60 Things to Do in San Francisco, California

There are numerous things to do in San Francisco and also several visitor attractions to tour in this city. We finished our US West Coast road trip here and, despite being weary after exploring for 10 days, I really enjoyed my stay in San Francisco.

The most unique thing about the city is that it is situated in a bay. Unlike other large cities in the United States, its relaxed atmosphere makes you immediately feel at home. In addition, its good weather throughout the year means that there are always interesting things to do in SF.

To assist in planning your trip, I’ve summarized the key places to experience in San Francisco in this article. However, before independently exploring, I recommend booking a complimentary tour to become acquainted with San Francisco and discover its history.

If you also want to access some of the different paid attractions in the city during your visit, I recommend obtaining the San Francisco Explorer Pass, which will allow you to visit 3, 4, or 5 attractions for free out of the city’s 25 top attractions. You must use this pass within 30 days of its activation. The San Francisco Go Card is a good choice since you can use it over a certain number of days, and it gives you access to 29 different attractions.

In the following section, you’ll find the 60 best things to do in San Francisco.

1. Golden Gate Bridge, the most important attraction to visit in San Francisco

The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most important tourist attractions in San Francisco, as it’s the most iconic suspension bridge in the city and also very popular worldwide.

Its total length is 1.7 miles, while the suspended part has a length of 0.8 miles. In addition, the bridge is supported at 220 feet high. All of this makes it one of the longest and highest suspension bridges globally.

Fun fact: the expansive bridge requires constant upkeep. Its enormous length means that paint crews must start again from the opposite end as soon as they finish painting it.

To view and take good photographs of the Golden Gate, I suggest the following five lookout points: Battery Spencer, Vista Point, Baker Beach, Fort Point, and Crissy Field.

2. Visit Alcatraz Prison, the best thing to do in San Francisco

The famous Alcatraz prison is one of the essential places to visit in San Francisco. It no longer functions as such and is now open to the public.

Alcatraz was a maximum-security prison where criminals who were deemed very hazardous, such as Al Capone, George Kelly, and Robert Stroud (who made fourteen failed escape attempts), did their time. Throughout Alcatraz`s history, only Frank Morris and the Anglin brothers were able to swim away, although it is believed that they perished from the low temperatures in the Pacific.

The excursion to the Alcatraz prison starts at Pier 33 of Fisherman’s Wharf.

3. Fisherman’s Wharf, the most popular neighborhood in San Francisco

Fisherman’s Wharf, constructed in 1853, was the initial port in the city and, in its early days, one of the major ports in California.

Over time, the fishing industry ceased operations in this port and sought other locations instead. However, with the tourism boom, Fisherman’s Wharf was revived and became one of the most renowned places to visit in San Francisco, California.

Pier 45 is home to the well-known World War II submarine USS Pampanito, which sank 6 enemy vessels and rescued 73 men.

In this district, the Maritime National Historical Park is also present, where one can view historical vessels as well as tour a maritime museum, library, and research center.

4. Golden Gate Park, one of the greatest treasures to visit in SF

Golden Gate Park is even more expansive than Central Park in New York, making it difficult to walk all of it. To experience it, I suggest taking one of the minibuses that will guide you around the entire park.

It’s one of my preferred locations to go to in San Francisco since you can find all things here: a Dutch mill, wooded regions, a Japanese garden, Shakespeare’s garden, and a herd of American bison (brought here in 1891 to help this seriously endangered species breed).

Additionally, there are some important museums located within the park, such as the California Academy of Sciences and the Young Museum.

5. Union Square, an important place to visit in San Francisco, California

Union Square is considered the centermost plaza in the city and is also a highly popular place for shopping visits in San Francisco. It’s deemed the heart of the city and is the ideal location for shopping, since numerous department stores have a concentration in this area. This spot is also excellent to dine, since its restaurants are thought to be the finest in the city, and for visiting art galleries.

Although the square can be visited at any timeframe of the year, Union Square appears even more appealing during Christmastime since they feature a sizable Christmas tree and an ice skating rink. Visiting Union Square represents the finest activity to partake in in San Fransciso during Christmastime.

