotels and restaurants in the area, and it’s a short walk or cable car ride to other parts of the city.

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The Mission: This vibrant neighborhood is known for its street art, trendy restaurants, and nightlife. Staying in The Mission gives visitors a taste of San Francisco’s local culture and is a great option for those looking for a more authentic experience. There are several boutique hotels and vacation rentals in the area, and it’s easily accessible by public transportation.

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Best Months to Visit San Francisco

San Francisco is a popular destination year-round, but the best months to visit depend on your preferences and what you want to do.

The summer months of June through August are the most popular due to warm temperatures and outdoor events such as the famous San Francisco Pride parade. However, this is also the busiest season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices .

Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) offer milder weather and fewer crowds , making it a great time to explore the city’s neighborhoods and parks.

Winter (December to February) is the least crowded season , but also the coolest and wettest , so bring appropriate clothing. Overall, the best months to visit San Francisco are between March and November, with May and October being the most pleasant months with fewer crowds.

Should I Go to San Francisco With or Without a Car?

San Francisco is a compact city, and its famous attractions such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Chinatown are easily accessible by public transportation . The city also has an extensive network of bike lanes, making it a bike-friendly destination , though the city does have a lot of steep hills that make biking and walking a bit of a workout at times.

If you plan to venture out of the city to explore the surrounding areas such as wine country or national parks, a car might be necessary, unless you plan to exclusively take tours. Keep in mind that parking in the city can be expensive and challenging, so it may be best to rent a car only for specific day trips .

I recommend exploring the city by public transportation and then renting a car as you leave the city to explore any other destinations. If you decide to rent, make sure to check out  DiscoverCars . They compare prices across leading car rental companies to find you the best deals and lowest prices.

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Additional FAQs to Determine if San Francisco Is Worth Visiting

While it’s possible to see many of San Francisco’s top attractions in 2 days, it may feel rushed. Visitors will have to prioritize which landmarks and neighborhoods they want to explore and accept that they won’t be able to see everything. However, with careful planning and efficient use of time, 2 days can be a great introduction to the city.

Yes, San Francisco can be an expensive city to visit, with high prices for accommodations, food, and attractions. However, there are also many free or budget-friendly activities, such as hiking in Golden Gate Park, visiting museums on free admission days, and exploring the city’s diverse neighborhoods.

People love San Francisco for its unique charm, diverse culture, world-class cuisine, iconic landmarks, and innovative technology industry. Its vibrant neighborhoods and stunning natural scenery also make it a top destination for travelers from all over the world.

The cheapest season to visit San Francisco is typically during the winter months from December to February, excluding the holidays. During this time, hotels and flights may offer lower rates, and attractions may have fewer crowds. However, visitors should be prepared for cooler temperatures and the possibility of rain.

Yes, it is worth going to Alcatraz Island. Once a notorious prison, it now offers visitors an immersive experience with tours, exhibits, and a glimpse into the fascinating history of the island. The views of San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge from the island are also stunning.

Deciding whether Seattle is better than San Francisco is a matter of personal preference. Seattle is known for its stunning natural scenery, including Mount Rainier and Puget Sound, as well as its thriving music and arts scene. San Francisco, on the other hand, offers iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, a diverse culinary scene, and a rich history. Both cities have unique attractions and offer plenty of things to see and do, so visitors should consider their interests, budget, and travel preferences when making their decision.

CONCLUSION: So, Is San Francisco Worth a Visit?

San Francisco is definitely worth a visit . The city’s unique charm, character, and stunning natural scenery make it a top destination for travelers from all over the world. With iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, diverse neighborhoods, world-class cuisine, and a vibrant arts and culture scene, there is something for everyone in San Francisco.

While it can be an expensive destination, there are many free or low-cost activities to enjoy . Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or nature, San Francisco has something to offer. So, if you’re considering a trip to San Francisco, go ahead and plan your visit – you won’t regret it!

Related Posts: Best Winter Beaches in California California vs. Colorado How to Move to Los Angeles Without a Job

☀️ California FAQs ☀️

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☔️  When Is the Best Time to Visit California? Summer (June-August) – is the warmest (in some parts it can be pretty hot) but you will have the most crowds. Some parts of the state get “June Gloom” where it can be cloudy during the morning and burn off by mid-day. Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) – are cooler and have the potential of rain, but you will beat some of the crowds and see some incredible wildflowers (spring)/greenery (fall).

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Janelle Axton is a travel consultant and owner of Make the Trip Matter, a service dedicated to helping people create a lifestyle around frequent travel and extended time abroad. She grew up in California and spent time living abroad in Ireland in addition to traveling to over 25 countries.

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10 Reasons Why You Should Visit San Francisco

Don’t let frightening headlines keep you from the City by the Bay and all it has to offer.

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Headlines about San Francisco report it’s at an all-time low, full of empty storefronts , rampant crime and scary streets. But the City by the Bay still boasts breathtaking views, charming neighborhoods of pastel-painted houses, countless hills, secret staircases and two very iconic bridges.

Politicians, activists and visionaries have opened nighttime markets, illuminated landmarks, created car-free streets and innovative parks, even figured out how to use old buildings in new ways ( pickleball in the Palace of Fine Arts!). So if you're figuring out a last-minute trip for the summer or planning for a fall getaway , keep SF in mind.

Here are 10 reasons why visiting San Francisco, California , remains richly rewarding.

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1. Oracle Park

Nothing beats watching the San Francisco Giants vie for another National League championship. Oracle ballpark is on the walkable Embarcadero, on a China Basin inlet known as McCovey Cove. 

Named for Hall of Famer Willie McCovey and beyond right field, the cove is where kayakers wait to retrieve home run balls. Inside, rabid fans feast on Gilroy garlic fries, crab sandwiches on grilled sourdough, caramel corn and Ghirardelli chocolate sundaes.

2. The Ferry Building

The Embarcadero’s most impressive architecture is celebrating its 125th birthday this summer. Besides an imposing clock tower and dramatic sandstone arches, the Ferry Building is a farmers market mecca. 

Saturday mornings is prime time for grazing on gently priced plates from food and restaurant vendors in the back plaza. It’s also where you hop on ferries to Tiburon, Larkspur, Sausalito or Angel Island. The perennial complaint from commuters and tourists is that their trips are too short.

3.  The Golden Gate Bridge 

A surfer rides a wave beneath the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, California.

Walking across the orange, 4,200-foot, historic span is noisy, exciting and highly recommended. As cars stream past for almost two miles, the steel suspension bridge clatters constantly. 

On the other side, the Marin Headlands; below, brave wind-surfers, sailboats and cargo ships. If you hear the bridge hum, you’re not alone.

4. The Mission

It’s not unusual for travelers to go directly from San Francisco International Airport to a Mission District taqueria or taco truck. Mission-style burritos are excellent and enormous — packed with beans, cheese, salsa, sour cream and meat ranging from carnitas to carne asada, chorizo and chicken mole. A favorite is La Corneta’s super prawn burrito with guacamole, or Filipino-fusion concoctions from Señor Sisig. Plus, check out Balmy Alley’s vibrant murals.

Other interesting neighborhoods include Noe Valley, Nob Hill, Hayes Valley, the Castro, the Marina, Dogpatch and Potrero Hill.

5.  Mosaic-tiled staircases  

The Hidden Garden Steps at 16th Avenue and Kirkham and nearby Moraga Steps are worth seeking out and reflect a strong community of volunteers. Decorated with brightly painted ceramic tiles, these two Inner Sunset staircases are surrounded by gorgeous, exotic succulents and colorful flowering plants. 

Mosaic-decorated steps in San Francisco. 

6.  Beaches, parks and cable cars 

Golden Gate Park and the Presidio are crown jewels of the city and national parks . Crissy Field, once an Army airfield, stretches from Marina Green to Fort Point, with beaches, bike paths, overlooks and a sweet lunch spot called the Warming Hut. Golden Gate Park’s JFK Drive is car-free, as is the Great Highway parallel to Ocean Beach (weekends only).

Russian Hill’s intricately landscaped Francisco Park was built on the site of a decommissioned reservoir and is the largest public park to open in the city in 40 years. 

Not new, but significant: Alamo Square’s sloping lawn’s skyline views and restored Victorians including the Painted Ladies, famous for “Full House”  cameo, are worth seeing. Aquatic beach park, near Fisherman’s Wharf, is best reached via the Powell/Hyde cable car, the most quintessentially San Franciscan mode of transport.

7. North Beach

Once frequented by veritable Beats, North Beach remains an artistic enclave and hub for cafe culture. Hang out at Caffe Trieste then wander down Grant Street to Columbus Avenue’s City Lights Booksellers . Co-founded by poet-publisher Lawrence Ferlinghetti, this carefully curated bookstore is across (Jack) Kerouac Alley from Vesuvio’s , one of the neighborhood’s many welcoming watering holes. 

A cross-street in San Francisco with a blue, Victoria-style building.

Walk up the avenue to Molinari’s , where you can admire shelves of Italian imports and a seductive selection of cheeses, salumi and antipasti. Enjoy your custom-made sandwich at a sidewalk table or picnic in nearby Washington Square Park. 

Contrary to urban legend, Marilyn Monroe married Joe DiMaggio at San Francisco City Hall, not Saints Peter and Paul Church. DiMaggio did, however, wed first wife Dorothy Arnold at the ornate Roman Catholic church facing the park, and the Yankee Clipper’s funeral was held there. An adjacent playground where Joe D. first played baseball bears his name.

8. Lombard Street

Since my parents lived nearby, I’ve spent hours watching gleeful visitors take selfies and marvel at this internationally renowned, uniquely crooked street. Drive down or walk in either direction — but do not miss the Russian Hill block of Lombard Street between Hyde and Leavenworth streets.

Another painterly panorama and steep climb is Coit Tower on opposing Telegraph Hill. And Macondray Lane is an enchanting, pedestrian-only alleyway recognizable from Armistead Maupin’s SFChronicle.com columns, books and screen adaptation of “Tales of the City.”  

9. Seafood and waterside restaurants

Anthony Bourdain was right to rave about Swans Oyster Depot on Polk Street. Line up for one of 20 stools at the marble counter for the freshest shellfish, combination louis and clam chowder, paired with crusty bread and draft beer. 

At Scoma’s , dive into San Francisco’s signature stew: cioppino loaded with shrimp, mussels, scallops, halibut, clams and crabmeat. On the other hand, though, SFGate.com decreed Sotto Mare’s cioppino the best. Well, there’s room for both. Upscale Scoma’s is on an atmospheric pier, while North Beach’s Sotto Mare is more congenial, the counter conducive for solo diners. 

10. The weather

A view of the San Francisco Ferry Building looking out onto the water.

In San Francisco, weather is a plus and a minus. While inland areas bake, San Franciscans relish their comparative cool. The city is an amalgam of microclimates with foggier weather in the Outer Sunset and Richmond. 

You have to love a locale where ubiquitous fog tweets as @ KarlTheFog and @ fog_karla and months are called June Gloom and Fogust . Summers can be overcast, while fall is often most summery. Amid extreme weather occurring all over the map, one never knows. 

Layer up and see what this city has to offer. 

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10 Reasons Why You Should Visit San Francisco

There’s way more to San Francisco than expensive apartments and coffee shops that take Bitcoin. Exploring the City by the Bay reveals an intricate patchwork of cultures and communities. Read on for 10 reasons why San Francisco should be on your list of must-visit destinations.

Generations of fishermen have hauled their daily catch from the murky waters that surround San Francisco. This bounty has made the identity of the city and its inhabitants inseparable from the crab, mussels and halibut that feature on menus all over town. Oysters, however, are treasured by many of the area’s seafood aficionados far beyond any other bivalve and, perhaps, all ocean dwellers. This is largely because oysters are a local product, with some of the best farms directly north of the city, in the waters around Marin County. The best place to try this local staple is Swan Oyster Depot on Polk – a no-frills, 18-seat joint that Anthony Bourdain adored and the S.F. Chronicle has called “ this holy church of fresh seafood .” The thing to order, of course, is fresh oysters, but they make a mean louie salad if you like your succulent crab or shrimp served dressed.

Tiki culture

The Chinatown area is almost as old as the city of San Francisco itself. As the 1849 Gold Rush encouraged a flourish of American migration from the East, Chinese migrants arrived from across the Pacific and saw an opportunity. The Chinese-owned restaurants, sundry stores and laundries helped establish a cultural enclave in the middle of San Francisco that was vibrant and permanent, despite numerous schemes by city leaders over the years to dislodge and relocate the community. San Francisco’s Chinatown is a place that everyone should visit at least once. Despite the crowds and shops brimming over with tchotchkes, the area is packed with art and culture waiting to be experienced. And, of course, there’s the food. Just make sure to head over to Golden Gate Bakery on Grant – it’s renowned for making the best silky-sweet egg custard tarts this side of the Pacific.

Golden Gate Park

It’s easy to forget you were ever in a major urban center when you’re strolling through Golden Gate Park. The lush woodland is home to an array of sights and activities to please visitors of any age. There’s archery in a field near the ocean, a buffalo reserve located along the northern drag, the De Young Museum lounging next to the Japanese Tea Garden – and all situated within walking distance of some great bars and restaurants. It’s the perfect spot for everything from a first date to a tranquil solo afternoon on a grassy bank sketching the bucolic splendor. There are also markets and events occurring regularly throughout the week, so be sure to check online for the latest goings-on.

Burmese food

The San Francisco Bay Area has one of the largest populations of Burmese people outside of South Asia. As such, Burmese restaurants abound and should be on every traveler’s itinerary of San Francisco eateries. Burma Superstar is the most famous establishment: a hugely popular spot with block-wrapping lines that’s frequently recommended by celebrity chefs. Don’t be put off by the crowds, though as the hearty and fragrant dishes are well worth the wait. For a twist on a traditional caesar, try the loaded tea leaf salad. A good pairing is the tangy samusa soup, flavoured with black mustard seeds and golden turmeric. Refresh your palette between flavorfuls with a cup of the Thai iced tea.

There was once a facility on the northwestern-most cliffs of San Francisco that contained 500 feet of saltwater and freshwater pools. This complex, called the Sutro Baths, was open from 1896 until it burnt down in 1966 in what was suspected to be arson. Today, the area is occupied by a nature park known as Land’s End. Hikers and day-trippers can follow a slightly precarious path down to the foundations of the derelict pools, where the tide washes over and fills the hollows in the ruins. A trail follows the coast until it reaches the Presidio national park and offers selfie-worthy vistas of the Golden Gate.

Dutch crunch bread

Sourdough bread has become ubiquitous in San Francisco, but the locals here have now given their hearts to a new loaf called dutch crunch. The bread is generally sold as small loaves and is used almost exclusively as a sandwich vessel. The soft, dense inside is slightly sweet, while the buttery, crisp parts of the mottled crust are like little croutons that add a satisfying crunch to every bite. The distinctive giraffe-print topping is caused by a coating of rice flour, butter, sugar and yeast applied prior to baking. The loaves are now arguably as synonymous with San Francisco as black-and-white cookies are with New York or cheesesteaks are with Philly.

San Francisco is a proper museum city. There’s always a quality show going on somewhere nearby, whether it’s at the De Young, the Legion of Honor, the Contemporary Jewish Museum, or the Museum of the African Diaspora. But, if you want to see art that tells the story of San Francisco, the best place to start is at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. SFMOMA is pricy by museum standards, with a single entry ticket costing $25. The price seems proportionate, though, as you ascend the staircase in the lobby and head into the galleries. The museum offers an unrivaled collection of mid-century San Francisco masters such as William Wiley, Bob Arneson and Joan Brown, to name a few.

Shark dives

It’s a little-known fact, but San Francisco County stretches thirty miles out to sea, encompassing the Farallon Islands. The islands were once inhabited by researchers from the US Fish and Wildlife Service, but are now abandoned except for flocks of birds that perch on the rocky shores. Boats leave San Francisco wharves in droves to take curious onlookers out to the Farallones. Some go to learn about the island’s history, others to whale watch. The most intrepid travelers go to dive with great white sharks that circle the shores. The islands are a Shark Week staple, as the Pacific’s great whites are known for breaching the waves with full fury and flying a dozen or more feet in the air as they snatch a seal from the surface.

