Choose from 126 Fun Things to Do in San Francisco
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Vesuvio Cafe
One of San Francisco’s most storied watering holes, Vesuvio Cafe is an icon of the Beat Generation and a symbol of the history and culture of North Beach. Founded in 1948, the bohemian saloon was a popular hangout spot for writers and poets such as Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, and Lawrence Ferlinghetti. Other famous patrons include Bob Dylan and Francis Ford Coppola.
The Basics
Many travelers visit Vesuvio Cafe as part of a tour of the North Beach (aka Little Italy) neighborhood, which is a bustling nightlife destination. Get there on a hop-on hop-off tour, or join a pub crawl to visit the bar with fellow travelers.
Inside, the eclectic, artsy decor and two stories of lights create a retro atmosphere in an intimate space, with walls covered in paintings and writer memorabilia. The drinks menu includes classic cocktails and Beat-themed tributes.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Vesuvio Cafe does not serve food.
- You must be 21 to enter; IDs are checked.
- There is plenty of free and metered street parking available in North Beach, but pay attention to posted signs about prohibited parking during street cleaning or other times.
How to Get There
The bar is easy to reach by cab, ride-hailing service, and public transportation. Take the Powell-Mason cable car to the Mason Street and Pacific Avenue stop, or hop on Muni bus 8 or 41.
When to Get There
Vesuvio Cafe is open daily from morning to late night. To enjoy the laid-back vibe of North Beach, visit in the evening or on a weekend afternoon, when sidewalk cafés and restaurants are bustling. Late-night, the neighborhood becomes more of a party scene. Every June, the North Beach Festival features a variety of food stands and merchants selling art and jewelry.
City Lights Bookstore
Located next door to Vesuvio Cafe, just across Jack Kerouac Alley, sits the other Beat-era icon of San Francisco—City Lights Booksellers & Publishers. A North Beach institution, this independent bookstore was founded in 1953 and is known for its international literature, progressive attitude, and author readings.
Address: 255 Columbus, San Francisco, California, USA
From $ 58
Ferry Plaza Farmers Market
San Francisco foodies and local chefs alike flock to the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market to peruse stalls bursting with some of Northern California's finest produce. At the waterfront market, visitors can tempt their taste buds with local goat cheese, fresh-pressed olive oil, organic vegetables, and a variety of ready-to-eat artisanal goods.
The Basics
Located on San Francisco's Embarcadero, the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market is a picturesque escape from the bustle of city life, whether you want to peruse the colorful stalls, tuck into meals from local food trucks and sit-down restaurants, or just grab coffee and enjoy panoramic views of San Francisco Bay. The gourmet action continues inside the adjacent Ferry Building, where local shops sell foraged wild mushrooms, gold-leafed chocolates, and sustainably farmed Marin County oysters, among other treats.
For a deep-dive into the market's culinary scene, explore on a food-tasting tour with an expert guide. Travelers can also rent a bike to explore San Francisco's waterfront, or combine a farmers market food tour with a visit to Alcatraz Island, home of the prison that once held America's most notorious criminals.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The market is a must-see for foodies and culture lovers.
- The Ferry Building contains restrooms, ATMs, and limited public seating. All facilities are wheelchair-accessible.
- The nearest parking lot is at Washington Street and Embarcadero.
How to Get There
The farmers market is located along the Embarcadero, at the foot of Market Street. It is accessible by road, MUNI, BART, and ferry, and a pleasant 30-minute waterfront stroll from Fisherman's Wharf. San Francisco's historic trolley cars (F-line Market) stop directly in front of the building.
When to Get There
The Ferry Plaza Farmers Market is held year-round on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The market is most crowded on Saturday and can be a serious social fest, complete with culinary demos by city chefs and interviews with local farmers. Get there early to avoid crowds, or aim for noon for the full local experience.
Exploring the Ferry Building
The historic Ferry Building's marketplace houses a number of notable purveyors, including Cowgirl Creamery, Frog Hollow Farm, Acme Bread Company, Recchiuti Confections, Miette Patisserie, and Blue Bottle Coffee. Even when the farmers market isn't open, locals know the Ferry Building is the place to come for gourmet treats and unbeatable bay views.
