Choose from 126 Fun Things to Do in San Francisco
ShowingFilter 41-60 of 126 listings.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
One of the top aquariums in the United States, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is not just home to hundreds of marine animals—the nonprofit organization is also known for its dedication to ocean conservation. With its Pacific Coast location on Monterey Bay, this California aquarium enjoys a prime spot to highlight marine environments and educate the public about protecting wildlife. Visitors will find some 200 exhibits and galleries featuring more than 600 species of marine mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, and invertebrates.
The Basics
Monterey Bay Aquarium is a must-visit for families with kids and wildlife lovers on any trip to Monterey. Book tickets in advance to save time when you arrive, or book a guided day trip from San Francisco for round-trip transportation from the city. Tours in the area typically also visit Pebble Beach and Carmel-by-the-Sea or make the 17-Mile Drive. Admission tickets provide access to shows and exhibit areas such as the Kelp Forest, Life on the Bay, and the Open Sea, while allowing visitors to see sea otters and giant Pacific octopuses.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Most travelers spend between two and three hours here.
- An on-site café, restaurant, and coffee bar each offers food and drinks.
- The aquarium is accessible, with complimentary wheelchairs available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Lockers are available to rent to store belongings.
- Free on-site WiFi is available.
How to Get There
The aquarium is located about 115 miles (185 kilometers) south of San Francisco (about two hours by road) and 43 miles (69 kilometers) from Santa Cruz, with parking available at the Cannery Row Parking Garage. If you’re already in Monterey, biking to the aquarium along the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail is a great way to arrive, as is the free MST Trolley. The museum sits along Cannery Row, Monterey’s historic waterfront street made famous by author John Steinbeck’s novel of the same name.
When to Get There
The aquarium is open daily from 10am to 5pm. Summer and the winter holidays are the most popular times of year to go to the aquarium—try visiting on weekdays to avoid the crowds. Fall and winter generally see fewer visitors.
Aquarium Experiences
To dive deeper into the underwater world of the aquarium, tours and activities are available, most for an additional fee. These include kids’ scuba diving experiences and sleepovers, guided behind-the-scenes tours, and sea otter conservation tours.
Address: 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 50
Madame Tussauds San Francisco
Madame Tussauds around the world are famously home to wax recreations of famous figures, including celebrities, politicians, and athletes. Modeled after the original Madame Tussauds in London, the San Francisco Wax Museum was converted in the 17th Madame Tussauds worldwide in 2014. Life-size wax versions of Tiger Woods, Muhammed Ali, Abraham Lincoln, Michael Jackson, and Marilyn Monroe can be found here, among many others. Contemporary figures such as Barack Obama and Lady Gaga are also brought to life.
Madame Tussauds San Francisco is home in particular to an area called “The Spirit of San Francisco,” which celebrates local artists, politicians, and activists that have played a role in the city’s history. It is a chance to specifically see icons of the Bay Area in one place. The figures are set against realistic backdrops, making them all the more lifelike!
Practical Info
Madam Tussauds San Francisco is located in the Fisherman’s Wharf area of the city at 145 Jefferson Street. It is open daily from 10 am to 7 pm, closing at 8 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Tickets are $18 for adults when pre-purchased online.
Address: 145 Jefferson St, San Francisco, California, USA 94133, USA
Admission: Adults: $18; Children: $16
From $ 16
Japantown
San Francisco’s Japantown, a microhood of the Western Addition neighborhood, is the oldest Japantown in the US and one of just a few left. It’s home to restaurants serving sushi, ramen, and other fare, a shopping center, a Japanese supermarket, and the 5-tier Peace Pagoda.
The Basics
Japantown is bordered by Fillmore Street, Sutter Street, Laguna Street, and Geary Boulevard, with the main drag of Post Street running through the middle. Located just south of Pacific Heights, it’s easy to visit if you’re doing some shopping or dining along Fillmore Street. Alternatively, book a private city tour or a Japanese food tour to explore with a guide.
Wandering on foot is the best way to experience the neighborhood—check out Peace Pagoda in Peace Plaza, pick up a Bento box at Nijiya Market, browse the shops at Japan Center, or catch a movie at AMC Kabuki 8. For a more relaxing treat, head to Kabuki Springs and Spa, an urban oasis where you can get a massage or enjoy a soak in the Japanese-style communal baths.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is a lot of metered and free street parking available around Japantown, but pay attention to posted signs about prohibited parking during street cleaning or other times.
- Japan Center has a parking garage.
- If you plan to visit Kabuki Springs and Spa, make sure to check the schedule for the communal baths, as some days are male- or female-only.
