With its iconic Golden Gate Bridge and historic cable cars, San Francisco is a city of innovation, culture, and stunning natural beauty. For those pondering things to do in San Francisco, biking or walking across the Golden Gate Bridge to take in panoramic views of the bay and exploring Fisherman’s Wharf with its seafood stalls, lively piers, and sea lion sightings are top activities.
The city’s Alcatraz Island, once a notorious federal prison, now serves as a compelling museum, offering insights into its intriguing past. Nearby, the vibrant neighborhoods of Chinatown and the Mission District provide a deep dive into the city’s multicultural tapestry, offering everything from dim sum feasts to colorful murals.
Beyond its urban attractions, San Francisco is a gateway to wine regions like Napa and Sonoma. San Francisco’s blend of historical landmarks, cultural richness, and proximity to natural wonders makes it a standout destination for those seeking the best places to visit in the USA.
Attractions & Things to Do in San Francisco, United States
1. Golden Gate Bridge
This iconic orange suspension bridge is arguably the most recognized symbol of San Francisco. Spanning the Golden Gate Strait, the bridge offers vehicle and pedestrian access, allowing visitors to soak in panoramic views of the bay, the city, and the distant Pacific.
Location: Spanning the Golden Gate Strait, connecting San Francisco to Marin County. Accessible by car, bike, or on foot.
Scenic Spot: Offers stunning panoramic views of San Francisco Bay, the Pacific Ocean, and the city skyline.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or sunset for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, though the walk or bike ride across the bridge may be challenging for small children or the elderly.
Price: Free to visit; a toll applies for vehicles traveling southbound into San Francisco.
Travel Tip: Early morning or sunset are ideal times for photos. For a unique view, consider visiting the Marin Headlands on the north side of the bridge.
2. Alcatraz Island
Located in the middle of San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz once served as a notorious federal prison. Today, it stands as a testament to history, offering guided tours that delve into the lives of its former inmates and the legendary escape attempts.
Location: In San Francisco Bay, accessible only by ferry from Pier 33.
Scenic Spot: Historic former prison with dramatic bay views, offering glimpses of the Golden Gate Bridge and the city skyline.
Best Time to Visit: Morning tours for fewer crowds; night tours for a more eerie experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, but involves a fair amount of walking, including uphill paths.
Price: Ferry tickets cost approximately $40 per adult, including the guided tour.
Travel Tip: Tickets for Alcatraz can sell out weeks in advance, especially during peak tourist season. Book early to secure your spot.
3. Fisherman’s Wharf
A bustling hub of activity, Fisherman’s Wharf is teeming with shops, restaurants, and attractions like the sea lion colony at Pier 39. It’s also the launch point for many bay cruises and offers a lively atmosphere with street performers and vendors.
Location: Located along the northern waterfront of San Francisco. Easily reachable by cable car, bus, or on foot from downtown.
Scenic Spot: Offers beautiful bay views, sea lion sightings at Pier 39, and a lively atmosphere with street performers.
Best Time to Visit: Late morning to early afternoon for fresh seafood and a vibrant atmosphere.
Suitable for All Ages: Perfect for families, children, and mixed-age groups.
Price: Free to visit; food and attractions vary in cost.
Travel Tip: While popular, the area can be pretty touristy. For the freshest seafood, consider venturing to local favorite spots further from the main thoroughfare.
4. Cable Cars
San Francisco’s historic cable cars offer a unique mode of transportation, taking visitors up and down the city’s infamous hilly terrain. A ride on these moving landmarks provides a nostalgic journey through various neighborhoods.
Location: Operates throughout downtown San Francisco, including routes from Union Square to Fisherman’s Wharf.
Scenic Spot: Offers an iconic San Francisco experience while providing breathtaking cityscape views.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening to avoid long lines.
Suitable for All Ages: Great for all ages, though standing riders should hold on tightly as the ride can be jerky.
Price: $8 per ride, or unlimited ride passes available.
Travel Tip: The lines for cable cars, especially at the Ghirardelli Square and Union Square turnarounds, can be extended. For a shorter wait, hop on at one of the intermediate stops.
5. Lombard Street
Often referred to as the “crookedest” street in the world, Lombard Street is famous for its sharp turns and beautiful gardens. It’s a picturesque spot in the city and a must-visit for first-timers.
Location: In the Russian Hill neighborhood, best accessed by car or on foot from the Powell-Hyde cable car stop.
