35 Best Things to Do in San Francisco + Planning Tips
The best things to do in San Francisco combine the Golden Gate Bridge, an Alcatraz island visit, a cable car ride, and time in neighborhoods such as Chinatown and North Beach. Add a museum that fits your interests and a coastal walk. The 35 ideas below help you choose, rather than rush through everything.
San Francisco is a city perfectly designed to make trip planning difficult! Unless you plan to spend a lot of time in the city, you will have difficulty squeezing in all the places you want to see.
Fortunately, it is a small city, and with a little careful planning, you can take in a lot of diverse sights. Group nearby stops, leave room for the hills and fog, and book the few time-sensitive experiences first.
San Francisco at a glance
- Allow: three full city days as a starting point; add time for day trips.
- Book first: Alcatraz if it is a priority, then Muir Woods transport and any scheduled performance.
- Pack: walking shoes and a windproof layer, even in summer.
- Save: mix one paid highlight with nearby free walks rather than buying tickets for every stop.
Book the right San Francisco experience
Alcatraz: choose an island visit with a dated ferry departure if you want to enter the former prison. A bay cruise that passes Alcatraz is not equivalent.
Attraction passes: compare the exact product with your shortlist. CityPASS offers different options, including an Alcatraz version; confirm reservations and current inclusions. A pass is less useful for a trip centered on free parks and neighborhoods.
Practical information checked September 30, 2026. Prices below are in US dollars; dated events, admission and opening hours can change. Visit durations are planning estimates, not guaranteed tour lengths.
Choose your first stops
- First visit: Golden Gate Bridge
- History: Alcatraz
- Food and a neighborhood walk: Chinatown
- Free outdoor time: Presidio and Tunnel Tops
- Hands-on museum: Exploratorium
- Redwood day trip: Muir Woods
1. Ride a Cable Car
The San Francisco cable cars have operated since 1873 and have become a beloved city icon.
They are a mobile, functional piece of history, and you’ll enjoy your ride! You can combine your ride with a view of Lombard Street, a visit to Fisherman’s Wharf, or a trip to Chinatown.
Plan your visit
- Location: Powell-Hyde, Powell-Mason and California lines
- Admission / costs: $9 one-way single ride; $15 one-day Visitor Passport includes cable cars
- Hours / access: Check service alerts and the timetable for your line
- Time to allow (estimate): 30–60 minutes plus waiting
- Planning tip: Two $9 rides cost more than the $15 day passport; the passport excludes BART and airport transfers.
2. Explore Fisherman’s Wharf
This super touristy area is packed with crowds and souvenir shops.
It’s still worth a (short) visit during your San Francisco tour, and you can check out gems like the Musée Mécanique’s collection of antique coin-operated games.
Admission is free!
Plan your visit
- Location: Fisherman’s Wharf; Musée Mécanique at Pier 45
- Admission / costs: Waterfront stroll free; arcade games cost extra
- Hours / access: Musée Mécanique lists daily 10am–8pm; outdoor waterfront access separate
- Time to allow (estimate): 45–90 minutes
- Planning tip: A short stop suits most first visits; combine it with Pier 39 rather than allocating two separate half-days.
3. Go over the Golden Gate Bridge
Speaking of San Francisco icons, the Golden Gate Bridge is hard to beat.
Throughout the city, you’ll find views of the bridge (assuming it’s a clear day!), but it’s hard to beat the view from the bridge itself.
Rent a bike, take a tour, walk the Golden Gate Bridge, or drive over it! You’ll find a parking lot for scenic overlooks on the Marin side of the bridge, but beware this gets crowded!
Plan your visit
- Location: Golden Gate Bridge, between San Francisco and Marin
- Admission / costs: Walking and cycling free; rentals, tours and driving tolls extra
- Hours / access: Pedestrians use the east sidewalk; seasonal hours and closures apply
- Time to allow (estimate): 60–90 minutes for a walk with photo stops
- Planning tip: Bring a windproof layer. A partial walk avoids committing to the full out-and-back crossing.
4. Take a tour of Alcatraz
Ride the ferry to “the rock” and experience all that Alcatraz has to offer!
The self-guided audio tour “Doing Time: The Alcatraz Cellhouse Tour” is included with the standard island visit.
It features actual stories and interviews with inmates and wardens, making the whole experience come to life.
