14 Fabulous things do in San Francisco! [2023]

When you’ve got your sights on visiting San Francisco, these concepts for the most effective issues to do within the Golden Gate Metropolis provides you with an incredible place to start out.

The final time I visited, we had been passing by on our approach to Chicago bringing pals who had by no means been earlier than. We landed about 2.30pm, taxii’d in from the airport. We may taken the BART prepare (Bay Space Speedy Transport) however calculated at $10 per individual x4 was dearer than a taxi which took us door to door.

Throwing our baggage into our rooms, we set off on a stroll to blow the airplane cobwebs away, from our resort in Union Sq., by Chinatown and right down to Fisherman’s Wharf.

That’s three of the large must-sees that you’ll have already got in your bucket checklist proper there, however others on this submit I reckon you received’t even find out about!

We solely had 36 hours in San Francisco on that go to, so I wrote this submit on the most effective locations to go to in such a fast window.

I’ve put this checklist along with the assistance of a number of US journey bloggers who all have just a little one thing particular to share about San Francisco, in addition to a few of my very own favourite issues to do and see right here.

*This submit comprises some affiliate hyperlinks. Meaning when you make a purchase order I could make a small fee, at no further value to you. Thanks in your help of my weblog.

Getting round San Francisco

Begin with a Hop on Hop off bus tour

My high tip for visiting any metropolis for the primary time, or even when I’ve been earlier than however simply need a straightforward approach to get round, is to purchase a 24 or 48-hour Hop On Hop Off bus ticket.

Trip the cable automobiles

There’s nothing fairly as cool, and quintessentially San Franciscan, as driving the cable automobiles up and down the steep hills. They’re a vacationer attraction in their very own proper!

Purchase an all day Muni cross for rides on trains and cable automobiles, or it’s $8 per journey. For those who’re going to select up the cable automotive from Powell & Market, Bay & Taylor and Hyde & Seaside Streets, you will need to buy your fare prematurely on-line. In any other case precise change is required.

For all-day journey, buy a Customer Passport for $13.

The place to remain in San Francisco

I personally like to remain round Union Sq.. It actually is a good hub for buying and eating, exhibits and bars. It’s additionally very straightforward to take the cable automotive down Market Avenue and across the Embarcadero to touristy Fisherman’s Wharf. The Hop on Hop off buses additionally cease right here for simple choose up (and drop off).

I’ve additionally stayed on the Embarcadero too, close to the Ferry Constructing. They’ve an out of doors market down right here on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, and when you like a sea view and to be inside strolling distance of Oracle Stadium, and the encompassing eating places and bars, that is great place.

In all probability the most well-liked spot to remain is at Fisherman’s Wharf. If that is the place you propose to spend most of your time, taking excursions, strolling across the pier, consuming out. Then it is a great spot and on the cable automotive line.

Go to Fisherman’s Wharf at PIER 39

By Grace Roberts from Pixie Mud and Passports

For those who’re on the lookout for waterfront views, wonderful actions for kiddos, and avenue performers for miles, you then’ll wish to go to the well-known PIER 39.

This iconic spot is technically an open-air buying heart, however it’s completely filled with unbelievable issues to do. From boutique buying and the Aquarium on the Bay (no have to line up for tickets when you ebook on-line right here) to the ocean lions that playfully lounge on the pier, it’s unsurprising that this place is perpetually full of vacationers.

But it surely’s the ever-popular Musée Mécanique that makes this spot a must-visit. Imagine it or not, this arcade has been family-operated and owned since 1933, and is filled with basic 20^th-century arcade video games. Over 300 mechanically-operated ones of their unique working situation, in truth!

Youngsters often spend their time turning the music containers and watching the barely creepy Laffing Sal. For those who’re questioning what that is, it’s basically a funhouse mannequin from the Nineteen Thirties that laughs at passersby. It’s fascinating and is certainly worthy of a photograph or two!

And when you’re on the lookout for extra, take a look at the foosball tables or get your fortune predicted by a bizarro gypsy. There’s no assure that her predictions will probably be correct, however it’s an effective way to have a chuckle together with your journey mates. If nothing else, it’s a great way to maintain toddlers off your again about driving a number of hours to Disneyland!

If you’re finished, you’ll be able to seize an excellent scoop of ice cream from Dreyer’s or choose up a scorching chocolate from Ghirardelli in Ghirardelli Sq., or attempt a basic clam chowder in a bitter dough bowl from a number of retailers.