How to Get There
If you’re not driving, Japantown is easily reached by cab or ride-booking service, or take Muni buses 2, 3, 22, or 38.
When to Get There
Most shops and eateries open in the late morning; early evening is a good time to take in the neighborhood vibe. The Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the city’s top events and takes place in April. The J-Pop Summit and Japan Film Festival of San Francisco are other annual events that draw crowds.
Fillmore Street
From Japantown, Fillmore Street runs north through Pacific Heights to the Marina District. The blocks between Post and Jackson are home to stylish boutiques and upscale cafes, and locals gather there on evenings and weekends for shopping, dining, and coffee dates.
Address: Japantown, San Francisco, California, USA
From $ 5
Mission District
The home to San Francisco’s hipster scene and the hub of the city’s Latin community, the Mission District is one of the city’s most interesting neighborhoods. It’s known for its outstanding and diverse food scene, buzzing nightlife hot spots, and a scenic park that’s a popular weekend hangout for locals.
The Basics
The Mission typically offers the sunniest, warmest weather in San Francisco, so if you’re looking for a break from the fog and cooler temps, head to the neighborhood for a food tour, bike tour, or walking tour of the district’s colorful murals. You’ll definitely want to make a stop at Dolores Park, where you can admire a view of the San Francisco skyline while picnicking on the grass with locals. The best way to explore the neighborhood is to simply walk it, admiring the architecture and trendy shops.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Mission Street and Valencia Street are the main thoroughfares, running north-south from Duboce Avenue to Cesar Chavez.
- Bars and restaurants are mostly concentrated between 16th and 22nd streets.
- There is a lot of metered and free street parking available, but pay attention to posted signs about prohibited parking during street cleaning or other times.
How to Get There
The neighborhood offers two BART stations—16th Street Mission and 24th Street Mission. The J-Church light rail runs along the western side of the neighborhood, while bus route 33 stops along 18th Street.
When to Get There
The Mission District is lively at night, when locals gather at some of the city’s best bars and restaurants. If you’d rather browse the shops or enjoy a more relaxed dining atmosphere, explore during the afternoon. For people-watching, head to Dolores Park on a sunny weekend. Carnaval San Francisco is a 2-day multicultural festival that takes place over Memorial Day weekend.
Mission San Francisco de Asís
Founded in 1776 and the oldest structure in San Francisco, Mission Dolores is often overlooked by visitors who go to the Mission District to frequent the shops, bars, restaurants, and park. But it’s worth a stop to see the historic architecture and learn about a piece of California history.
Address: Mission District, San Francisco, CA, USA
From $ 24
Merced River
With its origins located in the southeastern corner of Yosemite National Park, near Merced Lake, the Merced River flows for 145 miles (233 km) westward through a series of canyons and gorge, spilling into the Little Yosemite Valley and dropping over Nevada Falls and Vernal Falls before continuing through Yosemite Valley.
The Merced River and its tributaries are home to some of the most popular recreational activities in Yosemite National Park, including boating, fishing, whitewater rafting and swimming off of its sandy beaches. One-day intermediate to advanced rafting trips are available to challenge Class III and IV rapids in the spring; during the rest of the season, the river becomes friendly to rafters of all abilities. There are also wonderful hiking trails that wander through the river shed; perhaps the most famous is the John Muir Trail, which starts near Happy Isles and climbs the Giant Staircase, past Vernal and Nevada Falls, into Little Yosemite Valley and north along Sunrise Creek to join the Pacific Crest Trail near Tuolumne Meadows.
The Merced River and its tributaries are home to some of the most popular recreational activities in Yosemite National Park, including boating, fishing, whitewater rafting and swimming off of its sandy beaches. One-day intermediate to advanced rafting trips are available to challenge Class III and IV rapids in the spring; during the rest of the season, the river becomes friendly to rafters of all abilities. There are also wonderful hiking trails that wander through the river shed; perhaps the most famous is the John Muir Trail, which starts near Happy Isles and climbs the Giant Staircase, past Vernal and Nevada Falls, into Little Yosemite Valley and north along Sunrise Creek to join the Pacific Crest Trail near Tuolumne Meadows.
Practical Info
If rafting is on the agenda, you can rent a raft or bring your own; other non-motorized vehicles such as kayaks and stand up paddleboards are also permitted. Rafting is permitted on the Merced River between Stoneman Bridge and Sentinel Beach Picnic Area between 10am and 6pm, depending on conditions. Rafting is also permitted on the South Fork of the Merced River in the Wawona area.
