Here’s my curated list of 102 best things to do in San Francisco!
Perfect for any tourist or visitor looking to experience the best of the city (including all the iconic attractions and local insider spots).
1. Visit the Golden Gate Bridge
Walk or bike across this iconic bridge with stunning views of the bay.
Travel tip: I recommend renting e-bikes and biking across the bridge to Battery Spencer for the most epic viewpoint of the bridge in the entire Bay.
2. Explore Alcatraz Island
Tour the infamous former prison and learn about its fascinating history.
Planning Tip: the night tour is the best way to tour Alcatraz. Book your tickets weeks in advance if possible.
3. Ride a Cable Car
Experience a classic San Francisco ride up and down the city’s famous hills.
Each ride is $8, or you can buy a day pass for $13.
4. Stroll Through Fisherman’s Wharf
Enjoy fresh seafood, street performers, and souvenir shops along the waterfront.
5. Wander Around Chinatown
Discover the oldest Chinatown in North America, filled with shops, eateries, and cultural landmarks.
Don’t miss: Ross Alley, Golden Gate Fortune Cookie to see them make cookies live, Li-Po cocktail lounge for Chinese Mai-Tais.
Recommended tour: Walking Chinatown Food Tour (so that you can sample a little bit of everything and hit all the best spots).
On this tour you’ll sample:
- Dim sum
- Traditional herbal teas
- Custard tarts and chinese bakery items
- …and more off the beaten path treats!
6. Picnic at Golden Gate Park
Relax in one of the city’s largest green spaces with gardens, lakes, and museums.
I especially love a walk through Lover’s Lane to smell all the Eucalyptus trees!
7. San Francisco Movie Sights City Tour
If you love movies, take a tour of San Francisco filming locations from more than 50 movies!
You’ll pass by famous spots where movies have been filmed, and watch the exact clips in your comfortable bus!
8. Take in the Views at Twin Peaks
Hike or drive up to these two hills for panoramic views of the entire city.
9. Explore the Painted Ladies
Admire these famous Victorian houses with the city skyline as a backdrop.
You can even take a tour of the inside of one of the Painted Ladies.
10. Visit the California Academy of Sciences
Explore an aquarium, planetarium, and natural history museum all in one.
Don’t miss:
- The earthquake simulator
- Thursday nights is adults-only!
11. Go on a Ghost Hunting Tour
Explore the historic neighborhoods of San Francisco at night while your guide shares spooky stories and where paranormal activity has taken place.
12. See the Sea Lions at Pier 39
Watch these playful creatures basking in the sun and barking away.
13. Vintage VW Bus City Tour
The best tour we took in San Francisco was on this vintage Volkswagen bus!
It was a small group (since you can only fit 6-8 people in the bus), and our local guide toured us through the entire city!
We stopped at all the must-see places for photo opps and it was the perfect way to start our San Francisco vacation.
Book the best-rated VW Bus Tour here!
14. Enjoy a Sunset at Ocean Beach
Unwind with a picturesque sunset along this expansive beach.
15. Take a Ferry to Sausalito
Visit this charming waterfront town with shops, galleries, and scenic views.
Where to eat: I recommend Bar Bocce for Pizza on the waterfront or Sushi Ran.
16. Explore the Presidio
Wander through this historic military base turned park with trails, a life-sized Yoda Statue, food trucks, and the Walt Disney Family Museum.
17. Visit the Palace of Fine Arts
Marvel at the stunning architecture of this Greco-Roman-inspired structure.
18. Eat a Sourdough Bread Bowl at Boudin Bakery
Try this San Francisco classic filled with clam chowder.
Pro Tip: you can eat on the main level food court-style, or head upstairs for a seated restaurant experience (and have the same bread bowl)!
19. Visit Lombard Street
Walk or drive down the “crookedest street in the world” with its tight, scenic turns.
It’s a quirky attraction that’s worth seeing.
20. Explore the Ferry Building Marketplace
Indulge in gourmet food, local produce, and artisanal products at this foodie haven.