Address: The Embarcadero at Market Street, San Francisco, California 94111, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 77
Yountville
Located a quick and easy 15 minutes north of Napa, Yountville is a fun addition to any wine country vacation must-do list. It’s the type of place where you don’t necessarily need to have a plan. Park the car when you arrive and wander down Washington Street. There are numerous tasting rooms to choose from including Jessup Cellars and Girard Napa Valley.
If only bubbly will do, it’s just a quick ride to Domain Chandon. Tours and tastings are offered regularly. Yountville is also a tasty place to be when hunger strikes. The list of gourmet restaurants is long; Ad Hoc Restaurant, Bistro Jeanty, Bouchon Bistro, and Bouchon Bakery. Then there’s The French Laundry, known around the world for its amazing food and hard-to-get reservations.
The Town of Yountville gets its name from founding father George C. Yount, the first person to plant grapes in the area.
Practical Info
Yountville is located approximately 60 miles from San Francisco and is a comfortable day-trip when visiting the city. There are also plenty of luxury hotels and inns in the area, if you decide you want to spend the night.
Address: Yountville, USA
From $ 99
War Memorial Opera House
Part of the larger San Francisco War Memorial and Performing Arts Center, the War Memorial Opera House is a center for arts and culture in the city by the bay. It is home to the San Francisco Ballet and, of course, the San Francisco Opera.
The structure dates back to 1932, when it was designed by prominent architect Arthur Brown, Jr in a beaux-arts style. It was the first municipally owned opera house built in the United States, and at the time of its opening it was one of the most technologically advanced venues in the country. Today the elegant theater holds classical ballet and opera performances as well special events and lectures.
The opera house opens with a grand lobby and an ornately decorated 38-foot ceiling, lined with tall columns. Broad staircases lead to the theater, which is both modern and traditional at once. It is widely thought to be one of the most beautiful buildings in San Francisco.
Practical Info
You’ll find the War Memorial Opera House at the heart of San Francisco’s Civic Center, on Van Ness Avenue. The ballet and opera hold separate box offices. Tours are given every Monday for $7 per person.
Address: 301 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, California, USA 94102, USA
Hours: Box office is open Mon-Fri 10am-4pm
Admission: Varies by show
From $ 30
Angel Island Immigration Station
From 1910 to 1940, hundreds of thousands of immigrants"”mostly from Asia and Mexico-- were processed at the US Immigration Station on Angel Island; many were also detained and interrogated. The restored station is now a museum dedicated to the education and interpretation of this period of American history.
The Basics
The Immigration Station is located on the northern shore of Angel Island, which sits in San Francisco Bay, on the other side of Alcatraz Island from San Francisco. Visitors arrive via ferry, and then explore the museum independently or with a guided tour. The re-created bunk rooms and barracks show a little of what life was like for immigrants on Angel Island as they waited and hoped for a new life in the United States.
Many travelers to Angel Island extend their visit with a hike or bike ride around the island. Another unique view of the Immigration Station and island as a whole can be had on a San Francisco Bay helicopter tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Angel Island Immigration Station is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, but parts of the grounds are steep.
- There is a small fee to enter the museum.
- No matter the weather or the season, bring layers to shield yourself from the wind.
- Bikes are permitted on the island, but skateboards, scooters, roller skates, and Rollerblades are prohibited. Those under 18 years of age are required to wear a helmet while biking.
How to Get There
Angel Island is accessible only by boat to Ayala Cove; then you'll need to hike, bike, or take the shuttle that runs from the ferry landing to the museum. The Blue & Gold Fleet operates ferries from Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco (25-minute ride); the Angel Island Tiburon Ferry operates from the Marin County town of Tiburon (10-minute ride).
When to Get There
The Immigration Station museum is open 11am to 3pm, and is closed Monday and Tuesday. Ferry service varies daily and seasonally, so check schedules ahead of your visit. It's hard to predict weather on the bay, but September and October are typically the sunniest months to enjoy the island's outdoor activities.
Angel Island State Park
The Immigration Station occupies a small part of Angel Island, the largest natural island in San Francisco Bay. This California state park also offers hiking, biking, and picnicking, all with views of the bay, city skyline, and Golden Gate Bridge. Bring or rent a bike, or consider a Segway tour or open-air tram tour.