Sail to Alcatraz

For those who’ve by no means been to San Francisco, a go to to The Rock will probably be in your must-do checklist. The foreboding jail rises up out of Alcatraz Island in the midst of San Francisco Bay, 1.25 miles (2km) from the shores of town, and will inform many a narrative.

The truth is, not solely may it, however it does! Your ticket will embrace an audio information which you’ll take heed to at your individual tempo as you stroll previous jail cells, by the corridors and outdoors across the gardens and ruins.

You’ll hear from former inmates like Al Capone, and guards recalling their time right here and also you’ll ponder whether those that escaped and had been by no means discovered, really did get away or perished within the harbor.

Initially opened within the mid to late 1800s as a army fort, army jail and had amenities for a lighthouse. It was transformed right into a federal jail and closed in 1963. It’s now an nationwide historic landmark.

It’s a couple of 15-minute boat journey to the island from Pier 33. Alcatraz Cruises is the official supplier (additionally Hornblower Cruises). For those who purchase a ticket from one other firm you’ll not dock however simply tour across the island.

It’s also possible to bundle an Alcatraz ticket to your Hop On Hop Off bus tour >

Go to the Ferry Constructing

By Denise of Chef Denise

The Ferry Constructing Market is a should on any San Francisco itinerary for foodies. You’ll be able to stroll, or take the cable automotive to this landmark constructing and clocktower situated on the foot of Market Avenue. 

In 1898, the Ferry Constructing did certainly function ferryboats to and from the peninsula. Years later when the Golden Gate and Bay Bridges had been in full swing weaving collectively the San Francisco Bay space, the ferries turned out of date. Workplaces took over the area shortly thereafter till the early 2000s.

After an enormous restoration, a market for eating places and native meals and wine artisans was created. 

It is a nice venue to absorb the San Francisco meals scene. You’ll be able to graze your approach by, snacking on baked items, seafood, ice cream, and extra. For those who favor a meal, there are many fabulous eateries for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Make a reservation for Hog Island Oyster Firm or Boulette’s Larder. If that doesn’t work, attempt Gott’s Roadside.

You’ll additionally discover great outlets and markets to select up foodie souvenirs like native olive oils, wines, spices, craft beers, cheeses, and an array of sweets. You’ll be able to spend an hour or a day relying in your enthusiasm for meals and degree of starvation.

After exploring the within of the Ferry Constructing, step outdoors the again and benefit from the views of the bay.

And on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday mornings be sure that to depart time to discover certainly one of California’s greatest farmers markets in entrance of the constructing.

Discover Chinatown

By Victoria of Information Your Journey

San Francisco’s Chinatown is a must-see for anybody on the lookout for a novel cultural expertise.

This neighborhood is the oldest and largest Chinatown in the USA and provides a glimpse into the historical past and traditions of Chinese language immigrants within the metropolis. It’s bustling with vibrant avenue markets, colourful lanterns, and conventional Chinese language structure, creating an environment that’s each thrilling and genuine.

One of many predominant points of interest in Chinatown is the markets, the place yow will discover every little thing from conventional Chinese language herbs and spices, to hand-embroidered silk clothes, to unique vegetables and fruit.

It’s also possible to discover a number of of town’s oldest Chinese language temples, such because the Tin How Temple and the Kong Chow Temple, which supply a glimpse into the non secular and cultural practices of the Chinese language group.

On the subject of meals, Chinatown provides an abundance of scrumptious and inexpensive choices. There are lots of conventional Chinese language eating places, avenue distributors, and markets the place you’ll be able to attempt quite a lot of dishes from completely different areas of China.

Some well-liked dishes to attempt embrace dim sum, dumplings, Peking duck, and Cantonese roast meats.

For a sit-down restaurant, a number of the well-known locations to eat can be R&G Lounge, well-known for his or her Chinese language type roast meats, just like the crispy pores and skin roast pork; the Home of Nanking, recognized for his or her Cantonese-inspired dishes and Pacific catch seafood; and the Yank Sing, a Michelin-starred restaurant recognized for his or her high-quality dim sum.

There are additionally many different Asian cuisines out there in Chinatown like Vietnamese, Thai and Filipino. For those who’re on the lookout for one thing candy, yow will discover quite a lot of conventional Chinese language desserts too, comparable to scrumptious egg tarts and sesame balls.

Take this 3-hour strolling meals tour of Chinatown to get to style genuine Cantonese, Mandarin and Szechuan delicacies from 5 Chinese language owned and operated eating places and bakeries.