The Golden Gate Bridge

There’s no view of the Bay like the one seen from the middle of the Golden Gate Bridge . Churning water, Alcatraz, the downtown skyline – all of it looks so much more magical when seen from the bridge, as the briny air blows through your hair and the sun shines on your back. The Golden Gate is nearly 9,000 feet long and takes up two two hours for a leisurely stroll across and back, taking advantage of the many photo opportunities. The time goes by fast, however, and the one universal truth about the walk is that if you look around, everyone is having a blast. Bring a camera, bring a snack, and get ready to join in that good time.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Places to Stay

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See & Do

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San Francisco   Travel Guide

30 Top-Rated Things to Do in San Francisco

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

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

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

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

Golden Gate Park Golden Gate Park free

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

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

Coit Tower Coit Tower

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

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

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Lands End Lands End free

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

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

Golden Gate Bridge Golden Gate Bridge free

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

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

Ferry Building Marketplace Ferry Building Marketplace free

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

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

Alcatraz Alcatraz

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

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

California Academy of Sciences California Academy of Sciences

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

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

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Palace of Fine Arts Palace of Fine Arts free

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

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

Hayes Valley Hayes Valley free

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

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

Dolores Park Dolores Park free

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

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

The Mission The Mission free

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

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

San Francisco's Chinatown San Francisco's Chinatown free

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

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

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Haight-Ashbury Haight-Ashbury free

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

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

Ocean Beach Ocean Beach free

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

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

Muir Woods National Monument Muir Woods National Monument

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

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

Japantown Japantown free

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

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

Cable Cars Cable Cars

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

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

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Presidio Heights Presidio Heights free

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

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

Oracle Park Oracle Park

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

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

Baker Beach Baker Beach free

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

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

Yerba Buena Gardens Yerba Buena Gardens free

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

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

Twin Peaks Twin Peaks free

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

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

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North Beach North Beach free

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

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

Union Square Union Square free

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

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

Japanese Tea Garden Japanese Tea Garden

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

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

Angel Island State Park Angel Island State Park

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

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

Fisherman's Wharf Fisherman's Wharf free

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

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

Inside Alcatraz and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Cruise

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San Francisco Love Tour

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San Francisco Bay Sunset Catamaran Cruise

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Ghirardelli Square Ghirardelli Square free

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

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

The Exploratorium The Exploratorium

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

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

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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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San Francisco Itinerary: 15 Amazing Things To Do In 3 Awesome Days

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: August 26, 2020

San Francisco is a beautiful city bursting at the seams with incredible things to do for first time visitors, but with so much on offer, how do you choose what to do and what to cut from your travel itinerary?

When planning our first extensive USA road trip itinerary, San Francisco was the one city marker on the map consistently giving us pangs of excitement.

The problem with high expectations is setting yourself up for disappointment, right?

Not in San Francisco. Here, anticlimaxes don’t exist.

Three days is the perfect timeframe on a first time visit to ‘Fog City’ for those looking to hit the major tourist highlights.

You won’t be able to see everything … but then you have the perfect excuse to visit again .

Let’s get planning your perfect San Francisco itinerary!

What Can You Expect From This Guide?

We know from first hand experience what you can’t miss on your first visit to San Francisco and what you can leave for next time.

San Francisco is among the most popular USA vacation spots and o ur goal is to help you make the most of your time in this awesome city.

We’re going to show you 15 of the best things to do on your first trip to San Francisco and how you can efficiently fit them all into 3 amazing days.

You will find restaurant recommendations, hotel recommendations and of course a complete 3 day walkthrough hitting the top city highlights.

Are you planning to drive the Pacific Coast Highway ? Don’t miss our popular guide on the 23 best places to visit on the drive from San Francisco to San Diego along Highway 1.

San Francisco Factfile

City : San Francisco State : California Nicknames : Fog City, Golden Gate City, The City, SF, San Fran, Frisco Population : 4.7 million (metropolitan) / 881,549 (city) Locals Known As: San Franciscans Famous For : Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Silicon Valley, Fog, Steep Hills, Cable Car Body of Water : Pacific Ocean Annual visitors : 26 million

How To Get To San Francisco

Let’s take a quick look at transport and logistics for getting into and around San Francisco.

Flights To San Francisco

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is a major tourist hub on the West coast. You will have no trouble finding multiple flight time options per day domestically in the US.

• Read our 15 travel savvy tips on saving money when booking flights.
• Almost all major International airports around the world will fly to SFO.  Airport information .
• Don’t forget Oakland International Airport (OAK) is the perfect alternative airport if flights to San Francisco International don’t work for time or value.
• You can use the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) to get right into Union Square from both SFO and OAK.
• Search for flights with Skyscanner  to get the best value and flight options. For the budget conscious – it could be cheaper with a change of airport on the way, Skyscanner will list your options.
• Hire a vehicle with Rental Cars for best value. Do you need a 4WD or is a smaller car ok? SFO and OAK have plenty of hire cars available.
• For cheapest prices, search by month and be flexible with your travel dates.

Driving To San  Francisco

Los Angeles to San Francisco

Driving California Highway 1 is an amazing experience and is easily one of the most popular road trip routes in America.

Take at least 3 days to explore the best things to do on the central coast of California , including Santa Barbara, Solvang, Big Sur, Carmel-by-the-sea and Monterey .

If you don’t have time to stop, the drive up CA-1/US-101 will take around 8 hours, but you can shorten the time to 6 hours by taking I-5.

San Diego to San Francisco

Spend a few days stopping along the coast if possible. Popular stops between San Diego and LA include Carlsbad / Oceanside, Dana Point, Laguna Beach and Newport Beach.

However, your quickest route is I-5 with a drive time of around 8 hours.

Other Notable Driving Distances

• Las Vegas – 8 hours 30 minutes drive .
• Lake Tahoe – 3 hours 3 minutes away.
• Joshua Tree National Park – 7 hours 30 minutes away .
• Yosemite National Park – 3 hours 20 minutes drive.

Getting Around in San  Francisco

If exploring new cities by foot is your preference, you will be happy to know San Francisco is an extremely walkable city. You won’t need to do legs day at the gym once those hills are done with you!

Most of the popular tourist hotspots can be walked in SF. However, be aware there are a few areas you might need to take an Uber or Lyft to reach, such as Golden Gate Bridge and Twin Peaks.

If you prefer to take public transport, you can choose between a light rail Metro, trolley coaches or iconic (but touristy) cable cars. More information on SF public transport .

Do you have your own car for your San Francisco itinerary?

Make sure your GPS is up to date! It is not easy to drive around the city, especially if you’re not familiar with the roads. Your best bet could be to park at the hotel garage and leave it for the duration of your stay.

15 Amazing Things To Do On Your San Francisco Itinerary

One of San Francisco’s greatest assets as a tourist destination is the diversity of its attractions. There are so many fantastic things to do in SF to keep every type of traveler happy.

The key to an efficient first visit is to know what you can’t miss and what you can leave until your next trip.

Below you will find what we would consider the must visit attractions on a first visit to San Francisco. Yes, they are mostly touristy but isn’t that how first visits go?!

1. Shop At Union Square

What Is Union Square?

Union Square is the central hotel, theater and shopping district in which most first time visitors to San Francisco will book accommodation. Popular districts such as Chinatown and Embarcadero are within walking distance of Union Square.

Why Visit Union Square?

If you’re staying in Union Square you will find countless shops, restaurants, bars and theaters locally. For those who decide to set up base in another part of town, visit Union Square for the biggest and best department stores, art galleries and boutique outlets.

• Cable Car runs along Powell Street (hop on at Post or Geary)
• More Union Square Information  

2. Explore Touristy Fisherman’s Wharf

What Is Fisherman’s Wharf?

Fisherman’s Wharf is an ultra touristy district on San Francisco’s northern waterfront. Stretching roughly one mile, Fisherman’s Wharf encompasses the famous PIER 39, Ghirardelli Square, a colony of sea lions and the typical tourist traps you find in the big city.

Why Visit Fisherman’s Wharf?

Although uber touristy, there are stacks of things to do in Fisherman’s Wharf, particularly for the kids. Shopping, aquatic park, bike rental, a ton of snack kiosks and restaurants will keep you busy.

Let’s take a look at some of the better (less gimmicky!) things to do in Fisherman’s Wharf.

• Fisherman’s Wharf Information
• Cable Car  Hyde and Beach

3. Watch and Listen to the Playful Sea Lions at Pier 39

San Francisco’s colony of barking sea lions have become so popular, they feature on every first visitor’s itinerary. California’s sea lions are among the world’s most vocal of all mammals, so it’s like listening to a marine life orchestra.

You will find dozens of sea lions basking, hauling out, play fighting and sleeping on the docks around Pier 39.

4. Satiate your Sweet Tooth at Ghirardelli Square

Featuring repurposed 19th century brick buildings, a clear view of Alcatraz Island and Ghirardelli’s chocolate in abundance, this square is not to be missed on your San Francisco itinerary.

The quaint and charming square with shops and restaurants surrounds a mermaid fountain focal point.

Italian Domenico Ghirardelli landed in SF via Peru in 1849 and opened his chocolate company in 1952. It remains the oldest operating chocolate producer in the US.

Ghirardelli Square is significantly less busy than Pier 39 at the opposite end of Fisherman’s Wharf.

• More Ghirardelli Square information .

5. Eat Your Body Weight In Delicious Sourdough Bread

San Francisco is regarded as the best place in the US for eating amazing bread, thanks to French influence dating back to the Gold Rush era.

Natural yeasts and bacteria found in the SF air are used for fermentation of dough which creates the sourdough taste and texture.

With many fantastic bakers in the city, it is difficult to know where to find the best bread but in Fisherman’s Wharf there can be only one winner.

Boudin is the original creator and oldest of all San Francisco sourdough bakers. A popular lunch time special is soup eaten out of a round bread roll, with tomato and clam chowder the best sellers.

You can even buy holiday season bread sculptures!

• More Boudin Sourdough information .

6. Walk (or Drive) Down Lombard Street

What Is Lombard Street?

Lombard Street is a San Francisco landmark famous for its one block downhill section of road containing 8 hairpin bends. In between bends are beautifully manicured gardens which adds to the aura.

With a tagline of ‘the crookedest street in the world’ and the fact it looks exactly like a long slithering snake from above, there’s no wonder this street can receive upwards of 15,000 visitors a day at weekends!

Why Visit Lombard Street?

Over 2 million excitable tourists drive down Lombard Street’s meandering cobbled stones each year. If you have a vehicle for your visit, you can’t miss this iconic SF landmark. Just don’t expect the fun to last long!

Without a car, expect the top to be a hive of selfie activity thanks to its picturesque view of Coit Tower in the distance.

Note : Watch your speed, there’s a strict 5mph limit enforced as you take on the hairpins.

• Cable Car Hyde & Lombard

7. Educate Yourself At San Francisco’s Exploratorium

What Is The Exploratorium?

The Exploratorium is a museum of science, technology and arts. It is located on Piers 15 and 17 along San Francisco’s Embarcadero .

Founded by physicist Frank Oppenheimer – who worked on the Manhattan Project to produce the world’s first nuclear weapon – the exploratorium is a learning center with over 650 hands on exhibits including ‘human behavior, seeing and listening, living systems and tinkering’.

Why Visit The Exploratorium?

You can step inside a tornado, cross a fog bridge, turn upside down in a gigantic mirror and check your body heat in a thermal imaging camera.

This is a perfect one for families thanks to interactive learning exhibits suitable for all ages. Basically what that means is adults can use their kids as an excuse to play with cool stuff!

• Opening Hours : 10.00am – 5.00pm
• Tickets : US$ 29.95 adult
• Exploratorium Website
• Cable Car Drumm & Market

8. Check Out Ferry Building Marketplace

What Is The Ferry Building Marketplace?

Built in 1898 and also located on San Francisco’s Embarcadero, the Ferry Building is a terminal for Bay crossing ferries, a shopping center, an artisan culinary hotspot and a historic landmark.

Adjacent to the Ferry Building is a quality farmers market where local vendors sell fresh vegetables and produce to many of San Francisco’s top chefs.

Why Visit The Ferry Building Marketplace?

This popular hub for foodies is also a beautiful historic building featuring a 75 meter clock tower. You can dine out at a tranquil Bayfront artisan restaurant with Oakland bridge views.

Farmers market hours are Tuesday, Thursday 10am-2pm and Saturday 8am-2pm

• More Ferry Building information

9. Get Lost In Chinatown

What Is Chinatown?

Established in 1848, San Francisco’s Chinatown has developed into the largest Chinese enclave outside of Asia.

The district consists over 20 blocks of bustling maze-like streets, dim sum restaurants, market places, colorful adornments and karaoke bars.

Why Visit Is Chinatown?

Chinatown is one of the most walkable neighborhoods in San Francisco as you pass through colorful alleyways adorned with street art and vibrant marketplaces.

Chinatown’s famous gate at Bush & Grant marks the beginning of the main thoroughfare of rich Chinese culture in SF.

• China Live is one of the more popular eateries in Chinatown
• Cable car California & Stockton

10. 360 Degree View From Coit Tower

What Is Coit Tower?

Almost a hundred years ago San Francisco was in need of a panoramic viewing point to look out over the bay. In 1932, Telegraph Hill was selected as the perfect place to build Coit Tower to serve that exact purpose.

This 64 meter tall reinforced concrete tower contains fresco murals and is dedicated to all of San Francisco’s fallen firemen from its 5 great fires.

Why Visit Coit Tower?

Climb the tower for some of the best 360 degree views in San Francisco.  It’s free to walk around the lower level which contains colorful murals of industrialization. However, there is a fee to take an elevator to the lookout platform.

• Opening Hours : 10am – 5pm
• Tickets : US$ 9
• More Coit Tower information

11. Ride The Iconic  San Francisco  Cable Car

What Is The SF Cable Car?

San Francisco’s symbolic cable car system was built in 1873 and today it is the last manually operated cable car system in the world. With a top speed of 9.5mph, you’re not going to get anywhere fast, but that’s not why you take a ride on SF’s most treasured method of transport.

Only 3 lines remain (59, 60, 61) and you can easily queue over an hour if you time it wrong, thanks to 7 million annual tourists who simply can’t forgo a ride this famous cable car.

Why Ride The SF Cable Car?

How could you miss a ride on San Francisco’s cable car?!

If nothing else, it saves you walking up MORE hills as you explore the city! The cable car carries over 20,000 people per day from Union Square to Fisherman’s Wharf.

• Opening Hours : Everyday 6.30am – 12.00am
• Tickets : US$ 8 adult
• Cable Car Website

12. For a Complete City View Head to Twin Peaks

What Is Twin Peaks?

Twin Peaks is a hugely popular tourist and locals spot to take in 360 views of San Francisco. These two hills rising almost 1000 feet above the city house San Francisco’s communications, radio and tv towers.

Parking can be a problem but once you do find a spot, there are steps to the top of each peak (take the one to the South for best views).

Why Visit Twin Peaks?

Twin Peaks is one of the best free things you can do in SF. From the summit you can see much more than just the Bay Area – including Golden Gate Park, the Pacific Ocean, Oakland and the entirety of downtown SF. On a clear day you will even see distant mountains.

Try to arrive early for fewer crowds but research weather in advance. Don’t bother up here if fog is forecast!

• Car, public transport or Uber / Lyft required.

13. Snap a Photograph of the Painted Ladies

What Are The Painted Ladies?

San Francisco’s painted ladies are houses of Victorian and Edwardian origin but with a twist. Following WW1 and WW2 many houses were painted battleship grey but in the 1960’s residents began painting their houses multiple colors to enhance structural details.

This became known as the colorist movement and these houses have been featured in various forms among popular American culture outlets, most famously the tv show Full House. The houses from Full House are located opposite Alamo Park and today they are the go to houses for painted ladies selfies in SF!

Why Visit The Painted Ladies?

Alamo Park is a small and busy green park filled with tourists snapping endless selfies with the painted ladies but is does have a strangely relaxing atmosphere.

If you’re from America, how could you miss the houses from the opening credits of Full House on your San Francisco itinerary?!

At 2 miles Southwest from Union Square, it might be worth taking an Uber / Lyft if you don’t have a vehicle. This is roughly half way to Twin Peaks and it makes sense to do both at once.

14. Tour Infamous Alcatraz

What Is Alcatraz?

The notorious prison on Alcatraz Island needs no introduction! It sits isolated out in San Francisco Bay and relentlessly draws your attention when walking around the city. There’s a creepily inescapable, mysterious and unnerving feeling every time you lay eyes upon it.

Today it is a museum and we have to admit the National Park Recreation Service have done a stellar job. Alcatraz museum is definitely worth visiting.

It goes without saying that Alcatraz is the most popular paid thing to do in SF but you can choose between Day Tour, Behind the Scenes Tour, Night Tour and Package Tour including Angel Island.

Why Visit Alcatraz?

If you’re going to pay for only one thing in SF, make sure it is the ferry and entrance ticket to Alcatraz . Take the ferry from Pier 33, 15 minutes later you have an introduction and will learn about which featured talks are running for that particular day.

Don’t miss the prison cell opening / closing  talk and you’re in for a treat if the escape attempts talk is scheduled. The audio tour is put together excellently and covers everything you’ve ever wanted to know about Alcatraz.  

Just try not to spend too much time attempting to locate the positions of the VX poison gas from ‘ The Rock ‘!

• Departures : Normally 15 between 8.45am – 3.50pm (Day Tour) / 11am – 3pm hourly (COVID)
• Tickets : From US$ 40 Adult
• Read:   Is It Worth Visiting Alcatraz With A Tour?

15. Marvel at the World Famous Golden Gate Bridge

What Is The Golden Gate Bridge?

What can we tell you about the Golden Gate Bridge that you don’t already know?! It is magnificent, alluring, iconic, symbolic and the only real unmissable part of your San Francisco itinerary.

If you want to discover the best view points and photography locations, plus learn some fun facts and history of the bridge, you’ll definitely want to read our 5 Best Golden Gate Bridge Viewpoints  article before you visit!

Why Visit The Golden Gate Bridge?

Grab your camera and spend a whole morning or late afternoon into evening admiring the world famous bridge crossing Golden Gate Straight.