Address: Angel Island, California, USA, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 10
Cartoon Art Museum
San Francisco's Cartoon Art Museum is home to more than 6,000 original pieces of cartoon and animation art, one of the largest collections of its kind. Through the display and study of this accessible art form, the museum seeks to preserve the unique social, cultural and historical statements cartoons make. What has resulted is a collection that has something for everyone "” editorials, comic books, graphic novels, Anime, and even the Sunday funnies.
Cartoons encompass everything from humor to politics, from light to heavy-hearted in nature and from the profoundly simple to exquisitely complex. The museum celebrates everything from Spiderman to the Economist. Founded in 1984 and supported by a grant from Charles Schultz, it is the only museum on the West Coast of the United States devoted solely to cartoon art. There is also a research library and bookstore, with traveling exhibitions and education events for both children and adults, in addition to the permanent collection.
Address: 781 Beach Street, San Francisco, California, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 74
Children's Creativity Museum
Nurturing children's creative passions for a chance at a successful and innovative 21st Century, the Children's Creativity Museum (formerly ZEUM) offers an interactive arts and technology museum for kids. Building on the idea that collaboration and creativity are the earmarks of fun and learning, the Children's Creativity Museum offers a wide range of engaging activities for youths. Whether it's sculpting out of clay, developing characters in an animation studio, taking the "mystery box challenge," or simply blowing off steam on a carousel and the playgrounds, the Children's Creativity Museum is always a hit for the young and old. It's also conveniently located in the Yerba Buena Gardens complex, a hub of activity and culture in heart of Downtown.
Practical Info
The Children's Creativity Museum (formerly ZEUM) is located on 221 Fourth Street, San Francisco (Yerba Buena Gardens) and is open to the public Wednesday "“ Sunday 10am to 4pm.
Address: 221 Fourth Street, San Francisco, CA 94103, USA
Hours: Wed - Sun 10am to 4pm
Admission: General Admission: USD$11, Kids under 2: Free
From $ 71
Haas-Lilienthal House
San Francisco is famous for its distinctive Victorian homes, and the Haas-Lilienthal is the city's only intact Victorian house open to touring visitors. It is complete with Queen Anne-style period architecture, authentic furniture, and original artifacts. Designed by architect Peter R. Schmidt in 1886, a walk through the home gives a real sense of upper-middle class Victorian era life. Since then it has survived major city fires and earthquakes to maintain its historic charm and style.
The three-storied exterior of the house is characterized by its circular tower and elaborately decorated wooden gables. The interior is luxurious, all 11,500 square feet of it, including a ballroom, parlor, and dining room most modern San Franciscans can only dream about. It was named a "˜national treasure' by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Docent-led tours describe the history of the building as well as the family who once inhabited it.
Practical Info
The Hass-Lilienthal House can be found at 2007 Franklin Street in the Pacific Heights neighborhood of San Francisco. It is open to the public only three days a week, on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 12 to 3 pm and Sundays from 11 am to 4 pm. Admission is $8 with tickets for seniors and children under 12 reduced to $5.
Address: 2007 Franklin Street, San Francisco, California, USA
Hours: Vary
Admission: Adults: $8
From $ 74
Yosemite National Park
One of the United States’ most popular national parks, Yosemite is packed with natural beauty and views that never cease to amaze. From the majestic mountain peaks to the green meadows on the valley floor (plus all the waterfalls and groves of tall Sequoia trees in between), there’s no shortage of outdoor and leisure activities set against the park’s epic views. And whether you spend a single day or stay for a multi-day camping trip, you’ll feel a deeper appreciation for the nature at this national treasure.
The Basics
Yosemite is one of the most popular day trip destinations from San Francisco, often visited on full-day and multi-day excursions from the city. Visit with roundtrip transportation to explore the park independently, or choose a guided experience to see much of the park in a short amount of time. Sightseeing bus tours, valley floor tours, and Glacier Point tours are available, while small-group and private options are offered.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The park features a number of walking and biking trails that vary in difficulty and length. The Visitor Center is the best place to find information on the trails.
- Yosemite day hikes, adventure tours, and hiking tours offer opportunities for active days out in nature, all with the help of a guide. Choose from hiking tours, yoga tours, photography tours, and more.
