A city that mixes cultures and new technologies; where the new contrasts with the old, so is San Francisco.
Start now your unforgettable trip to this city that will surprise you. There is so much to do in the city that you may be missing days in your itinerary of things to do in San Francisco. If that happens, don't worry. Do you already have an excuse to come back one day? .
We have already talked here about when to go, how many days to stay and other information in a San Francisco, California Complete Guide. Now, check out what to do in San Francisco.
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22 attractions to put on your list of things to do in San Francisco:
1) Ponte Golden Gate
A Bridge Golden Gate it is one of the most beautiful bridges in the United States and certainly one of the best known in the world. With its vibrant color – red for some and orange for others – that contrasts with the blue sky of San Francisco and often with the white of the clouds, it attracts thousands of tourists daily.
It is almost 2 km long and can be crossed by car, bus, bicycle or walking. Despite being huge, it is not from anywhere in the city of San Francisco that you will be able to see the Golden Gate Bridge.
>> I detailed for you the 8 best places to take pictures for friends and family and post them on your social networks.
On the map below you will find some of the best places to have a beautiful view of the bridge and ensure a good photo.
2) San Francisco Presidio Park
In addition to the many points to see the Golden Gate Bridge, the prison park It is a good choice to discover yourself on foot or by bicycle. What was a former military base, today is a beautiful park that offers outdoor leisure options. This is a good place to start or end a day of sightseeing in San Francisco.
Arriving at the Park, go to the Visitor Center to get the map and schedule your entire tour, see the exhibitions that are happening and all the tips.
Information:
- Opening hours: daily from 10:00 am to 17:00 pm
- Site: https://www.presidio.gov/
- Free admission
Canal California made a really cool video, check it out
3) The Palace of Fine Arts Theatre
One of the most iconic and photogenic buildings in San Francisco. Built in 1915, with the intention of displaying works of art in an exhibition. O Palace of Fine Arts is located in the neighborhood Marina District, next to the Prison. In the neighborhood there are some options of bars and restaurants, also very frequented by locals.
Information:
4) Ghirardelli Square
Ghirardelli is the most famous chocolate store in the city and also in California. And on Ghirardelli Square which operated the first factory of the brand. It is worth visiting because the building is very beautiful. It's not the only shop in town, but walking in the square and having an ice cream overlooking the bay is very inviting!
#Tip: If you want to take the Cable Car ride to Ghirardelli Square, take the Powell-hyde and get off at the final stop, it's only 5 min on foot. Or get off at the Lombard Street stop and continue walking for approximately 15 min.
Information:
- Address: 900 North Point Street on the corner of Beach and Larkin Streets
- Hours: daily from 11:00 am to 21:00 pm
- Site: https://www.ghirardellisq.com/
5) Lombard Street
It may seem strange to go to a street, especially when it's only a block away. But street like Lombard Street there isn't, believe me. A slope with an inclination of 27º forces cars to descend in a zigzag, in one direction, even to avoid accidents. For the curious on duty, there are no great stories of why the street came to have this shape, the only thing was the safety of drivers and pedestrians.
Here is the time to use and abuse creativity to get fun photos. If you're driving around town, take the opportunity to walk down Lombard Street.
6) Fisherman’s Wharf e Pier 39
It is among the busiest and most touristy neighborhoods in the city of San Francisco. O Fisherman's Wharf it is the port area of the city with many shops and restaurants with local foods. If you go to San Francisco, even if you don't like a lot of crowds, you need to get to know this region.
Among the piers, the Pier 39 is the best known and recommended. Here you will find good restaurants, such as Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. – the chain became famous after the movie Forrest Gump – in addition to bars, ice cream parlors, coffee shops and souvenir shops.
In addition to all the attractions, Pier 39 is also the abode of the sea lions. It's super easy to see them all year round, but the amount and excitement can vary depending on the weather and season. To see the animals, just walk along the seafront around the pier, but you can rest assured that the amount of tourists and the characteristic sound of the sea lions soon give you where they are.
6) Aquarium of the Bay
Take advantage of the Fisherman's Wharf day tour to experience the Aquarium of the Bay. A place that pleases all types of tourists, especially those passionate about marine life.
There are more than 20.000 marine animals, including jellyfish, octopus, sharks and rays. Tube and transparent paths elevate the experience, it's like walking on the ocean floor. Don't miss the opportunity to learn and understand more about important issues such as climate change and ocean pollution.
- Opening hours: open every day from 10 am to 20 pm.
- Ticket Value:
- Adults (ages 13 to 64) pay US$27,00
- Children (ages 4 to 12) pay US$17,00
- Children from 0 to 3 years old, admission is free.
- Tips for families: there is a family package option (2 adults and 2 children) for US$ 75.00.
- You can buy your tickets online – here.
7) Alcatraz Island
This is one of the most interesting experiences in San Francisco. After all, it is not always possible to visit a disused federal prison on an island.
Before becoming the safest federal prison in the world, the Alcatraz Island It was an American military base. The prison opened in January 1934 and closed its doors in March 1963 – citing high cost. During its operation, no leaks were recorded, but there were some attempts.