Yes it is just a bridge but they don’t come any more photogenic than this one.

It can be a bit of a pain to get to the bridge, either walk a few miles, take an Uber / Lyft or drive to Vista View parking lot.

Another great way to see the bridge is by sailing underneath it as part of this popular Golden Gate Bay Cruise , which also passes by Alcatraz.

Best Photography Locations In San Francisco

San Francisco is a photographers playground but it can be difficult to know exactly where to put yourself to get the best possible images.

Here’s a quick list of the best spots to shoot some of the most awesome photographs in the city:

• Golden Gate Bridge – Battery Spencer, Vista View, East Battery, Presidio Battery and on the Bridge.
• Iconic Cable Car Image – You need to position yourself at the top of a hill where a cable car runs round a bend and down that hill. Try California and Powell just after sunrise and you can get the Oakland bridge in the distance.
• Oakland Bridge – No better place than the ferry building at Pier 1 or Exploratorium along Embarcadero.
• Alcatraz – Anywhere along Fisherman’s Wharf but also any of the roads running uphill away from Alcatraz such as Leavenworth and Hyde Street (as long as you have a telephoto lens).
• Palace of Fine Arts  – A very picturesque columned theater with a reflection in a large pond can be found between Fisherman’s Wharf and the Golden Gate Bridge.

3 Days in San Francisco Itinerary

Okay, you know the best things San Francisco has on offer for first time visitors and you can begin to formulate a rough itinerary.

But to give you a helping hand, below you will find an example of how to best spend your first 3 days in San Francisco.

These days can easily be changed around to suit weather conditions, vehicle access and your interests.

You could decide to forgo the touristy attractions entirely and spend time exploring gentrified Mission District and vibrant The Castro neighborhoods. We’d suggest saving those for your second visit but it depends on your travel style.

Let’s assume you book a hotel in Union Square for this example San Francisco itinerary (more on hotels later). At the end of each day you will find recommended places to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 1 – Cable Car, Lombard Street, Fisherman’s Wharf, Union Square

Cable Car & Lombard Street

• Start your first day off with a hearty breakfast at Taylor Street Coffee Shop on Taylor & O’Farrell.
• Walk to Powell & Post and hop on one of San Francisco’s famous cable cars.
• Ride the cable car almost the entire way to Hyde & Beach but get off a few stops before at Hyde & Lombard.
• Looking down Lombard street you can see Coit Tower in the distance on a small summit. You’ll be going up the tower tomorrow!
• Snap some photos of Lombard street and take your time walking down to enjoy gorgeous gardens displayed by local residents.
• Walk the few blocks down Leavenworth towards Alcatraz Island which can be seen clearly out in the bay.

Fisherman’s Wharf

• Continue until you reach the bay front and head East on Jefferson.
• Take things slowly, grab a fresh crab sandwich at one of many food trucks and keep walking until you reach Pier 39.
• Spend some time walking around Pier 39, inside boutique stores and don’t miss the Sea Lions!
• Grab lunch at Boudin sourdough bread bakery (or see alternate recommendations below) and walk back along the harbor until you reach Ghirardelli Square.
• Walk around the numerous chocolate shops before hopping back on a cable car at Hyde & Beach.

Union Square

• Take the cable car all the way back to Union Square, getting off at Powell & Geary.
• It’s time to indulge in some San Francisco shopping! Spend the rest of the late afternoon and early evening weaving around the high end shopping streets of Union Square district.
• Even if you don’t go inside any shops, this is the best way to orientate yourself with SF’s commercial center and you need to explore this area to feel like you’ve seen the city.
• Head back to your hotel to change before choosing a place for dinner to suit your budget (see options below).
• You won’t struggle to find bars and clubs around Union Square if you’re into the nightlife scene. For a classier evening after dinner, sip a cocktail at Cityscape Rooftop Bar (opposite Taylor’s breakfast place).

Where To Eat on Day 1

Breakfast in Union Square: Taylor Street Coffee Shop

Lunch in Fisherman’s Wharf if not at Boudin: Fog Harbor Fish House (seafood), the Buena Vista Cafe (Irish/American) or Surisan (Asian).

Dinner in Union Square: Restaurant Jeanne D’Arc (French), Hogwash (Pub Grub & Brewery), E&O Kitchen  (Asian) or Tacorea (Mexican).

Cocktails Rooftop Bar in Union Square: Cityscape Bar & Lounge

Day 2 – Embarcadero, Alcatraz, Coit Tower, Chinatown

Embarcadero

• Today involves a fair bit of walking but it’s definitely the best way to see the city.
• Walk from Union Square to Market Street and follow this road all the way to Ferry Building at Pier 1.
• Wait until you get to Ferry Building for plenty of breakfast options, our recommendation is Blue Bottle Coffee.
• Walk around the historic landmark both inside and outside. Check out the farmers market if you are there on a Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday.
• Head North up Embarcadero (away from Oakland Bridge) until you reach the Exploratorium. Spend the rest of your morning learning through interactive exhibits.
• Continue up Embarcadero towards Pier 33 and Alcatraz departure. If you want to eat before setting sail, try Hillstone opposite Pier 33.
• One of the biggest highlights on your San Francisco itinerary will be touring Alcatraz Island prison.
• Pre-book this tour before you visit to avoid disappointment on the day. You will join a line at your designated time slot and expect to spend 2-3 hours before returning to Pier 33.
• Be sure to check out the special programs on your day of visit. Pick up your audio headset and enjoy the awesome tour of Alcatraz!
• Once you’re safely back ashore, walk to Coit Tower via the Filbert Street Stairs.
• It should be late afternoon by now and slightly less busy than around midday.  Admire murals depicting the Industrialization period before taking the elevator up to the viewing platform.
• You will be able to see all around San Francisco Bay on a clear day or if you strike it lucky with dense fog, you’ll have prime time elevated views over the Golden Gate Bridge. Don’t forget your camera and telephoto lens!
• Walk from Coit Tower to Chinatown to explore the largest Chinese enclave outside of Asia.
• The labyrinthine streets of Chinatown are adorned with colorful lanterns and artwork.
• When you get hungry, choose between China Live and Mr. Jiu’s for dinner.
• After dinner it’s just a few blocks back down to Union Square but be sure to stop off at Dragon’s Gate.

Where To Eat on Day 2

Breakfast at Ferry Building: Blue Bottle Coffee .

Lunch  near Alcatraz Pier 33: Hillstone (American).

Dinner in Chinatown: Ch ina Live or Mr. Jiu’s .

Day 3 – Golden Gate Bridge, Painted Ladies, Twin Peaks

Golden Gate Bridge

• Begin this day early, we’re talking before sunrise. Leave your hotel and walk up Powell until you reach California.
• Looking down California, you have cable car tracks in the center of the road as a foreground, huge city towers in the middle ground and the Oakland bridge as your background. Remember you are facing East so the sun will rise behind the bridge and illuminate it perfectly. The sun itself will be hidden behind tall buildings.
• Now, you can walk the entire way to the Golden Gate Bridge (passing Palace of Fine Arts for an awesome photograph) but it will take around 1 hour 30 minutes. It’s easier to jump in a Lyft or Uber at this point and get out at East Battery.
• This is the best place to be early morning as the sun will light up the East side of the bridge.
• Walk over the bridge to Vista View and Battery Spencer, before crossing back on the opposite side of the bridge and walking to Battery West (Presidio).
• If you’re doing well for time, scramble down the cliff path to Marshall’s Beach for an amazing view of the bridge.

*Alternatively, drive your car to Vista View at the far side of Golden Gate Bridge, walk up to Battery Spencer, then across the bridge to East and West Battery before returning across the bridge.

Painted Ladies

• After walking across the bridge twice, you’re going to need to take a Lyft or Uber to the Painted Ladies, unless of course you are driving your own vehicle.
• There are parking spots around Alamo Park but they are few and far between. You may have to circle a few times and wait for one to open up.
• If the morning’s hard work has developed an appetite, walk one block West to Divisadero street where you will find a dozen fantastic eateries from Pizza and American to Sushi and Mexican.
• Spending an hour or so on Alamo Park relaxing in the chilled vibes and photographing the famous houses
• This is a great place to people watch. See who has the best insta-game!
• Jump back in the car and drive or order another Uber / Grab to Twin Peaks. It’s just a few miles but you’ll have already put a lot of steps on your smartwatch this morning.
• The 360 panoramic view from Twin Peaks is excellent and in late afternoon it should be less busy.
• Don’t forget you can walk up steps to the peak summits for even better sweeping views.
• Consider staying for sunset or head back to Union Square when you’ve seen enough.
• If you have onward travel today you should still have enough time to get on the road before it gets too late. For example, Monterrey is just a 2 hour drive from Twin Peaks.

Note : You’ll either have to drive around SF or spend a bit on Grab/Uber for this day. Both have their pros and cons, you’ll need to decide which one is the lesser of two evils!

Of course, if you do have onward travel, it makes sense to check out of your hotel and drive this entire day before leaving SF after Twin Peaks.

Where To Eat on Day 3

Breakfast on way to Powell & California: Lori’s Diner or Beanstalk Cafe .

Lunch  near Alamo Park & Painted Ladies: Any of a dozen along Divisadero Street.

Dinner : Either back in Union Square or wherever your next destination is if you traveled onwards.

2 Days in San Francisco Itinerary

You can easily adapt the above itinerary into 2 days without missing too much of the action in San Francisco.

Our 3 day example above is aimed at a slow and relaxing pace but you could simply quicken the pace. Here are a two ways you can easily merge 3 days of attractions into 2 days:

• Option 1 – Merge days 1 and 2 in the above itinerary, for example Embarcadero – Alcatraz – Fisherman’s Wharf – Lombard Street – Chinatown – Union Street. Potentially skip Exploratorium or Coit Tower to save time.
• Option 2 – Skip Painted Ladies and Twin Peaks on Day 3, which leaves the Golden Gate Bridge to add to either Day 1 or Day 2 as listed above. Sunset and nighttime are also fantastic times to see the bridge.

One Day San Francisco Itinerary

One day in San Francisco is not going to allow you to plan the perfect itinerary. You’re going to have to compromise and leave a couple areas out.

Here are two efficient ways to hit San Francisco’s major highlights in one day:

• Option 1 – Head straight to Golden Gate Bridge but stay on the South side stopping at Battery West (Presidio) and East Battery. Drive/Grab/Uber to Pier 33 for the Alcatraz tour before exploring Chinatown and Union Square.
• Option 2 – Walk along Embarcadero to Pier 33 for Alcatraz, continue through Fisherman’s Wharf and all the way to Golden Gate Bridge.

Basically work out a plan of action that involves both Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge!

Where To Stay In San Francisco

With over 26 million tourists visiting San Francisco in 2019, as you can imagine, there is no shortage of hotel rooms.

For first time visitors, we recommend booking a hotel in or around Union Square / Nob Hill .

Yes, we know it is touristy and there’s not a huge amount of soul like the trendy hip louder neighborhoods to the South but it is central and the best base to hit the major tourist attractions in SF.

Stay clear of Tenderloin to the Southwest of Union Square on your first visit. It’s not as bad as it is made out but there a lot of homeless people who might make you feel a little uneasy (from experience).

You’re better off on the North side of Union Square. If your budget can stretch a little further, stay closer to Nob Hill for an even better location.

Shop around and hunt for the best prices. We always look at user reviews and go for a hotel that falls in our budget range with the best possible user rating.

Here’s a list of the best rated hotels around Union Square for you to consider. Click each hotel to check prices:

Related : Learn about how to find the cheapest hotels with our 15 budget saving hotel booking tips .

Budget Hotels In San Francisco

1. Handlery Union Square – Central location, offsite fitness center, onsite sauna, outdoor pool, excellent value.

2. Beresford Arms – 5 minute walk to Union Square, historic Victorian charm, low end budget.

3. Hotel des Arts – Excellent location between Union Sq and Chinatown, artsy, budget.

Mid Range Budget Hotels In San Francisco

1. Hotel Nikko – Central location, indoor pool, sauna, steam room, huge fitness center, top end of mid range.

2. Chancellor Hotel (where we stayed) – Right on Union Square, affordable, boutique touches.

3. Hotel G – Union Square location, oyster bar, on the lower end of mid range.

4. Grand Hyatt – Chinatown side of Union Square, fitness center, city views from upper floors.

Luxury Hotels In San Francisco

1. Fairmont Ghirardelli Square – San Francisco Bay views, rooftop terraces, luxury apartments.

2. Four Seasons San Francisco – Embarcadero hotel with city views, high end services.

3. Taj Campton Place (affordable) – Union Square, rooftop gym, Michelin star restaurant.

When booking accommodation, be sure to check if a cleaning fee is additional, as well as how much tax will be added for various services. Expect a city tax to be added when planning your San Francisco itinerary.

Be as flexible as possible when booking your San Francisco hotel. You will find prices fluctuate enormously just by selecting the day before or after.

Looking for the perfect SF hotel? Read our complete guide to the 20 best hotels in San Francisco on our hotels site Best Hotels Anywhere.

San Francisco Itinerary Map

Click into this interactive map, zoom in / out and move around to find everything discussed in this San Francisco itinerary guide and orientate yourself with the city.

You will find the following:

• Yellow markers – The best things to do on your visit as listed above.
• Green markers – All of the restaurants referenced throughout the itinerary.
• Purple markers – Locations around Union Square of all hotels mentioned above.
• Maroon markers – Cable Car stops to jump on and off in this itinerary.
• Black markers – Represents each of the major neighborhoods to visit.

If this is your first visit to SF and you are planning to visit the top attractions in San Francisco, we recommend you purchase one of the  three San Francisco attraction passes .

The idea is simple with these attractions passes because  the more attractions you visit, the more money you will save .

Having personally used each of the attractions passes in cities around the world including SF, it is safe to say  we are experts in this field . We can offer advice from our first hand experience.

Explore our resources below to help decide which is the perfect pass for your visit to San Francisco:

• SF Sightseeing Pass  – The most popular SF attraction pass option for visitors who want to see as many attractions as possible.
• San Francisco CityPASS and C3 Pass Review  – How to visit select attractions in San Francisco at a competitive price point.
• San Francisco Pass Comparison  – Detailed comparison between each of the 3 San Francisco Passes and which one you should buy for your visit.

Our Popular San Francisco Guides

• Photography – Best Views of the Golden Gate Bridge
• Tea Garden – Complete Guide to the San Francisco Japanese Tea Garden

More California Guides

• Los Angeles – 10 Best Things to do in Los Angeles
• San Diego – Amazing Things To do in San Diego
• Yosemite – One, Two and Three Day Itineraries for Yosemite National Park
• Joshua Tree – Perfect Day Trip to Joshua Tree from LA and San Diego
• Death Valley – One Day in Death Valley Itinerary from LA and Las Vegas

Want more California content? Head to our California Travel Guides to explore National Parks, popular road trips and things to do in major cities of the sunshine state.

We hope this guide helps with planning your San Francisco itinerary!

Please let us know if you have any questions about this itinerary or San Francisco in the comments below.

Don’t forget you can look at all our USA specific travel guides to help plan your next trip!

Happy Travels ,

Mark and Kristen

Enjoy This Guide? Pin This SF Itinerary For Your Visit!

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All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

2 thoughts on “San Francisco Itinerary: 15 Amazing Things To Do In 3 Awesome Days”

San Francisco looks amazing, I think it would be a great place to visit, so many areas and land marks you’ve seen on T.V. Also I would really enjoy visiting places like fisherman’s wharf and China town, oh and enjoying all the food.

Thanks Graham, we watched ‘The Rock’ a few nights before we began our itinerary to get in the San Francisco mood! Hope you get an opportunity to sample the food!

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Why You Should Visit San Francisco This Summer

The bay area officially reopened on june 15, with locals and travelers emerging to a city transformed by parklets, a host of new exhibits, and a 17-mile crosstown trail..

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Pull up a stool at the Palihotel—they’ve been waiting for you.

Courtesy of Palisociety

America’s cities are back: bigger, bolder, and packed full of exciting events, new outdoor spaces, and reimagined dining. Check out Cities We Love for inspiration this summer.

The first city in the United States to issue a shelter-in-place order last year in response to the coronavirus could also be the first U.S. city to reach herd immunity, with more than 70 percent of residents vaccinated as of mid-June. The Bay Area officially reopened in full on June 15 (in line with the state of California’s reopening ), and locals and travelers are emerging to a city transformed by parklets fanning out on sidewalks in front of restaurants, a host of new exhibits and indoor and outdoor experiences, and a downtown area still largely void of office workers.

Summers in San Francisco are notoriously cold and foggy (yes, yes, the Twain quote is true), but for travelers who may have left their heart in this cool, gray city , now’s the time to explore largely free of the hordes of tourists who descend during more typical years. Here are a few of the best things to do in San Francisco this summer, from locals who are so happy to be out and about.

Hike the new crosstown trail

To experience a street-level view and get a sense of the city’s diverse neighborhoods (and infamous microclimates), plot out segments of the new 17-mile crosstown trail —or make a day of it and walk the whole thing from the bay to the ocean (and while you’re out there, stop by Palm City Wines and pick up a hoagie for a beach picnic).