Plan your visit
- Location: Alcatraz Island; ferries depart Pier 33
- Admission / costs: Paid ferry tour; standard day visit includes the cellhouse audio tour
- Hours / access: Choose a dated departure; reserve ahead
- Time to allow (estimate): About 3 hours including ferry travel
- Planning tip: Only Alcatraz City Cruises lands visitors. A cruise around the island does not include the prison visit.
5. Grab some Dim Sum in Chinatown
San Francisco’s Chinatown is a great place to explore on foot and stop for dim sum.
Start at the Dragon’s Gate but make sure you work your way to Washington Street and Stockton Street for shopping, then explore the lantern-lined stretch of Grant Avenue.
Plan your visit
- Location: Chinatown: Grant Avenue and Stockton Street
- Admission / costs: Walking free; food and any guided tour extra
- Hours / access: Shops and restaurants keep individual hours
- Time to allow (estimate): 1–2 hours with a food stop
- Planning tip: Walk onward to North Beach and City Lights. Check a restaurant’s menu before queuing.
6. Visit Mission Dolores for a piece of California History
The Mission system was hugely influential in the early development of California.
Walk through the chapel and museum to learn about the Spanish missionaries, the Ohlone people, and the history of San Francisco.
Plan your visit
- Location: Mission Dolores, 3321 16th Street
- Admission / costs: Check the mission’s current visitor contribution; do not confuse worship with sightseeing
- Hours / access: Mon–Fri 10am–4pm; Sat–Sun 10am–5pm
- Time to allow (estimate): 45–60 minutes
- Planning tip: Self-guided visits need no reservation; guided tours are currently unavailable according to the mission.
7. Have tea in the Japanese Tea Garden
The Japanese Tea Garden offers a quieter stop among the museums and gardens of Golden Gate Park.
Stop at the Tea House for tea and a snack; check the current menu rather than planning around one particular dish. It is right in the middle of Golden Gate Park, so think about visiting the de Young Art Museum or the San Francisco Botanical Garden while you’re here.
Plan your visit
- Location: Japanese Tea Garden, 75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive
- Admission / costs: Paid admission; free entry Mon/Wed/Fri 9–10am; tea extra
- Hours / access: Daily from 9am; last entry 5:30pm Mar–Oct, 4:30pm Nov–Feb
- Time to allow (estimate): 45–90 minutes
- Planning tip: Use the official date-specific ticket page for paid rates; combine with one nearby museum.
8. Visit the sea lions at Pier 39
The sea lions first arrived at K dock in 1989 and have been quite the attraction ever since.
You’ll know you’ve found the right pier by the crowds gathered around. Head toward the west-side viewing area at K-Dock and try another level if the railings are busy.
If you have a hard time with the smell, step back from the viewing rail. Pier 40 is elsewhere on the waterfront, so it is not an alternative close-up viewpoint for this colony.
Plan your visit
- Location: PIER 39 west marina, K-Dock
- Admission / costs: Sea-lion viewing free
- Hours / access: Outdoor viewing; animal numbers vary naturally
- Time to allow (estimate): 20–40 minutes
- Planning tip: Stay behind viewing barriers. The sea lions are wild animals, so a particular number or sighting is not guaranteed.
9. Walk along the beach at Crissy Field
There will be views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and Sausalito, and you’ll be watching kite surfers and sailboats.
Check the weather in advance and bring a warm layer; a sunny city forecast does not guarantee a warm waterfront.
Plan your visit
- Location: Crissy Field waterfront, Presidio
- Admission / costs: Free public outdoor visit; parking may cost extra
- Hours / access: Visit in daylight and check park alerts
- Time to allow (estimate): 45–90 minutes
- Planning tip: Choose this for a bayfront walk or picnic; carry layers and combine with the Palace of Fine Arts.
10. See the curves of Lombard Street
If you have a car, take the hairpin turns down Lombard Street.
If you aren’t driving, take in the view and snap a few pictures from the bottom! (The intersection of Leavenworth and Lombard).
The Powell-Hyde cable car line stops at the top of this winding block.
Plan your visit
- Location: Lombard Street between Hyde and Leavenworth
- Admission / costs: Free to view; transport extra
- Hours / access: Residential public street; follow current road signs
- Time to allow (estimate): 15–30 minutes
- Planning tip: Powell-Hyde stops at the top. Keep driveways clear and use sidewalks for photos.