Address: Merced River, Yosemite National Park, CA, USA
From $ 74
Marin County
Cross the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco and you’ll find yourself in Marin County, a rugged swath of Northern California known for its small towns, undeveloped coastline and rural interior landscape. Outdoors enthusiasts can rent mountain bikes and head out to explore the supposed birthplace of the sport or hike through pristine redwood forests. Music lovers can bob their heads to live music in San Rafael, hometown of the Grateful Dead. Foodies can chow down on fresh oysters all along the coast. There’s a little something for everyone.
Known locally as the Bay Area’s park, nearly 85 percent of Marin County is protected from development, much of that space occupied by Point Reyes National Seashore and the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The county’s abundant organic farms supply food to some of the nation’s best restaurants. To sample the goods for yourself, head to the Marin Farmers Market on Sunday, the third largest in California.
Known locally as the Bay Area’s park, nearly 85 percent of Marin County is protected from development, much of that space occupied by Point Reyes National Seashore and the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The county’s abundant organic farms supply food to some of the nation’s best restaurants. To sample the goods for yourself, head to the Marin Farmers Market on Sunday, the third largest in California.
Address: USA
From $ 66
Lombard Street
Lombard Street runs more than 20 blocks across northern San Francisco, but only one block—between Hyde and Leavenworth streets—gives the thoroughfare its nickname, “the crookedest street in the world.” Lined with well-manicured flowers and trees and tidy million-dollar homes, the red-brick-paved road zigzags its way down Russian Hill.
The Basics
Some San Francisco tours include a Lombard Street stop or drive-by, but most tour vehicles are prohibited. Opt for a more niche experience like an urban hiking tour or a Segway tour if you want to visit Lombard Street with a guide. From the top of the street, look toward North Beach for a view of Coit Tower and San Francisco Bay.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Lombard Street is a must-see for first-time visitors and families.
- This is a residential area, so be respectful of the private homes on both sides of the street.
- Wear shoes appropriate for walking down a steep grade.
- Hyde and Leavenworth streets at either end of Lombard’s switchbacks are busy San Francisco roads; blocking traffic while trying to take pictures is not recommended.
How to Get There
For the most quintessentially San Francisco experience, take the Powell–Hyde cable car line, which runs north from Union Square, to the top of Lombard Street. Alternatively, Muni bus 45 stops at Leavenworth and Union streets, a few blocks away. If you want to drive down the one-way street in your own car, you must go west to east from Hyde to Leavenworth; take the switchbacks slowly.
When to Get There
Lombard is a public street and has no opening or closing hours. If you want to avoid catching too many other visitors in your photos, go as early in the day as you can. On busy summer days and weekends, the line of cars waiting to drive down can stretch for blocks, so try to be flexible if you’re visiting during this time.
Fisherman’s Wharf
The crooked portion of Lombard Street is about eight blocks from Fisherman’s Wharf, so it’s easy to explore both in the same day. If you visit Lombard Street first, it’s a downhill walk to the wharf. Enjoy views of San Francisco Bay and Alcatraz Island along the way.
Address: 1000 block of Lombard Street, between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets, San Francisco 94109, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 30
Macondray Lane
The two block pedestrian lane in San Francisco’s Russian Hill neighborhood is a charming and unique residential spot with extraordinary views of Alcatraz Island and the San Francisco Bay. Tucked away from the busyness of the main streets, Macondray Lane is known for its Edwardian style cottages with wooden exteriors, covered in flowers and greenery.
Its cobblestone walkways and overflowing gardens create a unique oasis in the middle of the city. Between ferns and flowers, look closely and you may even see the small pond. At one end of the lane lies a series of steps that offer up some of the best bay views. Fans of the Armistead Maupin's Tales of the City books may recognize the area (known as Barbary Lane in the books) — various scenes were set here and still come to life for many who visit.
Practical Info
Macondray Lane is between Leavenworth and Taylor streets alongside Union and Green Streets in San Francisco. It is accessible only by foot.
Address: Macondray Lane, San Francisco, California, USA, USA
From $ 49
Madonna Estates
Located in the world-renowned Carneros region, Madonna Estates is a unique winemaker utilizing dry-farming production and organic grapes. The vineyard is family owned and operated using a combination of traditional and modern winemaking techniques. As one of the oldest vineyards in Napa Valley, Madonna Estates is working to ensure the historic winemaking traditions of the past live on. It was one of the few original vineyards that survived the Prohibition era.
The idea behind their wines is minimal intervention and as much natural growth as possible. Mild fog, wild, and cool temperatures create a unique microclimate in this area, fed with coastal air. Madonna Estates produces ten varietals including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Grigio. The tasting room is decorated in Italian Pompeii style to reflect the family’s heritage, and the reserve room serves their highest quality vintages.
