28 Things to Do in San Francisco
San Francisco is one of the most iconic cities in the United States, well-known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and cultural diversity. Whether you’re a history buff, food lover, nature enthusiast, or seeking unique cultural experiences, the city has something for everyone. From its world-renowned landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, to hidden gems like Salesforce Park and the quirky Painted Ladies, San Francisco promises to enchant all who visit.
In this guide, we’ve carefully curated 28 experiences to ensure you have a truly memorable visit. Why 28? While it could easily be more, narrowing it down to this number offers a great balance of activities—whether you have just a few days in the city or are planning an extended stay. From exploring historic neighborhoods and cutting-edge museums to enjoying the scenic beauty of its parks and waterfronts, this list captures the essence of what makes San Francisco such a unique and exciting destination.
1. Walk Across the Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge is undoubtedly San Francisco’s most recognizable landmark, and walking across it is a must for any first-time visitor. Spanning a length of 1.7 miles, the bridge connects the city to Marin County, and walking or biking across offers spectacular views of the cityscape, the Pacific Ocean, and even as far as Alcatraz Island on a clear day.
Several incredible viewpoints complement your walk across the bridge. From Battery Spencer Park on the north side, you get one of the most iconic perspectives of the bridge framed against the city skyline. Also, Fort Point beneath the southern end of the bridge provides a dramatically up-close view of the bridge’s towering architecture.
Tip: Try walking across early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid heavy crowds, while also enjoying unique lighting conditions for great photos.
2. Visit Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39
Fisherman’s Wharf is perhaps the city’s liveliest waterfront area, where both tourists and locals come to enjoy world-class seafood, local attractions, and vibrant street performances. Be sure to stop by Pier 39, a bustling pier filled with souvenir shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Crowd favorite attractions include the sea lion basking docks, where dozens of playful sea lions lounge lazily, offering fantastic photo opportunities. In addition to the marine life, you can enjoy savory clam chowder in sourdough bowls from any of the charming outdoor seafood stands.
For those looking for additional entertainment, visit nearby museums including the famous Ripley’s Believe It or Not! and Madame Tussauds Wax Museum.
3. Explore Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz Island represents one of San Francisco’s most intriguing historical landmarks. Once considered an inescapable federal prison, “The Rock” was home to notorious figures like Al Capone and “Birdman” Robert Stroud. Taking a ferry to the island is a thrilling experience, with fog often adding a mysterious aura on the way out.
Visitors can participate in guided audio tours that recount stories of daring escape attempts, the rough life of the inmates, and the Native American occupation that followed the prison’s closure. The audio tour is interactive and gripping, immersing you in the chilling history of the penal facility.
Tip: Book tickets in advance, as Alcatraz tours tend to sell out quickly, especially in peak tourist seasons.
4. Stroll Through Golden Gate Park
With over 1,000 acres of lush greenery, iconic museums, and recreational areas, Golden Gate Park is the city’s own urban oasis and is larger than New York City’s Central Park. The park is brimming with activities for all types of travelers.
For culture aficionados, the de Young Museum and the California Academy of Sciences serve up art, history, and science in beautiful exhibits. The Japanese Tea Garden, with its ornate bridges and koi-filled ponds, offers a peaceful retreat perfect for meditative walks.
Golden Gate Park also boasts lovely picnic spots, hiking paths, and some surprising sites, like the park’s Bison Paddock, where you can spot a herd of American bison.
Outdoor Activities: Hiking, paddle boating on Stow Lake, and cycling are popular ways to explore the park’s expansive grounds.
5. Discover Chinatown
San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest and largest of its kind in North America, rich with stories of immigration, survival, and cultural identity. The neighborhood is characterized by narrow alleys of bustling shops, teahouses, and traditional herbal medicine stores, offering visitors an immersive cultural experience.
Head through the ‘Dragon’s Gate’ at the southern entrance, and immediately find yourself in the heart of this vibrant district. Check out the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory where you can watch fortune cookies being made by hand, or stop by herbal shops that sell traditional remedies.
Culinary Musts: Sample authentic Chinese cuisine including dim sum, crispy Peking Duck, and fresh mooncakes, available at a variety of local restaurants.