11. Visit Sutro Baths
Originally a luxurious indoor pool facility from the late 1800s, Sutro Baths is now in ruins.
The pool almost looks natural except for the remaining wall separating it from the beach. Spend an hour or two viewing the old ruins from established paths or hiking the Lands End Trail for views of the Golden Gate Bridge; stay clear of unstable edges and breaking waves.
Plan your visit
- Location: Sutro Baths ruins, Lands End
- Admission / costs: Free outdoor visit
- Hours / access: Daylight recommended; respect closures and uneven terrain
- Time to allow (estimate): 1–2 hours with a short coastal walk
- Planning tip: View the ruins from established routes; this is not a swimming or scrambling spot.
12. Take the ferry to Angel Island
Once you’re on the island, enjoy the views of the City while you hike, bike, or take a tour.
A tram tour can be a way to see and learn about the island without tackling a long hike. Check whether tours operate on your date before choosing your ferry.
Plan your visit
- Location: Angel Island State Park, San Francisco Bay
- Admission / costs: Ferry fare; check park entry inclusion and separate tour charges
- Hours / access: Access depends on ferry timetables
- Time to allow (estimate): Half a day or longer
- Planning tip: Confirm your return ferry first. Do not fit a long hike between tightly spaced sailings.
13. Go for a hike in the Presidio
Very few things are as wonderful as little pieces of wilderness in urban areas.
The Presidio is a great place to get lost and enjoy the outdoors. When you stumble upon an overlook, you’ll be amazed to find the city so close!
Plan your visit
- Location: Presidio; Tunnel Tops near 210 Lincoln Boulevard
- Admission / costs: Park and Tunnel Tops free; paid parking and attractions extra
- Hours / access: Park visit in daylight; individual facilities have their own hours
- Time to allow (estimate): 1–3 hours
- Planning tip: Use the free Presidio GO route maps to plan access; choose a trail suited to your mobility.
14. Visit the Palace of Fine Arts
If you get a chance, attend an actual event at the Palace of Fine Arts theatre.
If that isn’t in the cards, enjoy a picnic in front of the grand Roman-style rotunda and watch the swans go by.
Plan your visit
- Location: Palace of Fine Arts, Marina District
- Admission / costs: Outdoor grounds free; performances separately ticketed
- Hours / access: Grounds visit in daylight; theater by event schedule
- Time to allow (estimate): 30–60 minutes outdoors
- Planning tip: Pair with Crissy Field. The outdoor rotunda is the reason for a short visit, not a promise of a museum inside.
15. Go out for brunch
San Francisco loves to wait in line for the best restaurants!
Make a plan and get there early, but set a limit on how long you are willing to wait.
Crowd-pleasers for brunch include Mama’s and Brenda’s French Soul Food. You’ll often have better luck midweek; Brenda’s also accepts reservations.
After you’ve finished with those things, there are still dozens of great things to do and see in San Francisco!
Plan your visit
- Location: Mama’s in North Beach; Brenda’s French Soul Food
- Admission / costs: Menu prices, applicable tax and tip; no single attraction fee
- Hours / access: Mama’s Tue–Fri 8am–2pm, weekends 8am–3pm; Brenda’s hours differ
- Time to allow (estimate): 60–90 minutes plus any wait
- Planning tip: Brenda’s accepts reservations. A long queue is a poor tradeoff if you only have one day.
16. Shop and eat at the Ferry Building Marketplace
The Ferry Building is one of San Francisco’s most popular landmarks.
Back in 1898, ferryboats were highly utilized by the traveling public. The Ferry Building welcomed people coming into the city.
Today, the building also provides a venue for local merchants to reach their audience, while ferries still serve the waterfront terminal.
You can catch the Farmers Market at the Ferry Building every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Here, you can buy all sorts of fresh produce and artisan specialties.
Plan your visit
- Location: Ferry Building, Embarcadero
- Admission / costs: Browsing free; purchases extra
- Hours / access: Merchants vary; farmers market Tue/Thu/Sat
- Time to allow (estimate): 45–90 minutes
- Planning tip: Go for a meal or market browse. Ferry departures and market hours are separate schedules.
17. Marvel at the Asian Art Museum collections
The Asian Art Museum on Larkin Street is a place to explore art from across Asia.