Must try: charcoal latte from Red Bay coffee, Humphy Slocombe ice cream (get the secret breakfast).
21. Visit Ghirardelli Square
Treat yourself to decadent chocolates and ice cream sundaes at the historic Ghirardelli factory.
You can also visit the beer garden at San Francisco Brewing Company here, too!
22. Walk Through Muir Woods
Take a half-day trip to this nearby national monument to stroll among ancient, towering redwood trees.
It’s only a 45-minute drive from the city.
23. Visit Coit Tower
Climb up to the top for panoramic views and explore the murals inside.
24. Listen the Wave Organ
Listen to the sounds of the ocean through this unique acoustic sculpture.
25. Tour the de Young Museum
Explore fine art and stunning architecture in Golden Gate Park.
Pro tip: you can visit the top of the lookout tower for free! Well worth it if you don’t have time to see the whole museum.
26. Visit the Exploratorium
The Exploratorium has interactive science exhibits perfect for all ages.
27. Let Out Your Inner Hippie in Haight-Ashbury
Discover the birthplace of the counterculture movement with vintage shops and eclectic vibes.
For something a little more interactive, download this puzzle quest game to your phone and explore the neighborhood in a new light.
28. Go to a Giants Game at Oracle Park
Catch a baseball game with a view of the bay.
Save money: grab standing-room-only (SRO) tickets to watch from the outfield’s veggie garden!
If you’re a true baseball fan, you could also try a behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Park Stadium.
29. Take in the Views from the Marin Headlands
Enjoy some of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge from this scenic overlook.
30. Explore the Legion of Honor
Admire European art in this stunning neoclassical museum.
31. Walk Along the Embarcadero
Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, with views of the Bay Bridge and the city skyline.
Pier 7 was my favorite for the views and photos!
32. Visit the Japanese Tea Garden
Relax in this peaceful garden with koi ponds, pagodas, and tea house.
33. Explore the Sutro Baths Ruins
Discover the remains of this historic bathhouse along the rugged coastline.
34. Visit the Conservatory of Flowers
Marvel at exotic plants and flowers in this historic greenhouse in Golden Gate Park.
35. Ride a Yellow GoCar Through the City
Take a self-guided driving tour in a 3-wheeled car around San Francisco’s top attractions.
This is one of the most unique ways to explore the city!
Your little open-air car comes with a narrated GPS travel guide that you can follow through the city where you’ll:
- Drive down Lombard street
- Explore the Presidio
- See Coit Tower
- Sutro Baths
- Chinatown
- And more!
36. Take a Secret Food Tour in the Mission District
Sample delicious bites from taquerias, bakeries, and trendy restaurants.
The Mission has arguably the best food in San Francisco.
On this food tour you’ll get to sample a bit of everything, including mission-style burritos (one of SF’s must-try foods)
37. Visit the San Francisco Zoo
Meet animals from around the world in this family-friendly attraction.
38. Explore the Castro District
Discover the heart of San Francisco’s LGBTQ+ community with vibrant nightlife and historic sites.
The best way to experience the Castro is by joining a walking tour with a local guide.
39. Play at Musee Mecanique
Located in Fisherman’s Wharf, it’s full of 20th-century arcade style games that you can still play today.
Admission is free and most games only cost 25-75 cents.
40. Hike to Lands End
Take a scenic hike along the cliffs with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
41. Visit the Mission Dolores
Explore the oldest surviving structure in San Francisco, with a rich history dating back to 1776.
Mission Dolores is also the best park in the city (a true local hangout spot).
42. Check Out the Yerba Buena Gardens
Where the natural and urban world combine.
Relax in this urban park with fountains, sculptures, and cultural institutions.
43. Visit the Fort Point National Historic Site
Explore this Civil War-era fort with incredible views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
44. Walk Through the Financial District
Marvel at the city’s skyscrapers and discover hidden gems like the Transamerica Pyramid and the Salesforce Park.
45. Enjoy a Scenic Picnic at Dolores Park
Take in the lively atmosphere with views of the city skyline from this popular park.