6. Pier 39, the best place to see wild sea lions in San Francisco

Pier 39 features many restaurants and shops so, in addition to serving as a gathering place for locals, it’s one of the main sights to see in San Francisco.

What stands out most about this place is at K-Dock, where sea lions can be seen practically all year round. However, the prime time to spot them is from late summer to late spring, as in June and July, most head south to breed.

This site was formerly a working pier, but the presence of the sizable marine mammals rendered ship docking impossible. Ultimately, rather than remove the sea lions, a decision was made to relocate the vessels to different docks.

In addition to the sea lions, you can obtain magnificent perspectives of Alcatraz Island, Angel Island, and Golden Gate Bridge from Pier 39, making it an essential tourist location in San Francisco.

7. Lombard Street, the most beautiful street to visit in San Francisco

Going to Lombard Street, situated in the stretch involving Leavenworth and Hyde Street, is something great to do in San Francisco, California. Due to its steep incline, this street has a total of 8 curves along its entire route which is decorated with flowers. It is seen as one of the most beautiful streets in the city as well as the steepest and most renowned.

When you observe it, you won’t be able to prevent yourself from taking no less than a few photos of it, since that’s something that is quite popular to accomplish in San Francisco.

8. Take the cable car, great stuff to do in San Francisco

Taking one of the SF link cars, which have been running since 1873, is something fascinating to see and do in San Francisco.

In 1947, this mode of transport was on the verge of disappearing, but the locals opposed it, and in 1964, the cable car was declared part of the National Historical Heritage. Today it is one of the primary San Francisco attractions.

The Powell-Hyde Cable Car is very popular among visitors, as it covers multiple regions: Nob Hill, the Financial District, North Beach, Chinatown, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Russian Hill. If you want to observe these areas from another viewpoint, riding the cable car is something essential to experience in San Francisco.

9. Silicon Valley, one of the best day trips in SF

The San Francisco area and its environs offer multiple potential sites of interest, but one location considered indispensable by this author is Silicon Valley where the headquarters of technology giants including Google, Facebook, and Apple have their principal offices stationed.

The best means to get familiar with Silicon Valley is by reserving this tour in San Francisco. Throughout this tour, which lasts about 90 minutes, the guide will share anecdotes regarding the various well known characters of the tech world.

Whether you have an interest in technology or not, I highly recommend taking this tour as it is full of interesting tidbits and engaging content.

10. Exploratorium, a science museum you can’t miss in San Francisco

The Exploratorium, positioned on Pier 15, is one of the finest things to do in San Francisco with children. At this museum, visitors learn about aspects of science and art through interactive experience.

If you opt to visit the Exploratorium, you will be able to walk across a fog bridge, experience a tornado, view yourself in a massive parabolic mirror, and enjoy over 650 exhibits. Additionally, this museum features a cafeteria, a restaurant, and some shops.

11. Presidio, a national park you must visit in San Francisco

Presidio is a park with many entertaining options in San Francisco. Its 1,500 hectares contain diverse walking or cycling routes, dining establishments, and places for picnics and barbecues.

This theme park has its own complimentary transportation system around the grounds, operating every day of the week. Additionally, it offers transfers to and from downtown San Francisco.

For those who are fans of Star Wars, the Presidio should be contained on your listing of essential spots to visit in San Francisco, since the Yoda Fountain is located here at the Letterman Digital Arts Center within the park. There can also be seen a life-size statue of Darth Vader.

12. Yosemite, the best-known national park in California

There are diverse places to visit in and about San Francisco, nevertheless if you can exclusive go to one, make it Yosemite National Recreation area.

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To be frank, the reason we concluded our road journey in San Francisco was because it’s the city with the nearest international airport to Yosemite, one of the national parks we most aimed to explore during our trip.

Yosemite is nestled among the Sierra Nevada Mountains and is especially known for its gigantic ancient redwoods and its dramatic granite mountains, which have made Yosemite an iconic climbing locale worldwide. This national park was named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1984.

If traveling by vehicle is not preferred, or a rental car is unavailable, booking this day trip from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park is recommended, as it’s the best way to explore the park and its giant sequoia trees.

13. Haight-Ashbury, the birthplace of hippie culture

The Haight-Ashbury neighborhood is among the most intriguing places to explore in San Francisco since it housed bohemians and hippie idealists during the 1960s.