The collection grew from artworks donated by collector Avery Brundage; check the current exhibitions before deciding which galleries to prioritize.
Aside from the art on display, there is also a place to pause for a meal: the museum’s current restaurant is Asian Box.
Afterward, drop by the Museum Boutique for some artful shopping. The selection changes, so browse for something that catches your eye rather than expecting a particular textile or souvenir.
Plan your visit
- Location: Asian Art Museum, 200 Larkin Street
- Admission / costs: Adult general admission $20; special exhibition supplement may apply
- Hours / access: Thu 1–8pm; Fri–Mon 10am–5pm; closed Tue/Wed
- Time to allow (estimate): 1.5–2.5 hours
- Planning tip: The calendar lists an Oct. 29, 2026 closure; check special dates. Asian Box and the shop do not require museum admission.
18. See San Francisco from the Coit Tower
A visit to Coit Tower combines a waterfront viewpoint with a closer look at San Francisco’s public art.
The tower is named for Lillie Hitchcock Coit, whose bequest helped fund the landmark.
You can see murals inside the tower and, when access is available, visit the observation deck for views of the city’s waterfront. Check the elevator status before going if stairs would be a problem.
Plan your visit
- Location: Coit Tower, 1 Telegraph Hill Boulevard
- Admission / costs: Nonresident adult observation-level ticket $11; mural tours separate
- Hours / access: 10am–6pm Apr–Oct; 10am–5pm Nov–Mar; holiday exceptions
- Time to allow (estimate): 45–75 minutes plus travel uphill
- Planning tip: The city warns that elevator failures may mean 13 flights of stairs. Check access before visiting.
19. Visit the Yerba Buena Gardens
The wholeness of the Yerba Buena Gardens is an example of excellent use of public space.
In the same area, you can find a variety of San Francisco attractions. A visit to Yerba Buena is like ticking off several best things to do in San Francisco at once!
One of them is Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. You see Dr. King’s wise words immortalized in glass panels along with other notable pieces about the civil rights movement.
Another is the Children’s Creativity Museum, a place wherein learning about arts and technology is enjoyable.
Plan your visit
- Location: Yerba Buena Gardens, 750 Howard Street, SoMa
- Admission / costs: Gardens free; neighboring museums and events may charge
- Hours / access: Gardens daily 6am–10pm; individual facilities vary
- Time to allow (estimate): 30–60 minutes
- Planning tip: Combine the gardens and Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial with nearby SFMOMA; allow extra time for a museum.
20. Browse books at City Lights
Why must a three-story bookstore be part of your list of best things to do in San Francisco?
Well, if you are a certified bookworm, forget that I asked. However, if you aren’t really into books, visiting City Lights is still rewarding and fun.
Spend hours lounging and browsing through interesting finds and classic fixes. Ask help from the staff – you are sure to find them helpful and extremely knowledgeable about what to recommend based on your liking.
Check the events calendar to see whether an author reading coincides with your visit and whether it is in person or online.
Plan your visit
- Location: City Lights, 261 Columbus Avenue
- Admission / costs: Browsing free; books extra
- Hours / access: Daily 10am–10pm; check special events
- Time to allow (estimate): 30–60 minutes
- Planning tip: A useful stop between Chinatown and North Beach; readings have their own arrangements.
21. Union Square Park
Union Square is well-known as a shopping hub, but the appeal is the central location rather than any guarantee of bargains.
Once you’ve had your retail fix, spend some time at Union Square Park. Hotels, restaurants, and galleries surround this 2.6-acre public space.
Look for the heart sculptures associated with the San Francisco General Hospital Foundation’s Hearts in San Francisco fundraising project.
Plan your visit
- Location: Union Square, around Post and Stockton streets
- Admission / costs: Public square free; shopping and parking extra
- Hours / access: Visit as part of your downtown route
- Time to allow (estimate): 20–40 minutes
- Planning tip: A convenient short stop if nearby, but not a reason to cross the city solely for shopping.
22. Enjoy the view from Twin Peaks
If there is one viewpoint worth exerting effort for, it is that of Twin Peaks.
This 64-acre park offers broad views of the cityscape, making it a worthwhile detour on a clear day.
At 922 feet in elevation, Twin Peaks is second only to Mount Davidson in San Francisco.
