Things to do in San Francisco CA San Francisco, California, is a dynamic and iconic city known for its diverse culture, stunning architecture, and scenic beauty. Situated on the Pacific Coast, it’s famous for landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and its historic cable cars. The city boasts vibrant neighborhoods such as Chinatown, the Mission District, and Haight-Ashbury, each offering a unique atmosphere. With a rich history, thriving arts scene, and world-class cuisine, San Francisco is a global hub for innovation and creativity. Its picturesque hills, waterfront views, and mild climate make it one of the most desirable travel destinations in the United States.
Here are some best places to visit in San Francisco, CA as a tourist:
Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, connecting San Francisco to Marin County across the Golden Gate Strait. Opened in 1937, this suspension bridge is renowned for its stunning Art Deco design and vibrant orange-red color, which stands out against the often foggy backdrop of the bay. Spanning 1.7 miles, the bridge offers breathtaking views of the San Francisco skyline, Alcatraz Island, and the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can walk, bike, or drive across, and there are several vantage points, including Battery Spencer and Crissy Field, for capturing its grandeur.
Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz Island, located in San Francisco Bay, is one of the city’s most intriguing and historic sites. Once home to a notorious federal prison, it housed infamous criminals like Al Capone. The prison closed in 1963, but the island remains a popular tourist destination. Visitors can take a ferry to explore the island, which includes an audio tour of the prison that highlights its dark history and famous escape attempts. In addition to the prison, the island is home to beautiful gardens, birdwatching opportunities, and stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco skyline.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf is one of San Francisco’s most popular waterfront destinations. Known for its lively atmosphere, the wharf is filled with seafood restaurants, unique shops, and street performers. Visitors can enjoy a meal of fresh clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl or watch the playful sea lions lounging at Pier 39. The area also offers attractions like the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, Madame Tussauds, and the Aquarium of the Bay. Fisherman’s Wharf is a hub for tourists, offering beautiful views of the bay, Alcatraz Island, and the Golden Gate Bridge, making it a must-visit spot.
Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park is a sprawling urban oasis in the heart of San Francisco, offering 1,000 acres of natural beauty and diverse attractions. Visitors can explore lush gardens, tranquil lakes, and scenic walking trails. The park is home to iconic sites like the De Young Museum, the California Academy of Sciences, and the Japanese Tea Garden. It also features the beautiful Conservatory of Flowers and Stow Lake, where you can rent pedal boats. Perfect for outdoor activities, picnics, and cultural exploration, Golden Gate Park is an essential destination for both locals and tourists seeking relaxation and adventure.
Chinatown
Chinatown in San Francisco is the oldest and one of the most vibrant in North America. This bustling neighborhood is a sensory overload of colorful markets, ornate temples, and delicious street food. Visitors can wander through narrow alleyways filled with exotic goods, traditional herbal medicine shops, and teahouses. It’s also a great spot to savor authentic Chinese cuisine, from dim sum to Peking duck. Chinatown offers a unique glimpse into San Francisco’s cultural diversity, making it a must-visit destination for travelers.
Coit Tower
Coit Tower, perched atop Telegraph Hill in San Francisco, offers stunning panoramic views of the city, bay, and Golden Gate Bridge. Built in 1933, this art-deco tower was funded by Lillie Hitchcock Coit, a wealthy philanthropist who admired the city’s firefighters. Inside, visitors can explore murals painted during the Great Depression, depicting California’s history and culture. The 210-foot tower is a popular spot for both tourists and photographers, especially for its breathtaking vistas. Accessible by foot or via a short drive, Coit Tower is a landmark that combines history, art, and exceptional views, making it a must-see attraction in San Francisco.
Painted Ladies
The Painted Ladies are a row of iconic Victorian houses located across from Alamo Square Park in San Francisco. Known for their vibrant, pastel colors and intricate architectural details, these historic homes are a quintessential part of the city’s charm. The Painted Ladies are especially famous for their appearance in the opening credits of the TV show Full House. They provide a stunning contrast to the modern downtown skyline in the background, making them a favorite spot for photographers. These colorful homes represent a unique blend of Victorian craftsmanship and San Francisco’s rich architectural heritage, offering a picturesque view of the city.
Palace of Fine Arts
Designed in Beaux-Arts style, it features a grand rotunda with a soaring, domed structure and elegant Corinthian columns. Surrounded by a tranquil lagoon and lush greenery, the Palace offers a peaceful escape in the heart of the city. Today, it hosts art exhibitions, theater performances, and cultural events. Its picturesque setting and classical beauty make it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. The Palace of Fine Arts remains a symbol of San Francisco’s artistic legacy and architectural splendor.
Lombard Street
Lombard Street in San Francisco is famed for its steep, one-block section with eight sharp hairpin turns, making it the “crookedest street in the world.” The street’s switchbacks were designed in the 1920s to reduce the hill’s natural 27% grade, making it safer for vehicles. Beautiful Victorian houses and colorful flowerbeds line the red-brick road, enhancing its charm. While often congested with cars and sightseers, Lombard Street remains a beloved symbol of San Francisco’s unique character and urban ingenuity.