The homes in this area feature vibrant colors. Be sure to stop by the residence of Jimi Hendrix and get to know some of the many popular eateries here. You`ll also find several natural food restaurants in the region.

Another peculiar characteristic about this locale is that there are many second-hand clothing retailers, such as Buffalo Exchange, which purchases and markets previously owned garments of all sizes and is quite popular.

14. Twin Peaks, the best lookout point in San Francisco

The Twin Peaks, as their name indicates, are 2 identical hills whose 900 foot high peaks provide excellent viewpoints. While the top may be neared by bus, I recommend walking up. Beautiful views of the entire city from above will be had, making this one of the most popular activities in San Francisco.

In order to perceive the city from two vantage points, it`s preferable to gaze at the elevated lookout known as Twin Peaks during daylight hours as well as at nightfall.

15. SFMOMA, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is the second largest art gallery in the United States following the MOMA in New York City. It highlights works by notable artists such as Andy Warhol, Frida Kahlo, Robert Rauschenberg, and Ellsworth Kelly.

The structure, by Mario Botta, is outstanding and can be viewed as a work of craftsmanship in and of itself. Additionally, in the nursery, you can discover a few statues.

This cultural institution is one of the most significant locations to explore in San Francisco if you have an appreciation for visual works of art. To better strategize your visit and circumvent lengthy lines, I advise obtaining tickets beforehand.

16. North Beach, the Little Italy neighborhood in SF

North Beach, also referred to as Little Italy or the Italian Quarter, is among the landmarks in San Francisco. This neighborhood was home to many Italian immigrants and is now a lively area with retro-style Italian cafes, bars, and restaurants.

I suggest starting your tour at the intersection of Columbus Avenue and Broadway Avenue to become familiar with its beautifully landscaped roads containing colorful structures, on some which samples of street art can be seen.

I`m certain you`ll enjoy reaching Telegraph Hill via the Filbert steps and seeing the famous Coit Tower. Also, I advise stopping by the Vesuvius Cafe and the City Lights bookshop, two locations in San Francisco where you can experience the influence left by the Beat generation.

17. Nob Hill, the most luxurious place in San Francisco

Nob Hill is the neighbourhood where many wealthy families reside and is a must-see location in San Francisco. It is situated on one of the hills on which San Francisco was founded, in close proximity to Chinatown.

A especially prominent quality of this secluded, high-end neighborhood is the steep grade of its roads. Consequently, cable cars serve as the most convenient mode of transport throughout Nob Hill owing to this incline.

18. Russian Hill, a picturesque and beautiful neighborhood in SF

The picturesquely scenic neighborhood of Russian Hill is also considered one of the most popular sights to see in San Francisco, United States. It lies north of Nob Hill and south of Fisherman’s Wharf.

The name of this neighborhood originated from the times of the Gold Rush, when a small Russian cemetery of unknown source was uncovered at the top of the hill on which Russian Hill was built. Nowadays, there is a nice park with a monument and a commemorative plaque where the cemetery was.

In this neighborhood,Lombard Street is a highlight and one of the main tourist spots of SF, as I have previously stated.

19. SOMA, a place with a lot of things to do in San Francisco

The South of Market neighborhood, also known as SOMA, offers many things to see and activities to engage in in San Francisco. What was once an industrial area is now of the best residential areas to explore in SF.

Among its many attractions, SOMA houses the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, the Contemporary Jewish Museum, and the Museum of the African Diaspora. However, if like myself you’re not very interested in museums, AT&T Park, where the San Francisco Giants play baseball, is also located in this neighborhood. You are able to check the game schedule here.

20. Dungeons San Francisco, a fun themed experience in SF, California

The Dungeons San Francisco is a peculiar attraction that transports visitors to San Francisco’s most hazardous past times. If you wish to learn about the city’s history in an alternative manner, entering this strange dungeon provides excellent activities to do in San Francisco.

While I did not get the chance to participate in this experience myself, I took part in a similar one in London where it functioned the same way. In this engaging encounter utilizing 360 degree scenes, live performers, and special effects, you journey through 60 minutes recreating some of the darkest chapters in the city`s story. It`s wholly recommended!