No trip would be complete without time in Golden Gate Park , spread over 1,017 acres and home to the California Academy of Sciences , the Japanese Tea Garden , the Herzog and de Meuron–designed deYoung Museum (where a new exhibition of Hung Liu paintings opens in mid-July), the San Francisco Botanical Garden , and so much more.

View the latest exhibits at the SFMOMA

On display at the SFMOMA this summer: Diego Rivera’s mural The Marriage of the Artistic Expression of the North and of the South on the Continent ( Pan American Unity ). Created for the 1940 Golden Gate International Exposition on Treasure Island, the mural is a vivid 10-panel fresco with scenes of the Bay Area and portraits of artists, artisans, architects, and inventors who used art and technology as tools to shape society.

The new SFMOMA, view from Yerba Buena Gardens

Photo by Jon McNeal, © Snøhetta

Get reacquainted with San Francisco’s food scene

San Francisco has no shortage of good food, but remember to be patient as a diner: Many restaurants are still in the process of rehiring teams. Classic spots are Cotogna and Zuni Café. Both restaurants have outdoor tables available and midday lunches can easily turn into many hours filled with plates of roast chicken, shoestring fries, and Caesar salads (at Zuni) and ribbons of homemade pastas paired with crisp Italian white wines (at Cotogna). New and newly reopened places include Californios , a Mexican fine dining restaurant that relocated during the pandemic to what was Bar Agricole; Empress by Boon , a brand-new take on modern Cantonese cuisine in a historic banquet hall in Chinatown; and Nari , where chef Pim Techamuanvivit showcases heritage Thai cooking with a modern California twist.

Where to stay

The Ritz-Carlton San Francisco , which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, is housed in a landmark building that was once home to MetLife Insurance. Many of the hotel’s 336 spacious rooms and suites feature city views. If you’re staying over a weekend, splurge for the caviar and wine pairings in the hotel’s over-the-top JCB tasting room .

Stay at the Ritz-Carlton San Francisco : from $443/night, expedia.com

Farther up the hill, the Fairmont San Francisco ’s Tonga Room and Hurricane Bar reopen July 9. Embrace the Tiki camp and order a round of mai tais ahead of the nightly “thunderstorms” over the indoor lagoon, which dates from the 1940s.

Stay at the Fairmont San Francisco: from $308/night, expedia.com

Closer to downtown and Union Square, the Palihotel San Francisco reopened its doors on June 28. And the Hotel Zetta , part of the Viceroy Urban Retreats Collection, is offering a special Workation Package that includes two conjoining rooms for those guests looking to work and play.

Stay at the Palihotel: from $116/night, expedia.com ; stay at the Hotel Zetta: from $151/night, expedia.com

Explore the city’s Black history and present. In 1970, African Americans made up 13.4 percent of the city’s total population. By 2019, that number had dwindled to just under 6 percent. Yet Black culture still permeates civic life, from the city’s music , art, and architecture to its restaurants , politics, and activism. In 2015, John William Templeton, author of Come to the Water: Sharing the Rich Black Experience in San Francisco , curated the African American Freedom Trail brochure . It serves as a self-guided tour of 55 important locations around the city. For travelers looking to get out on the water, make a reservation for Templeton’s Black History Boat Tour on the Bay .

>>Next: The Best Cities in the U.S. in 2021

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Destinations

Why you should visit san francisco (hint – delicious foods is just one of the reasons).

Table of Contents

San francisco’s famous neighborhoods, san francisco’s iconic landmarks, the arts and music scenes, great food & drinking spots, the outdoors, san francisco’s recent challenges and why you should still visit.

San Francisco has an undeniably  laid-back vibe .

You can feel that  vibe  when you walk through its eclectic neighborhoods or when you catch a cable car going down a steep street with the breathtaking waterfront in the background. You feel it as you pass by its beautiful Victorian houses or pop into its many bars and restaurants.

San Francisco is relaxed and easygoing to NYC’s fast and hurried. Nonchalant to LA’s glamour.

Yes, it’s had its challenges that we must recognize. If you listen to the news, you’d think it’s all doom and gloom. The stories, the headlines, the photos. Scary, right?

The statistics aren’t as alarming as they seem and don’t tell the whole story. I  g o deeper  into this here for those who want to dig into it.

There are plenty of reasons to visit this fantastic city.

San Francisco’s neighborhoods each have their own unique charm, vibe, and history.

You can find a little bit of everything depending on what you’re looking for and where you go.

• Looking for a vibrant Little Italy full of cool bars, restaurants, and coffee shops? Head to North Beach .
• Looking to check out the hippie legacy of San Francisco? Head to Haight-Ashbury.
• Looking to visit one of the oldest Chinatowns in the United States? Yep, head to Chinatown .
• Looking for trendy shops, restaurants, bars, and boutiques? The Marina waterfront will hit the spot.
• If you’re artsy, head to the Mission .
• Looking for an inclusive vibe that San Francisco is so known for? Head to the Castro.

San Francisco has some absolutely breathtaking sights.

The Golden Gate Bridge is perhaps THE quintessential photographed location in San Francisco. Drive over it, or you can choose to walk or bike over it.

If you’re interested in a bike ride across the Golden Gate Bridge but would rather go with others, take a one or San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito Guided Bike Tour . I’d recommend the e-bike. While some of you may not have any problems biking up the hill to this bridge, this girl right here sure did. 🚴 🥴

If you’re hungry when you get to Sausalito (and you likely will be after that bike ride), try getting a spot outdoors at Bar Bocce . If you’re exhausted and stuffed and have had a couple of cocktails, you can take the ferry back to San Francisco (bring your bike onboard).

Look out about 1.5 miles from land, and you’ll see Alcatraz Island . Alcatraz has a long and rich history. It’s best known for being a maximum security federal prison, but it was also once a fort and a military prison. It’s now part of the US National Park Service.

From the outside, sitting in the San Francisco Bay, it’s stunning, with its gorgeous views. Inside, it’s fascinating, dark, and just a little bit creepy. Walking through the prison’s halls, you can FEEL the people who used to spend their time there, both the inmates and the guards. You’ll see where the infamous inmates (including Al Capone, Machine Gun Kelly, and Robert Stroud, the Birdman of Alcatraz) are. ) used to shower, eat, and sleep. You can take a self-guided tour of “The Rock” and hear the real-life stories of the men who were sentenced there.

Nothing is more San Francisco than a cable car . I lived in San Francisco for years, and yet, just recently, I took my daughter on one, and I was still mesmerized. By the sounds of the scale car moving on the tracks, by the bell ringing, by the operator manually operating the car, and by the beautifully gorgeous sites outside, riding up and down the hilly streets. And yes, you can hang off the outside of the cable car!

There are 3 cable car routes left in San Francisco, and they’ll take you through what are likely to be some of the top places you’d like to go.

Many artists call San Francisco home.

San Francisco loves art, and it’s a welcoming place for artists to share their work. San Francisco’s art spaces range from big museums to small, experimental spaces.

You can spend hours lost in museums like the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art or the Asian Art Museum. After hours of being there, I recently had to tear my pre-teen daughter and her friend away from the SFMOMA.

But it’s not just in museums; you’ll find colorful street art and murals in places like the Mission District.

If music is more your scene , The Fillmore is a legendary spot where famous acts like Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin once played. It’s like a musical time capsule.

And if you’re into electronic music and underground vibes, head over to the clubs in the SoMa district. DJ’s are spinning everything from techno to house music, and the dance floors are always packed.

Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival is a three-day music festival in Golden Gate Park with both big-name artists and new, emerging talent in Golden Gate Park.

Now, let’s talk about food.

You knew we’d get there.

The city’s restaurant and bar scene is a food lover’s paradise. Here are some not-to-miss highlights:

Chinatown : Head to this bustling neighborhood for some of the best dim sum in the city. Stop by Good Mong Kok Bakery for dim sum or R&G Lounge for some classic Chinese dishes.

Waterfront: Want to have a bite and a beer, watch the game while enjoying some of the best views of the bay? Head over to Mission Rock , which is one of the rare “fog-free” zones in San Francisco.

Ferry Building Marketplace: If you look over the bay into San Francisco and see a large tall clock tower, that’s the Ferry Building . While beautiful, it’s also functional. You’ll find a farmers market with fresh, local produce and artisanal food products inside. Also inside is a wide variety of restaurants and coffee shops.

Mission District : This area is a foodie’s paradise. Sample authentic Mexican cuisine. Try the mouthwatering burritos at La Taqueria, known for their massive and delicious creations. Don’t forget to explore the street food scene, with popular food trucks like Senor Sisig serving up Filipino-Mexican fusion. Head over to the Mission District, and you’ll find these tiny taquerias dishing out amazing, mouthwatering tacos.

Fine Dining : Looking for a more upscale experience? You have plenty of options, but for a truly memorable experience, you can book a table at one of the three 3-star Michelin restaurants Quince, Benu, or Atelier Crenn.

Seafood : If you’re a fan of seafood like I am, Swan Oyster Depot is a legendary spot known for its fresh oysters and clam chowder. My daughter’s fave sushi spot (and maybe mine) is Akiko’s Sushi Bar in Union Square (the one on Mason – not to be confused with AKIKOS on Folsom Avenue). It’s TINY, with only 4 tables and a few seats at the bar.

Fisherman’s Wharf : Yes, it’s a touristy area, BUT if you’re interested in clam chowder served in freshly baked sourdough bread bowls, it may be worth a visit.

North Beach : North Beach is one of my fave areas to explore in San Francisco. Exploring North Beach’s history and food through a food tour is the best way to go. This North Beach Food Tour is great.

Let’s not forget bars. San Francisco’s dive bar scene is strong.

San Francisco is not just about the big touristy spots; it’s also got some awesome hole-in-the-wall places that you have to check out. These are those hidden gems that the locals swear by, and once you find them, you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled upon something special.

And history. Places like Vesuvio Café, where Jack Kerouac used to hang out, or Specs’ Twelve Adler Museum Cafe, which feels like a step back in time with all its knick-knacks and memorabilia. These spots serve up history alongside your drinks, making for a memorable night out.

San Francisco’s natural beauty and mild weather is prime for exploration and outdoor adventures.

There are so many options for being active in gorgeous surroundings – exploring Golden Gate Park, hiking in Marin Headlands, playing frisbee in the Marina, and biking across Golden Gate Bridge.

The stunning Golden Gate Park is a big, green oasis in the middle of the city with gardens, lakes, and even bison. The park has botanical gardens and museums and hosts various outdoor concerts.

If you like hiking or being outdoors, there are trails like the one in Marin Headlands with beautiful coastline views, or you can take a short drive to Muir Woods and walk among giant redwood trees that are hundreds of years old. And if you just want to relax by the water, Ocean Beach has its wide sandy shores. If you’re up for a bit more adventure, try sailing in the San Francisco Bay. San Francisco’s natural beauty is all around, and it’s one of the reasons why people love to visit this city.

Despite its awesomeness, it’s important to acknowledge that San Francisco has faced some recent challenges. Issues like homelessness and the high cost of living have become more visible, and in some areas, there have been safety concerns. These problems have led to a mixed perception of the city among both residents and visitors.

San Francisco is actively working to address these challenges. The city is implementing measures to address homelessness and affordability issues while also increasing safety measures, including increasing its police presence in certain areas. While stores and restaurants have closed, others, led by people passionate about the city, are opening.

Ok, let’s take a deeper look at the statistics. 

When I dug into the statistics that showed your chances of being a victim of a violent crime in SF on NeighborhoodScout, it was 1:148.

Let’s look at the same statistic in other large cities.

• 1:69 in New Orleans
• 1:122 in NYC
• 1:119 in LA

The stories and the photos may be real. Yes, a lot of that is happening in San Francisco. But it doesn’t tell the real and FULL story.  Most of the crime and the homeless is in the historically high-crime areas. 

Now, property crime IS high. For you as a tourist, that would mostly mean to be on the lookout for car break-ins. My car has been broken into more times than I care to count

So, what’s the bottom line? Is San Francisco safe? For those of you who want a quick summary of whether or not San Francisco is safe, here it is:

Stay out of the few high risk areas and your chance of a victim of a violent crime is NOT high.  However, your chances of being a car break-in victim IS high. I’ve lived in and spent A LOT of time in San Francisco and have never felt truly unsafe. I can say that, fortunately, except for break-ins in my car, I have always been safe.

While these are big issues, I don’t at all think that they should detour you from experiencing San Francisco’s unique charm and culture. San Francisco is still a safe, bustling city.

By exploring the city responsibly and supporting local communities, visitors can still enjoy all that San Francisco has to offer while being mindful of these challenges.

I am a mom of 2 who travels a lot for work (I work in the event/conference/tradeshow industry). I grew up  and currently live in Northern California.

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Nelia Nunes

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Forbes Travel Guide Stories

Why You Should Visit San Francisco Right Now By Correspondent Katie Sweeney

October 21, 2022

Ask anyone who lives in San Francisco about the best time of year to visit, and the answer is, almost always, fall. Less fog in September, October and November brings gloriously warm weather. All the locals who left during the chilly summer return. Niners and Warriors fans welcome the start of a thrilling sports season. And the city comes to life with exciting openings and events.

Here are some new reasons why you should plan your next trip to the beautiful City by the Bay soon.

The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco , a Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star hotel, is a wonderful place to stay. It’s centrally located between Union Square and Nob Hill, but not on a busy thoroughfare, making it feel safe and peaceful. This fall, you can taste wine at The JCB Lounge by Jean-Charles Boisset in the lobby or come the holidays, grab the kids and bring them to the Teddy Bear Tea. Enjoy food and drink at the new restaurant, The Lounge, until 11 pm. The menu delivers the best of seasonal California cuisine, like crispy cauliflower, charred octopus, oysters on the half shell and a sensational burger.

Fall marks the 100th season of the San Francisco Opera . To celebrate this milestone, the SFO has planned many happenings, including a community open house and The Traviata Encounter , a condensed performance of Verdi’s opera followed by a rollicking afterparty. These two events offer a great introduction for newcomers, however, those already familiar with the wonderful world of opera can look forward to a new version of La Traviata that debuts November 11 and runs through December 3.

In the northern part of the city, a brand-new park opened in the Presidio earlier this year. The former-military-base-turned-sprawling-park has a new destination dubbed Presidio Tunnel Tops . The tunnel tops have temporary art exhibits that celebrate diversity and interconnectedness along with daily-changing pop-up food trucks. Stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the sparkling bay and Alcatraz make the park an excellent place to picnic.

A team of Michael Mina alums led by Patric Yumul and chef Alexandre Viriot recently opened La Société , a fantastic new French-inspired brasserie. Located in the newly remodeled Hyatt Regency San Francisco Downtown SOMA, the restaurant serves daily breakfast, happy hour and dinner. Whatever time you come, the superb food does not disappoint. We couldn’t get enough of the Dutch crunch gougère — a delicious mashup of San Francisco (Dutch crunch is a local sweet white bread with a crackly top) and France. Plus, the service is friendly and the atmosphere happening and fun.

One of the city’s most iconic bars, Redwood Room , has reopened with a new look, menu and entertainment. The moody space known for its art deco décor and classic cocktails (the martini with blue cheese olives is to die for) provides a sexy spot for snacks and drinks. Relax in one of the plush sofas and take in live jazz by the Patrick Wolff Quartet or piano bar performances by Josh Gelfand.

The Vault , a luxe steakhouse in downtown San Francisco, hosts the city’s hottest happy hour, complete with a piano. Every day from 4 to 6 p.m., enjoy live music and bites inspired by throwback dishes like shrimp cocktail, potato tots, beef tartare and prime rib sliders. Head bartenders Raymundo Delgado and Drake Schullerts curated a special happy-hour menu of quintessential cocktails — martinis, Manhattans, old fashioneds, French 75s and more — for only $10. You won’t find a better deal anywhere else in San Francisco.

Fans of Villon , San Francisco Proper Hotel ’s sophisticated restaurant, should book a dinner at its Gilda’s Salon. The chic Kelly Wearstler-designed private dining room has transformed into a communal table for a chef-driven series of dinners. Available on Friday and Saturday nights, the 11-course menu offers just 10 to 12 seats for each meal. It’s wildly exclusive and wildly delicious. “Our goal with Gilda’s Salon is to provide an intimate dining experience showing off the room,” executive chef Jason Fox said. “[It gives] our chefs the ability to create dishes featuring ingredients that can only be procured in smaller amounts and executed in a smaller setting than what we usually do in Villon.”

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• Heritage & Culture

My Top 11 Reasons Why You Must Visit San Francisco

When you think to visit San Francisco what comes to mind!?

Land of fog and fabulousness!

San Francisco celebrates its vintage saloons – and with Wine Country and local distillers providing a steady supply of the finest drinks, it sets a classic example to remain distinct.

Here are some of my personal reasons WHY SFO is really worth it!

Surely, on your visit, you too will know WHY!

My top 11 Reasons to Visit San Francisco

Magic realism.

San Francisco’s crooked Victorian rooflines, wind-sculpted treetops and fog tumbling over the Golden Gate Bridge. Heads are perpetually in the clouds atop San Francisco’s 43 hills. Cable cars provide easy access to Russian and Nob Hills, and splendid panoramas reward the slog up to Coit Tower – but the most exhilarating highs are earned on Telegraph Hill garden-lined stairway walks and windswept hikes around Land’s End.