Practical Info
Madonna Estates can be found off of Highway 12 in Carneros. Aside from the tasting room, there is a picnic area. Tastings are complimentary or $5, depending on the level of quality. The estate is dog-friendly.
Address: 5400 Old Sonoma Road, Napa, California, USA 94558, USA
Hours: Open daily 10am-5pm
From $ 105
Hyde Street Pier
Part of San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park, the Hyde Street Pier introduces visitors to San Francisco’s maritime heritage as a busy Pacific port with its collection of ships from the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Jutting out into San Francisco Bay, the pier also offers scenic views of the waterfront.
The Basics
Hyde Street Pier is located on the western edge of the tourist-centered Fisherman’s Wharf. From the wooden pier you can tour historic ships. Check out the Balclutha, a 3-masted square-rigger that rounded the horn 17 times, or learn how Hercules, a steam tugboat, towed another ship from New Jersey around the tip of South America to San Francisco. Guided walks and Segway tours of the waterfront are available.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Hyde Street Pier is ideal for history and naval buffs.
- There is a visitor center at the corner of Hyde and Jefferson streets.
- Driving is not recommended in this busy neighborhood, as street parking is limited.
- Wear comfortable shoes to walk out on the pier and along the waterfront.
How to Get There
For a quintessentially San Francisco experience, take the Powell–Hyde cable car line, which runs north from Union Square to the cable car turnaround at Hyde and Beach streets. Alternatively, take the F line streetcar along the Embarcadero.
When to Get There
Go in the evening to enjoy the sunset light, which is perfect for photos, or go in the morning to beat the crowds that descend on Fisherman’s Wharf every day. Fleet Week (early October), and July 4 (when the city puts on a fireworks display) are great times to be on the waterfront.
Aquatic Park
Head just down Beach Street to Aquatic Park to visit the art-deco Maritime Museum and learn more about San Francisco’s maritime history. You’ll also see bold locals—members of the historic South End and Dolphin swimming and rowing clubs—swimming in the frigid bay waters. Just above the park is Ghirardelli Square, where you can treat yourself to some chocolate or an ice cream sundae.
Address: 2905 Hyde St, San Francisco, California 94109, USA
From $ 30
Louise M. Davies Symphony Hall
One of San Francisco’s grandest concert venues, the Louise M. Davies Symphony Hall was built specifically for the San Francisco Symphony. Upon completion the symphony was able to expand to a year-round, full-time schedule of concerts. It formerly shared space with the San Francisco Opera and the San Francisco Ballet.
The symphony hall, designed by a team of architects and acoustic consultants, is artful and beautiful inside and out. Sound bounces off of glass walls built to create a building within a building, and the result is that audience members are surrounded by reverberant sound. To accommodate an expanded repertory, a massive pipe organ was added to the structure in 1984.
The San Francisco Symphony plays a wide range of classical music alongside hosting contemporary events. Windows and balconies on the second floor offer beautiful views of the skyline and the City Hall. The symphony hall is a beacon of elegance and culture in San Francisco.
Practical Info
Louise M Davies Symphony Hall is located in San Francisco’s Civic Center neighborhood and is easily accessible by both Muni (bus) and BART (rapid transit) at the Civic Center station. A number of paid parking facilities are also available nearby. If you’re attending a concert, “nice dinner” attire is recommended. Concert ticket purchases are recommended in advance. Tours of the hall are offered on Mondays.
Address: Grove Street, between Van Ness and Franklin, San Francisco, California, USA, USA
Hours: Box office open Mon-Fri 10am-6pm and Sat 12pm-6pm
Admission: Varies by concert
From $ 30
Marina District
One of San Francisco’s prettiest neighborhoods, the Marina District enjoys a prime perch on San Francisco Bay with pastel-colored, low-rise architecture, stylish shops, and upscale restaurants. Surrounded on three sides by either green space or water, the area draws active locals who enjoy walking, running, and biking with bay views.
The Basics
The Marina is included on most San Francisco sightseeing tours, as it sits on the northern edge of the city between Fisherman’s Wharf and the Golden Gate Bridge. Bike, bus, and Segway tours pass along Marina Boulevard to show visitors the views of Alcatraz Island and the bridge. Other nearby attractions include the Palace of Fine Arts and Fort Mason.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Chestnut Street is the main commercial strip, with trendy bars, eateries, and shops concentrated between Divisadero and Fillmore streets.