How to Get There
Yosemite National Park is best accessed via car ($20 fee per vehicle). From San Francisco, it’s about a four-hour drive—you’ll cross the Bay Bridge and travel through the Great Central Valley into the Sierra foothills. Following the beautiful Merced River to the Sierra Nevada Mountains, you'll enter Yosemite Valley. Most tours from the Bay Area include roundtrip transportation.
When to Get There
Yosemite is accessible year-round, though snow chains may be required in winter. The park is beautiful in every season, but be aware that access to some hiking trails is weather-permitting. Many consider spring the best time to visit—expect crowds in summer and snow activities such as snowshoeing and skiing in winter.
What Not To Miss in Yosemite National Park
It’s hard to go too wrong, but where to start? The majestic profile of Half Dome is perhaps the most iconic sight in the park. You can also view the mighty mecca that is El Capitan, or hike into Tuolumne Meadows, where giant sequoias surround you. As for waterfalls, Yosemite Falls, Bridalveil Fall, and Vernal Falls are all must-sees, and when it comes to viewpoints, be sure to check out Glacier Point and Tunnel View.
Address: Yosemite, California, USA
Hours: Open 24 hours every day
Admission: US$20 per car entrance fee
From $ 80
USS Pampanito
This World War II war ship has officially retired to the San Francisco Bay, where it is docked for visitors to enjoy. Commissioned in 1943, the Balao class Fleet submarine has a storied history that includes the sinking of six Japanese ships while patrolling the Pacific. It now operates as if a floating museum, with its original sleeping quarters, kitchen, dining room, and office open to the public. Walking through the living areas it’s possible to get a true sense of the camped quarters soldiers endured at sea for months at a time.
The ship’s museum (as a part of the larger San Francisco Maritime National Park Association) gives a glimpse into a unique time in naval history. Much of the submarine has been restored to its original working condition, including its torpedo tube, engine room, and periscope. The National Historic Landmark is one of the most visited historic vessels in the United States.
Practical Info
The USS Pampanito is docked at Pier 45 in San Francisco. Located along the Embarcadero at Fisherman’s Wharf, it’s open daily from 9 am to 8 pm for visits. Admission is $15 for adults, $11 for seniors, and $9 for children or active military. The Powell/Hyde cable car line stops here, and the SS Jeremiah O’Brien is docked right beside it. Audio and docent led tours are available.
Address: Fishermans Wharf, San Francisco, California, USA
Hours: Daily from 9 am - 8 pm
Admission: $15 for adults, $11 for seniors, $9 for children or active military
From $ 20
Yerba Buena Gardens
With two blocks of public green space in downtown San Francisco, Yerba Buena Gardens offers a refuge in the middle of one of the city’s busiest areas. Located next to the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, the gardens include public art, waterfalls, and landscaped lawns for relaxing and people-watching.
The Basics
There’s no need to make a special trip to Yerba Buena Gardens. It’s within a few blocks of some of the city’s top museums, shopping centers, and entertainment venues, including San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA), the Contemporary Jewish Museum, the Museum of the African Diaspora, the California Historical Society, the Children’s Creativity Museum, Yerba Buena Ice Skating and Bowling Center, Westfield Shopping Centre, and the Metreon complex with restaurants and movie theaters.
In addition to pairing a visit to Yerba Buena Gardens with a museum visit or other amusements, tourists can enjoy the gardens as part of a guided walking tour, or an independent excursion via Segway or a classic VW Bug.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There are several places to eat and drink around the gardens, mainly along Yerba Buena Lane, on the gardens’ Upper Terrace, and at the Metreon.
- Alcoholic beverages are not allowed in the gardens.
- There is a management office on the second level, near the Howard Street pedestrian bridge, in case you have any special needs or questions.
How to Get There
The Yerba Buena Gardens are bordered by Mission, Howard, 3rd, and 4th streets in the city’s South of Market (SOMA) district. It’s a short walk to the gardens from the BART and MUNI train stations on Powell and Montgomery streets. By city bus, take the 14, 15, 30, or 45 route. Metered street parking is available around the gardens, but check posted signs for limits.
When to Get There
The gardens are open daily from 6am until 10pm. Special events, such as an Easter egg hunt and Halloween Hoopla, and the Yerba Buena Gardens Festival, showcase musical and cultural programs throughout the year.