21. Sausalito, a quiet place to visit in San Francisco

If you fancy a tranquil day, Sausalito, which is across the bay and really close to the Golden Gate Bridge, is one of the locations to visit in San Francisco.

A community of bohemians and artists decided to construct floating homes from old boats and establish their settlement there. Now Sausalito is a favored place for celebrities seeking tranquility away from the vibrant city of San Francisco

22. Chinatown, the oldest Chinese community in North America

Chinatown in San Francisco is the locale that houses the second most extensive Chinese network in the United States and is the oldest in North America. Its colorful facades, places of worship, eateries, and shops make it another must-see in San Francisco.

Togo also calls for visitors to install the TOGO SAFE mobile application and buy COVID-19 travel protection.

You can also register for this guided tour to become knowledgeable about the history, culture, and cuisine of this neighborhood.

23. Eat chocolate in Ghirardelli Square, something to do in San Francisco

This is my most treasured recommendation: eat chocolate in Ghirardelli Square. Previously, there used to be a chocolate manufacturing plant in this square, and, nowadays, it is a very lively place full of restaurants and stores. Visiting the Ghirardelli Chocolate Company, a paradise for chocolate lovers and people with sweet tastes, is one of the best activities to do in SF, California.

In the Ghirardelli store, you’ll find all kinds of products made with delectable chocolate. This is undoubtedly the best thing to do in San Francisco.

24. Oakland Bay Bridge, an attraction to visit in SF

Undoubtedly, the major connecting passage between the municipality of San Francisco and the city of Oakland is via the noteworthy bridge designated as the San Francisco Bay Bridge or Oakland Bay Bridge, which links the two locations by means of Yerba Buena Island, a landmass that then connects to the fabricated island of Treasure Island.

While the Golden Gate Bridge is the most famous and renowned bridge, Oakland Bay Bridge is the longest bridge and an important place to visit in San Francisco. Additionally, Oakland Bay Bridge was built half a year prior to the Golden Gate Bridge, making it the oldest in the city.

This bridge is extremely important for the city of S,F and it is calculated that more than 250,000 vehicles traverse it daily.

25. Coit Tower, one of the nicest views over San Francisco

Visiting the Coit Tower, situated on Telegraph Hill, is another activity that can be done in San Francisco. It was constructed in 1933 and extends 200 feet in height, rendering it an ideal lookout point within San Francisco. The Coit Tower was designed by Arthur Brown and Henry Howard in an Art Deco style using bare, reinforced concrete. Moreover, it incorporates fresco murals by 27 artists.

The assets for its development came from Lillie Hitchcock Coit, who, after her passing, left a third of her resources to the city to be utilized for its decoration.

26. Palace of Fine Arts, an architectural landmark to visit in San Francisco

The Palace of Fine Arts, built in 1915 to house the 1915 Universal Exposition, took design inspiration from Greek and Roman classicism.

Originally, this structure was slated for demolition following the exhibition, but local residents lobbied for its preservation owing to its aesthetics. As it had been constructed with fragile materials, in 1964, it was nearly completely taken down to be rebuilt using suitable materials this time. Thanks to its beauty and historical significance, it serves as a place of interest in San Francisco. Additionally, the palace is surrounded by a lake, which makes it even more pleasing to the eye.

Today there are numerous events and celebrations in this palace. It also has a theater and restaurants.

27. Asian Art Museum, the largest museum of Asian art in the world

The San Francisco Asian Art Museum holds over 2,400 objects from Asia, some dating back over 6,000 years. If you are uncertain of things to see in San Francisco during rainy weather, I suggest exploring this museum. If you appreciate Asian art, visit regardless of conditions.

On the ground floor are the temporary exhibitions, eating area, and gift shop. The second floor features decorative elements such as vases, animal figurines, and items that were employed in sacred ceremonies and burial rituals. Ultimately, on the third floor, wooden, stone, and bronze sculptures are on display.

28. Muir Woods National Monument, a beautiful place to go near SF

Muir Woods was initially acquired by businessman William Kent and his spouse to shelter an area with high natural importance. Later, part of the land was donated to the government to become a national park.