Twin Peaks enables you to look across the Bay Area and explore coastal grassland. The endangered Mission blue butterfly lives here, but sightings are seasonal and never guaranteed.
Plan your visit
- Location: Twin Peaks, 501 Twin Peaks Boulevard
- Admission / costs: Free park visit
- Hours / access: Park hours 5am–midnight; check vehicle access notices
- Time to allow (estimate): 45–90 minutes
- Planning tip: Wait for clear visibility; use the Portola Drive vehicle approach specified by the city, not the closed Burnett gate.
23. Have a picnic at Baker Beach
A trip to Baker Beach is among the best things to do in San Francisco if you are looking for an angle of the Golden Gate Bridge from the coast.
The beach is one of the beaches that are within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
Baker Beach is not suitable for swimming because of hazardous surf and currents. Use the picnic area for a packed lunch and follow posted rules for any grills.
You will find people fishing at Baker Beach. Some also like sunbathing here. The northern part of the beach is quite popular for nude sunbathers.
Plan your visit
- Location: Baker Beach, Presidio coast
- Admission / costs: Free outdoor visit; check parking signs
- Hours / access: Daylight recommended; surf and weather affect conditions
- Time to allow (estimate): 45–90 minutes
- Planning tip: Good for bridge photographs and a picnic; not for swimming. The northern end is used by nude sunbathers.
24. Sign up for a craft beer tour
San Diego isn’t the only place in California that you can go for great-tasting alcohol. Enjoy sampling different local beers in San Francisco by going on a craft beer tour.
Bay Area Brewery Tours advertises a Saturday walking tour visiting three breweries. Confirm a live departure and the current stops directly before booking; a brewery visit does not guarantee access to its production area.
You can also visit taprooms independently. Choose a walking route or arrange transport afterward rather than driving between tastings.
Plan your visit
- Location: San Francisco brewery/taproom stops, operator-dependent
- Admission / costs: Tour, tastings and inclusions vary
- Hours / access: Confirm an available departure directly
- Time to allow (estimate): 2–4 hours depending on the option
- Planning tip: The linked tour listing contains older brewery names. Confirm the current itinerary, meeting point and price before paying.
25. Walk among the redwoods at Muir Woods
Muir Woods National Monument is north of San Francisco in Marin County, close to Mount Tamalpais.
Its old-growth coast redwoods are the reason to come; allow time to look up and pause along the forest paths rather than rushing through for a photograph.
Go on a hike and see Muir Woods National Monument from the trees’ shade. Ready your camera as the park reveals its forest scenery with every step.
Plan your visit
- Location: Muir Woods National Monument, Marin County
- Admission / costs: Standard entry $15 from age 16; under-16s free; parking/shuttle reservations cost extra
- Hours / access: Open daily; closing time seasonal; parking/shuttle reservation required
- Time to allow (estimate): Half-day trip; allow 1.5–2.5 hours in the forest
- Planning tip: Download reservations before travel. Cell coverage is unreliable; arrange your return transport in advance.
26. Catch a game at Oracle Park
For a California trip with a sports focus, put a Giants home game on your shortlist.
If you are the type who searches for places to visit primarily for sports, catching a game at Oracle Park is a natural fit.
Oracle Park is famous not only for being the home of the San Francisco Giants but also for its waterfront setting.
The park is located right along San Francisco Bay, making your game-watching even more enjoyable than it already is!
Plan your visit
- Location: Oracle Park, San Francisco waterfront
- Admission / costs: Game and tour prices vary by date
- Hours / access: Home-game schedule or booked tour departure
- Time to allow (estimate): Allow 3–4 hours for a game outing
- Planning tip: Pick a home date before planning the day; use the Giants’ official ticket and visitor information.
27. Stroll Ocean Beach
San Francisco’s beaches feel different from the warm-weather image of a California vacation. Ocean Beach is a place for a coastal walk with an extra layer in your bag.
Ocean Beach offers a long stretch of sand and an open horizon for a stroll or a kite-flying afternoon. Beach fires are restricted to designated rings, permitted seasons, and current air-quality rules.
Ocean Beach is included in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The waves and currents are dangerous: do not plan to swim or wade here.