Go to iconic Haight-Ashbury

By Anu Agarwal of Vacation spot Checkoff

Haight-Ashbury is a unusual neighborhood in San Franciso, wealthy in historical past and well-known for its hippie vibe, classic buying, unique Victorian properties, and funky shops.

Haight-Ashury turned well-known within the Sixties when 1000’s of individuals got here to this neighborhood in the course of the Summer time of Love motion. The consequences of that hippie tradition are nonetheless seen on this neighborhood within the quirky shops. 

Strolling on Haight Avenue is an effective way to spend a morning and revel in some lunch on the many eating places right here.

Be sure to take a selfie on the iconic Haight St and Ashbury St intersection the place all of it started in 1967 and take a look at the well-known legs statue on the Piedmont Boutique!

The realm has lots of unique Victorian properties nonetheless intact and also you’re not removed from Alamo Sq. and probably the most well-known row of Victorian homes, the Painted Women. There are some well-known properties right here the place musicians lived in the course of the Sixties like The Grateful Useless home and Janis Joplin’s home.

The classic shops right here, like Relic Classic, are nice for window buying and also you would possibly discover a new favourite piece. Amoeba Music is the most important report retailer right here and Booksmith is nice for brand new reads.

Be sure to purchase a tie-dye shirt at Love on Haight retailer. The colourful exterior of the shop is superior.

Espresso to the Individuals is a pleasant cafe and Cha Cha Cha and Magnolia Brewery are some nice locations to seize some lunch. 

For those who don’t have time to come back for a go to, the Hop On Hop Off bus takes you thru this space so you’ll be able to snap you pics with out getting off the rooftop!

Go to Golden Gate Park

By Candice, CS Ginger www.csginger.com

One of many must-see points of interest is Golden Gate Park. This is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in San Francisco with children and adults alike.

Spanning 1,017 acres of lush grasslands and meadows, you’ll be able to go to gardens, sports activities courts, picnic areas, museums, playgrounds, and exquisite trails.

Be warned: the park is so huge that it may well take days to discover each nook of it. The Stow Lake is a tranquil physique of water surrounded by majestic timber and views of San Francisco’s skyline.

The Japanese Tea Backyard, an genuine Japanese tea home with an exquisite backyard, is without doubt one of the hottest spots in Golden Gate Park. The San Francisco Botanical Backyard shows over 8,000 species of vegetation and flowers from all around the globe.

For sports activities lovers, Golden Gate Park provides loads of recreation areas to select from. Go to the Polo Fields for a recreation of polo or go jogging on the working observe. It’s also possible to attempt your hand at archery or go biking on the park’s trails. Different actions embrace picnicking and taking part in disc golf, baseball, softball, tennis, basketball, and volleyball.

It’s also possible to catch free concert events and performances within the Bandshell.

The Golden Gate Park can also be residence to a few of San Francisco’s greatest museums, together with the California Academy of Sciences and the de Younger Museum.

There are additionally some great eating choices. Seize a chunk to eat on the Stow Lake Boathouse or the Park Chalet, each of which give scrumptious meals in an exquisite setting. There are additionally a number of meals vehicles situated across the park that supply fast snacks and drinks.

Discover the De Younger Museum

By Francesca of Homeroom Journey

The De Younger Museum is without doubt one of the issues to do in San Francisco, particularly when you solely have a weekend in San Francisco.

This palace of effective arts museum is situated in Golden Gate Park and is the proper cease for any artwork lover. In addition they have a sister museum, the Legion of Honor which can also be value a go to. 

The De Younger was established in March of 1895 and is known as after M. H. De Younger, a San Franciscan newspaperman. The unique constructing was broken within the 1906 earthquake and closed for a yr and a half for repairs.

Whereas the De Younger Museum largely comprises American artwork from the 1600s-2000s, there may be additionally a small part that features artwork from Asia, Africa, Europe, and lots of textile arts. A relentless rotation of particular reveals have beforehand included Egyptian artwork and Asian artists. 

Go to the tower for a view of the encompassing space and nice for photos. The tower is included together with your admission ticket.

Admission is $15, however is free the primary Tuesday of each month, free for locals on Saturdays, and free within the evenings after 4:30pm. It’s also possible to obtain $2 off your ticket when you take public transportation there, making it a price range pleasant exercise throughout your San Francisco journey. 

This is without doubt one of the stops on the Hop On Hop Off Bus route. However your tickets on-line right here for two days and use it as your taxi round San Francisco!