6. Ride a Cable Car
A ride on San Francisco’s historic cable cars is more than just a fun way to get around; it’s an integral part of the city’s story. The cable cars were first introduced in the late 19th century to navigate San Francisco’s steep hills with ease.
There are three cable car routes still in operation: Powell-Hyde, Powell-Mason, and California Street Line. For iconic views, opt for the Powell-Hyde line, which passes through Chinatown, North Beach, and offers stunning views of Alcatraz and Fisherman’s Wharf.
Fun Fact: You can ride standing on the outer footboard, a must if you want to take in the full experience!
7. Visit Coit Tower
Coit Tower is perched atop Telegraph Hill and is one of the best places to experience panoramic views of the city. Built in 1933, the tower also houses a series of New Deal-era murals on its lower level, depicting aspects of life during the Great Depression through beautiful frescoes.
From the top observation deck, take in 360-degree views of the San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the city’s signature terraced hills.
Best Time: The sunsets here are particularly mesmerizing as the city transforms into a rolling sea of lights.
8. Explore Haight-Ashbury
The Haight-Ashbury neighborhood is synonymous with the 1960s counterculture movement. It was the epicenter of San Francisco’s “Summer of Love” in 1967, which embraced new art forms, free expression, music, and anti-war sentiments. More than half a century later, Haight-Ashbury still exudes a bohemian air, with vintage clothing shops, indie bookstores, and specialty record stores lining the historic streets.
For those with an interest in music history, this iconic district offers walking tours focusing on legendary figures like Janis Joplin, the Grateful Dead, and Jimi Hendrix, who all had homes in the area during rock’s golden era.
9. Tour the Mission District
The Mission District is home to some of San Francisco’s oldest history, dating back to 1776, when Spanish settlers founded Mission Dolores, which remains as the city’s oldest structure. Today, however, it’s a lively neighborhood known for its colorful murals, popular eateries, and bustling arts scene.
Stroll along Clarion Alley and Balmy Alley to admire stunning murals—many of which reflect the area’s Latin American heritage and social justice causes. Stop by Dolores Park, a favorite spot for locals, which sits upon a hill and provides excellent views of the downtown skyline.
Don’t Miss: The Mission burrito, famously large and deliciously loaded, is a must-try meal. Many regard Taqueria El Farolito as a local favorite.
10. Visit The Presidio
The Presidio was once a sprawling military fort and is now a sprawling national park with winding trails, cultural institutions, and some of the city’s best scenic viewpoints. Situated on the northern tip of the San Francisco Peninsula, you can hike or bike within the park while enjoying unmatched views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Among its most popular attractions is Crissy Field, a recreational area located along the water, perfect for a peaceful day of walking, picnicking, and flying kites. Art and culture lovers should visit the Walt Disney Family Museum, a tribute to the life of the legendary animator and entrepreneur, located in one of the restored military barracks.
11. Drive Down Lombard Street
Dubbed “the crookedest street in the world,” Lombard Street’s zig-zag pattern is one of San Francisco’s quirkiest attractions. Nestled between Russian Hill and North Beach, the section between Hyde and Leavenworth Street features eight tight turns within a single block, designed to make the steep hill more navigable.
Visitors can walk or slowly drive down the flower-lined terraced curves while catching spectacular views of the bay as a backdrop. Because of heavy tourist traffic, it’s recommended to visit during non-peak hours, especially for photography.
12. Visit Ghirardelli Square
Ghirardelli Square is a chocolate lover’s paradise. Once the site of the historic Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory, the area has been refurbished and is now home to restaurants, boutique shops, and its flagship Ghirardelli soda fountain and chocolate shop, where you can indulge in delicious handmade chocolate delicacies.
Sample ice cream sundaes drizzled with rich Ghirardelli chocolate or take home bars of their famous confections. Beyond satisfying your sweet tooth, adjacent streets offer lovely views of the waterfront and the historic Maritime National Historical Park.
13. Take a Ferry to Angel Island
If you’re looking for a brief yet serene escape from the busy city, hop on a ferry to Angel Island. Known as the “Ellis Island of the West,” it served as an immigration station between 1910 and 1940, processing hundreds of thousands of immigrants, primarily from Asia.
Visitors can tour the preserved station and get a deeper understanding of this complex period in American immigration history. For outdoor lovers, Angel Island offers miles of scenic hiking trails with incredible views of the Bay Area. You can even rent a mountain bike or bring one with you for a more rigorous tour of the island.