Plan your visit
- Location: Ocean Beach, western edge of San Francisco
- Admission / costs: Free outdoor visit
- Hours / access: Daylight recommended; check NPS alerts and fire restrictions
- Time to allow (estimate): 45–90 minutes
- Planning tip: Do not swim or wade. Fog and wind can make this a short walk rather than a full beach day.
28. Learn more about Walt Disney
A day trip to the Walt Disney Family Museum is one of the best things to do in San Francisco for families.
Exploring this attraction will truly bring the adults back to their childhood while the kids marvel at the long history behind the well-loved brand.
Learn how your favorite Mickey Mouse and the iconic Disneyland came to be as you go through the well-documented life and works of Walt Disney.
The Walt Disney Family Museum is set in the Presidio of San Francisco, which was once an active Army base.
Plan your visit
- Location: Walt Disney Family Museum, 104 Montgomery Street, Presidio
- Admission / costs: Adult general admission $30; some programs extra
- Hours / access: Thu–Sun 10am–5:30pm; last entry 4:30pm; holiday exceptions
- Time to allow (estimate): 2–3 hours
- Planning tip: Reserve a timed entry. Best for animation/history interests; do not expect theme-park rides.
29. Explore Ghirardelli Square
When you hear the word, Ghirardelli, what first comes to mind? Chocolates, for sure!
How about visiting the former factory complex associated with the brand?
Exploring Ghirardelli Square is among the best things to do in San Francisco. What was once a chocolate haven is now a famous retail area located at Fisherman’s Wharf.
Of course, you can still get your hands on Ghirardelli chocolates and ice cream. Aside from that, you have other retail outlets and places to eat; check the current directory rather than relying on an old tenant list.
Plan your visit
- Location: Ghirardelli Square, 900 North Point Street
- Admission / costs: Browsing free; food and purchases extra
- Hours / access: Square lists daily 9am–10pm; tenants vary
- Time to allow (estimate): 30–60 minutes
- Planning tip: Make it a chocolate or ice-cream stop while walking the waterfront, not a working-factory tour.
30. View masterpieces at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art belongs on your list if modern and contemporary art are a priority.
SFMOMA expanded substantially in 2016, so leave enough time to choose a few galleries rather than expecting to see everything quickly.
Frida Kahlo and Andy Warhol are among the artists represented in the collection. Check what is currently on view before visiting for a particular work.
Plan your visit
- Location: SFMOMA, 151 Third Street
- Admission / costs: Adult general admission $30; ages 18 and under free
- Hours / access: Check the museum’s current hours and exhibition calendar
- Time to allow (estimate): 2–3 hours
- Planning tip: Choose galleries in advance and verify whether a special exhibition needs a separate reservation or supplement.
31. Meet animals at the California Academy of Sciences
Visiting the California Academy of Sciences brings several interests together in one building.
Inside the California Academy of Sciences, there is the Steinhart Aquarium, with animals from aquatic habitats around the world.
There is also the Osher Rainforest, a four-story habitat that gives the visit a very different atmosphere.
Aside from the two, you also have the Kimball Natural History Museum and the Morrison Planetarium to explore.
Plan your visit
- Location: California Academy of Sciences, 55 Music Concourse Drive
- Admission / costs: Adult daytime admission $49, or $55 on peak dates
- Hours / access: Mon–Sat 9:30am–5pm; Sun 11am–5pm; exceptions apply
- Time to allow (estimate): 3–4 hours
- Planning tip: Planetarium reservations required; no under-4s. Oct. 21, 2026 closure and Oct. 24 early closing are listed.
32. Explore the Castro and check the theater program
The historical district of Castro is one of the San Francisco neighborhoods you should not miss.
Aside from being a neighborhood that celebrates pride and equality, there is one treasure that the Castro District holds dearly.
It is the Castro Theatre, now a venue for scheduled film screenings, concerts, and other events. Choose from the current calendar rather than assuming a movie will be playing every day.
If the program appeals to you, buy tickets and make an evening of it in the Castro. The neighborhood is also worth exploring without a theater booking.
Plan your visit
- Location: Castro Theatre, Castro District
- Admission / costs: Event ticket price; neighborhood walking free
- Hours / access: Event-specific doors and performance times
- Time to allow (estimate): 30–60 minutes for a walk, longer for a show
- Planning tip: Book only a program you want; movie screenings and concerts follow a calendar.
33. Have cocktails at Top of the Mark
San Francisco’s Nob Hill is where you’ll find one of the city’s best hangout spots.