On a hot day, grab some Lavender ice cream at nearby Bi-Rite creamery.
46. Take a Day Trip to Napa Valley
Sip world-class wines and enjoy scenic vineyards just an hour away.
The best way to experience Napa Valley from San Francisco is on a wine tour, so that you don’t have to worry about driving (and you can drink all the wine you want).
Book the highest-rated Wine Tour from San Francisco here
47. Take a Scenic Drive to Half Moon Bay
Enjoy a leisurely drive down the coast to this charming seaside town known for its pumpkin farms and beaches.
48. Walk Along Crissy Field
Enjoy a scenic walk with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz.
49. Try a Mission Burrito
Savor this local favorite, packed with fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
Where to find one: La Taqueria
50. Walk Through the Mission District Murals
Discover vibrant street art that tells the story of the local community.
Wander through this alley in the Mission District, known for its colorful murals with social and political themes.
Don’t miss: Balmy Alley has the oldest murals worth checking out
51. Walk Through the San Francisco Botanical Garden
Explore a diverse range of plants and landscapes in Golden Gate Park.
52. Visit the Asian Art Museum
Discover a vast collection of Asian art spanning 6,000 years of history.
53. See a Show at Club Fugazi
Located in North Beach (little Italy), this performing arts theater has so much history.
Now, you can catch the iconic show called “Dear San Francisco” or have fun at Drag Brunch on Sundays!
54. Bask in Movie History at Cafe Zoetrope
This iconic flatiron building is where Francis Ford Coppola wrote the scripts for the Godfather, Apocalypse Now and the Outsiders.
55. Take a Sunset Catamaran Cruise on the Bay
Enjoy a scenic sailing tour around the bay, with breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island and the glowing city skyline.
This sunset cruise comes with a glass of wine!
56. Go on a Whale Watching Tour
Take a boat out to spot migrating whales off the coast.
57. Visit the Cable Car Museum
Learn about the history and mechanics behind San Francisco’s famous cable cars.
58. Take a Bike Ride Through Golden Gate Park
Rent a bike and explore the park’s trails, gardens, and museums.
59. Hidden Gem E-Bike Tour
Explore the city’s most iconic landmarks and local insider spots by covering a lot of ground on an e-bike.
View the highest-rated e-bike tour here.
60. Discover the Hidden Stairways of San Francisco
Join a local tour guide on this small-group walking tour to see a different side of San Francisco that most visitors miss.
You’ll explore the most beautiful stairways, unique steps, secret gardens and get off the beaten path in SF.
Check out the stairway tour here.
61. Visit the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)
Explore contemporary and modern art in a world-renowned museum.
62. Walk Through the Presidio’s Lovers’ Lane
Stroll along this picturesque trail lined with eucalyptus trees.
63. Visit the Mexican Museum
Explore Mexican and Mexican-American art and culture in this vibrant museum.
64. Explore Fort Mason
Visit this former military post, now home to art galleries, festivals, and events.
65. Try an Irish Coffee at the Buena Vista Café
Sip on this iconic San Francisco cocktail at the café that invented it.
They’re $14 a piece, but so worth it (and super boozy)!
66. Walk Through the Rose Garden in Golden Gate Park
Smell the roses and take in the vibrant colors in this beautiful garden.
67. Visit the San Francisco Railway Museum
Learn about the history of the city’s public transportation system.
68. Walk Through the Lyon Street Steps
Climb these picturesque steps for beautiful views of the bay and the mansions that line the street.
69. Take a Day Trip to Point Reyes National Seashore
Explore dramatic coastlines, hiking trails, and wildlife just an hour from the city.
70. Try Dim Sum in Chinatown
Indulge in a variety of bite-sized dishes at a traditional dim sum restaurant.
Where to find it: Hang Ah Tea Room, which was the first place to offer Dim Sum in the USA, established in 1920.
71. Walk Along Baker Beach
Relax on this scenic beach with views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
If you dare to bare it all, the north part of Baker Beach is clothing optional!