14. Explore Union Square
Union Square is San Francisco’s premier shopping destination and a hub of activity, especially for those who love fashion, art, and food. The central plaza is surrounded by luxury retail outlets, iconic department stores, and boutique shops.
Union Square is also known for hosting seasonal events. During the winter holidays, for example, the square is adorned with festive light displays, and an ice-skating rink takes over the central space.
Notable Tip: If shopping isn’t on your agenda, don’t worry—Union Square also has great art galleries and theaters. Check out the Curran Theatre or catch a night of jazz at one of the nearby clubs!
15. Visit SFMOMA (San Francisco Museum of Modern Art)
SFMOMA is a must-see for art enthusiasts visiting San Francisco. Housed in a stunning building that blends with the city’s modern skyline, the museum is world-renowned for its extensive modern and contemporary art collection, featuring work by celebrated artists like Claude Monet, Marcel Duchamp, Jackson Pollock, and Andy Warhol.
The facility itself is a masterpiece of architecture with open, airy spaces, showcasing more than 33,000 artworks including photography, painting, sculpture, design, and more.
Advisory: Try to plan your visit ahead of time to check which galleries or exhibits are on as there are often rotating exhibitions or special installations.
16. Relax at Baker Beach
Baker Beach is the place to go for those seeking a bit of sun, sand, and some of the most dramatic views of the Golden Gate Bridge. This mile-long beach is located on the Presidio’s western shoreline, making it the perfect place for a tranquil getaway close to the city.
Famed for its unbeatable panoramic views of the Golden Gate, and the Marin Headlands towering across the strait, this is an ideal spot for a beachside picnic or just soaking in the stunning landscape.
Best Time to Visit: Ideal for sunset when the bridge is bathed in warm golden light.
17. Check Out Twin Peaks for Panoramic Views
Twin Peaks, the second-highest point in San Francisco, is one of the best vantage points in the city offering unbroken, sweeping views of the entire Bay Area. Located at 922 feet above sea level, it’s the perfect spot to capture the best photos of the San Francisco skyline, the Bay, and, on clear days, the distant Golden Gate Bridge.
Visitors can either drive or hike to the top. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to visit, offering the advantage of less fog and lower crowds, plus stunning natural light.
18. Take a Walking Tour in North Beach
San Francisco’s vibrant North Beach neighborhood, often termed the city’s “Little Italy,” is famed for its European charm, family-owned cafes, and delicious Italian food. Beyond the excellent coffee and cuisine, North Beach has a rich history as one of the centers of the Beat Generation during the 1950s and 60s.
Landmarks in the area include City Lights bookstore—a hub of literary activism started by poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti—and Saints Peter and Paul Church on Washington Square. Join a walking tour to learn about the Beatniks, or simply stroll down Columbus Avenue for the local sights.
19. Visit The Ferry Building Marketplace
The Ferry Building Marketplace is a food lover’s dream, offering an array of artisanal food stalls, specialty shops, and gourmet restaurants. This historic building sits along the Embarcadero and once served as a major transportation hub in the city’s booming maritime days.
Today, it’s home to some of San Francisco’s best vendors, where you can sample everything from fresh oysters to vegan chocolate. Plan your visit on Tuesdays, Thursdays, or Saturdays when a large outdoor farmer’s market brings local produce, flowers, and artisan products.
Insider Tip: Grab a stool at Hog Island Oyster Bar and enjoy some of the freshest oysters in the Bay Area.
20. Explore Japantown
San Francisco’s Japantown may be small, but it’s packed with cultural experiences. One of only three remaining Japantowns in the United States, this 6-block district provides tourists a chance to step into a slice of Japanese culture in the middle of the city.
Visit Peace Plaza with its five-tiered pagoda, browse through the Japanese supermarkets, or indulge in some authentic ramen at one of the cozy restaurants. It’s also recommended to visit during festivals like the Cherry Blossom Festival held annually in the spring.
21. Take a Bay Cruise
One of the best ways to admire San Francisco’s iconic waterfront is by taking a Bay Cruise. Several boat companies offer tours around the bay, which allow you to see landmarks like Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Angel Island from a unique water-bound perspective.