The name’s Top of the Mark, and this is where locals and visitors come to unwind. The cocktail bar and lounge is located on the 19th floor of the InterContinental Mark Hopkins Hotel; clear evenings are best for sunset views.
Aside from its drinks and views, the place itself has an interesting story to tell, including its wartime connection with servicemen and the “Squadron Shot” tradition.
Plan your visit
- Location: Top of the Mark, 999 California Street
- Admission / costs: Drinks/food charged; entertainment cover may apply
- Hours / access: Check current lounge and entertainment schedule
- Time to allow (estimate): 60–90 minutes
- Planning tip: Choose a clear evening for views and check booking arrangements for your date.
34. Visit the Exploratorium with kids
At Pier 15, a San Francisco attraction presents itself as a learning laboratory that both adults and children can enjoy.
It is the Exploratorium, and a visit to this interactive attraction is one of the best things to do in San Francisco.
Prepare to lose yourself at the Tactile Dome, a pitch-black installation that calls for you to rely on your sense of touch. It requires a separate reservation and ticket, so check its suitability and availability before promising it to children.
Scott Weaver’s toothpick sculpture of San Francisco, “Rolling Through the Bay,” is another exhibit to look for.
Plan your visit
- Location: Exploratorium, Pier 15, Embarcadero
- Admission / costs: Adult daytime $39.95; Tactile Dome extra $15.95
- Hours / access: Tue–Sat 10am–5pm; Sun noon–5pm; generally closed Mon
- Time to allow (estimate): 3–4 hours
- Planning tip: Book the Tactile Dome separately if wanted. Thursday After Dark is an 18+ event with separate tickets.
35. Legion of Honor Museum
Imagine viewing ancient and European art in a museum overlooking San Francisco Bay.
That is exactly what the Legion of Honor Museum is – and more.
Located in Lincoln Park, this museum was envisioned to give a fitting tribute to Californian soldiers who died in World War I.
The Legion of Honor Museum and the de Young museum in Golden Gate Park are part of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco.
Plan your visit
- Location: Legion of Honor, Lincoln Park
- Admission / costs: Paid galleries; confirm current admission and special-exhibition charges
- Hours / access: Museum’s Ancient Art Council lists Tue–Sun 9:30am–5:15pm; check special dates
- Time to allow (estimate): 1.5–2.5 hours
- Planning tip: Pair with Lands End if the weather suits; check your ticket’s de Young access conditions before buying a second admission.
A realistic three-day San Francisco itinerary
Day 1: Alcatraz and the northern waterfront. Build the day around your island departure. Add Pier 39 and a short Fisherman’s Wharf stop, then choose Ghirardelli Square or dinner in North Beach. Do not schedule a distant museum immediately after the return ferry.
Day 2: Palace of Fine Arts, Crissy Field and the bridge. Walk a manageable section of the waterfront and bridge, then spend the afternoon in the Presidio. Substitute the Walt Disney Family Museum if its opening day matches and the weather turns; this may replace, rather than add to, a longer hike.
Day 3: Choose a park day or an art-and-neighborhood day. One option is the Japanese Tea Garden plus the California Academy of Sciences. Another is SFMOMA followed by Chinatown and City Lights. Use transit between clusters and leave one major museum for a future visit if you are tired.
With a fourth day, choose Muir Woods or Angel Island. If your time is shorter, drop a day-trip destination before cutting every city stop down to a photo break.
Getting to San Francisco and around the city
BART connects San Francisco International Airport (SFO) with downtown; allow extra time beyond the train ride for terminals, waiting and the walk to your hotel. Check the official SFO BART guide for the timetable, payment options and your route. BART and Muni are separate systems.
Use walking routes within neighborhoods and Muni for longer connections. The 1-Day Visitor Passport costs $15 and includes cable cars; two $9 single cable-car rides already total $18. It excludes BART, airport transport and sightseeing tours. Buy according to the journeys you will actually take.
Where to base yourself
Choose the location before the room
- Embarcadero: useful for Ferry Building, waterfront walks and transit connections.
- North Beach / Fisherman’s Wharf: convenient for the northern waterfront; compare noise and transport options.
- Union Square / Nob Hill: central options, but check the exact walking route and hills.