Muir Woods National Monument
Muir Woods National Monument, located just north of San Francisco, is a serene haven of towering coastal redwoods. Named after naturalist John Muir, this protected forest was established in 1908 to preserve one of the last remaining old-growth redwood forests in the Bay Area. Visitors walk among ancient trees, some over 600 years old and reaching heights of 250 feet. Easily accessible from the city, Muir Woods provides a tranquil escape into nature’s grandeur, showcasing the awe-inspiring beauty of California’s iconic redwoods and the importance of forest conservation.
Cable Cars
San Francisco’s iconic cable cars are a historic and beloved mode of transportation, dating back to 1873. As the world’s last manually operated cable car system, they offer a unique way to explore the city’s steep hills and scenic neighborhoods. The three remaining lines—Powell-Hyde, Powell-Mason, and California Street—carry both tourists and locals past landmarks like Lombard Street and Nob Hill. Recognized as a National Historic Landmark, these vintage vehicles are operated by skilled gripmen using underground cables. Riding a cable car is not just travel; it’s a nostalgic journey through San Francisco’s rich past and a must-do experience.
Ferry Building Marketplace
The Ferry Building Marketplace in San Francisco is a vibrant culinary and cultural hub located along the city’s scenic waterfront. Originally opened in 1898 as a ferry terminal, the historic Beaux-Arts building was transformed into a gourmet marketplace in 2003. Today, it houses an array of local vendors, artisanal food producers, and celebrated eateries. From farm-fresh produce and handcrafted cheeses to gourmet coffee and baked goods, the Ferry Building offers a true taste of Northern California. Its bustling farmers market and waterfront views make it a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike, celebrating the region’s rich food culture and community.
Mission District
The Mission District is one of San Francisco’s most vibrant and culturally rich neighborhoods, known for its Latino heritage, colorful murals, and dynamic arts scene. Valencia and Mission Streets bustle with taquerias, trendy cafes, bookstores, and vintage shops. The district’s iconic street art, especially along Clarion Alley, tells stories of social justice and local identity.
Ghirardelli Square
Once the site of the Ghirardelli Chocolate Company, the red-brick complex was transformed in the 1960s into one of the first successful adaptive reuse projects in the U.S. Today, it features boutique shops, restaurants, and the original Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop, where visitors can indulge in world-famous sundaes.
The Exploratorium
Founded in 1969 by physicist Frank Oppenheimer, it offers hundreds of interactive exhibits that invite visitors to explore scientific phenomena through hands-on learning. It’s a must-visit destination for families, students, and anyone eager to discover how the world works.
Sausalito
Sausalito, just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, is a charming waterfront town known for its stunning views, artistic vibe, and relaxed atmosphere. Once a shipbuilding hub during World War II, it has evolved into a picturesque retreat with art galleries, boutique shops, and seafood restaurants lining its scenic harbor. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront, explore floating homes, or take a ferry back to San Francisco for panoramic bay views. With its Mediterranean-style architecture and hillside homes, Sausalito offers a delightful contrast to the urban energy of the city, making it a popular day trip or weekend getaway.
AT&T Park (Oracle Park)
Oracle Park, formerly known as AT&T Park, is a premier baseball stadium located in San Francisco’s South Beach neighborhood. Home to the San Francisco Giants, it offers breathtaking views of the Bay and the iconic McCovey Cove beyond right field, where fans gather in kayaks hoping to catch home run balls. Opened in 2000, the park is known for its classic design, modern amenities, and fan-friendly atmosphere. Beyond baseball, it hosts concerts and special events year-round. With its signature garlic fries, Coca-Cola slide, and dynamic energy, Oracle Park is a must-visit destination for sports lovers and tourists alike.
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)
The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) is a leading cultural institution and one of the largest modern and contemporary art museums in the United States. Located in the SoMa district, SFMOMA features an impressive collection of over 33,000 works, including pieces by artists like Frida Kahlo, Andy Warhol, and Jackson Pollock. The museum’s striking architecture, expanded in 2016, offers seven floors of gallery space, outdoor terraces, and immersive exhibits. SFMOMA also hosts films, lectures, and educational programs. Blending innovative design with world-class art, it is a vibrant hub for creativity and a must-see destination for art enthusiasts visiting San Francisco.
Twin Peaks
Located in the center of the city, the peaks rise 925 feet above sea level, providing breathtaking vistas of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, the Bay Area, and the city’s skyline. Popular with tourists and locals alike, Twin Peaks is a great spot for hiking, picnicking, or simply enjoying the view. The summit can be reached by car, and there are also several hiking trails for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the area. It’s a must-visit for any San Francisco traveler.
Haight-Ashbury
Located at the intersection of Haight and Ashbury Streets, it became a gathering place for hippies, activists, and artists during the Summer of Love in 1967. Today, Haight-Ashbury retains its bohemian spirit, with vintage clothing shops, eclectic boutiques, and vibrant murals lining its streets. Visitors can explore the neighborhood’s rich history, unique architecture, and bustling cafes. It’s also home to beautiful parks like Golden Gate Park, making it a must-visit area for anyone interested in San Francisco’s cultural legacy and creative energy.