West remains wild.

Also read: DYK you must not feed pigeons in San Francisco? Here are some unusual laws from around the world you must read about.

11 Bridging the Awesomeness:  Golden rush – Golden Gate Bridge

On our way to SFO, we saw the Oakland Bay bridge and golden gate bridge which are parallel to each other. They connect Oakland to SFO county.

With Pacific and San Francisco Bay opening together and touching each other to form a strait, this iconic structure is indeed a technical masterpiece!

Want to kill your time?

Your time there will kill you!

The Golden Gate Bridge is everything in San Francisco whether walking, driving or biking over it or simply taking in its utter beauty from afar. To me, it simply is one of the most beautiful bridges in the world without question.

There are 3 beautiful viewpoints on Conzelman road next to the North side of the bridge.

The welcome centre view was my personal favourite!

10 Oakland Bay it is!

Even though the trendiness level is high, Oakland still maintains a historical vibe around its working waterfront. We strolled around Old Town to see Victorian-style homes and grabbed a drink at Heinold’s First and Last Chance Saloon (which was yum btw). So do not miss out on that!

9 Alcatraz Island: Old central prison

It was their island of death. Looking at the sight of emerald tinged land bathed by bluish- turquoise waves of water, you cannot help but wonder whether the prisoners, irrespective of whether they deserved to be thrown here or not, who had faced torture and death in dingy isolated cells of the place, ever saw this idyllic view. Even though the whole place sends some chills down the spine with its dark history of housing criminals, the place itself is strangely alluring.

8 Treasured it up!   Treasure Island Stories

Although known only for its music festival, or the flea market, you’ll be surprised to find out, there’s way more to this tiny man-made island (that’s only a seven-minute bus ride from San Francisco) than overrated EDM and cheap furniture.

Pro tip : Try cocktails at Treasure Island Bar & Grill

This is really the last place you’d expect to order pisco punch, ruby basil collins, or any of the other $8 cocktails being tested out behind the bar. Or just get down to business with a $5 boilermaker on the patio.

Another amazing unknown fact is the wineries offering you the best of drinks at the cheapest prices!

Thirsty and got 20 bucks? Drink your way through eight wines made with grapes from Sonoma and Napa Valleys at the biggest winery on the island: The Winery. So stop by here and get that high!

Don’t go beaching! Live it!

San Francisco’s beaches aren’t exactly somewhere you go swimming or to sunbathe since the water is extremely frigid and the fog shows up way more than the sun. Still, they’re some of the most beautiful beaches in the world thanks to their stunning views and staggering cliffs.

7 Pier 39 street in San Francisco

It is basically the ultimate dining, shopping and entertainment destination. Pier 39 offers amazing restaurants, shops, attractions, sightseeing boats and tours to Alcatraz and Angel Island.

You can hop on the F-line cable car to Pier 39 and enjoy seafood restaurants, food stands, street performers, live music, and other attractions, including the Aquarium of the Bay. Explore two levels of dining, entertainment, shopping  as you savor stunning views of the Bay.

6 Wax Museum  in San Francisco

If the almost- real- looking – statues won’t give you the creeps, you will LOVE it there!

The location is small, but the replicas are outstanding, just as unbelievably life-like as you expect it to be. A neat variety of personalities, incorporating local legends blending together, all teaching a little local history. They really pay attention to detail!

5 The Sea World:  St. Monterey aquarium

Your eyes stole my words away

Those eyes that kept looking through the glass.

Those unbelievably beautiful species swimming through their space.

Saying I loved the place because it fascinated me to the core would still be an understatement.

The variety you see and the large numbers are mind-boggling.

Sharks, killer whales, jellyfish, stingray, turtles.

You name it. You’ll find it. Swimming beside you.

Swimming above you. Swimming in your mind as thoughts for years to come!

There were also otters, lizards, snakes and frogs. The view outside at the harbour, and moving waters is cool enough to watch from the gift shop outside!

4 Meat Eaters Haven!  Pompei’s Grotto  – Going to Crabby’s!

When you visit San Francisco, you gotta eat, right?

Among the most popular and sought-after foods in San Francisco would be the Dungeness crab, sand dabs, bay shrimp and crusty sourdough French bread. Many local restaurants serve Joe’s Special.

But to be specifically talking about Pompei’s Grotto , I have my reasons.

The clam chowder is made on site and is just as good as everyone says it is. Trust me, the service is excellent each time you go there.

The staff is very friendly, the atmosphere is nice and the food is nothing less than ‘Oh-my-God’ types! I was really impressed with a crab salad I had for lunch as well as the whole dungeness crab I had for dinner one evening. It was cooked, cracked and then served chilled. So much crab meat and that too cooked to perfection, it’ll make you cry with joy!

Prices are reasonable, but you will pay a bit more for the dungeness crab which is worth it. Great place to relax and chill with your family and view the fisherman’s wharf while enjoying a fantastic meal.

So do NOT forget to try the crab dishes!

Also read: Check out these top 6 food destinations from around the world

3 De Young Museum

When you visit San Francisco, this is not to be missed by the true art lovers!

The rotating exhibits are always top-notch. The continuing exhibits are educational and worth seeing over and over and over again! Located very close to the Golden Gate Park the bistro is competitively priced and the food is impeccably prepared. There is something for everyone.

When you visit don’t forget to check out the enclosed rooftop observation deck. It commands a 360° view of the surrounding area and access is FREE.

2 The Japanese Tea Garden

Although the name of this incredible site suggests you’d stop by for a sip of tea, this is probably the least enticing draw associated with this alluring attraction.

A visit to the Japanese Tea House and Garden creates an intense awakening of the senses with the sounds of an azalea-covered waterfall, the sights of regal lanterns and statues, and the intoxicating scent of sweet wisteria and other magical blooms.

Also read: 11 of the best Japanese Gardens Outside Japan

1 San Francisco Botanical Garden

Treat yourself to this beautiful collection of plants on your visit to San Francisco. In fact, set aside a portion of the day to view the Botanical Garden along with the Conservatory of Flowers and Japanese Tea Garden, which are all within walking distance of each other in Golden Gate Park. The Botanical Garden showcases varieties of vegetation representing climates found on six continents. It even touches on prehistoric species. Displays of flowers and greenery are breathtaking all arranged so tastefully in a pattern!

So there you go – My 11 Reasons why you must visit San Francisco

But you will get your true answers from this place only once you visit San Francisco!

So put it on your bucket list and head out!

Happy travelling!

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Unveiling the wonders of culture and tradition!

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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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Home > United States > 37 Reasons to Visit San Francisco: Why You Should Visit San Francisco

37 Reasons to Visit San Francisco: Why You Should Visit San Francisco

By Dymphe / February 3, 2023

Looking for reasons to visit San Francisco ? There are so many things this city has to offer, which is why you should visit San Francisco for sure!

San Francisco is an amazing city to travel to in the state of California in the United States . The city is famous because of the Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street, and more.

If you're looking for a new place to travel to, you should definitely consider this city! The city has something to offer for everyone.

For example, if you love beautiful views, you can get amazing views of the Golden Gate Bridge. And besides that, there are also viewpoints where you have a gorgeous view of the city.

Besides that, there's so much to do in this city! There are famous sights, lovely places for coffee, and beautiful parks.

Furthermore, do you want to experience something unique? Then San Francisco is perfect too! For example, swing with a beautiful view at Kirby Cove Camp. Or see amazing movie locations in San Francisco!

And there's much more! If you like biking, that's why you should visit San Francisco. The city is very bike-friendly. Besides that, public transport in the city is also great and it's one of the most walkable cities in the country.

Moreover, you can have a lot of fun in the city. There are many festivals, there's a beautiful tulip garden and there's a Ferris wheel. And there are many more reasons to visit San Francisco!

Table of Contents

1. You Can Get Amazing Views of the Golden Gate Bridge

One of the reasons to visit San Francisco is that there are many beautiful views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

The Golden Gate Bridge is an iconic sight in the city that is great to see. It is a huge red suspension bridge. And seeing it from a distance is amazing.

One of the best spots for seeing the bridge is Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point. If you love beautiful views, this is why you should visit San Francisco.

Also, what's great is that the bridge is amazing to see during the day and during sunset.

2. You Can See the Painted Ladies in the City: Great Reason To Visit San Francisco If You Like Iconic Sights

Alamo Square is a beautiful park that you can find in the city. This park is one of the reasons to visit San Francisco for sure.

It is a lovely park where you can relax when you are in the city. There is a large field of grass that is great for sitting down. So if you want to relax, this is why you should visit San Francisco.

Besides that, you find here the "Painted Ladies". These are Victorian houses in beautiful colors that you can find next to the park. When you sit in the park, you can see these houses, which is great!

3. Marshall’s Beach is Very Beautiful To See

Even though Marshall's Beach is not a place for swimming or a beach day, it's wonderful to see! The beach looks very beautiful because you can see the Golden Gate Bridge from here. It's a gorgeous beach, which is also why you should visit San Francisco.

The sand of the beach makes the place look very dramatic, which is awesome! And being able to go here is one of the reasons to visit San Francisco for sure!

4. There Are Gorgeous Steep Streets in San Francisco

Another aspect that is lovely about San Francisco is that there are many steep streets in the city. The steep streets are also why you should visit San Francisco.

These steep streets are wonderful for two reasons.

First, when you stand in the upper part of the street, you have a wonderful view of the street, which is great!

Besides that, the steepness of the street makes the street much more fun. It makes the steep streets more unique, in comparison to other streets in the city. And this makes walking through the city a lot more fun! That's why it's also one of the reasons to visit San Francisco.

5. You can Get a Magical View of the City at Twin Peaks: Great Reason To Visit San Francisco If You Love Gorgeous Views

Twin Peaks is another one of the reasons to visit San Francisco.

At Twin Peaks, you can find two peaks from where you can get an amazing view of the city. You'll be able to see the city and other parts of the Bay Area from here, which is lovely.

Also, there is beautiful nature at this place. And I love that you can see nature and the city in the background. This contrast makes this place even more fun to visit!

6. The Weather in San Francisco is Amazing

The weather in San Francisco is very comfortable when you want to explore the city. This is another reason why you should visit San Francisco.

It never gets very cold in the city, not even in winter, which is awesome!

Also, what's interesting is that the summer months aren't the hottest months of the year. In other cities, June, July, and August are often the hottest months of the year. In San Francisco, September is the hottest month. This makes visiting the city during summer very comfortable, as it doesn't get too hot!

7. You Can See the Iconic Cable Cars in the City

The iconic cable cars of the city are also why you should visit San Francisco.

The cable cars are very famous. And what's great is that they are very historic. This makes riding them a lovely and fun experience!

Also, what's great is that this is the last cable car system with manual operation in the world. So it's definitely one of the best reasons to visit San Francisco if you want to see something unique!

8. There’s a Gorgeous Tulip Garden: Nice Reason To Visit San Francisco If You Like Flowers

When you are in the city, you can visit the Queen Wilhelmina Tulip Garden.

During summer, you can see here beautiful tulips that are very colorful. Seeing these flowers is amazing!

9. You Can See the Gorgeous Lombard Street

Lombard Street is another one of the reasons to visit San Francisco.

Lombard Street is a very steep street with eight hairpin turns. These hairpin turns are there so that cars can go up the hill. This makes the street very unique! And seeing the street is great!

There are also pretty flowers!

10. There Are Lots of Lovely Places to Drink Coffee in San Francisco

There are many lovely coffee shops in the city. So when you go to the city, you can be sure you can get a great cup of coffee, which is great!

Many of these coffee shops serve specialty coffee.

Also, there are many places where you can relax or work because of this, which is awesome as well! This is also why you should visit San Francisco. And there are lot of coffee shops that look very cute.

Red Bay Coffee is one of the best coffee shops in the city. They have very good and fresh coffee!

11. Golden Gate Park is a Very Fun Place to Go to

If you are looking for a city with great parks, this city is incredible.

One of the best parks in the city is definitely Golden Gate Park . This is a very large park that is similar in shape to Central Park in NYC, but this park is a bit larger.

You can find many attractions at Golden Gate Park, and there is beautiful nature. This makes the park a lot of fun to visit!

12. You Can See A Historical Windmill Which is Very Impressive

At Golden Gate Park, you can also find the Dutch Windmill. And this windmill alone is one of the reasons to visit San Francisco.

It is a historic windmill that is definitely worth seeing! It looks lovely!

In the past, this windmill and another one were in use to get water to the park. Since then, the city replaced the windmills with electrical pumps, but you can still see the mills!

13. There Are Swings in the City With a View: Fun Reason To Visit San Francisco If You Like Swings

The swings with a view that you can find in the city are also why you should visit San Francisco.

At several places, you can have fun by swinging on a swing with a view. This is an amazing experience.

For example, there is one at Kirby Cove Camp. Here you find a swing with a view of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Also, you can find a lovely swing at Bernal Heights. From there, you can have a view over the city, which is great.

14. San Francisco Appears in Many Movies

The city of San Francisco is very famous, and it appears in many movies.

In fact, hundreds of movies had scenes in the city. This makes the city even better to visit!

One of the movies filmed in the city is Mrs. Doubtfire.

15. It’s a Bike-Friendly City

The city of San Francisco is great if you love riding bikes. There are many biking paths and other facilities that make it a great city for biking!

This is one of the reasons to visit San Francisco if you love riding your bike!

16. Alcatraz: Great Reason To Visit San Francisco If You Want To See a Famous Prison

You can find Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay. It's here where you can find one of the most famous prisons in the world that isn't in use anymore.

In the past, many notorious criminals of the country were here, such as Al Capone.

What's very interesting is that you can visit the island, which is also why you should visit San Francisco.

17. You Can Learn About Science in the City

If you want to learn about science, then the city is great. That's because you can find the California Academy of Sciences in the city.

This is one of the best museums of natural history in the world. Also, it is one of the largest of its kind in the world, with millions of specimens in its collection. So this is definitely one of the best reasons to visit San Francisco if you like science!

You can find this museum inside of Golden Gate Park.

18. There Are Many Great Shops: Perfect Reason To Visit San Francisco For Those Who Love Shopping

What's great about this city is that you can find a lot of areas with great shops in the city.

For example, you can go to the area surrounding Union Square. Here, you can many luxury stores and many other types of shops. Also, you can find here a very large mall. So if you want to shop, this is a great place.

Besides that, you can find shops throughout the city, which is great!

19. Many Large Companies Have Their Head Quarter Here

Also why you should visit San Francisco is that many large companies have their HQ here.

This is an interesting aspect of the city that I definitely like!

Some of the companies headquartered here are Airbnb, Twitter, and Lyft.

20. Mission Dolores Park is a Very Relaxing Park You Can Visit

Another one of the parks in the city that is one of the reasons to visit San Francisco is Mission Dolores Park.

This is a beautiful park that is a great place if you want to relax. You could have a picnic in the park.

What's great about the park is that you can get an amazing view from here. When you sit down in the park, you can see the skyline of the city and there are views of the whole Bay Area!

21. It’s One of the Densest Cities in the Country

Another great thing about the city is that it is one of the densest cities in the country.

There are many people that live in the area, and because of this, there's a lot going on here! This makes walking through the city and visiting in general, so much more fun. And it also makes the city very unique.

22. There Are Many Bookstores: Nice Reason To Visit San Francisco If You Love Reading

There are many bookstores in the city, which is lovely! If you love books, this is why you should visit San Francisco for sure.

What's great is that many of the bookstores are unique and great to visit.

One of the best bookstores in the city is Green Apple Books . This is a very large bookstore, so if you are looking for a particular book, this is a great place to visit! Also, there are both new and used books, which is great!

23. San Francisco-Bay Bridge is Also Great To See

Here's another one of the reasons to visit San Francisco! You can see the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge.

The Golden Gate Bridge is the iconic bridge that everyone knows, but there are more bridges. And this bridge in particular is incredible to see too!

24. It’s one of the Most Walkable Cities: Amazing Reason To Visit San Francisco For Those Who Like Walking

What's great is that this city is one of the most walkable cities in the United States.

San Francisco has a lot of mixed-use areas. This means that residential and commercial areas in the city are one!

Because of this, you find shops and houses spread throughout the city. And this makes the streets in the city a lot of fun. Everywhere you go, there is something to see or buy.

So if you like to explore a city on foot, that's also why you should visit San Francisco.

25. There is a Lovely Ferris Wheel in the City

The SkyStar Wheel is also amazing.

This is a large Ferris wheel that is a lot of fun to ride! You can find this attraction inside Golden Gate Park.

From the Ferris wheel, you can get a wonderful view of the city and the ocean, which is wonderful!

26. It’s One of the Most Vegan-Friendly Cities in the United States

According to a lot of sources, this is a great city if you eat vegan food. So if you're vegan, this is one of the reasons to visit San Francisco.

There are many vegan restaurants in the city, which is lovely! Eating plant-based food can be very tasty, and if you want to do so, the city is great for you!

One of the best vegan restaurants in the city is Wildseed .

27. There Are Many Performing Arts Venues: Great Reason To Visit San Francisco If You Love Shows

If you like performing arts, that's also why you should visit San Francisco.