- There is metered and free street parking available, but pay attention to posted signs about prohibited parking during street cleaning or other times.
- Bring a jacket or other warm layers; when the fog rolls in from the Pacific, it gets chilly fast.
How to Get There
The 22 bus runs along Fillmore Street and will take you straight into the Marina. Lombard Street marks the southern edge of the neighborhood.
When to Get There
On sunny weekends, do as the locals do: Take a walk along the water followed by lunch on Chestnut Street, or enjoy the nightlife scene and mingle with the neighborhood’s generally young crowd. The early morning hours and sunset offer great light for photographs of the bay and Golden Gate Bridge. July and August are usually foggy, while September and October are the sunniest months.
Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Most of the Marina’s green spaces are part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, which is under the umbrella of the National Park Service and includes the Presidio, Fort Mason, and Crissy Field. Don’t miss the chance to discover the natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural attractions of these coastal sites.
Address: San Francisco, CA, USA
From $ 30
Muir Woods
The Muir Woods National Monument is a must-see destination on any visit to the San Francisco Bay Area. Home to one of the world's last remaining coastal redwood forests, this protected nature reserve allows travelers to hike, relax, or picnic among these giant Northern California trees for an incredible experience only minutes from the city. The Muir Woods forest forms part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, which includes nearby outdoor attractions including Stinson Beach—the park's only lifeguarded beach—and Fort Baker, offering great views of the Golden Gate Bridge from Marin County.
The Basics
How To Get to Muir Woods
Muir Woods is located just 12 miles (19 km) north of San Francisco across the Golden Gate Bridge, making it an easy day trip from the city. It's possible to arrive by public transit, but the easiest way is by organized tour. If coming by car, drive north on Highway 101 and continue north on a short drive along Highway 1 (Shoreline Highway). Then take the Panoramic Highway, a right-hand fork. Continue about one mile (1.5 km) to Four Corners, where you'll turn left onto Muir Woods Road.
When to Get There
The Basics
At the park entrance are a gift shop, cafe, and visitors center—follow the raised boardwalk from there, and you'll find yourself at the crossroads of the park's easy and popular hiking trails. Most tours of Muir Woods depart from San Francisco and last between four hours and eight hours, depending on the activities included. Because Muir Woods is north of San Francisco, just across the Golden Gate Bridge, many tours combine a visit here with a Sausalito tour, a San Francisco city tour, a bay cruise, a trip to Alcatraz, or a half- or full-day visit to Napa Valley wine country.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If you're not prepared to look for a parking spot (availability is extremely limited), book a bus tour or a private tour that includes San Francisco hotel pickup and roundtrip transportation.
- Walking tours and bike tours are among the most popular ways to see the area.
- The park has many accessible features, with boardwalk platforms throughout.
- Even the easiest hikes can stir up an appetite—stave off the hunger by booking a tour that offers a gourmet lunch in Sonoma County.
Muir Woods is located just 12 miles (19 km) north of San Francisco across the Golden Gate Bridge, making it an easy day trip from the city. It's possible to arrive by public transit, but the easiest way is by organized tour. If coming by car, drive north on Highway 101 and continue north on a short drive along Highway 1 (Shoreline Highway). Then take the Panoramic Highway, a right-hand fork. Continue about one mile (1.5 km) to Four Corners, where you'll turn left onto Muir Woods Road.
When to Get There
Muir Woods is open from 8am to sunset during summer and closes at 5pm in winter. The site can become quite crowded, especially on weekends, so try to come midweek, early in the morning, or late in the afternoon to beat the crowds. Even at busy times, a short hike will get you out of the densest crowds and onto trails with giant redwoods and stunning vistas.
Address: 1 Muir Woods Road, Mill Valley, California 94941, USA
Hours: Daily 8am–6pm
Admission: $10
From $ 65
Majestic Yosemite Hotel (Ahwahnee Hotel)
Of all Yosemite’s lodging options, the Majestic Yosemite Hotel (formerly the Ahwahnee Hotel) stands out not only for its location—you can see Yosemite Falls from the legendary dining room—but also for its interior, redolent of Yosemite’s early years. And you don’t need to book a room to enjoy this National Historic Landmark.
The Basics
Visitors to Yosemite National Park who forego a room at this luxury hotel still have plenty of options for experiencing its grandeur. Perhaps the most popular is a meal in the spectacular dining room, open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. Some guided tours of the national park include a dining room meal or fireside storytelling in the hotel. Free historic tours take visitors through the rooms, halls, and grounds to learn more about its storied past.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Majestic Yosemite Hotel is a must-see for history buffs and first-time visitors to the park.