Scenic Spot: Famous for its winding, flower-lined street with a picturesque backdrop of San Francisco’s skyline.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for fewer crowds and better photos.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, though the steep incline may be challenging for some visitors.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: The street can get crowded with tourists, especially during summer weekends. If driving, be prepared for slow movement and watch out for pedestrians.
6. Chinatown
One of the oldest and largest Chinatowns outside of Asia, San Francisco’s Chinatown offers a vibrant mix of history, culture, and cuisine. Visitors can explore myriad shops, temples, and eateries, all while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Location: Located in downtown San Francisco, accessible by bus, cable car, or on foot.
Scenic Spot: Vibrant streets filled with colorful lanterns, traditional temples, and authentic Chinese eateries.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning to early afternoon for shopping and dim sum.
Suitable for All Ages: Great for families, food lovers, and cultural explorers.
Price: Free to explore; shopping and dining costs vary.
Travel Tip: Don’t limit yourself to the main drag on Grant Avenue. Wander the side streets for a more authentic experience and discover hidden gems and local favorites.
7. Coit Tower
Perched atop Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower offers panoramic views of San Francisco and the bay. Its walls are adorned with murals painted during the 1930s, depicting various aspects of Californian life during that era.
Location: On Telegraph Hill, accessible by car, bus, or a steep walk up the Filbert Street Steps.
Scenic Spot: Offers panoramic 360-degree views of the San Francisco skyline and bay.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for the best lighting and clearer views.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, though the climb up the hill may be strenuous for some.
Price: $10 for adults, $7 for seniors and children.
Travel Tip: If walking to the tower, be prepared for a steep climb. Alternatively, there’s a small fee for parking if you choose to drive.
8. The Painted Ladies
A row of beautifully restored Victorian houses, the Painted Ladies are best viewed from Alamo Square Park. Their striking colors against the backdrop of downtown skyscrapers create a postcard-perfect scene, often associated with San Francisco.
Location: At Alamo Square Park, accessible by bus or car.
Scenic Spot: Famous row of colorful Victorian houses with the downtown skyline as a backdrop.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all; a great spot for families to relax in the park.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for the best photo lighting. While the park is widespread, the nearby streets offer many quieter viewpoints.
9. Haight-Ashbury
Infamous as the birthplace of the 1960s counterculture movement, Haight-Ashbury still maintains a bohemian vibe. Lined with vintage shops, bookstores, and eclectic eateries, it’s a haven for those seeking a taste of San Francisco’s alternative side.
Location: At the intersection of Haight and Ashbury streets, accessible by bus or car.
Scenic Spot: Known for its hippie history, colorful murals, and vintage shops.
Best Time to Visit: Midday to early evening for shopping and exploring local cafes.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for adults and older teens interested in counterculture history.
Price: Free to explore; shopping and dining costs vary.
Travel Tip: Parking can be tricky in this area. Consider taking public transport or walking, and enjoy the neighborhood’s murals and historic architecture.
10. San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)
One of the largest museums of modern and contemporary art in the U.S., SFMOMA houses an impressive collection of works from the 20th century to the present. Its innovative architectural design is a work of art, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Location: Downtown San Francisco, easily accessible by bus, BART, or on foot.
Scenic Spot: Home to world-class modern and contemporary art exhibitions.
Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings to avoid crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for adults and older children interested in art.
Price: General admission is $25 for adults; free for children under 18.
Travel Tip: If visiting on a weekend or holiday, booking tickets in advance can help you avoid long lines. Also, check out the museum’s free public spaces and art-filled terraces.
11. The Exploratorium
Situated on Pier 15, the Exploratorium is an interactive museum of science, art, and human perception. It offers hands-on exhibits that are both educational and fun, making it an excellent destination for families and curious minds of all ages.
Location: On Pier 15 along the Embarcadero, accessible by bus or streetcar.
Scenic Spot: Interactive science museum with stunning waterfront views.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays or early mornings for fewer crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Excellent for children, families, and curious minds of all ages.
Price: $30 for adults, $25 for youth, free for children under 3.
Travel Tip: Thursdays after 6 p.m. are for adults only, offering a quieter experience with special programming and events. It’s also good to wear layers, as the waterfront location can get chilly.
12. Ferry Building Marketplace
Overlooking the bay, this historic building is home to a bustling market where visitors can find gourmet foods, fresh produce, and artisanal goods. On Saturdays, a large farmers market showcases the region’s rich agricultural offerings.
Location: At the Embarcadero, accessible by bus, ferry, or on foot.
Scenic Spot: Bustling market with gourmet food vendors and a farmers market on weekends.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for fresh produce and fewer crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Great for all visitors, especially food lovers.