Picnic on Crissy Area

By Kristin of World Journey Escapades

For those who’re on the lookout for a soothing exercise with pals, household and even by your self, take into account a picnic at Crissy Area, a lesser recognized spot the place you’ll be able to take pleasure in stunning views of the enduring Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, San Francisco skyline and the encompassing Bay Space.

At Crissy Area there are many picnic benches out there, or convey your individual blanket when you favor sitting within the grass and let the youngsters run round and play video games.

There’s a smaller seaside within the space for guests to take pleasure in. The seaside isn’t as scenic because the seashores in Good, France nor will you witness any browsing, however it’s nonetheless nice for a day stroll. Plus, in case you have a canine, you’re permitted to allow them to stroll round!

There’s a cafe close by in addition to a toilet. You’ll even be happy to know that there’s quantity of public parking for automobiles or campers too.

However the most effective half about Crissy Area is that it’s a lot much less crowded than different locations like Golden Gate Park or Mission Dolores Park. So, when you’re craving a peaceable afternoon with incredible views of a few of San Francisco’s best landmarks, cease by Crissy Area.

Picnic with the Painted Women

By Rasika of Bae Space And Past

It’s tough to search out free issues to do in San Francisco, because it’s an costly metropolis in California, however right here’s among the finest free issues to do: have a picnic at Alamo Sq..

The park has the most effective views of the well-known Painted Women, a row of well-liked and fairly Victorian homes that had been constructed within the 1800s, and behind them to the metropolis of town.

The homes are properly preserved and are some of the well-liked vacationer points of interest in San Francisco. You’ll know them while you see them. This Painted Women view has been utilized in many TV exhibits like Full Home, and flicks.

That is my choose when you’re on the lookout for an incredible view. I really like the juxtaposition of the outdated with the brand new rising up behind it.

Alamo Sq. Park is a dog-friendly public area with a playground, a tennis courtroom, benches, and several other picnic spots, bounded by Hayes Avenue to the south, Steiner Avenue to the east, Fulton Avenue to the north, and Scott Avenue to the west.

Go to Mrs Doubtfire’s home!

By Catrina of 24 Hours Layover

For these of a sure age who cherished the film Mrs Doubtfire starring the late Robin Williams, a fast cease to see the unique home that was used within the movie is a should do for an Instagram pic when you find yourself in San Francisco! 

The long-lasting home is situated on the nook of Steiner Avenue and Broadway in Pacific Heights, close to Alamo Sq. – a very beautiful and prosperous neighbourhood with many beautiful homes. The precise deal with is 2640 Steiner Avenue (avid followers will recall the Hillard’s deal with being given within the film). 

The Mrs Doubtfire Home is located on a really steep avenue, so that you’ll undoubtedly get a work-out when you stroll right here!

It’s situated in a handy neighbourhood of San Francisco, simply 2km or a half hour stroll from each The Painted Women and Lombard Avenue, so be sure you add it on to your itinerary when you find yourself within the space.

The home has been painted a barely completely different color because the film and a tree has been planted in entrance of the home, nevertheless it’s immediately recognisable and nonetheless seems remarkably just like the way it did within the film.

On the tree outdoors the home you’ll see plenty of tributes to Robin Williams which is extremely transferring. Do bear in mind it is a residential space and it’s any person’s residence so you’ll be able to’t go inside, however simply seeing it from the surface and getting some pictures is nice: it’s among the finest issues to do in San Francisco!

Discover the Exploratorium

By Kris Esparza of JJ & The Bug

Visiting the Exploratorium is a proper of passage for anybody who grows up within the Bay Space, however it’s not only a enjoyable spot for youths!

Anybody who enjoys a hands-on exploration of science and artwork, or puzzling out the quirks of human notion can simply spend hours at this distinctive museum. 

Exploratorium guests are inspired to observe their curiosity by greater than 600 interactive reveals in galleries like, “Tinkering,” “Human Phenomena,” and “Residing Methods.”

In contrast to different museums, you received’t discover detailed explanatory labels right here. You’re inspired to study by experimentation and play, so go forward and press the buttons and switch these knobs. Curiosity, inquiry, and collaborative problem-solving are what this place is all about. 

What makes the Exploratorium much more magical is the museum’s location at Pier 15. The setting gives guests with views and experiences in contrast to these discovered anyplace else.