- Tour and dining room reservations fill up early, so be sure to book well in advance.
- Bring your camera, as the interior and exterior views are shot-worthy.
- The hotel is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
If you’re not part of a guided tour, the easiest way to reach the hotel is to drive or ride your bike. It’s also a stop on the free year-round Yosemite Valley Shuttle System, departing from the Yosemite Village parking area and other spots around the park.
When to Get There
The Majestic Yosemite Hotel and dining room are open throughout the year. One of the best times for a meal is during the popular Sunday brunch, though it’s a good idea to book in the offseason to avoid the summer crowds.
Architecture of the Majestic Yosemite Hotel
In an effort to attract more affluent visitors to the park, this historic hotel was commissioned in the 1920s. Some 5,000 tons (4,536 metric tons) of stone, 30,000 feet (9,144 meters) of lumber, and 1,000 tons (907 metric tons) of steel were brought in for construction. The design takes inspiration from art deco, Native American, and Middle Eastern cultures, with details like stained glass windows, hand-woven tapestries, and hand-stenciled ceiling beams.
Address: 1 Ahwahnee Dr, Yosemite Natl Pk, CA 95389, USA
From $ 169
Market Street
One of San Francisco’s main thoroughfares, ever-pulsating Market Street cuts a diagonal line from the Embarcadero on the city’s northeastern edge to the Twin Peaks neighborhood. It’s home to everything from big-name shops, restaurants, and cafés to offices, theaters, and plazas—attracting visitors and locals both day and night.
The Basics
Market Street spans 4.5 miles (7 kilometers) and is where much of the action takes place in San Francisco, from both a working and visiting perspective. Union Square, Civic Center, and the Financial District are on the drag’s northern side, and the South of Market (SoMa) and Castro districts lie on the southern side. Book a hop-on hop-off bus tour to explore the sights at your own pace, or jump aboard the F-Market MUNI line to ride down Market Street in a vintage streetcar.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Being a main artery of San Francisco, Market Street is a virtually unavoidable experience for all visitors to the city.
- Market is flat and walkable from the Embarcadero through the downtown area; it starts to get hilly as you near the Castro and Twin Peaks.
- With heavy pedestrian traffic, bus lanes, and streetcar tracks, Market Street is busy and can be a stressful driving experience for first-timers.
- Market’s sidewalks are well maintained and accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
A variety of public transportation options ply Market Street, including several MUNI bus and train lines, the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system, and the San Francisco Cable Car, which runs down Powell Street to Market. There is plenty of metered street parking available, but pay attention to posted signs about prohibited parking during rush hour.
When to Get There
Market Street bustles all day long—go in the late morning or afternoon for shopping or lunch, or have dinner at a popular restaurant such as Zuni Café. The street is quieter at night, when locals head home after post-work happy hour. You’ll get the best photos in the early morning, before the 9-to-5 crowd arrives.
Ferry Building
Across the Embarcadero from the end of Market Street sits the Ferry Building Marketplace, a haven of gourmet goodies nestled amidst stellar views of San Francisco Bay. Eat your way through the historical building, tasting cheese, oysters, bread, wine, coffee, and ice cream, or try your luck at getting a table at the Slanted Door, one of the city’s best Vietnamese eateries.
Address: Market St. begins at The Embarcadero, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 30
Nob Hill
One of San Francisco’s original Seven Hills, Nob Hill is the historic and present-day home of the city’s upper crust. This area features luxury apartments and mansions, elite hotels, and towering Grace Cathedral. A short but steep walk from Union Square, Nob Hill gives visitors a look at how the other half lives in San Francisco.
The Basics
The top of Nob Hill is the block bordered by Sacramento, Taylor, California, and Mason streets. You’ll feel like you’re at the top of the city as you take in the French Gothic–style architecture of Grace Cathedral, the stately Fairmont Hotel, and the Flood Mansion. Book a history walking tour or a movie sights tour, or stop into the popular Cable Car Museum, to get the most from this tony neighborhood.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is a lot of metered and free street parking available, but pay attention to posted signs about parking limits during street cleaning, rush hour, construction, or special events.
- Bring a jacket; the fog and wind can roll in quickly and it gets chilly on top of the hill.
- Wear shoes appropriate for walking down steep grades.
How to Get There
Nob Hill sits between Van Ness Avenue, Broadway, Powell Street, and Bush Street. For the most quintessentially San Francisco experience, ride up the hill on the Powell-Hyde cable car line from Union Square, or the California line from Market Street. The neighborhood is also accessible via Muni bus No. 1.