There are many great movie theaters, concert venues, and other places for entertainment.

For example, the Curran Theater is a magnificent historic theater for musicals.

Also, the small movie theater Balboa Theatre is great to visit.

28. There’s a Direct Train from LA to San Francisco

When you are going to the city, why not go to other places?

One of the best places in California that you can visit in Los Angeles. In LA, you can find many amazing sights, such as Hollywood, Venice Beach, and the Santa Monica Pier.

What's great is that there is a direct train going from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

This train takes many hours, and you'll need a full day to complete the journey, but it's worth it. While riding the train, you can see a lot of scenic landscapes, which is great! And you'll end up in LA!

29. Bernal Heights is a Wonderful Place for a View

Bernal Heights is another park with beautiful views of the city. There are so many great parks with a view in the city!

This park is also one of the reasons to visit San Francisco because the view is so wonderful!

30. You Can Visit Other Cities in the Bay Area: Nice Reason To Visit San Francisco If You Want To See Many Places

There are many other wonderful places in the Bay Area. And these places are wonderful to visit as well.

For example, you could go to San Jose. This is a much lesser-known city with a lot of great sights, many of which relate to technology. That's because you can also find Silicon Valley here, the technology hub of the world!

Another lovely place in the Bay Area is Oakland. It is a much smaller city with some sights and wonderful parks.

So if you like doing day trips, that's also why you should visit San Francisco.

31. You Can Admire Flowers in the City

If you like flowers, you'll love the city!

There are several spots where you can see beautiful flowers.

One of these places is the Conservatory of Flowers at Golden Gate Park . This is a greenhouse where you can see exotic plants. Also, there are beautiful flowers outside of the greenhouse, which is lovely to see!

32. There is a Beautiful Botanical Garden in San Francisco

At the San Francisco Botanical Garden you can find beautiful plants. This is a botanical garden at Golden Gate Park where you can see thousands of species of plants.

If you love plants, this garden is one of the reasons to visit San Francisco.

33. It’s Fun To See a Baseball Game in the City: Fun Reason To Visit San Francisco If You Love Sports

If you like baseball, that's also why you should visit San Francisco.

You can attend a baseball game at Oracle Park, a stadium in the city center. It's here where you can see the San Francisco Giants play. This is a Mayor League Baseball team.

Also, you can often see here American football games, which is fun too!

34. The Food in San Francisco is Amazing

The food in the city is also great.

You can find a lot of great restaurants in the city. And these restaurants serve a large variety of cuisines, which is great!

Because of this, if you like a particular cuisine, you'll likely find a restaurant for this!

35. You Can Admire Amazing Modern Art

The city is great to visit as well if you like modern and contemporary art.

That's because you can find SFMOMA in the city. This is one of the largest modern and contemporary art museums in the country. For those who love art, this is one of the best reasons to visit San Francisco.

And you can find here a large collection of that type of art from all around the world. This makes the museum great if you want to discover new works of art.

36. There Are Many Festivals in the City: Perfect Reason To Visit San Francisco If You Want To Have Fun

The festivals of the city are also why you should visit San Francisco. There are many annual festivals happening here.

One lovely festival is the Cherry Blossom Festival . During this, you can see beautiful cherry blossoms in bloom!

Also, the North Beach Festival is a lovely festival in the North Beach District. Here, you can listen to live music and discover art.

But there are many more festivals in the city that you can explore!

37. There’s Great Public Transport

There is a great public transportation network in the city. This makes exploring the city easier, and it will give you a much more fun time!

It is one of the most popular ways to get around for locals, and it allows you to get everywhere in a quick way, which is great!

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San Francisco

Are you planning on visiting San Francisco? In this guide you'll find out all the relevant information you'll need to visit one of the most popular tourist destinations in the USA. San Francisco is an unmissable stop on the country's west coast.

• Information
• What to See and Do
• How to Arrive
• How to Save
• Where to Stay
• Where to Eat
• San Francisco in 48 Hours

Why Visit San Francisco?

Founded in 1776 by a Spanish friar and developed thanks to the gold rush , these days San Francisco has almost 900,000 inhabitants and is one of the most important tourist destinations in the USA.

San Francisco is known for the Golden Gate Bridge , the infamous Alcatraz Island, Twin Peaks , and of course, the curious cable cars that zip around the city. The USA is often referred to as a melting pot of cultures , and San Francisco is no exception, with the mixture of native Indians, Spanish colonizers, and Asian immigrants contributing to the city's unique personality and charm .

When you visit San Francisco, you'll be able to explore its neighborhoods and districts, such as Chinatown , Japantown , Mission District, the Financial District, Castro District, or even the Haight-Ashbury area; the city really has  something for everyone !

Where to Start?

If you're planning on visiting San Francisco, but don't know where to visit or what to see, we've got you covered! Why not start off by reading about the city's fascinating history ? Then, we'll give you some practical information so that you're fully prepared for your trip. And don't forget to read about the city's most interesting neighborhoods , tourist attractions,  and museums . Plus, if you're short on time, you could check out our guide on what to do in San Francisco in 48 hours .

Looking for Accommodation?

Reserving your accommodation sooner rather than later is the best option. Plus, at the following link, you can check out accommodation up to 75% off, and pay upon arrival at your hotel!

• Hotels in San Francisco

top activities

Day Trip to Carmel and Monterey Travel California’s Pacific Coast Highway 1 to the beautiful Monterey Peninsula, famous for its spectacular ocean views, abundant wildlife and historical past .

Napa & Sonoma Valley Wine Tour Napa and Sonoma Valley are world-famous for their fine wines and beautiful scenery . Learn all about Californian wine on this tour from San Francisco!

Free Walking Tour of San Francisco Discover the best of San Francisco's history, culture and architecture on this guided walking tour of the Californian city - what's more, it's free!

San Francisco Food Tour Join us on a delightful and tasty food tour through the iconic city of  San Francisco . You'll see must-see sights & immerse yourself in the local culture .

San Francisco Tourist Bus Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of San Francisco's most iconic sights on a double-decker open-top hop-on, hop-off bus!

Go City: San Francisco All-Inclusive Pass The Go City: San Francisco All-Inclusive Pass is a sightseeing pass with access to over 30 attractions , including the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art.

Muir Woods & Sausalito Tour On this tour, we'll explore the incredible giant redwood forest,  Muir Woods , and stop in Sausalito , a charming city with incredible views of San Francisco.

Silicon Valley Day Trip Google, Facebook, Apple… discover the area where the world's most iconic technology brands have their headquarters on this day trip to Silicon Valley!

Muir Woods and Wine Country Tour Combine two of the best attractions in San Francisco : the impressive Muir Woods National Monument, and the incredible Californian Wine Country!

San Francisco Tour + Alcatraz With this combo tour , you'll discover the most iconic sights in San Francisco and visit the infamous island-prison of Alcatraz !

California Academy of Sciences Ticket Visit the California Academy of Sciences and discover one of the most fascinating natural history museums in the whole world.

Complete San Francisco Tour See the best of the Golden Gate City &   take in all its major landmarks , leaving no doubt as to why it's also known as "The Paris of the West."

Activism, street art and fascinating stories star in this free tour of The Castro and the Mission District, two of San Francisco's most important neighborhoods.

San Francisco Bay Cruise Sail the waters of San Francisco Bay and admire incredible views of the city, its bridges and islands. You'll love this amazing cruise ride!

San Francisco Bay Bridge to Golden Gate Bridge Cruise Drift along San Francisco Bay with this San Francisco Bay Bridge to Golden Gate Bridge Cruise. You'll also spot the famous Alcatraz Island and skyscrapers.

Go City: San Francisco Explorer Pass The Go City:  San Francisco Explorer Pass offers access to 2,3, 4, or 5 of the city’s top attractions . Save up to 50% off retail prices!

Yosemite National Park Day Trip On this tour, we'll dive into the most famous national park in the United States  to discover its giant sequoia groves, the world's tallest trees.

San Francisco Sunset Boat Ride Enjoy a spectacular sunset at San Francisco Bay as you sail the Pacific Ocean? It's the best way to spend a romantic evening!

San Francisco Tourist Bus & Alcatraz Ticket See the best of San Francisco from a comfortable tourist bus , explore the infamous island prison of Alcatraz and enjoy much more with this ticket!

North Beach Free Tour Have you heard of  San Francisco's Italian neighbourhood ? On this North Beach free tour, we'll uncover all of  Little Italy's secrets .

San Francisco Bike Tour Cycle around the bay with this San Francisco Bike Tour. Admire the impressive views of the Golden Gate and Alcatraz island while you explore the city.

Bicycle Rental in San Francisco Tour San Francisco at your own pace on a bicycle. You make your own route around the best places in the city, over a period of 24 hours.

San Francisco Bay Seaplane Tour Enjoy unparalleled views over San Francisco's most iconic landmarks by flying over the Californian city on a seaplane tour! 

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art Ticket If you have a passion for art, don't miss out on reserving your ticket for the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (MoMa) .

On this cruise, you'll sail around the San Francisco Bay aboard a luxurious yacht while enjoying a delicious meal - perfect for a special occasion!

Walt Disney Family Museum Ticket Looking for unique plans in San Francisco? Take a trip down memory lane with a visit to the  Walt Disney Family Museum . Fun for the whole family guaranteed!

San Francisco Open-Top Bus Night Tour Enjoy the  most spectacular views of the San Francisco skyline at night  on board an open-top tourist bus. The  ideal way to experience the city illuminations !

The Castro LGBT Tour Explore San Francisco's The Castro , a historic LGBTQIA+ community hub , on this insightful tour through LGBTQ history in the famed West Coast town.

San Francisco CityPASS® The California Academy of Sciences, the Aquarium, and more await you with the San Francisco CityPASS ® – the most affordable way to discover the city!

Hard Rock Cafe San Francisco Allow yourself to get lost in the rock 'n' roll rhythm, enjoying lunch or dinner at the iconic Hard Rock Cafe San Francisco , one of California's iconic cities .

Alcatraz, Muir Woods + Sausalito Tour On this tour to Alcatraz ,  Muir Woods  and Sausalito , we'll discover two of California's main attractions. Don't miss this if you're in San Francisco!

Aquarium of the Bay Tickets Explore the fascinating marine world at the Aquarium of the Bay in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf ! See over 24,000 creatures from the bay & beyond.

Yosemite 2-Day Trip On this 2-day trip to Yosemite National Park  from San Francisco, you'll discover this place's breathtaking natural scenery at your own pace.

Private Excursions from San Francisco With our private tours from San Francisco , you'll get to see some of the area's most amazing places such as Carmel , Sausalito , Monterey , and Napa Valley .

The Flyer San Francisco Ticket With your  The Flyer Thrill Zone ticket you'll have the privilege of  flying over San Francisco in this simulator which offers a  unique immersive experience .

Discover 3 of the most important cities on the West Coast of the United States with this 4-day excursion from San Francisco to Las Vegas, ending in Los Angeles

San Francisco, Las Vegas & Arizona Desert Tour Package: 7 Days Travel through San Francisco, Las Vegas and the Arizona Desert and admire the incredible natural monuments in the American West on our 7-day tour package.

San Francisco Zoo Ticket By booking your ticket to San Francisco Zoo , you'll be able to see lions, tigers, bears, penguins, and many other animals . Fun for the whole family!

Madame Tussauds San Francisco Ticket Visit one of the most important wax museums in the world: Madame Tussauds San Francisco . You'll be able to pose with your favorite artists and characters.

Private Bike Tour Buckle up your helmet and pedal through one of the most popular cities in the United States. Explore San Francisco with this Private Bike Tour, you choose!

Ticket to the Exploratorium Book a ticket to the Exploratorium and experience an incredible interactive exhibition - a day of fun for children and adults alike! 

Explore one of San Francisco's most famous squares on this tour. Learn all about the history of this city and its inhabitants over the years.

San Francisco Fly-Over Experience a unique tour with this San Francisco Fly-Over. Enjoy remarkable views of the city on a private plane with just your family and friends.

San Francisco True Crime Walking Tour On this true crime   tour of San Francisco , we'll visit scary areas where the most ghastly stories took place . Are you brave enough?

On this guided tour of Fisherman's Wharf , we'll visit the most iconic places of the first port of the Californian city. You'll also visit Alcatraz!

San Francisco Golden Gate Bay Cruise Marvel at San Francisco’s skyline from the water, sail under the Golden Gate Bridge and around Alcatraz Island on a 1-hour Golden Gate Bay cruise.

SF Guided Tour + Sausalito Visit Explore the key highlights of San Francisco and venture to Sausalito , a picturesque town renowned for offering the best views of the Bay Area.

San Francisco Helicopter Tour Tour San Francisco like never before ! Join us on this helicopter ride for an incredible experience flying over Sausalito Bay, the Golden Gate, and Alcatraz .

Up for a visit to the famous Alcatraz prison  and a bike tour through San Francisco's main neighbourhoods ? Great, because with this combo tour you can do both!

San Francisco Bay Sunset Cruise If you like  sunsets , don't miss this  sunset boat cruise around San Francisco Bay . Join us and enjoy a very romantic experience!

San Francisco Electric Car Tour Try a unique experience during your stay in the Golden City with this San Francisco Electric Car Tour. You'll have fun driving past its most symbolic points.

Yosemite 3 Day Camping Tour On this  3-day tour of Yosemite National Park , we'll take you to  waterfalls, lakes and steep valleys . In addition, you'll sleep in a tent.

Sausalito Ferry Ticket Experience the iconic San Francisco to Sausalito ferry ride , where stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge , the city skyline , and coastal town await!

San Francisco Private Tour Immerse yourself in the magic of San Francisco . Discover the city's most iconic sights on this personalized guided tour with your own private guide.

Your San Francisco Travel Guide

This guide is written by travellers, for travellers, helping you save money and make the most of your time in San Francisco.

All of the information and practical advice was gathered in  October 2023 . We try to keep as up-to-date as possible, but if you see any mistakes or anything you think we should change, don't hesitate to contact us .

We hope you find this guide helpful, and if you're travelling around the USA , we suggest also checking out our  New York  and Las Vegas travel guides.

Our travel guides

• top attractions
• where to stay
• and much more

Things to Do in San Francisco: A Guide to Fun (2024)

W elcome to the enchanting city by the bay, where every street corner whispers tales of diversity, landmarks beckon with storied histories, and breathtaking scenery leaves you awe-inspired. San Francisco, a city like no other, is a vibrant tapestry of cultures, a treasure trove of landmarks, and a masterpiece of nature’s beauty.

Picture yourself strolling along the bustling streets, the aroma of freshly baked sourdough bread wafting from corner bakeries, and the eclectic mix of languages and laughter filling the air. You’re not just visiting a city; you’re embarking on an adventure through a melting pot of cultures that have woven themselves into the very fabric of this metropolis. You will be amazed at all the things to do in San Francisco for people of all ages.

But it’s not just the diverse culture that makes San Francisco a must-visit destination . The city boasts iconic landmarks that have graced postcards and inspired filmmakers for generations. From the majestic Golden Gate Bridge standing guard over the bay to the historic Alcatraz Island, where echoes of infamous inmates still resonate, there’s no shortage of stories etched into the cityscape.

Let’s not forget the scenery that will steal your heart – rolling hills dotted with colorful Victorian houses, the sparkling Pacific Ocean stretching to the horizon, and the lush green spaces that invite you to relax and rejuvenate. San Francisco’s natural beauty is as captivating as its urban charm.

I want to take you on a journey through this eclectic wonderland, unveiling the best activities, hidden gems, and insider tips to ensure your stay is nothing short of unforgettable. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, nature enthusiast, or just someone seeking adventure, San Francisco has something special in store for you.

Things to Do in San Francisco: A Comprehensive Guide to the Best Attractions and Activities

So, grab your heartiest appetite and your most comfortable walking shoes because the City by the Bay is ready to enchant, inspire, and surprise you at every turn. Join us as we uncover the endless possibilities in our comprehensive exploration of “Things to Do in San Francisco: A Guide to Fun.” Your adventure begins now with these tourist attractions!

Iconic Landmarks

San Francisco is home to some of the most famous landmarks in the world. Here are three must-see landmarks that you can’t miss on your trip to San Francisco:

Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge is an iconic symbol of San Francisco and one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. The bridge spans 1.7 miles across the Golden Gate Strait, connecting San Francisco to Marin County. One of the best ways to experience the bridge is to walk or bike across it. You can also take a guided tour to learn more about its history and construction.

Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island is a former federal military prison that is now a national park . It is a small island located in the middle of San Francisco Bay and can only be reached by ferry. Visitors can take a guided tour of the prison and learn about its infamous inmates, including Al Capone and Robert Stroud, the “Birdman of Alcatraz.” The island also offers stunning views of the San Francisco skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Since childhood, I have seen these iconic gems in the commercials that touted the favorite rice dish of San Franciscans – and still have that Rice-A-Roni jingle stuck in my head. It goes without saying that San Francisco is famous for its cable cars , which are a fun and unique way to explore the city.

This fun form of public transportation runs on three lines: the Powell-Hyde line, the Powell-Mason line, and the California line. You can hop on and off at various stops throughout the city, including Fisherman’s Wharf, Union Square, and Chinatown.