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts
This cultural center, spread across two buildings—the YBCA Theater and the Gallery & Forum Building—features music and dance performances, contemporary art exhibits, art installations, and film screenings. The Yerba Buena Center for the Arts is open Tuesday through Sunday.
Address: 745 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94103, USA
From $ 15
ZD Wines
Created by two aerospace engineers who turned their interest to wine making, ZD Wines has a family history three generations strong in Napa Valley. The deLeuze family offers a number of ways for visitors to add ZD Wines to their Napa itinerary. Along with tasting, guests have the opportunity to learn about farming and the art of wine making. A variety of tours are offered by appointment.
The Eco Vineyard Tour and Wine Tasting offers an education about organic farming and includes a walk through the organically certified Estate Cabernet Vineyard. It also includes a wine tasting paired with a selection of artisan cheeses. If you’re more interested in what’s happening inside winery walls, the Cellar Tour includes a private tour of the cellar and barrel tastings.
Practical Info
If you’re not the type to plan ahead, don’t worry, walk-in wine tasting is available 10am to 4:30pm daily. Reservations are only required for groups of six or more. ZD Wines is located in Napa on the Silverado Trail.
Address: 8383 Silverado Trail, Napa, California 94558, USA
Hours: Walk-in wine tasting is available 10am to 4:30pm daily.
From $ 0
California Historical Society
The state of California has a fascinating history, much of which occurred right in San Francisco where this organization and its museum is based. Stroll through the archives, which include a library, an art collection and a shop. Visitors can view the collection of more than historic maps, books, pamphlets, manuscripts and other visuals, including 500,000 photographs, or see works of art, including paintings, costumes, drawings, and other artifacts on display.
With historical exhibits for the city of San Francisco as well as the rest of the Golden State, it only makes sense that the building itself is a piece of history. Founded in 1871, the society is headquartered at the former home of the San Francisco Builders Exchange and E.M. Hundley hardware store. The historical group is a nonprofit organization that now has other locations throughout the state, but the greatest collection of artifacts is held here. The building was repainted in 2012 in a brilliant orange "” to match the Golden Gate Bridge, of course.
Practical Info
The California Historical Society is open daily from 12 to 5 pm, but is closed on Mondays. Admission is $5, but use of the research library is free of charge. It is located in the Yerba Buena district of San Francisco's SOMA area, at 678 Mission Street.
Address: 678 Mission Street, San Francisco, California, USA
Hours: Tuesday - Sunday from 12 to 5 pm
Admission: $5
From $ 71
Beat Museum
Discover the history of a generation of writers known as the Beats at the Beat Museum, which pays tribute to the movement in memorabilia, books, and a video documentary. This small museum, situated on a busy corner of San Francisco's Italian North Beach neighborhood, is easy to include on a tour of the city.
The Basics
Citizens of San Francisco pride themselves on their renegade history. The Beat writers, including Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Neal Cassady, Charles Bukowski, and William S. Burroughs, among others, gave voice to a renegade spirit and a tolerance for individual expression that reverberates throughout the city to this day.
The spirit of openness and the defining touch points of the Beat era"”the Howl obscenity trial and jazz"”are some of the discoveries to be found at the Beat Museum. There is a small admission fee (family and group discounts are available), and a 90-minute guided museum tour helps visitors distinguish a "beat" from a "beatnik."
Discounted admission is included in two of San Francisco's popular visitor passes, which allow the passholder reduced entrance fees to a variety of local attractions.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Quirky as the movement, the museum displays original artifacts next to secondhand books.
- Enter from the street and walk up a short flight of stairs to enter the small museum.
- The museum serves as a great introduction to the Beat Generation. Fans of 1950s and 1960s music, literature, and history will find plenty to savor here.
How to Get There
North Beach is easy to explore on foot. The Beat Museum, located on Broadway near the intersection of Columbus, is accessible by numerous Muni bus lines. Muni 30, 10, and 12 bus routes all stop within a block of the museum. Parking is difficult and driving is not recommended unless using a car service.