When to Get There
Commuting locals and traffic crowd the main thoroughfare of California Street during morning and evening rush hour, so either avoid this time or embrace your experience of the city’s daily bustle. It’s not a major nightlife area, so go during the day to visit the attractions and admire the elegant architecture at the top of the hill.
Nob Hill Hotels
Check out these three hotels for a taste of old San Francisco luxury and unparalleled views. The
Fairmont opened in 1907 and is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places; enjoy a drink in the famous Tonga Room Tiki bar. At the InterContinental Mark Hopkins, which opened in 1926, visit the upscale Top of the Mark cocktail lounge. Or head to the Huntington, opened in 1922, and dine at the Big 4 restaurant.
Address: Nob Hill, San Francisco, CA, USA
From $ 30
Legion of Honor
The San Francisco Legion of Honor houses a broad collection of ancient and European art. Best known for Auguste Rodin’s statute The Thinker in its front courtyard, the Legion, as it is called by locals, is equally impressive for the jaw-dropping views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Pacific Ocean visible from nearly every window.
The Basics
Walk through the Legion of Honor’s imposing neoclassical stone archway and through The Thinker’s courtyard to reach galleries divided neatly into collections of European paintings, decorative art, and sculpture, as well as ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman antiquities. Rodin collection casts and sculptures draw many visitors, as do works by Peter Paul Rubens, El Greco and Rembrandt van Rijn. Print lovers should look for items from the Ed Ruscha Archive, Japanese prints, and prints and drawings from Depression-era WPA program. Complete a visit with a walk along the cliffs to see majestic views of the Golden Gate.
San Francisco CityPASS, Explorer Pass, and Go Card include admission to the Legion. Single admission tickets also include same-day admission to the Legion’s partner fine arts museum, the de Young Museum, in Golden Gate Park. Tours don’t include admission to any special exhibits.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Legion of Honor is a compact museum and easy to visit in a few hours—ideal for those with limited time.
- The small on-site café is very busy at lunchtime and during special exhibitions.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible with accessible restrooms on both floors.
- Children under 17 are always free.
- The Legion does not allow large bags (larger than a carry-on) into the museum and does not offer a bag check for large bags.
How to Get There
The Legion of Honor is at the far western end of San Francisco at 34th Avenue, inside Lincoln Park and near the Lands End Lookout. San Francisco Muni runs the 18 connection service to the Legion from the 38R bus line along Geary Boulevard. Exit at 33rd Avenue and Geary to catch the 18 directly to the Legion. Other visitors walk on the path up from Baker Beach through China Beach to the Legion.
When to Get There
The Legion is busiest during the summer and when special exhibitions are held. Arrive when the museum opens at 9:30am for uncrowded galleries and easy parking. In spring and fall, when the city’s notorious fog retreats to the coast, picnickers are plentiful in Lincoln Park and in front of the Legion. The Legion is closed on Mondays as well as Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Honoring World War I Soldiers
Modeled after Paris' Palais de la Légion d'Honneur, the Legion of Honor museum was built to commemorate soldiers who died in World War I. The Legion's neoclassical design and distinctive setting near Lands End combine the region’s nature with classic architectural lines to gorgeous effect.
Address: 100 34th Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94121, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 15
Lands End
A rocky point at San Francisco’s westernmost tip, Lands End is a shutterbug’s dream. With epic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, sweeping vistas of the Pacific coast, and access to the ruins at Sutro Baths, Lands End is wild, windy, and beautiful.
The Basics
Lands End is a hiker’s paradise with coastal trails running from Ocean Beach past Sutro Baths and the memorial to the USS San Francisco to Fort Point and the Golden Gate Bridge. The recently remodeled Lands End Lookout Visitor Center has indoor exhibits about the natural history of the area, Sutro Baths, and Sutro Heights. The on-site café serves up piping hot mocha and hot chocolate, enticement to return after a brisk hike in foggy weather.
Many tours of San Francisco stop at Lands End and allow time to explore Sutro Baths and the Cliff House and enjoy stunning views of the Pacific. Walking tours of Lands End or coastal walking tours from the Golden Gate Bridge to Lands End generally include more time at Sutro Baths and finish with a drink at the Cliff House.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Layers are recommended as weather can change quickly from warm and sunny to foggy and chilly.
- Sturdy walking shoes are a must to safely explore Sutro Baths and the hiking trails of Lands End.
- Don’t forget your camera for the unique views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Cliff House, and San Francisco skyline.