72. Explore the Sutro Heights Park
Visit the site of Adolph Sutro’s former estate and enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
73. Eat Oysters!
San Francisco seems to be known for its oysters.
Here’s a couple of great places to try them:
- Swan Oyster Depot: an Anthony Bourdain favorite
- Hog Island at the Ferry Building: overlooks the water!
74. See the Murals in the Women’s Building
Admire the vibrant, feminist-themed murals on this historic building.
75. Go Wine Tasting in Sonoma Valley
Explore another nearby wine region with charming vineyards and tasting rooms.
76. Take a Walking Tour of North Beach
Discover the city’s Italian heritage with coffee shops, bakeries, and historic sites.
77. Walk Through the Hidden Garden Steps
Discover this colorful mosaic staircase tucked away in the Inner Sunset neighborhood.
78. Browse Through City Lights Bookstore
A 3-story bookstore that’s been around since the beat-era. It’s an ultra historic experience to browse through even if you don’t plan to buy a book.
79. Explore the Maritime National Historical Park
Visit historic ships, a maritime museum, and enjoy views of the bay.
80. Ride in a Waymo
These are the self-driving taxis – yes, robot cars! You have to experience how weird it is at least once.
81. Eat Dumplings
Another favorite food in San Francisco is Dumplings – a must-eat. Dumpling Home is a local favorite.
82. Visit the Fort Point National Historic Site
Explore this Civil War-era fort beneath the Golden Gate Bridge.
83. Take a Scenic Drive Down Great Highway
Cruise along the coast with views of the Pacific Ocean.
84. Explore the Cable Car Turnaround at Powell and Market
Watch the iconic cable cars being manually turned around on this busy intersection.
85. Climb the Lyon Street Steps
These picturesque steps show off stunning views of the city and the bay, and you can admire the beautiful gardens along the way.
86. Visit the USS Pampanito
Tour this World War II submarine docked at Fisherman’s Wharf.
87. Walk Through Japantown
Explore Japanese culture with shops, restaurants, and the Peace Pagoda.
88. Take Home Some Souvenirs
My favorite souvenirs to bring home from San Francisco were:
- Ghirardelli chocolate
- A tie-dye shirt from the Haight-Ashbury Neighborhood
- Irish coffee glasses from the Buena Vista Cafe
- Sourdough starter
89. Eat a Morning Bun
From either Tartine Bakery or Arsicault Bakery
90. Hike the Presidio’s Batteries to Bluffs Trail
Take a scenic hike with coastal views, historic military batteries, and hidden beaches.
91. Walk Along the Lands End Trail
Hike this rugged trail with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Golden Gate Bridge.
92. Visit the San Francisco Maritime Museum
Learn about the city’s maritime history with exhibits on boats, sailing, and sea life.
93. Try a Bowl of Cioppino
Indulge in this rich seafood stew, a San Francisco culinary classic.
94. See the Golden Gate Park Windmills
Visit these historic Dutch-style windmills located at the western end of the park.
95. Soak Up the Sun at Mission Dolores Park
If it’s a beautiful day out (especially on a weekend), join the locals at Mission Dolores Park. The energy is a vibe, the people watching is great, and there are so many local food spots where you can grab something for your own picnic.
96. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Napa Valley
Soar above the vineyards for breathtaking views of wine country.
97. Go Kayaking in the Bay
Paddle through the bay with views of the city skyline and bridges.
98. Visit the Contemporary Jewish Museum
Dive into art, culture, and history in this striking modern building.
99. Take a Day Trip to Big Sur
Drive along the stunning Pacific Coast Highway to see dramatic cliffs, beaches, and redwoods.
100. Visit Treasure Island
Explore this man-made island with stunning views of San Francisco and unique wineries.
101. Cross the Bay Bridge at Night
Drive across this illuminated bridge for a stunning light show.
102. Visit Fort Funston
Explore this scenic spot known for its dramatic cliffs, hang gliding, and dog-friendly beach.