Riding a cable car is a great way to experience the city’s hilly terrain and historic neighborhoods. And heck, what fun photos and TikTok reel opportunities as you go up and down those steep hills!

These three iconic landmarks are just a few of the many attractions that San Francisco has to offer. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler , you won’t want to miss these must-see sights.

Cultural Experiences

I adore that San Francisco is a melting pot of cultures, and there are many ways to experience the city’s diverse cultural offerings. Here are some must-see cultural experiences to add to your itinerary:

San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest and largest Chinatown in the United States. It is a vibrant neighborhood that is home to many shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks. While you’re there, be sure to visit the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory , where you can watch fortune cookies being made by hand.

You can also explore the alleyways and side streets to discover hidden gems like the  Tin How Temple and the Chinese Historical Society of America Museum . If you want the perfect memorable photo, take a selfie at the Dragon Gate.

Mission District Murals

I love street art and that put this on my list of great things to do in the city of San Francisco! The Mission District is known for its colorful street art murals. They reflect the neighborhood’s Latino heritage and social activism.

Take a walking tour to see some of the most iconic murals, like the Women’s Building Mural and the MaestraPeace Mural. You can also visit the Precita Eyes Mural Arts and Visitors Center to learn more about the history and significance of the murals.

Japanese Tea Garden

Location: 75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive San Francisco

The  Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park is a serene oasis that offers a glimpse into Japanese culture. It is the oldest public Japanese garden in the United States and features traditional Japanese architecture, koi ponds, and a tea house. You can participate in a traditional tea ceremony or simply stroll through the garden and admire the beautiful scenery.

Ferry Building Marketplace

Location: One, Ferry Building, San Francisco

The Ferry Building Marketplace is a food lover’s paradise that showcases the best of San Francisco’s culinary scene. It is home to many artisanal food vendors, including Cowgirl Creamery, Acme Bread , and  Blue Bottle Coffee . You can sample local cheeses, fresh oysters, and gourmet chocolates while enjoying views of the San Francisco Bay. The marketplace is also a great place to shop for souvenirs and gifts.

Whether you’re interested in history, art, or food, San Francisco has something to offer every culture lover. Don’t miss these unique cultural experiences on your next visit to the city.

Outdoor Activities

San Francisco is known for its beautiful outdoor spaces and activities. Whether you’re a nature lover or simply looking to enjoy some fresh air, there’s something for everyone in the city. Here are some of the top outdoor activities to experience in San Francisco:

Golden Gate Park

Golden Gate Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors in San Francisco. This expansive park spans over 1,000 acres and offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. Some of the top attractions within the park include:

• The Japanese Tea Garden : This tranquil garden is the oldest public Japanese garden in the United States and features beautiful landscaping, koi ponds, and a tea house.
• The  de Young Museum : This art museum features a variety of exhibits and collections, as well as stunning views of the city from its observation tower.
• The California Academy of Sciences : This museum is home to a planetarium, aquarium, and natural history museum all in one, making it a great option for families.

The Presidio is a former military base turned national park that offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors. Here are some of the top things to do in the Presidio:

• Hiking: The Presidio offers over 24 miles of hiking trails that range from easy to challenging. Some of the top trails include the Batteries to Bluffs Trail and the Ecology Trail.
• Beaches: The Presidio is home to several beautiful beaches, including Baker Beach and Marshall’s Beach, which offer stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
• The Walt Disney Family Museum : This museum is dedicated to the life and work of Walt Disney and features exhibits, screenings, and interactive experiences.

Ocean Beach

If you’re looking to enjoy some time by the ocean, Ocean Beach is the perfect destination. This long stretch of beach offers plenty of space to relax and take in the views. Some of the top activities to enjoy at Ocean Beach include:

• Surfing: Ocean Beach is known for its challenging surf conditions, making it a popular spot for experienced surfers.
• Bonfires: Visitors can enjoy a bonfire on the beach with a permit from the city.
• Sunset watching: The sunsets at Ocean Beach are some of the most beautiful in the city, making it a popular spot for photographers.

San Francisco Botanical Garden

Location: 1199 9th Ave, San Francisco

These botanical gardens are s a beautiful oasis in the middle of the city. This 55-acre garden features over 8,000 different plant species from around the world. Some of the top attractions within the garden include:

• The Redwood Grove: This section of the garden features towering redwood trees that are over 100 years old.
• The Succulent Garden: This garden features a variety of unique and colorful succulent plants.
• The Ancient Plant Garden: This garden features plants that have been around for millions of years, including ferns and cycads.

Overall, San Francisco offers a wealth of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to hike, relax on the beach, or explore a beautiful garden, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.

Museums and Galleries

San Francisco is home to numerous museums and galleries that cater to a wide range of interests. From modern art to science, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the top museums and galleries to check out during your visit:

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

Location: 151 Third St San Francisco,

The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) is a must-visit for art lovers. The museum has an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by famous artists such as Jackson Pollock, Andy Warhol, and Frida Kahlo. The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions, so there’s always something new to see. Be sure to check out the museum’s rooftop sculpture garden, which offers stunning views of the city.

De Young Museum

Location: Golden Gate Park 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive San Francisco

Located in Golden Gate Park, the  de Young Museum is a work of art inside and out. The museum’s collection includes American art from the 17th through the 21st centuries, as well as art from Africa, Oceania, and the Americas. The museum also hosts special exhibitions throughout the year, so be sure to check the schedule before your visit. Don’t miss the observation tower, which offers panoramic views of San Francisco.

The Exploratorium

Location: Pier 15, (Embarcadero at Green, San Francisco

The  Exploratorium  is a hands-on science museum that’s fun for all ages. The museum’s exhibits explore a wide range of topics, from physics to biology to social science. Visitors can experiment with light and sound, learn about the human body, and even create their own art. The museum also hosts events and workshops throughout the year, so be sure to check the schedule before your visit.

California Academy of Sciences

Location: 55 Music Concourse Drive, San Francisco

The California Academy of Sciences  is a must-see destination in San Francisco. The museum is home to an aquarium, planetarium, natural history museum, and world-class research and educational programs. Visitors can see penguins, butterflies, and even a living roof. The museum also hosts special events and exhibits throughout the year.

Walt Disney Family Museum

Location: 104 Montgomery Street in the Presidio   San Francisco

Located in the Presidio, the Walt Disney Family Museum is a must-visit for Disney fans. The museum tells the story of Walt Disney’s life and career, featuring artifacts, interactive exhibits, and original artwork. Visitors can learn about the creation of Mickey Mouse, the making of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, and Disney’s impact on the entertainment industry. Don’t miss the museum’s theater, which screens classic Disney films.

Food and Drink

San Francisco is renowned for its diverse culinary scene, with a wide range of cuisines and dining experiences to choose from. Whether you’re looking for fresh seafood, classic Italian dishes, or craft beer , the city has something to offer every palate. Here are some of the top food and drink experiences to try during your visit:

Seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf is a popular destination for seafood lovers, offering a variety of restaurants and vendors serving up fresh catches from the nearby waters. One of the most iconic dishes to try is cioppino, a hearty seafood stew that originated in San Francisco. Sotto Mare is a local favorite for this dish, with a rich tomato-based broth filled with Dungeness crab parts, mussels, and other seafood.

If you’re in the mood for something fried, head to Alioto’s  or the  Crab Station for some crispy fish and chips or fried calamari. For a more casual experience, grab some clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl from Boudin Bakery or one of the many street vendors.

Dining in North Beach

North Beach is known as San Francisco’s Little Italy, with a wide range of Italian restaurants and cafes to choose from. One of the most popular spots is Tony’s Pizza Napoletana , which has won numerous awards for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizza. For pasta dishes, head to The Stinking Rose that offers classic Italian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, stop by Stella Pastry & Cafe for some cannoli or tiramisu. For a more upscale dining experience, consider booking a table at Cotogna  or Tosca Cafe , both of which offer a modern take on Italian cuisine.

Craft Breweries

San Francisco is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with a variety of breweries and taprooms to choose from. One of the most popular spots is  21st Amendment Brewery , which offers a wide range of beers on tap, and Magnolia Brewing Company , which specializes in English-style ales.

For a more casual experience, head to one of the many taprooms in the city, such as Cellarmaker Brewing Company  or Fort Point Beer Company . Many of these spots offer outdoor seating and food trucks, making them a great place to relax and enjoy some local brews.

Shopping Destinations

San Francisco is a shopper’s paradise, with a wide range of shopping destinations to suit any taste and budget. Here are three of the best shopping destinations in the city:

Union Square

This is the heart of San Francisco’s shopping district , with a wide range of high-end and mid-range stores. This is where you’ll find the city’s largest collection of department stores, including Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Macy’s. If you’re looking for luxury brands, head to the boutiques on Maiden Lane, where you’ll find stores like Chanel, Prada, and Gucci.

Haight Street

Haight Street is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the best places for vintage and alternative fashion. This street was the epicenter of the 1960s counterculture movement, and today it’s home to a wide range of vintage clothing stores, record shops, and head shops. Some of the most popular stores on Haight Street include Wasteland, Amoeba Music, and Loved to Death.

The Castro is San Francisco’s LGBTQ+ neighborhood, and it’s also home to a wide range of unique and eclectic stores. If you’re looking for quirky gifts or one-of-a-kind souvenirs, head to stores like Cliff’s Variety , which has been a neighborhood institution since 1936. Other popular stores in the area include  Books Inc ., which has a great selection of LGBTQ+ literature, and the Castro Theatre gift shop, which sells movie-themed merchandise.

No matter what your shopping preferences are, San Francisco has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for luxury brands or vintage finds, you’re sure to find it in this vibrant and diverse city.

Nightlife and Entertainment

San Francisco is known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene. From live music venues to comedy clubs and theater performances, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Live Music Venues

This town has a diverse music scene that caters to all tastes. Some of the most popular live music venues include The Fillmore, The Independent , and The Warfield Theatre . These venues feature a variety of music genres including rock, jazz, blues, and hip-hop. If you’re looking for a more intimate setting, check out the Great American Music Hall or the Rickshaw Stop.

Comedy Clubs

San Francisco has a thriving comedy scene with several comedy clubs to choose from. The Punch Line , Cobb’s Comedy Club , and The San Francisco Comedy Cellar are just a few of the popular comedy clubs in the city. These venues feature both local and national comedians, so you’re sure to find something that will make you laugh.

Theater Performances

This great spot is home to several world-class theaters that offer a variety of performances throughout the year.  The American Conservatory Theater , The Curran , and The Orpheum Theatre are just a few of the venues that feature Broadway shows, musicals, and plays. If you’re looking for something more experimental, check out The Magic Theatre or The Cutting Ball Theater .

Overall, San Francisco’s nightlife and entertainment scene is diverse and exciting. Whether you’re looking for live music, comedy, or theater performances, you’re sure to find something that will keep you entertained.

If you’re planning a trip to San Francisco and want to see some of the city’s top attractions, consider purchasing a CityPASS. With a CityPASS, you’ll save money and time by gaining admission to some of the city’s most popular attractions.

CityPASS offers two different options for visitors to San Francisco: The CityPASS and the C3 pass. The CityPASS includes admission to four attractions: the California Academy of Sciences, the Blue & Gold Fleet Bay Cruise Adventure, the Aquarium of the Bay, and either the Exploratorium or the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. With the CityPASS, you’ll save up to 46% on admission prices.

If you don’t have time to visit all of the attractions included in the CityPASS, consider purchasing the C3 pass instead. With the C3 pass, you’ll get one-time admission to three of the five attractions included in the CityPASS. You can choose from the California Academy of Sciences , the Blue & Gold Fleet Bay Cruise Adventure , the Aquarium of the Bay , the Exploratorium , and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art .

One of the best things about the CityPASS is that it allows you to skip the lines at many of the attractions. This can save you a lot of time, especially during peak tourist season. In addition, the CityPASS is valid for nine consecutive days, so you can take your time exploring the city and its attractions.

Overall, if you’re planning to visit several of San Francisco’s top attractions, the CityPASS can be a great way to save money and time.

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Final Thoughts:

As we near the end of our journey through the captivating city of San Francisco, one thing becomes abundantly clear: this city is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be uncovered. From the rich tapestry of cultures that harmoniously coexist to the iconic landmarks that tell tales of bygone eras, and the natural beauty that will leave you breathless, San Francisco is a destination like no other.

We’ve explored the vibrant neighborhoods, savored delectable culinary delights, and marveled at the city’s architectural wonders. We’ve delved into its history, from the Gold Rush era to the counterculture movement, and we’ve reveled in the stunning scenery, from the fog-kissed Golden Gate Bridge to the tranquil serenity of Muir Woods .

But beyond the sights and sounds, it’s the spirit of San Francisco that truly sets it apart. It’s a city that embraces diversity, celebrates individuality, and welcomes all with open arms. It’s a place where you can be yourself, where the boundaries of tradition are challenged, and where creativity knows no bounds.

Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for another adventure, San Francisco promises to surprise you, inspire you, and leave an indelible mark on your heart. It’s a city that invites you to explore, to dream, and to savor every moment.

As you wrap up your journey through the “City by the Bay,” take with you the memories of laughter in colorful neighborhoods, the taste of world-class cuisine, and the sense of wonder that comes from standing before iconic landmarks. And remember, this guide is just the beginning. San Francisco is a city of endless possibilities, and the best way to discover it is to step out and explore for yourself.

So, whether you’re gazing at the city lights from the summit of Twin Peaks or sipping artisan coffee in a quaint café, let San Francisco work its magic on you. It’s a city that thrives on curiosity, and in return, it offers an abundance of experiences that will stay with you long after your journey ends.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top 20 things to do in san francisco.

San Francisco is a city that offers a wide range of activities and attractions. Some of the top things to do in San Francisco include visiting the Golden Gate Bridge, exploring Alcatraz Island, taking a cable car ride, visiting Fisherman’s Wharf, and checking out the Painted Ladies. Other popular activities include visiting the California Palace of the Legion of Honor, exploring Chinatown, and going on a food tour of the city.

What are some famous districts to visit in San Francisco?

San Francisco is known for its diverse neighborhoods, each with its unique character and charm. Some of the most famous districts to visit in San Francisco include Chinatown, Haight-Ashbury, the Castro, and the Mission District. Each of these neighborhoods has its unique attractions, restaurants, and shops.

What shouldn’t I miss during my trip to San Francisco?

There are several things that you should not miss during your trip to San Francisco. These include visiting the Golden Gate Bridge, exploring Alcatraz Island, and taking a cable car ride. You should also check out Fisherman’s Wharf, the Painted Ladies , and the California Palace of the Legion of Honor . Don’t forget to explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods and try some of its famous cuisine.

Can I see San Francisco in 2 days?

While it’s impossible to see everything San Francisco has to offer in just two days, you can still experience many of the city’s top attractions. You can visit the Golden Gate Bridge, explore Fisherman’s Wharf, and take a cable car ride. You can also check out some of the city’s famous neighborhoods, such as Chinatown and the Mission District.

What is the number one attraction in San Francisco?

The Golden Gate Bridge is arguably the number one attraction in San Francisco. This iconic bridge is recognized worldwide and is a must-see when visiting the city. You can walk or bike across the bridge, take a boat tour underneath it, or simply admire it from a distance.

What are some easy things to do in San Francisco?

If you’re looking for some easy things to do in San Francisco, you can take a leisurely walk through Golden Gate Park, explore the Ferry Building Marketplace, or visit the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. You can also take a scenic drive down Lombard Street or enjoy a picnic in Dolores Park.

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12 Things to do in San Francisco, CA if You’re New to the City

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Nestled along the iconic hills of Northern California, San Francisco is a city like no other, offering a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. From the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the vibrant neighborhoods of Chinatown and the Mission District, there’s always something new to explore in this diverse and dynamic city.

Whether you’re searching for apartments in San Francisco , homes for sale , or are already a local, this Redfin article will be your guide. Here is Redfin’s list of the top 10 things to do in San Francisco, for both newcomers and long-time locals alike.

1. Visit Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island is a must-see attraction in San Francisco. This former federal prison is now a national park and offers visitors the chance to explore the historic site and learn about its infamous inmates, such as Al Capone and Machine Gun Kelly. The ferry ride to the island also provides stunning views of the city skyline and Golden Gate Bridge.

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Golden Gate Park is a sprawling urban oasis that offers a wide range of activities for visitors. From the Japanese Tea Garden and Conservatory of Flowers to the de Young Museum and California Academy of Sciences, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can also rent a paddleboat on Stow Lake or simply relax and take in the natural beauty of the park.

While you’re in the area, you absolutely need to check ou the California Academy of Sciences. The Academy is a aquarium, rainforest, planetarium, and history museum rolled into one. There’s something to see for everyone, no matter your area of interest.

“One of my favorite activities to do with my family is explore the California Academy of Sciences,” says Feda Oweis, chef at Beyond the Border , a San Francisco restaurant, food truck, and catering company. “It’s an exhilarating journey through vibrant underwater worlds and rainforest. From colorful coral reefs to mesmerizing jellyfish displays, every corner sparks wonder and curiosity. It’s a fun-filled adventure for all ages, brimming with fascinating marine life and interactive exhibits.”