When to Get There
Poetry readings, book release parties, and events honoring the key figures of the Beat Generation are regularly scheduled in late afternoon and evening hours and attract a local crowd of writers and free speech enthusiasts. For a quieter experience, visit during the morning. The video documentary runs on a continuous loop.
The Beat Museum's Local Hangouts
Explore the Beat era in a short walking tour of their North Beach hangouts. Vesuvio Cafe, open from 8am to 2pm, was a regular hangout for the Beats. The eclectic establishment, with art and poems gracing the walls, has been a haven for jazz, poetry, and the good life since 1948. City Lights Bookstore, on Jack Kerouac Alley, carries even more Beats literature and works from Ken Kesey and Lawrence Ferlinghetti.
Address: 540 Broadway Street, San Francisco, California, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 71
Union Square
The newly paved grounds of Union Square, bordered by brightly lit department stores and hotels, may not at first seem like an inviting place to hang out. But perch awhile on a skinny bench or grab a coveted seat at the café in the square, and you’ll discover some of the best people-watching in the city.
For in one day, you’ll see theater-goers debate the merits of the latest David Mamet productions, Nob Hill society dames in dark glasses duck into Maiden Lane spas for facials, and giddy teens wear out their parents while shopping for prom dresses.
But the real reason to come to Union Square is to shop. The square is home to six major department stores: Macy’s, Bloomingdales, Barney’s, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Neiman Marcus. Boutique shoppers will find plenty of spots to browse the latest designer fashion. High-end emporiums surround the square, including Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Bottega Veneta, Dolce & Gabbana, Burberry, Prada, and Giorgio Armani. Other stores, just south of Union Square along Market Street, include Old Navy, Apple Store, Anthropologie, and Urban Outfitters.
Nearby attractions include the theater district, Chinatown, and the French Quarter, with its many restaurants and cafes. Union Square is also only a few blocks from fashionable Nob Hill.
Practical Info
You can get to Union Square by all forms of public transportation. Two cable car lines (Powell-Hyde and Powell-Mason) serve Union Square on Powell Street; the F-Market antique street car, trolley, and bus lines also stop here.
Address: Intersection of Geary, Powell, Post, and Stockton Streets, San Francisco 94102, USA
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 15
Walt Disney Family Museum
Step inside the Walt Disney Family Museum to understand the man and innovator who created Mickey Mouse and Disney World and revolutionized the movie industry. Interweaving Disney’s personal history with early drawings Disney’s animated works, this museum takes visitors back in time to Hollywood’s earliest days.
The Basics
It is impossible to understand today’s animated movies without looking at the groundbreaking work of Walt Disney Studios. The museum deconstructs Disney’s foundational efforts to create both appealing characters, such as Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, and the processes that bring them to life. Interactive galleries with listening stations reveal important moments in Disney’s life, including producing feature-length films in Hollywood. The work of pivotal Disney animators, such as Glen Keane, and art directors, such as Mary Blair, is also discussed. Disney fans can explore Disney Fantasia in galleries dedicated to its portrayal of the natural world in a realistic way or take a look at Disney’s work on Disneyland and EPCOT (Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow).
Tours of the area, such as adventure van or bike excursions, stop at the Disney Family Museum but don’t include admission.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Fans of anime, cartoons, and 20th-century animation learn about the origins of this field of visual arts.
- Children can explore the various media that are Disney’s legacy. Disney’s characters are explored here through the creative process, not through feature-length films.
- Each gallery offers listening stations and the chance to view extensive video and digital film shorts created by Disney, which is half the fun but time-consuming.
- The on-site museum cafe offers light bites and seasonal fare.
How to Get There
San Francisco Muni bus lines 30, 70, and 101’s closest stops are Richardson and Francisco avenues at the Presidio’s eastern end. Visitors can take a 15-minute walk or wait for the PresidiGo shuttle, which stops directly in front of the museum as well as throughout downtown San Francisco.
When to Get There
The museum is open 10am–6pm, Wednesday–Monday and closed Tuesdays, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. In honor of Disney’s birthday, the museum offers free admission December 5, and all active and retired military veterans and their families are always admitted free of charge.
Diane Disney Miller
Diane Disney Miller, Walt's daughter and a dedicated philanthropist, was the driving force behind the creation of both the Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco and the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles. Her legacy includes founding the Silverado Winery with her husband Ron Miller.