Compare total room charges, parking, cancellation terms and the actual route from public transit. Neighborhood labels do not guarantee a particular view or an easy walk.
Weather, costs and decisions that save time
Do not plan San Francisco as a hot-weather beach trip. The NPS Ocean Beach guide identifies September and October as its sunniest walking months; summer fog can obscure the bridge and viewpoints. Keep an indoor museum option for a poor-visibility day.
Avoid paying twice
- Check whether your exact pass includes a museum or cruise before purchasing a standalone ticket.
- Check age-based free entry: for example, SFMOMA general admission is free through age 18.
- For Muir Woods, park admission and parking/shuttle reservations are different charges.
- Keep paid viewpoints weather-dependent, and check Coit Tower access before traveling uphill.
For the rest of your California trip, compare our things to do in Los Angeles and San Diego activity guide.
Short on time? Use our one-day San Francisco itinerary to narrow the choices. For a longer road trip, explore our California travel ideas.
San Francisco FAQs
What are the best things to do in San Francisco on a first visit?
Start with a cable car ride, the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz if you can secure island tickets, and a walk through Chinatown and North Beach. Choose one museum that matches your interests and leave room for the waterfront. This is a shortlist, not a recommendation to fit all 35 entries into a weekend.
How many days do you need in San Francisco?
Three full days is a practical starting point for the city: one for the northern waterfront and Alcatraz, one for the Presidio and bridge, and one for Golden Gate Park or museums and neighborhoods. Add a separate half-day or day for Muir Woods or Angel Island rather than squeezing both into the same short stay.
What can you do in San Francisco for free?
Walk through Chinatown, see the sea lions at Pier 39, visit Crissy Field and Presidio Tunnel Tops, view the Palace of Fine Arts, or walk on the Golden Gate Bridge during pedestrian opening hours. These public outdoor visits have no admission charge, but transit, parking, meals and paid attractions are separate costs.
Do you need to book Alcatraz in advance?
Book a dated island visit in advance through an authorized sales channel, and confirm that the ticket actually includes landing on Alcatraz. Alcatraz City Cruises operates the visitor ferries; a sightseeing boat passing the island is a different experience. Check the selected departure and what is included before paying for a combination package.
Is a San Francisco attraction pass worth it?
A pass can help when its included attractions match the paid visits you already want. Compare the current pass variant, reservations and individual ticket totals before buying; do not add unwanted visits just to claim savings. Alcatraz inclusion varies by product, so read the exact option rather than relying on the brand name.
Do you need a car in San Francisco?
For a city stay focused on central neighborhoods, waterfront sights and museums, walking and public transit can be more practical than keeping a rental car. Hills still make some connections tiring. Consider collecting a car when your road trip begins, and compare hotel parking charges before booking accommodation.
Are cable cars included in a Muni day pass?
The 1-Day Visitor Passport includes cable cars as well as Muni buses, Muni Metro and historic streetcars. Do not assume a differently named transit ticket has the same inclusions. The Visitor Passport is not valid on BART, including the airport connection; check the current SFMTA fare page before purchase.
What is the best time to visit San Francisco?
For outdoor sightseeing, September and October are useful months to consider, especially along the coast. Summer can be foggy and cool at the waterfront even when inland California is hot. Keep a warm layer handy, and use the actual forecast to decide when to visit Twin Peaks or walk the bridge.
Can you visit Muir Woods without a car?
Yes, but plan both directions before you leave. The seasonal shuttle requires a reservation, while organized trips have their own pickup and admission conditions. An unplanned rideshare return is unreliable because mobile service at the park is limited. The official NPS page explains current transport options and reservation requirements.
Which San Francisco activities are best with children?
Presidio Tunnel Tops and the Pier 39 sea lions provide outdoor options, while the Exploratorium and California Academy of Sciences suit hands-on learning and science interests. Choose one major museum per day. Check age restrictions for particular experiences, such as the Academy planetarium and the Exploratorium’s separately booked Tactile Dome.
Original contributor: Jessica of Magnets from Everywhere, a travel-loving mom from the San Francisco Bay Area. Her original account describes exploring California with her two children, hiking, camping, and planning trips years in advance. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram.
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Pauline has a bachelor’s degree in Tourism and is a professional content writer. She specializes in writing about travel and food. Pauline spent most of her career life in Dubai and is a Travel Expert for the United States and Costa Rica.