3. Check out San Francisco’s food scene

From fancy eateries to mom-and-pop restaurants and farmers markets, San Francisco’s food scene is truly eclectic, with a wide variety of options that will surely keep you coming back for more. Consider a guided food tour or venture out on your own to get a taste of San Francisco.

“Off the Grid in San Francisco is a must-try experience for food lovers and locals alike,” says local photographer Helena Wong . “As a SF native, I love the vibrant atmosphere and the variety of gourmet food trucks and vendors that gather, offering an eclectic mix of cuisines from around the world. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a lively outdoor meal and connect with the community in a unique, festive setting.”

Molly Streull at Avital Experiences also recommends getting to know San Francisco by enjoying the city’s many culinary options with a food tour. “Guests will enjoy a prix fixe, progressive meal with appetizers, entree, dessert, and drinks, each served seated at a different restaurant. From the historically rich North Beach to the vibrant Mission District, guests will not only leave full, but with a deeper connection to the neighborhood, its history, and people.”

“San Francisco is known for its fantastic food, ” Mashav Shelef from Always Tasting adds. “From Chinatown to North Beach, and all the way to the Ferry Building, you’ll find a wonderful array of restaurants and eateries that cater to every taste and budget. If you have a day to explore, why not go on a self-guided food tour in San Francisco?”

According to local photographer Juliana Jason , a visit to the Ferry Building should be on your list of things to do in San Francisco. “The Ferry Building has so many unique and fun shops, places to eat and hosts the Farmer’s Market on certain days,” she says.

4. Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge

Walking or biking across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge is a must-do activity for anyone visiting San Francisco. The bridge offers breathtaking views of the city, the bay, and the Pacific Ocean. Whether it’s a foggy day or clear skies, the experience of crossing the bridge is unforgettable.

The iconic bridge is also great to enjoy from a distance, with plenty of scenic vantage points to take in the landmark and surrounding scenery.

“I strongly advise making a trip to Battery Spencer for a sunrise experience!” says local family photographer Shefali Parekh . “Witnessing the sun illuminate the iconic Golden Gate Bridge creates a truly picturesque scene.”

“I’d recommend visiting Baker Beach and hiking the Lands End Trail!” says travel blogger Anna Carwile from The Foodies Travel Guide . “You get the best views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and of course photos for the ‘gram. Highly recommend dinner at Bistro Boudin and dessert at Ghirardelli Square afterwards.”

“One activity I enjoy would be hiking the Batteries to Bluffs Trail on the north west side of the city around golden hour (the hour before sunset),” says San Francisco photographer Sarah Eichstedt . “It has beautiful views of the ocean, Golden Gate Bridge, and Marin, along with a hidden beach, old batteries, and beautiful sunsets (when the fog doesn’t roll in).”

Ryan Shane, a local property manager at The Housing Guild Management , suggests visiting the Top of the Mark at the Mark Hopkins Hotel if you want to enjoy a beverage while taking in unparalleled views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the rest of the city. “Sipping on a cocktail amidst such breathtaking scenery creates an unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to indulge in both the city’s rich history and its vibrant present,” Shane says. “Whether admiring the sunset or marveling at the city lights, a drink at the Top of the Mark offers a quintessential San Francisco moment that shouldn’t be missed.”

5. Visit Fisherman’s Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf is a lively waterfront area that offers a mix of attractions, shops, and restaurants. Visitors can sample fresh seafood, watch street performers, and visit popular attractions such as Pier 39, the Aquarium of the Bay, and the historic USS Pampanito submarine.

Just a stone’s throw away, the Marina District offers even more fun activities to enjoy.

“Walking through the Marina in San Francisco is a must!” according to Cochinita Food Truck . “Stop by one of the many events thrown at Fort Mason throughout the year such as farmers markets, craft shows and festivals.”

Just south of the Marina is another popular attraction, the Lyon Street Steps. The lengthy staircase spans two blocks and includes over 300 steps, with beautiful plants and flowers along the way and a stunning view at the top.

Local photographer Regina Popova is a fan of the local attraction . “It’s one of my go-to places to show out-of-town friends and family some of the quiet treasures of the bustling city of San Francisco,” Popova says. “As a SF transplant, I love coming to Lover’s Lane for photo sessions and a hike in fresh air. Afterwards, I love grabbing a bite to eat and a drink at Heritage Restaurant and Bar. It’s a cozy bar and whether you are alone or in a group, you always end up talking to new people.”

6. Ride a cable car

San Francisco’s iconic cable cars are not only a convenient mode of transportation but also a fun and unique way to experience the city. Visitors can hop on a cable car and enjoy a scenic ride through the city’s hilly streets, passing by famous landmarks such as Lombard Street and Chinatown.

7. Visit Chinatown

San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest and one of the largest in North America. Visitors can explore the vibrant streets, visit traditional Chinese temples and shops, and sample authentic cuisine. The neighborhood’s rich history and cultural significance make it a fascinating place to visit.

8. Visit Salesforce Park

It’s probably not surprising that San Francisco is home to numerous stunning parks. What might catch you off guard is the fact that one of those parks is four stories above ground. Salesforce Park is located atop the similarly named Salesforce Transit Center and hosts a number of events throughout the year. Its location alone makes it stand out, but the lush greenery and elevated views make it even more spectacular.

“For a unique activity in San Francisco, consider exploring the Salesforce Park, an elevated oasis amidst downtown’s hustle with a half-mile loop of green space,” says Hanford Freund & Company vice president Stefan Calic. The space offers free events like yoga and writing classes. daily free events like yoga and writing classes.”

Just a short drive from Salesforce Park you’ll find Stagecoach Greens, a must-visit destination for mini-golf enthusiasts.

“We love Stagecoach Greens, the city’s only 18-hole outdoor mini-golf course,” says Shawna Jackson of Parklab Gardens . “This spot invites visitors to enjoy playful competition amid bites and sips from various food trucks. You get to play your way through iconic SF landmarks and history making it a treat for locals and visitors. There’s nothing like a playful game of mini-golf whether it’s a first date, corporate happy hour, or celebrating a beautiful day outside.”

9. Enjoy the views from Twin Peaks

Twin Peaks offers some of the best panoramic views of San Francisco and the surrounding Bay Area. Visitors can drive or hike to the top of the peaks and take in the breathtaking vistas of the city, the bay, and the distant hills. It’s a perfect spot for sunset or sunrise viewing.

10. Visit the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

SFMOMA is a world-class museum that showcases an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. Visitors can explore a diverse range of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and new media. The museum’s architecture and design also make it a visually stunning experience.

In addition to museums, San Francisco’s robust art scene gives residents plenty of places to check out the creativity of local artists.

“ ICB/ART Is a wealth of wonderful art located in stunning Sausalito , a fabulous destination that is easily accessible for Bay Area residents and visitors to San Francisco,” says Erika Parrino, who works at the studio. “It’s a great place for designers and collectors to see 180 working artists – with a variety of styles – under one curved roof.”

11. Explore the Mission District

The Mission District is known for its vibrant street art, diverse food scene, and eclectic shops. Visitors can take a walking tour to admire the colorful murals, sample delicious Mexican cuisine, and browse through unique boutiques and galleries. The neighborhood’s lively atmosphere and cultural diversity make it a must-visit destination.

Thinking about moving to the area?

12. visit the exploratorium.

The Exploratorium is a hands-on science museum that offers interactive exhibits and experiences for visitors of all ages. From exploring the physics of light and sound to experimenting with tactile exhibits, the museum provides a fun and educational experience. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the bay from the museum’s waterfront location.

Marissa is part of the content marketing team and enjoys writing about real estate trends and home improvement. Her dream home is a contemporary-style house with ample outdoor space.

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More pandas are coming to the US. This time to San Francisco, the first time since 1985

The san francisco zoo is preparing to welcome giant pandas after mayor london breed asked china president xi jinping for them back in february. the timing has not yet been determined..

Just a few weeks after the San Diego Zoo announced that they were bringing back pandas to the United States, the San Francisco Zoo said that they're bringing the cuddly bears to northern California.

"We’re thrilled for the return of the Giant Panda to San Francisco Zoo & Gardens after all these years," Tanya Peterson, the zoo's executive director said in a statement. "The Giant Panda symbolizes hope for conservation collaboration and bridges divides between cultural differences." We thank Mayor London Breed, city leaders, and colleagues in China for returning these amazing ambassadors to beautiful San Francisco!"

The pandas are being brought to San Francisco as part of China's Panda Diplomacy program, Mayor London Breed's office said in a news release .

Breed said that the city was thrilled to be welcoming the giant pandas that efforts to bring them to the zoo had been ongoing for nearly a year, prior to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation leaders’ meeting in San Francisco last November, during which U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Chinese President Xi Jinping met.

"These Giant Pandas will honor our deep cultural connections and our Chinese and API (Asian/Pacific Islander) heritage," the mayor said. "It’s an honor that our city has been chosen for the first time to be a long-term home for Giant Pandas. They will bring residents and visitors from all over who come to visit them at the SF Zoo."

Pandas last came to San Francisco in 1985

The pandas were last at the San Francisco zoo on temporary visits in 1984 and 1985, according to the mayor's office and the zoo.

"In 1984, two pandas named Yun-Yun and Ying-Xin visited the zoo for three months as part of the 1984 Summer Olympics tour, and drew more than 260,000 visitors to the San Francisco Zoo, roughly four times the average attendance during the time," the mayor's office said.

The pandas visited the zoo again for three months in 1985.

When are the giant pandas coming to the San Francisco zoo?

The timing of the arrival of the pandas has not been announced.

The mayor's office said that a date will be set once the panda enclosure at the zoo is complete. Preliminary work on that has already begun and engineers from the Beijing Zoo travelled to San Francisco to meet with officials of the zoo and assist in the preparations.

Why did pandas get removed from zoos in the US?

Zoos across the country returned their pandas last year because of the rocky relationship between the U.S. and China.

Three beloved pandas, Tian Tian, Mei Xiang, and Xiao QI Ji, were sent back to China from the Smithsonian National Zoo in Washington, D.C., in November after attempts to renew a three-year agreement with China Wildlife Conservation Association failed.

The decision to return them came after Jinping, who called pandas "envoys of friendship between the Chinese and American peoples," met with Biden in November.

"I was told that many American people, especially children, were really reluctant to say goodbye to the pandas and went to the zoo to see them off," Xi said.

Mayor Breed sent a letter to Jinping in Feburary along with over 70 local Chinese and API community and merchant leaders and requested for San Francisco to receive the pandas.

China's history of loaning out pandas

China gifted the first panda to the U.S. in 1972 after President Richard Nixon formalized normal relations with China. The practice was dubbed "panda diplomacy."

Over the years, China has loaned pandas to other foreign zoos in hopes that it will build ties with those countries.

Contributing: Julia Gomez, USA TODAY

Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter @saman_shafiq7.

San Francisco 49ers | Kurtenbach: Why Ricky Pearsall is an A+ pick…

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Subscriber only, san francisco 49ers | kurtenbach: why ricky pearsall is an a+ pick for the 49ers, san francisco 49ers: the niners shocked the nfl by taking florida's ricky pearsall no. 31 overall. it was a stroke of pure brilliance..

I have spent more hours than I care to count watching the NFL draft class of 2024. I tried to watch every player that had a chance of being drafted in the first seven rounds, so I lost count of how many guys that was long ago. It’s all in my notes.

And amid the countless players and countless hours, I came away with one thing I fully knew to be true — a conviction I felt deep, down in my bones:

Ricky Pearsall was the truth.

He was my favorite player in this draft, my pick not just for value, not just for a pick in the region the 49ers would be picking, but overall. No adjectives or caveats are needed.

I am fully convinced he will be the standout from this draft.

So for the 49ers to pick him with their first-round pick — No. 31 — deserves an A+ grade.

There will be plenty of folks, beholden to baseless mock drafts, who say that Pearsall was a bad pick for the 49ers at No. 31.

“They could have waited,” they’ll argue.

“No one else saw him as a first-round pick,” I heard almost instantly after the pick was made.

I laugh at both notions and any knock on Pearsall.

Watch the tape.

I did. The 49ers did. It’s impossible not to love this guy, especially when you think about him in Kyle Shanahan’s offense.

This is a player that has velcro hands, quick feet, and an unmistakable feel for playing the position.

Forget all that quantifiable stuff. Feel for the game that separates guys who can run and catch with guys who can consistently win at receiver.

Amon-Ra St. Brown ran a horrible 40-yard dash and isn’t even 6 feet tall. But he feels a defense and knows how to attack space. He just rightly received the most guaranteed money for a receiver in NFL history.

Keenan Allen, Michael Pittman, Puka Nacua — these guys aren’t athletic marvels compared to some of their peers. Coming out of college, they were overlooked because they didn’t test off the charts.

But all they’ve done in the NFL is catch passes. They have feel for the game and they win again and again and again because of it.

And finding a player with that feel — that innate understanding of space, time, and situation — makes folks who watch a lot of football feel something, too.

They’re rare. And when one is available, you take them, even if Pro Football Focus or some draft YouTuber claims it’s a “stretch” or “bad value” to select them.

“Ricky was a guy that we got a lot of conviction a lot of consensus from every area of our organization,” John Lynch told KNBR after making the pick. “Ricky was a guy that just kept gaining steam.”

The same thing happened to everyone I talked to in and around the league. He was your favorite football dork’s favorite player, your no-name scout’s favorite player, and probably your favorite player’s favorite player in this draft.

Pearsall was easy to overlook amid a loaded wide receiver class this season. I know I didn’t give him his fair due until later in my evaluation process.

I knew he was good — I watch a lot of SEC football in the fall and Pearsall ripped up my Mizzou Tigers — but I didn’t think of him as an elite prospect.

But once I did start watching him in earnest, I couldn’t stop. For the last month, he has occupied my mind more than any other prospect.

He has great hands and a seemingly infinite catch radius. He blocks at a high level. He separates consistently at the line of scrimmage. He has the kind of crazy you need to repeatedly run over the middle of the field, catch the ball, and be rewarded with a helmet in the sternum for your hard work. He’s excellent in the open field. He can run the ball out of the backfield and be your starting returner on kickoffs and punts.

Florida’s offense was a mess this past year. Pearsall made it look competent at times. And his best routes, flare screens and intermediate digs, are the bread-and-butter concepts of a Shanahan offense.

Pearsall was a good college receiver. He’ll be an even better pro receiver.

Of course, adding a receiver at this point in the draft raises questions about the current crop of receivers in Santa Clara.

I’ll say this: Brandon Aiyuk is the 49ers’ X receiver of the present and the future. The contract will come.

Pearsall might have to wait for a season to be a starter — Deebo Samuel will likely only play one more year for the Niners — but he will be the Z receiver of the future, and a perfect counterbalance to Aiyuk.

He’ll also be an easy, reliable target for quarterback Brock Purdy. These two are going to make beautiful music together.

He might be a stretch at No. 31, sure. Could the Niners have traded down a few picks and taken him? Maybe, maybe not.

But no matter where he was selected, this is a guy that the 49ers had to take.

The fact is that he is perfect for the 49ers’ offense, and had Lynch and Shanahan cared about mock drafts and other teams’ public boards, they would have passed on him.

And they would have lived with the regret of doing that for as long as Pearsall is in the league — which I suspect will be a long time.

Pearsall would have been the one who got away.

You can’t let that happen.

In the coming hours, days, and weeks, much will be made about what this means to the rest of the 49ers’ wide receiver core.

Here’s what it means: It improved significantly in the short and long term on Thursday.

I’ll gladly put my neck out there. Pearsall is going to be a stud for the Niners. In a matter of months, no one will be complaining about where he was taken.

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O-Lineman John Mills Previews Visit to Nebraska

2025 prospect from San Francisco will be in Lincoln for the Huskers' spring game

• Author: Caleb Sisk

In this story:

Although every recruit is unique, there are definitely a few guys you’d consider top priorities.

John Mills fits that description.

Mills is a class of 2025 prospect on the offensive line who recently released his top six schools: Nebraska, Washington, Texas, Florida, USC and California. He is a three-star prospect from St. Ignatius College Preparatory High School in San Francisco. He measures in at around 6-foot-6 and 320 pounds.

Mills announced recently that he plans to make an official visit to Nebraska for the Huskers' spring game this weekend. This will be his second visit this month, and he hopes to announce a decision in June.

“I’m excited to see how the fans interact with the players and excited to see how crazy it is because I’ve heard it’s one of the craziest and I’m curious to see exactly how many people are there especially with Dylan Raiola making his debut.”

Mills detailed which coaches he plans to speak to and why.

“I’d say I’ve spoken to all of the major coaches,” he said. “I’m excited to see coach Donovan Raiola (offensive line coach) and coach Matt Rhule (head coach). You know one is my position coach and the other is the head coach. You always got to talk to them for sure.”

Mills will be looking at some players in particular when the game kicks off on Saturday.

“I’m looking forward to seeing how the offensive line plays and how Ty Robinson and Dylan plays really. Especially Dylan. I want to see how good he really is. I’m excited to see him play for sure.”

He detailed why Nebraska is one of the six finalists in his recruitment.

“You know the history of the program. Coach Rhule is turning this program around, and I’m excited to see how he does this year and see that offensive line pride for Nebraska.”

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