The “Observing Landscapes” exhibit has floor-to-ceiling home windows that face the water. The highly effective mixture of this location and the museum’s interactive method to studying helps guests perceive the historical past, geography, and ecology of the Bay Space in memorable methods. 

The views proceed within the Exploratorium’s Seaglass restaurant, which was designed to go with the pure great thing about the museum’s environment. If you’ve labored up an urge for food from all the exploring, the restaurant provides consolation meals, artistic desserts, and even craft cocktails for mother and pop. 

Although it’s straightforward to lose your self for a full day right here, while you lastly tear your self away, the Exploratorium’s location on the Embarcadero ensures that there’s loads extra enjoyable available close by. 

Purchase your timed Exploratorium entry ticket on-line.

Catch a recreation at Oracle Park

We love dwell sport at any time when we journey and Oracle Park is without doubt one of the greatest stadiums I’ve been to.

Dwelling of the San Francisco Giants, you may get low cost tickets for spring coaching video games towards groups just like the LA Dodgers, White Sox, Cubs, Rangers and the remaining for round $50. But it surely’s the backdrop of beautiful bay views that’ll have your eyes wandering off the ball.

Oracle Park is a straightforward stroll from town, situated alongside the waterfront, a couple of 2km stroll from the Ferry Constructing or Union Sq..

A part of the rationale I really like attending to a baseball recreation within the US is the stadium meals. Don’t choose me! However with selections like grilled Dungeness crab sandwiches, poke bowls, and Ghirardelli ice cream, in addition to fan faves of hotdogs, burgers and pizzas, are you able to blame me?

Go to Sutro Tub ruins and Lands Finish Path

By Alisha Rose of Journey In the present day Work Tomorrow 

A should factor to do in San Francisco is to go to the historic Sutro Baths and hike the Lands Finish Path. The views listed below are epic.

Located alongside the rugged pacific coast, the Sutro Baths and path provide a number of the greatest views within the metropolis.

The Sutro Baths are an iconic landmark, and have grow to be a novel a part of San Francisco’s historical past. In 1894, the baths had been as soon as the most important indoor swimming pool advanced on the earth. Sadly, after many misfortunes, the Sutro Baths are now not open.

In the present day, you’ll be able to admire the remnants of the baths and breathtaking views from the vista above. Nonetheless, the easiest way to see the baths is by venturing down the flight of stairs to the waterfront to get a more in-depth have a look at the ruins and the mysterious sea cave.

After exploring the Sutro Baths, proceed your day to the Lands Finish Coastal Path for sweeping views of the Pacific coast.

The path is situated subsequent to the Sutro Baths and runs alongside the coastal bluffs. On the three.4-mile loop, there are quite a few alternatives to catch views of the well-known Golden Gate Bridge.

Lands Finish Path and the Sutro Baths are canine pleasant, so you’ll be able to take pleasure in this excellent hike and think about together with your furry greatest good friend as you escape town for the afternoon and discover off the crushed path. 

Go to Muir Woods

By Rebecca Gade Sawicki of Veggies Overseas

For those who’ve ever needed to marvel at California’s towering Redwoods, right here is your probability.

Just below 40 minutes from San Francisco is the 554-acre Muir Woods Nationwide Monument which is residence to a various array of natural world. However the stars of the forest present are the enormous coastal Redwoods. The tallest is 258 ft (roughly a six-foot desk stacked finish to finish 45 instances)!

Apart from getting a sore neck from Redwood gazing, guests also can take pleasure in six miles of climbing trails.

Most guests stick with the principle path, which begins on the customer’s heart and loops by the old-growth forest. This path will be as quick as .5 mile or as much as 2 miles. The park’s climbing trails loop all through the forest and all the way in which to Mount Tamalpais State Park.

To see all of your climbing choices, it’s greatest to seize a park map on the customer heart. For an extended hike (6 miles), take into account taking the Muir Seaside path, which you in all probability can guess results in beautiful Muir Seaside.

Earlier than you head to Muir Woods, it’s necessary to know that parking reservations are required. You’ll be able to reserve parking and buy your entry at GoMuirWoods.com. Normal parking charges are $9 per automotive, and the park entrance is $15 per individual; kids below 15 years are free.

After your hike, head again to town and reward your self with a particular deal with from certainly one of San Francisco’s greatest vegan bakeries.

For those who’re planning on driving the Pacific Coast Freeway from Los Angeles to San Francisco, I did it in 5 actually enjoyable days and wrote this itinerary submit that provides you with some nice concepts. Or simply observe it your self!