Address: 104 Montgomery St, San Francisco, CA 94129, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 25
Ferry Building
One of San Francisco's most famous landmarks, the Ferry Building is a port of entry and transit hub, marketplace, and farmers market. Food merchants, specialty shops, wine bars, and restaurants line the historic building's hallways, making it a one-stop shop for experiencing the diverse culinary flavors and master retailers of San Francisco.
The Basics
With its imposing 245-foot (75-meter) clock tower, the Ferry Building is the San Francisco waterfront's crown jewel. And it's not just a waiting room for Bay Area ferry commuters"”it's a thriving marketplace with dozens of artisan producers in its vaulted food hall serving everything from hand-churned ice cream and local honey to Blue Bottle coffee and Acme Bread Company's famous sourdough. Always-packed restaurants"”including Gott's Roadside, Hog Island Oyster Company, and the Slanted Door"”call the Ferry Building home, and the farmers market offers wildly fresh produce, meat, seafood, and prepared eats three days a week. Walk along the esplanade for great views of the Bay Bridge.
Many city tours"”such as combo tours including Alcatraz"”start or end at this iconic spot on the Embarcadero, while food tours of the Ferry Building and the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market explore the property in-depth. Hop-on hop-off tours stop here as well. If you have more time, catch a ferry boat from the Ferry Building to Sausalito or arrive via private yacht charter from Napa.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Ferry Building is a must for foodies.
- The marketplace is exceptionally busy during rush hour, and an hour before and after games and events at AT&T Park.
- Situated on San Francisco's waterfront, weather can shift quickly from bright and sunny to foggy and cold. Dress in layers.
- Restrooms are located on either end of the main hall.
- Ferry Building restaurants and restrooms are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Public transit to the Ferry Building is plentiful and convenient. MUNI's E, F, J, K, L, M, N, and T street cars and 10, 12, and 41 bus lines all stop within two blocks of the Ferry Building, as does BART (Embarcadero station). Ferries to Alameda, Sausalito, Larkspur, and Vallejo dock at the Ferry Building.
When to Get There
Hours for individual businesses vary but the Ferry Building is generally open 10am to 7pm Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm Saturday, and 11am to 5pm Sunday; it is closed on Christmas. The Ferry Plaza Farmers Market operates 10am to 2pm Tuesday and Thursdays, and 8am to 2pm Saturday. Everything is quieter between the morning and afternoon rushes, and in the winter months.
Committed to the Local Food Shed
First opened in 1898, the Ferry Building remains an important cog in San Francisco's transportation wheel, with regular ferry, bus, and streetcar service. In recent years, the space became an important focal point for the internationally renowned local food scene. Small, regional farmers and independently owned and operated businesses are the norm here. It is both haven and incubator for artisan food and wine producers from Northern California, and the triweekly farmers market attracts chefs and locals in search of the best produce around.
Address: 1 Ferry Building, San Francisco 94105, USA
From $ 20
Contemporary Jewish Museum
The Contemporary Jewish Museum (CJM) aims to capture the depth and breadth of present-day Jewish culture and experience. There's a permanent collection by Jewish artists, but special exhibitions and educational programs change frequently and are designed to spark discussion about the arts today.
The Basics
Admission price includes all public exhibitions, art classes, and programs, such as an all-ages drop-in drawing class in the Blue Cube educational space. Spend the morning exploring the exhibits or dive into a discussion on one of the many docent-led tours and interactive programs in the museum's event space. Tours, available on a first-come, first-served basis, run three times a day (except Wednesdays) and range from an overview of current exhibitions to an in-depth look at the architectural elements of the Daniel Libeskind-designed building.
For lunch, hungry visitors can savor Jewish deli at the in-house restaurant, Wise Sons Deli. Museum tickets aren't required to visit the deli or the museum store.
Discounted admission is included in two of San Francisco's popular visitor passes, which allow the passholder reduced entrance fees to a variety of local attractions.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Because the educational programs and special exhibitions change frequently, review their program list in advance to determine the best day and time to visit.
- The museum and store are wheelchair accessible; accessible parking is available at the Jessie Square garage.
- The CJM offers free admission every first Tuesday of the month.
- Families will enjoy the extensive program designed for visitors of all ages.