Competition for the tour is high, so plan ahead and guarantee your ticket – see prices and buy them here. When you arrive on the island remember to take your audio guide – it's free and in Portuguese – it will make ALL the difference in the experience as it has reports from prisoners and staff.
# Tip: bring a good coat, as the island is very windy.
Information:
- Boats depart from Pier 33 on the Embarcadero
- Opening Hours
- Day trips: boat departures start at 9:10 am and end at 15:50 pm.
- Night tours depart at only two times, at 17:55 pm and 18:30 pm.
- There are also 3 different tours: the Early Bird Tour, the Behind the Scenes Tour and the Alcatraz & Angel Island Tour.
- Website for more information: Alcatraz Cruises
8) Angel Island
A Angel island It's not on the list of top tourist attractions to do in San Francisco, but it's certainly a place to consider when visiting the city. Mainly for history and nature lovers – as it is a State Park. A tip is to visit the island on the same day as visiting Alcatraz, a double tour.
Information:
- Boats depart from Pier 33 on the Embarcadero
- Schedule: Departure at 9:30 am and 9:40 am – Alcatraz Island and Angel Island Tour
- Website for more information: Alcatraz Cruises
9) North Beach – Little Italy
The neighborhood is a piece of Italy in the heart of San Francisco – the Little Italy. Do not leave the slopes of the neighborhood, close to Coit Tower, scare you. Here it is worth mentioning that this fireman's hose tower is another great place to go up and have a privileged view of the city and its beautiful bridges, Golden Gate and Bay Bridge. It is also possible to see the zigzag of Lombard Street, a more appropriate tip for those who have a mega camera lens.
If you don't have much time to walk around during the day, it's worth returning at nightfall, when the neighborhood takes on a new lease of life with several bars and restaurants.
10) Embarcadero
A good tip is to start the day with Pier and here there is no shortage of attractions. You can continue walking from the marina of South Beach Park towards the Ferry Building, a beautiful building with a clock tower.
O Ferry Building opened in 1898, the building was for a long time the gateway to the city of San Francisco, whether by train or ferry. However, with the construction of the Golden Gate and Bay Bridges, this place began to be forgotten. Restoration in 2003 brought improvements and security. Today, there is one of the best known markets in the city and very popular with tourists and locals.
In addition to all the history, here you can find great quality, fresh and organic products. A culinary journey, full of aromas and flavors. In addition to good craft and souvenir shops.
Information about the Ferry Building Marketplace:
- The Market is open from 7:00 am to 22:00 pm
- Trading hours inside the Market:
- Monday to Friday – 10:00 to 19:00 h.
- Saturdays: 9:00 to 18:00 h.
- Sundays: 11:00 to 17:00 h.
- If you want to check the opening hours of a specific store or more information, see HERE
The Embarcadero also departs for boats to destinations such as Sausalito, Oakland, Larkspur, Alcatraz Island (Pier 33) and Angel Island (Pier 41). For more information on timetables and departures, check the San Francisco Ferry Bay website HERE
11) Chinatown
O Chinatown is another fascinating neighborhood in San Francisco and is also the oldest Chinatown in the United States. In addition to being the largest Chinese colony outside of China, here you will find several shops, restaurants and even the famous karaoke bars.
Start your Chinatown tour at the intersection of Bush Street to Grant Avenue, where is the imposing Dragon’s Gate and continue walking through the decorated streets of the neighborhood.
12) Japantown
Another popular neighborhood is Japantown, much smaller than Chinatown, but still with good attractions. Here you will find shops specializing in Japanese products, good restaurants and the landmark of the region – the Peace Pagoda No. Japantown Peace Plaza.
An interesting fact about the neighborhood: As soon as World War II broke out, more than 2 Japanese and their descendants were ordained from the neighborhood. They were placed in relocation camps and many were deported from the country.
If you want to get to know the region and see some exhibition – maybe sumo or a traditional festival, check the Japatown website with the full schedule of events.
13) Bondinhos – Cable Car
Riding the cable car in San Francisco may seem boring to some tourists, but to others it's the city feel. The Cable Cars are electric trams, and here is one of the few places in the world where they are still manually operated. In addition, the cable cars were declared a National Historic Landmark in 1964.
There are three routes that run through part of the city. They all leave from the intersection of Powell Street and Market Street. The ticket costs US$7.00 each way, but purchasing the CityPass for the city gives you 3 days of unlimited travel – just like on the Muni – Municipal Railway buses, which includes the buses, subways and cable cars of the city of San Francisco.
#Tip: If you want to avoid the long line of tourists that forms throughout the day, arrive early. The first tram departs at 6:00 and the last at 12:20.
For more information on routes, timetables and prices, consult the website of the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency – SFMTA
14) San Francisco City Hall – City Hall
O City Hall It's not one of San Francisco's top sights, but the building has beautiful architecture that dates back to 1915. Interestingly, the imposing dome is the fifth largest in the country, even in front of the capitol dome in Washington DC In addition to its external beauty, the interior is also majestic. It's worth a visit, especially when admission is free.