Most cruises last about an hour or two and offer informative commentary on SF’s rich maritime history, all while you take in breathtaking views of the city skyline juxtaposed with natural beauty.
22. Visit the Exploratorium
Known as one of the best science museums in the world, the Exploratorium is a must, especially for families or curious travelers. Located at Pier 15 along The Embarcadero, the Exploratorium stands out for its hands-on science and technology exhibits that pique the interest of children and adults alike.
From interactive light shows to experiments with physics, visitors are invited to explore the intersections of science, art, and human perception.
23. Walk Through Yerba Buena Gardens
Yerba Buena Gardens is an outdoor green space and art park situated near downtown San Francisco. For those seeking a few moments of serenity in the bustling city, it offers walking paths, waterfalls, and public art installations.
The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Waterfall is a striking feature, providing peaceful spots for contemplation. Several public performances and events, such as dance and theater productions, are regularly scheduled in the gardens during summer months.
24. See Sea Lions at Aquatic Park Cove
While Pier 39 boasts playful sea lions, a quieter spot to view these marine creatures is at Aquatic Park Cove, not far from Ghirardelli Square. This waterfront area forms part of the larger San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, making it a picturesque spot for both wildlife observation and learning a bit about maritime history.
Chiefly, the area offers an up-close and personal experience with the city’s resident sea lions—simply sit by the harbor and watch them bask or frolic throughout the day.
25. Explore Salesforce Park
Designed as an elevated green space above Salesforce Transit Center in downtown San Francisco, Salesforce Park is a modern architectural and botanical gem. Suspended about 70 feet above ground, the park features gardens, open spaces, cafes, and walking paths. It’s a serene escape amid the concrete jungle of the downtown financial district.
Pro Tip: In the summer, the park frequently hosts free events, including yoga classes, film screenings, and live music performances.
26. Visit The Painted Ladies at Alamo Square Park
Alamo Square Park is home to one of San Francisco’s most iconic and often-photographed sights—the Painted Ladies. This row of colorful Victorian-style houses, often seen in postcards or pop culture (such as TV show Full House), is set against the modern backdrop of the city’s downtown.
It’s an ideal spot for an afternoon picnic. From the park, which sits on a hill, visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline.
27. Spend Time at Crissy Field
Crissy Field is a stretch of beach and waterfront park located within the Presidio with unbeatable views of the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s perfect for an afternoon of outdoor activities including picnicking, walking, jogging, and birdwatching.
A favorite amongst locals and visitors alike, Crissy Field is excellent for those wishing to enjoy a quiet, laid-back experience with breathtaking natural beauty. On temperate days, you might find kiteboarders and windsurfers making the most of the breezy bay.
28. Visit The Walt Disney Family Museum
Tucked away in the Presidio, the Walt Disney Family Museum offers a captivating glimpse into the life and career of Walt Disney, the man behind one of the world’s most beloved entertainment empires. The museum is filled with artifacts, films, sketches, and delightful multimedia exhibits showcasing the evolution of animation, from early hand-drawn Mickey Mouse cartoons to the creation of Disneyland.
Whether you’re a Disney fan or just curious about one of American cinema’s most influential figures, this museum is a hidden gem worth exploring.
FAQs Section
- What are some must-see attractions in San Francisco?
- The Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Chinatown top the list of San Francisco’s must-see attractions.
- Is it free to walk across the Golden Gate Bridge?
- Yes, it’s free to walk across the Golden Gate Bridge, though biking or driving may have tolls.[6]
- What is there to do in San Francisco for families?
- Family-friendly attractions include Pier 39, California Academy of Sciences, Golden Gate Park with its museums and gardens, and the Exploratorium.
- What is the best time to visit San Francisco?
- Early fall (September-October) is typically the best time to visit San Francisco, as you can enjoy milder weather and fewer crowds.[12]
Conclusion
San Francisco is a city like no other, offering visitors a stunning contrast between natural beauty, urban architecture, history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re wandering through historical neighborhoods like Chinatown and the Mission, taking in awe-inspiring views at Twin Peaks, or indulging in artisanal treats at Ghirardelli Square, this city knows how to appeal to all interests. Be sure to enjoy all 28 of these incredible activities to make the most of your time in San Francisco.