The park provides many hiking trails surrounded by redwoods, making it one of the prime spots to see near San Francisco.

If traveling by car is not an option, I advise reserving this day trip, which also gives you a chance to become familiar with Sausalito.

29. Japanese Tea Garden, a spectacular place to visit in SF

The Hagiwara Japanese Garden or Hagiwara Tea Garden is one of the most stunning places to go to in San Francisco. This 2-acre Japanese garden is the oldest of its style in the United States. It is located within Golden Gate Park.

It was constructed as part of the California Midwinter International Exposition of 1894 and became a small world of ponds, trails, Japanese plants, sculptures, and bridges. To me, it’s a very beautiful and serene place that invites you to relax. Also, it has a teahouse that I recommend you visit.

30. Bridge to Bridge Cruise, an essential tour to take in San Francisco

I advise scheduling a cruise that travels between bridges, as sailing beneath the renowned Golden Gate Bridge and massive Bay Bridge is amongst the finest activities available in San Francisco.

The vessel departs from Pier 43 at Fisherman’s Wharf, and over the duration of the tour, sights such as North Beach, Hyde Street Pier, the National Maritime Park, Marina District, and the rolling hills of Presidio will come into view. After passing below the stunning Golden Gate Bridge and Bay Bridge, destinations near such as Marin Headlands, a preserved wilderness, and a circumnavigation of Alcatraz prison will be witnessed.

If you’re interested in this tour, the preferred choice is this one particular option.

31. Ocean Beach, the quietest beach in SF, California

Ocean Beach is one of the most beautiful and tranquil beaches in San Francisco. If you’re going to spend a few days in the city and want to go to the beach, enjoying Ocean Beach is one of the best things to do in San Francisco.

This is a quiet shore with no crowds, something I always value. You can take a dip, sunbathe, stroll along the beach, or even enjoy several water activities, such as surfing.

32. Yerba Buena Gardens, another quiet place to visit in San Francisco

Within and around the gardens you can see things such as the memorial commemorating Martin Luther King Jr. behind the waterfall at the Esplanade Gardens; the Charles Looff hand-carved carousel, a historically significant piece; and several museums and important buildings like the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts and the Moscone Convention Center. There is also an ice skating rink and a bowling alley.

33. Walt Disney Family Museum, one of the coolest things to see in SF

If looking for something to do in San Francisco with kids, I suggest exploring the Walt Disney Family Museum.

This venue gives coverage to the lifetime and work of Walt Disney, clarifies what Disney’s starting days were like, and demonstrates how a visionary person gave life to a gigantic empire. Apparel, archive visuals from old movies, images, and even a Disneyland scale model are exhibited.

This area is also one of the premier places to reside in Iceland,, so if you find a good hotel in this area, book it!

34. California Academy of Sciences, the museum with the most Californian history

The California Academy of Sciences provides an amazing museum with 150 years of background and a fun activity to engage in in San Francisco if it rains.

It offers a distinctive collection featuring the planetarium with the largest digital dome worldwide, an enormous aquarium, a living canopy full of wildflowers, and a flock of African penguins. Even though I prefer observing wild animals in their natural habitat, I understand some may find this attraction appealing.

For data on schedules and tickets, you can check here.

35. The Castro, one of the first gay neighborhoods in the United States

Castro, the neighborhood where the largest LGBTQ community in the city is concentrated, is another place worth visiting in San Francisco. You’ll know you’re in Castro when you see rainbow flags in shops and on terraces.

I recommend exploring the Castro Theater, a location where classic films are screened, the famous Hot Cookie bakery, and the LGBT History Museum.

SF is the world’s most LGBT-friendly city, so booking a guided walking tour like this one to learn more about the history of the neighborhood is one of the prime activities to enjoy in San Francisco.

36. Baker Beach, a popular beach in the Bay Area, SF

If you’re looking for a must-do in San Francisco, another place that I recommend is Baker Beach, a 0.62-mile long beach where you can picnic and barbecue. It is quite a popular place with San Francisco families and groups of friends.

What stands apart the most is that this beach starts at the southern part of the Golden Gate Bridge, so you get incredible views of the bridge, particularly at sunset. It’s a place to visit in San Francisco that can’t be missing from your list.