Price: Free to visit; food and shopping prices vary.
Travel Tip: The marketplace can get crowded, especially during lunch and weekends. Early morning is a quieter time to explore, and you’ll get first pick at many of the fresh offerings.
13. Ocean Beach
Stretching along the city’s western edge, Ocean Beach offers a vast expanse of sand and surf. With views of the distant Cliff House and the ruins of the Sutro Baths, it’s a serene spot to enjoy the Pacific’s majesty.
Location: On San Francisco’s western coastline, accessible by car or bus.
Scenic Spot: Long sandy beach with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for a sunset view.
Suitable for All Ages: Ideal for families and nature lovers, but swimming is not recommended due to strong currents.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: The water here can be cold, and currents are strong, so always exercise caution if venturing into the ocean. The beach is also ideal for bonfires during designated seasons and times.
14. Mission Dolores
Founded in 1776, Mission San Francisco de Asís, commonly known as Mission Dolores, is the oldest surviving structure in San Francisco. Visitors can return in time as they explore the historic mission chapel and its beautifully maintained gardens.
Location: In the Mission District, accessible by bus or BART.
Scenic Spot: Oldest standing structure in San Francisco, with historical significance.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for a peaceful visit.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for history lovers and families.
Price: $7 for adults, $5 for seniors and students.
Travel Tip: Be sure to visit the old cemetery adjacent to the mission. It offers a unique look into the early history of San Francisco, with many notable figures buried there.
15. Palace of Fine Arts
Initially constructed for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exhibition, the Palace of Fine Arts is an architectural marvel set against a tranquil lagoon. Its Greco-Roman columns and rotunda make it a favorite spot for photographers, picnickers, and couples seeking a romantic backdrop.
Location: In the Marina District, accessible by car or bus.
Scenic Spot: A grand architectural structure with a scenic lagoon.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset for the most picturesque setting.
Suitable for All Ages: Ideal for all ages, a great place for picnics and photography.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: While the exterior is beautiful at any time of day, the early morning and twilight hours offer particularly magical lighting for photographs.
16. Twin Peaks
Offering one of the highest vantage points in the city, Twin Peaks provides panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline, the bay, and, on clear days, even the distant Oakland. The peaks are a popular spot for both sunrise and sunset.
Location: South of downtown, accessible by car or a strenuous hike.
Scenic Spot: Offers a panoramic view of the entire San Francisco skyline.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset for a breathtaking cityscape.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, though windy conditions may be uncomfortable for young children.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: It can get windy at the top, so bring a jacket even on warmer days. Also, the parking lot can fill quickly, so consider visiting during off-peak hours.
17. Ghirardelli Square
Once home to the famous chocolate factory, Ghirardelli Square is now a bustling shopping center filled with eateries, boutiques, and the flagship Ghirardelli chocolate shop where you can indulge in sweet treats.
Location: Near Fisherman’s Wharf, accessible by cable car or bus.
Scenic Spot: Historic chocolate factory turned shopping and dining area.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for dessert and sightseeing.
Suitable for All Ages: Great for families and chocolate lovers.
Price: Free to visit; chocolate treats and shopping costs vary.
Travel Tip: If visiting in the evening, combine your trip with a stroll to the nearby Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 to make the most of your waterfront experience.
18. Sutro Baths and Lands End
The ruins of the Sutro Baths are a testament to a bygone era of San Francisco’s history. Adjacent to this is Lands End, a rugged coastal park that offers trails with stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific Ocean.
Location: On the western edge of San Francisco, near Ocean Beach, accessible by car or bus.
Scenic Spot: Ruins of the historic Sutro Baths with breathtaking coastal views and rugged hiking trails.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for stunning sunset views over the Pacific Ocean.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, though some trails can be steep and rocky, which may be challenging for young children or elderly visitors.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: The trails can be uneven and occasionally steep. Wear sturdy shoes, and always stay on marked paths to ensure safety.
19. Japantown
San Francisco’s Japantown, one of the few remaining in the U.S., is a hub of Japanese culture, cuisine, and shopping. The Peace Pagoda, a five-tiered concrete stupa, stands as an iconic symbol of the neighborhood.
Location: Near Fillmore Street, accessible by bus or car.
Scenic Spot: Features traditional Japanese architecture, the Peace Pagoda, and authentic Japanese restaurants and shops.
Best Time to Visit: Spring, especially during the Cherry Blossom Festival, for cultural events and vibrant decorations.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, with family-friendly shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
Price: Free to explore; shopping and dining costs vary.