How to Get How to get There
Many Muni lines serving Mission Street and the nearby Yerba Buena Gardens, hotels, and businesses provide public transportation to the museum. The 8, 30, and 45 buses, and J, K, L, M, N, and T street cars all have stops nearby. Public parking is available at Jessie Square and Fifth and Mission/Yerba Buena garages.
When to Get There
The museum is busiest on the first Tuesday of the month, weekends, and Christmas Day. It is closed for New Year's Day, the first day of Passover, Independence Day, the first day of Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Thanksgiving.
Daniel Libeskind Architecture
World-renowned architect Daniel Libeskind has projects in every corner of the globe, including the reconstructed World Trade Center in New York (two blocks from his design studio) and the Centre Pompidou in Paris. At the Contemporary Jewish Museum in San Francisco, Libeskind melds old and new forms with Jewish symbolism. Learn more about Libeskind and the building on the daily architecture tour.
Address: 736 Mission Street, San Francisco, California, USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 71
Yosemite Falls
The highest measured waterfall in North America and the sixth-highest in the world, Yosemite Falls is the superstar attraction in Yosemite National Park. With a cumulative drop of 2,425 feet (739 meters), Yosemite Falls comprises three falls and is especially stunning in late spring when the snow melts and water flow is at its peak.
The Basics
You can spot the iconic waterfall from various vantage points within the park, including Yosemite Village and Yosemite Valley Lodge (formerly Yosemite Lodge at the Falls). For active viewers, a 1-mile loop trail leads to the base of Lower Yosemite Fall, or a strenuous (and usually crowded) 3.5-mile (5.6-kilometer) hike with 2,700 feet (823 meters) elevation gain beginning near Camp 4 hike takes you to the top of Yosemite Falls.
Due to the incredibly popularity of this natural attraction, Yosemite Falls is included in most park tours. You can see the falls, along with other park attractions—El Capitan, Bridalveil Falls, Vernal Falls, Half Dome, the Chapel, and the Cathedral Spires—on a day tour from San Francisco or Fresno.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Yosemite Falls is a must-see for first-time visitors, photographers, and strong hikers.
- Be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes, especially if you plan to hike to the top of the falls.
- Yosemite tours from San Francisco can last upwards of 14 hours.
- The eastern side of the loop to the base of Lower Yosemite Falls is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Access Lower Yosemite Fall near the Yosemite Valley Lodge; the top of the upper fall is accessed via a steep hiking trail. For a great (and underrated) view of the falls, consider hiking to the summit of Sentinel Dome.
When to Get There
Yosemite Falls is at its most spectacular in the spring, with peak runoff occurring in May or June. The falls tend to dry to a trickle by late summer, but autumn rainfall rejuvenates it beginning in November.
Natural Phenomena at Yosemite Falls
On a clear night with plenty of moonlight and enough water to create mist, see if you can spot a “moonbow.” During the winter, an ice cone tends to form at the base of the upper fall, while frost accumulates along the edges of the falls.
Address: Yosemite Falls, Yosemite National Park, CA, USA
From $ 74
Vista Point
Visitors to the Bay Area always want to know: what is the best place to view the Golden Gate Bridge? For many, the answer is to head across the water to Marin Headlands.
Just across the bridge you’ll find some of the best views looking back at the bridge with the city of San Francisco in the background. On a clear day, the view from Vista Point of the bridge and the downtown skyline from across the bay is simply stunning. If thick fog is present, it is possible that you won’t be able to even see the bridge. Yet on a sunny day, with views spanning 180 degrees out to the water and out past Alcatraz, it’s hard to imagine a better place to see San Francisco. It is beautiful both during the day and at night, when the city lights are visible. It’s a particularly popular spot for photographers — in fact, many of the iconic photos you’ve seen of the bridge were likely taken from this locale.
Practical Info
Get to Vista Point from San Francisco by driving north on the Golden Gate Bridge. You will see an exit for Vista Point on the righthand side just after crossing. The circular parking lot can get crowded, but it is free for up to four hours. There is a short walking path from the parking lot to the best views. For nearby food, venture to the seaside town of Sausalito — or take a hike in the nearby Marin Headlands.
Address: US-101, Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito, California, USA 94965, USA
From $ 21