37. San Francisco Botanical Garden at Strybing Arboretum

The Botanical Garden of San Francisco ( San Francisco Botanical Garden at Strybing Arboretum) is the most massive botanical garden on the West Coast of the United States and one of the top places worth visiting in San Francisco.

This space, of about 23 hectares, is located within Golden Gate Park and is home to more than 7,500 plant varieties.

The garden has different sections dedicated to specific regions: the Mediterranean, Southeast Asia Cloud Forest, high elevation palms, and others. Each zone features flora native to the area it represents.

38. The Painted Ladies, the famous Victorian houses of San Francisco

You likely recognize the Painted Ladies, in Alamo Square, from the television programFull House, starring the Olsen twins. These beautiful family homes were constructed between 1849 and 1945 in an Edwardian and Victorian architectural style.

Many of these homes had rather vibrantly colored exteriors, like shades of orange, yellow, and red. The best known group is located between 710 to 720 Steiner Street. While several other residences in the area also featured this style, these in particular are a favorite locale for visitors to see.

If seeking my recommendation, I propose visiting them at sundown, when an intriguing play of hues and light occurs. Briefly, it constitutes one of the most popular destinations for tourists in San Francisco, regardless of whether you were fond of or followed Full House.

39. Lands End, one of the best hikes to do in San Francisco

Lands End is a narrow stretch of rocky coast within Golden Gate Park, positioned between Lincoln Park and the Sutro District. This scenic location is another excellent sight to experience in San Francisco, USA that I strongly suggest appreciating, as it offers a picturesque and intriguing locale.

This coastal area contains various sunken vessels and has a memorial erected for the USS San Francisco submarine. Various hiking trails run alongside the railway running along the bluffs and cliffs.

The Sutro Bath Ruins, another place to visit in San Francisco, near Lands End was once the world`s largest complex of public saltwater pools

40. Mission District, a must see place in San Francisco

Among all the important places in San Francisco, I’d highlight the Mission District specifically, as it’s a vibrant neighborhood where you can eat very well. If wanting to enjoy this charming neighborhood, I recommend taking a guided tour or visiting on a Sunday when there’s lots of activity, as highlighted in this link.

The tour begins with a coffee and some donuts containing natural ingredients. Next, you’ll head to Balmy Avenue, where the murals recount the tales of Latino immigrants. Then, you’ll wander among the flavors of tacos and street vendors to arrive at Clarion Alley, where there is another fascinating collection of street art. Although there are approximately 200 murals in the neighborhood, the most well known are Women’s Building, Clarion Alley Street Art, Precita Eyes Muralists, and Balmy Alley.

Finally, you can experience several second-hand stores and the Mission Dolores church.

As you can deduce, it’s an excursion replete with art and cuisine. Can you conceive of any alternative preferable to partake in within San Francisco?

41. Church of 8 wheels, a peculiar place to go in SF

The Church of 8 Wheels is one of the most unusual places to see in San Francisco. In what was once a church, you can now skate and enjoy music simultaneously.

Church of 8 Wheels is a nightclub where diverse events and musical presentations are held for people of all ages who share a fervor for skating.

This is unquestionably one of the most entertaining things to do in San Francisco if you take pleasure in gliding. There is no place comparable to it globally.

42. Musée Mécanique, the most curious museum in San Francisco

The Musée Mécanique is another of the tourist attractions in San Francisco that I suggest seeing, especially for those who enjoy arcade-style games. This museum showcases a private collection of antique coin-operated musical machines and arcade artifacts from long ago.

The proprietor, Edward Galland Zelinsky, started collecting these devices in 1933, and, nowadays, he has over 300.

Among the rarities found at the Musée Mécanique is a red motorcycle called the “Steam Flyer” from 1912. This item is perhaps the only one of its type existing in the world.

Here, you’ll be able to see everything from manually operated turn-of-the-century music boxes to modern video arcade games, so it’s a great place to go in San Francisco.

43. 16th Avenue Tiled Steps, a colorful place to visit in San Francisco

The mosaic on the 16th Avenue Tiled Stairs is certainly worth exploring. Inspired by a staircase in Rio de Janeiro, Colette Crutcher, a mosaic artist, and Aileen Barr, a ceramicist, collaborated on this project with assistance from over 300 volunteers.