Travel Tip: Visit during one of the many festivals, like the Cherry Blossom Festival in spring, to experience Japantown at its most vibrant. Also, don’t miss out on sampling authentic ramen or sushi from local eateries.
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San Francisco, United States: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in San Francisco: 8/10 – San Francisco offers a wide range of family-friendly attractions such as the California Academy of Sciences, the Exploratorium, and the San Francisco Zoo. The city’s parks, like Golden Gate Park and the Presidio, provide ample outdoor space for children to explore and play.
Nightlife in San Francisco: 9/10 – San Francisco has a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. Areas like the Mission District, North Beach, and SoMa are known for their lively night scenes. The city offers diverse options for evening entertainment, catering to different tastes and preferences.
Sport in San Francisco: 8/10 – San Francisco provides numerous opportunities for sports enthusiasts, including facilities for baseball, basketball, and football. The city is home to major sports teams like the San Francisco Giants (MLB) and the Golden State Warriors (NBA). Outdoor activities such as hiking in the Marin Headlands and cycling across the Golden Gate Bridge are also popular.
Culture and Attractions in San Francisco: 10/10 – San Francisco is rich in cultural and historical attractions, including Alcatraz Island, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA). The city’s vibrant cultural scene includes theaters, art galleries, and numerous festivals, reflecting its diverse heritage and dynamic arts community.
Gastronomy in San Francisco: 10/10 – The culinary scene in San Francisco is diverse and innovative, featuring a wide range of international cuisines and local specialties like sourdough bread and Dungeness crab. The city offers numerous dining options, from high-end restaurants to street food vendors, providing a rich and varied culinary experience.
Shopping in San Francisco: 9/10 – Shopping in San Francisco includes high-end malls like Westfield San Francisco Centre, boutique stores in Union Square, and unique markets such as the Ferry Building Marketplace. The city offers a variety of products, from luxury brands to local crafts and artisanal goods, providing a comprehensive shopping experience.
Prices in San Francisco: 5/10 – San Francisco is known for its high cost of living, with expensive accommodation, dining, and shopping. While the city offers many luxury options, there are also more affordable choices available, but overall, the cost of visiting can be high compared to other cities.
Average price for a hotel night: $250
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: $15
Price of a beer: $7
Price of a coffee: $4
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in San Francisco, United States
For those looking to explore beyond the iconic Golden Gate, top day trips near San Francisco offer a chance to walk among the ancient redwoods of Muir Woods, taste the exquisite wines of Napa Valley, and explore the charming streets of Sausalito, each destination offering a unique perspective on Northern California’s diverse landscapes and cultures.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, San Francisco accommodations span from luxurious hotels offering breathtaking views of the bay to quaint bed and breakfasts in the heart of the city’s historic neighborhoods, ensuring a memorable stay filled with the eclectic charm of this iconic city.
FAQ About Things to Do in San Francisco, United States
What are the top attractions to visit in San Francisco?
Some of the top attractions in San Francisco include the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Lombard Street.
Is it worth visiting Alcatraz Island?
Absolutely! Alcatraz Island is a historic site that once served as a federal prison. Visitors can take a ferry to the island and explore the prison cells, learn about its history, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Where can I get the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge?
Several viewpoints exist for the Golden Gate Bridge, including Battery Spencer, Crissy Field, and the Golden Gate Overlook. Each offers a unique perspective of this iconic landmark.
Are there any unique neighborhoods to explore in San Francisco?
Yes, San Francisco is known for its diverse neighborhoods. Some must-visit areas include Chinatown, the Mission District, Haight-Ashbury, and North Beach.
What are some recommended activities for families in San Francisco?
Families can visit the California Academy of Sciences, the Exploratorium, the San Francisco Zoo, and the Children’s Creativity Museum for fun and educational experiences.
Where can I experience San Francisco’s culinary scene?
San Francisco is renowned for its culinary delights. Head to the Ferry Building Marketplace for gourmet treats, explore the diverse restaurants in the Mission District or enjoy fresh seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf.
Are there any parks or natural sites to visit in San Francisco?
Yes, San Francisco boasts several beautiful parks and natural sites. Golden Gate Park, the Presidio, and Land’s End are popular spots for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy nature.
Can I take a day trip from San Francisco to nearby attractions?
Certainly! Popular day trips from San Francisco include visiting the Napa Valley wine region, exploring Muir Woods National Monument, or taking a scenic drive down the Pacific Coast Highway to destinations like Half Moon Bay.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Francisco
https://www.getyourguide.com/san-francisco-l61/
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