Information:
- Opening Hours
- Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 20:00 hours
- Weekends and local holidays – closed
- Address: 1 Dr Carlton B Goodlett Pl
- Site: https://sfgov.org/cityhall/
15) Civic Center
O Civic Center it is home to San Francisco's governmental institutions, including the City Hall Building. It is also an area of many cultural shows – symphony orchestra, opera, ballet, jazz center among VARIOUS others. It is also here that, in the last week of June, one of the biggest Gay Pride Parades takes place.
The Civic Center was considered a National Historic Landmark in 1987 due to the various historical events that took place there. For example, it was here in 1951 that the Peace Treaty was signed that ended the Pacific War with Japan.
Some of the Civic Center attractions: California Supreme Court headquarters, Asian Art Museum, War Memorial Opera House, Davies Symphony Hall, War Memorial Veterans Building, Herbst Theater, The Pioneer Monument among others. See all Civic Center attractions here on MAP
#Tip: Avoid visiting this area at night as it is a place with many beggars, it can be a little intimidating if you are on foot.
16) Alamo Square e Painted Ladies
Fan or not of the series Full House (in Portuguese, Três é Demais), stop by the neighborhood to see the famous colorful houses – the Painted ladies.
If you have time, make the most of it Alamo Square, on the lawn to sit and relax, maybe read a book or have a picnic (and remember: it's forbidden to drink alcohol in public in San Francisco).
17) Haight-Ashbury
Next to Golden Gate Park is the neighborhood birthplace of the hippie movement in the 60s. Be sure to stop by and enjoy the “peace and love” atmosphere that the neighborhood still provides. Colorful houses, bars and shops that can give you the feeling of stepping back in time.
The people from Perca a Novela made a really cool video showing a little bit of this region.
18) Golden Gate Park
A place you can spend just a few hours or dedicate a full day. Even so, there will still be time to see everything! To get an idea, the Golden Gate Park It's bigger than Central Park in New York.
Golden Gate Park, despite its name, has nothing to do with the Golden Gate Bridge. They are different locations and more than 5 km away from each other.
The Park is full of gardens, green fields, lakes… a place to relax and have fun.
If you can, be sure to take a stroll through the Japanese garden (with the typical cherry trees), Botanical Garden and the Conservatory of Flowers, are attractions paid separately. Here are also two important city museums, the de Young Museum and the California Academy of Sciences. And coming close to the Pacific Ocean there is a Dutch windmill and the Queen Wilhelmina's Tulip Garden – best to visit in spring.
- Opening hours: Open daily 24 hours. However, the attractions have different opening hours – check the website
- Site: https://goldengatepark.com/
19) Twin Peaks
The highest peak in the city – or rather, the peaks – the Twin Peaks allow for a spectacular view of the city on a clear day. A visit at night is also recommended to see the lights of the shopping center illuminate the sky over the bay.
From the highest peak in San Francisco it is not possible to see the Golden Gate Bridge in all its splendor, only the top of the columns. Even so, it's spectacular to see the sea (to the west), the bay (to the north and east) and almost the entire length of the city in between.
#Tip: don't forget to check the weather on the day and always bring a coat.
20) Dolores Park
Located in Mission Distric be sure to meet the Dolores Park, the coolest square in San Francisco, where all the city's cultures mingle.
#Tip: To eat, the Mexican food of the Taqueria The Good Taste (699 Valencia St) and the delicious breads and pastries of Tartine Bakery (600 Guerrero St). If you decide to go to Tartine, be prepared for the mega queue that is almost a constant, but it's a great option to order take out and eat at Dolores Park.
Find more tips in our post Where to Eat in San Francisco, California
21) Museums in San Francisco
If you enjoy visiting museums on your travels, San Francisco is packed their. And they have something for all tastes, ages and interests. There is a museum in the area of science, art and culture, and even an ice cream museum! See San Francisco's Must-See Museums
22) What to do in San Francisco at night
The night in San Francisco can be just as hectic as your day. Okay, bars and clubs aren't open all night, but you can enjoy it and still have energy for the next day. Here are two very nice neighborhoods to end the day with a good dinner, or just a drink or beer.
The castro
O The castro, world-renowned, is the neighborhood of the gay community in San Francisco. You can already imagine that it is super excited and cool. The flag symbolizing the LGBT movement is spread across the streets, even the crosswalk is colorful.
Mission District
O Mission District – next to The Castro – is another neighborhood that is super frequented by locals and tourists. The main streets – Mission Street and Valencia Street – are full of bars and restaurants. #Location Name: Blondie's Bar (540 Valencia St) and Casanova Lounge (527 Valencia St).
Other interesting regions include Haight-Asbury – mainly on Haight St – the Hobson’s Choice and Little Italy (North Beach) on the blocks between Jackson and Union St. and along Columbus Ave.
>> Now you know everything to do in San Francisco, see also Where to stay in San Francisco, the best regions to stay.
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