To decorate these stairs, each step was individually fashioned, totaling 163 panels. Handcrafted tiles and 75,000 mosaic fragments, stained glass, and mirrors were utilized. The finished product is a noteworthy sight in San Francisco.

44. Eat at the Atelier Crenn, a unique experience in San Francisco

While I`ll acknowledge that dining at the Atelier Crenn is not low-cost, it’s definitely an amazing experience to have in San Francisco, especially if you appreciate culinary artistry. Its head chef, Dominique Crenn, was the first female in the United States to receive 2 Michelin stars for crafting dishes that are works of art.

She was inspired by her father’s workshop, where her affection for art and good cuisine led her to combine both worlds to offer a unique gastronomic experience. An authentic gift for all five senses.

45. Walk in Crissy Field, something nice to do in San Francisco

Crissy Field was once used as an airfield and later transformed into a public park. It’s a place to visit in San Francisco for walking and distancing from distractions, as well as seeing incredible views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

The area offers activities tailored for youth and open spaces suitable for seniors. If you want a break from busy San Francisco, this is the place to go.

46. Marin Headlands, another interesting hike in SF, California

Marin Headlands is north of the Golden Gate Bridge and is a mountainous area that’s perfect for hiking, another activity to do in San Francisco that I love.

The cliffs in this area make the landscape rather unexpected, though the most lovely sight is seeing the Golden Gate Bridge with the city of San Francisco serving as the backdrop. Additionally, there are old military installations here, giving the Marin Headlands quite an interesting spot to visit in San Francisco.

47. M. H. de Young Memorial Museum in San Francisco

The M.H. de Young Memorial Museum, which is located close to the California Academy of Sciences within Golden Gate Park, is a museum worth visiting in San Francisco for those interested in African and pre-Columbian artistic works.

Originally opening its doors in 1895 but later experiencing destruction during an earthquake in 1989 that prevented reopening until 2005, this museum exhibits African artistic works along with collections from the 19th and 20th centuries incorporating pre-Columbian pieces originating from Peru and Teotihuacan.

48. Conservatory of Flowers, a garden with rare and exotic plants

The Conservatory of Flowers is the oldest structure in Golden Gate Park and was built in a Victorian style, making it one of the beautiful sights in San Francisco.

• The Barceló Lanzarote Active Resort – Costa Teguise

49. Transamerica Pyramid, the second tallest skyscraper in San Francisco

The Transamerica Pyramid forms an imposing pyramidal skyscraper with 4 sides and stands as one of the most spectacular structures to witness in San Francisco.

The vulnerability of the city to earthquakes was taken into account during the building’s design and construction phases, and special reinforcements were added to strengthen the structure. In 1989, a quake measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale did not even damage it.

50. Legion of Honor, a museum of fine art in San Francisco

The Legion of Honor Museum is another must-visit attraction in San Francisco, California. It was constructed in 1924 in remembrance of the 3,600 California soldiers who lost their lives in World War I.

Resembling the Palace of the Legion of Honor in Paris, this museum has works by Fra Angelico, El Greco, Rubens, Rembrandt, Watteau, Claude Monet, and other globally renowned artists. At the entrance of the museum, you can see the statue The Thinker by Auguste Rodin.

51. Point Bonita Lighthouse, a place of interest in San Francisco

Point Bonita Lighthouse, a scenic spot worth visiting in San Francisco, California, overlooks the entrance of San Francisco Bay near the Golden Gate Bridge.

I recommend visiting it because of its interesting setting between cliffs. Keep in mind that the lighthouse can only be accessed on Sundays and Mondays from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. On the way to the lighthouse, you can visit the US Coast Guard Station Golden Gate.

52. Monterey and Carmel tour, the best activity to do in San Francisco

Some of the premier places to visit surrounding San Francisco are Carmel, with its historical center, boutiques, and galleries; and Monterey, where Cannery Row, a sizable sardine factory that was transformed into one of the most visited areas in California, with luxury hotels and restaurants, is situated.