- Sutro Baths is not wheelchair accessible, but the nearby Lands End Lookout Visitor Center and Cliff House are. Those with limited mobility can also access an overlook with benches at the north end of El Camino Del Mar parking lot, while wheelchair-accessible trails begin at the Merrie Way parking lot.
- There is a small sea cave and tidal pools where the ocean meets the land beyond the Sutro Baths. Beware of the wave break and slippery stairs and paths when walking on the cliffs.
- Lands End Lookout has a small café, gift shop, and restroom facilities.
How to Get There
Access Lands End Lookout Visitors Center, at the intersection of Point Lobos Avenue and Merrie Way, by San Francisco Muni’s 38 Geary bus line. Exit at 48th Avenue and Point Lobos Avenue and walk a third-mile (0.54 kilometers) to the baths. Many visitors hike from Lands End to the Golden Gate Bridge or vice versa. A parking lot behind Lands End Lookout is impossibly busy on sunny days and summer weekends.
When to Get There
Lands End Lookout Visitor Center is open daily from 9am to 5pm and closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. You can visit Sutro Baths from sunrise to sunset. Summer brings the most visitors to the area, and the baths, lookout, Cliff House, and trails can be quite crowded. Visit early in the morning or on a rainy day if you would like the place to yourself.
Los Lobos
The Spaniards named the rocky, westernmost point of land "Point Lobos" or "the sea wolves" for the many sea lions (lobos marinos) that used to call the area home. Though the sea wolves have moved north in search of cooler waters, the Spanish name stuck.
Address: San Francisco, CA, USA
From $ 48
Mirror Lake
Located in Yosemite Valley, Mirror Lake is famous for its reflections of Half Dome and Mount Watkins when the water level is high enough; to be fair, it's more of a pond than a lake. But it's a pretty pond that can be accessed by an easy two-mile round trip stroll from the valley floor.
If photographs are what you're looking to capture, be sure to visit in the spring and early summer; birders will enjoy catching glimpses of white-headed woodpeckers and martens. If you’d prefer a circumferential view of the lake, there’s a five-mile (eight kilometer) loop hike that is sure to satisfy.
If photographs are what you're looking to capture, be sure to visit in the spring and early summer; birders will enjoy catching glimpses of white-headed woodpeckers and martens. If you’d prefer a circumferential view of the lake, there’s a five-mile (eight kilometer) loop hike that is sure to satisfy.
Practical Info
The Mirror Lake Trailhead is located at shuttle stop #17; a paved trail will take you directly to the lake. To access the loop, take a right at the stone bridge. Visit on a calm day in spring or summer for the best reflections of Half Dome and Mount Watkins.
Address: Mirror Lake, Yosemite National Park, CA, USA
From $ 110
Marin Headlands
When outdoorsy San Franciscans need a nature fix, they head to the Marin Headlands, a wildlife haven on the coast known for its hiking trails, Pacific Ocean views, and historic sites. Part of Golden Gate National Recreation Area, the headlands sit just across the Golden Gate Bridge in Marin County.
The Basics
The Marin Headlands make a great destination for a half-day trip or as part of a longer day trip to Muir Woods or Sonoma County. Go for a few hours to hike on the Tennessee Valley Trail, visit dog-friendly Rodeo Beach, or enjoy exceptional photo ops of the Golden Gate Bridge from the Golden Gate View Point on Conzelman Road. Bay cruises and helicopter tours give you the chance to admire the wild headlands from afar.
The southwest end of the headlands is home to the Point Bonita Lighthouse, Headlands Center for the Arts, and military attractions such as the Cold War–era Nike missile sites, gun batteries, Fort Barry, and Fort Cronkhite.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Marin Headlands are ideal for nature lovers and history buffs.
- The visitor center is located at Fort Barry, on the way to Rodeo Beach.
- Bring your own water and food; there are a few picnic sites, including at Battery Wallace.
- Accessible restrooms can be found near Rodeo Beach and at the visitor center.
How to Get There
From San Francisco, drive north over the Golden Gate Bridge and take the Alexander Avenue exit off US 101 to reach the Marin Headlands. If you’re feeling active, you can bike there.
When to Get There
If you wake up to a sunny day, go early to avoid the traffic, especially on weekend mornings when locals take the bridge out of the city. Photo and wildlife enthusiasts will want to visit in the early morning or evening for the best light and prime chances to see wildlife.
Marine Mammal Center
Near Rodeo Beach and Fort Cronkhite, the Marine Mammal Center works to rescue, rehabilitate, and release marine mammals who have been injured, caught in nets, or a variety of other conditions. Educational programs and tours are open to the public.
Address: San Francisco, San Francisco Bay, USA
From $ 10