Taking a trip from San Francisco to Carmel and Monterey is worthwhile as you travel one of the most scenic roads in the United States, the Pacific Coast Highway. Along the way, you’ll encounter unprecedented landscapes and cliffs overlooking the Pacific. For this experience alone, I think visiting Monterey and Carmel is something you shouldn’t miss in San Francisco.

If you prefer not to drive yourself, you can book a day excursion here.

53. Grace Cathedral, an important church in SF

Grace Cathedral is in Nob Hill. This beautiful cathedral, constructed between 1928 and 1964, has an Gothic aesthetic similar to Notre Dame de Paris. It’s one of the most significant religious sites in San Francisco.

Many individuals feel ceremonies take on unique magnificence in this place, especially with the music of the organ, which was added to the cathedral in 1934.

Whether a person believes in the supernatural or not, I think this is a very aesthetically pleasing location to visit in San Francisco, United States.

54. Shakespeare Garden, the most beautiful themed garden in San Francisco

The Shakespeare Garden is another place of interest in San Francisco to explore if wanting to learn about all the plants mentioned in his literary works. No prior exhaustive reading or deep knowledge of his oeuvre is necessary, since adjacent to each flora resides a placard citing the quotation from the work that references it.

This garden is within Golden Gate Park and is a highly coveted setting for al fresco weddings.

55. Napa and Sonoma wine tasting, something great to do in San Francisco

A wine tour of the Napa and Sonoma Valleys is something you absolutely have to do near San Francisco. These two regions are known for their excellent wines. Although both are dedicated to making the same type of wine, each one has its own characteristics which make the wine different.

On this excursion, you’ll become acquainted with some of the most notable vineyards in Napa and Sonoma, in addition to participating in a wine tasting.

56. The Wave Organ, a mysterious and magical attraction to visit in SF

A captivating feature among the sights to behold in San Francisco is the awe-inspiring wave organ. It`s manufactured from concrete with marble steps, and situated inside are 35 organ pipes positioned in a meticulously calculated way so that each generates a distinctive sound.

As the waves move and a sea breeze blows in, it creates a melody upon entering the tubes. This tune is reported to be the music of the ocean. It’s a truly beautiful sound!

57. Seward Mini Park, an unusual and amusing place in SF

When pondering activities to participate in with children in San Francisco, I propose venturing to Seward Mini Park. Featuring unusual solid descents entertaining both grownups and youngsters, this park sits among homes on Seward Street.

Of course, to slide down them, you’ll need cardboard. Sometimes you can find some abandoned cardboard, but I recommend bringing your own just in case.

58. Angel Island, a place to visit around San Francisco

Angel Island originally served as a lookout and defensive position, and later was used as an immigration facility.

Now, Angel Island is a place that offers very good views of San Francisco Bay and is the perfect place to enjoy various hiking paths. If one has time, it’s one of the best places to visit in and around San Francisco.

59. San Francisco City Hall, a historic attraction to see in SF

The San Francisco City Hall, with its ninety-meter-tall dome, will astound you with its grandeur. Even though in 1906 it was destroyed by an earthquake and necessitated reconstruction, it remains one of the principal landmarks in San Francisco. Naturally, the care invested in each of its details renders this building the favorite locale of many couples for wedding ceremonies.

Just for its beauty and grandeur, the City Hall is one of the main attractions in San Francisco.

60. The Embarcadero, another popular place to go in San Francisco

The Embarcadero distinguishes itself as a historic dockfront characterized by the Ferry Building tower situated at the origin of Market Street, one of San Francisco’s primary thoroughfares.

The Embarcadero is also a place where there’s always much activity, particularly on weekends, owing to the Farmer’s Market. At this marketplace, you’ll discover fresh seafood, artisanal cheeses, and other goods, as well as eateries. I recommend this marketplace if you want to sample the authentic local fare of San Francisco. This is, without a doubt, one of the best places to go to in San Francisco if you want to savor the Bay Area’s cuisine.

These represent the 60 activities to do in San Francisco that I propose. I also want to share a map where you’ll find all these places, so you can begin planning your trip now. You can download this tourist map of San Francisco and take it with you while you’re are visiting the city.

I hope this text has assisted you in understanding the city of San Francisco. Now all that is left for you to do is fully experience everything the city has to offer!