San Francisco is one of the major cities in California and one of the top destinations to visit in the state. There are many things to do in San Francisco all year round. The weather is very nice during the summer months and tends to stay quite nice throughout the rest of the year, so many outdoor activities can be enjoyed all year round.
The city is known for its unique landmarks and tourist attractions, thriving foodie scene, vibrant arts, and entertainment community. This coastal city boasts a population of around three million people but it’s easy to escape the crowds and urban landscape when so many beaches and parks are easily accessible. The Napa Valley and Sonoma Wine country areas are also only about an hour away.
With so many things to do in San Francisco, we put a guide together so you can easily pinpoint the top attractions. Below is a list of the top essential things to do in San Francisco.
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The Best Things to Do in San Francisco
The following table features some of the best things to do in San Francisco. A visit to the city is not complete without experiencing these key attractions. In the article that follows, we’ll discuss these items in more detail.
Fly Over San Francisco at Sunset
Take a sunset flight over San Francisco and see the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and more with the Golden Hour hues accenting the stunning city skyline.
Visit one of America’s Most Iconic Prisons
Take a ferry ride to explore Alcatraz, the island prison that once housed infamous criminals including Al Capone and Machine Gun Kelly.
Experience the City After Sundown
Join a local tour guide and experience San Francisco’s night scene with a personalized tour.
Explore the Muir Woods National Monument
Head out of the city for a while and explore an unspoiled nature area home to impressive Redwoods.
Enjoy a Fun Family Day at the Bay Area Discovery Museum
Kids have a ball learning while they have fun exploring both indoor and outdoor hands-on exhibits.
1. Explore the Muir Woods National Monument
Yes, California is home to many large urban areas, but it’s full of pristine nature areas too. The Muir Woods National Monument is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle and it’s also a great way to experience Northern California’s natural side.
The highlight of this tour is the magnificent Redwood trees which are a must-see and one of the top things to do in San Francisco. As you explore the area, you’ll also see interesting natural features and possibly spot some of the wildlife that lives in the area.
2. Get Inspired at a Creative Hotel in a Creative Neighborhood
Hotel Zetta is a hip property situated in the equally hip SoMa neighborhood. Vintage furnishings, exclusive amenities, and a vibrant atmosphere come together to create a truly unique place to stay in San Francisco.
Whether you prefer to spend an exciting evening in the games room or you prefer a relaxed evening sipping cocktails in the lounge, this hotel provides a wonderful escape from the noise and crowds of the city without having to leave the city.
A full restaurant and modern fitness center are on-site and many of the top things to do in San Francisco are only minutes away.
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Buy Your Pass NOW!3. Visit One of America’s Most Iconic Prisons
One of the iconic attractions of San Francisco is Alcatraz, the notorious prison that was active until the early 1960s, and housed some of history’s most infamous criminals, including Al Capone and Machine Gun Kelly.
The only way to get to Alcatraz is by ferry because it’s located on an island. The island location was supposed to prevent prisoners from escaping, but as you tour the prison, you’ll hear stories of successful and unsuccessful escapes; among other fascinating accounts of life on the island both as a prison guard and as a prisoner.
4. Tour the Napa and Sonoma Wine Country
California Wine Country, which includes the areas of Napa and Sonoma, is world-renowned for its vineyards, wineries and world-class wines.
During a tour of the area, you’ll see spectacular scenery, learn about the history of the area and visit several wineries. At these wineries, you’ll have the opportunity to stroll through beautiful vineyards and see wine being made. You’ll also get to taste some amazing wines.
It’s always nice to take some time away from the city and a visit to Northern California’s Wine Country is one of the best day trips from San Francisco.
- Entrance: $126.65 per person
- Hours: Starting time 9:00 AM
- Address: Lower Nob Hill, San Francisco, CA, USA
5. Embark on a Relaxing Cruise of the Bay
San Francisco harbour and the surrounding bay are home to many natural and man-made attractions that can only be really enjoyed by getting out on the water. Cruising the bay in a sailboat is one of the best outdoor things to do in San Francisco.
During this relaxing voyage, you’ll sail under the Golden Gate Bridge, along the Marin Headlands Wildlife Reserves and around Alcatraz Island. Along the way, you’ll hear an audio tour that will detail the history of the area, you’ll see stunning scenery and you may even spot some marine life including dolphins and sea lions. Did I mention that there’s a full bar onboard?
- Entrance: $38 per person
- Hours: 1 Hour Duration with 8-14 departures daily from 10:00 AM
- Address: San Francisco Bay, California, USA
6. Enjoy a Fun Family Day at the Bay Area Discovery Museum
If you’re looking for something children will enjoy on a trip to San Francisco, the Bay Area Discovery Museum is where you’ll find a range of interactive exhibits aimed at a younger audience—this is one of the best things to do in San Francisco with kids.
These exhibits are located both inside the facility and outside on the 7.5 acres of parkland near the Golden Gate Bridge. Lookout Cove is one of the more popular exhibits and it showcases natural features and small-scale models of some of the city’s top landmarks for children to play on.
Kids can also experiment with new things and learn how many things work through a variety of other exhibits meant to stimulate their minds while they have fun.
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One of the essential things in San Francisco is a tour of the city and its top attractions. If guided tours are not your thing, a hop-on hop-off bus tour is the best way to see much of the city on your own terms.
This sightseeing bus is not hard to miss because it’s a big red double-decker. Board at one of the designated stops and hop off at any of the 15 stops along the way. When you’re done checking out an area, hop back on and head to the next. It’s so convenient, which is why it’s one of the number one activities to add to a San Francisco itinerary.
As you pass through the city’s diverse neighborhoods, you’ll see many of the city’s most popular sites, including Fisherman’s Wharf, Transamerica Pyramid, and Pier 39. Plus you’ll also drive over the Golden Gate Bridge just so can say you drove over one of America’s most famous bridges.
8. Experience the City After Sundown
Guided city tours are one of the best ways to get to know a city and one of the best things to do in San Francisco is a guided nighttime tour where you’ll experience the city when it’s at its liveliest.
The best part about this tour is you’ll get to hang out with a local who knows the ins and outs of the city. The other great thing is you can customize the tour so you get to see and do the things you want.
Care for drinks on a rooftop? How about seeing the city’s most famous landmarks lit up at night? Does aimlessly walking around the city streets and checking out dive bars and quirky attractions sound like your kind of night on the town? This is your night!
9. Soar Over the Napa Valley in a Hot Air Balloon
Visitors to San Francisco only need to travel about an hour from the city to experience one of the most adventurous things to do in San Francisco.
Meet your pilot in Yountville and take off on an adventure of the lifetime over the stunning Napa Valley region. As you soar high above the land, you’ll see sprawling vineyards, Mount Saint Helena and the San Francisco skyline in the far-off distance.
The best part about this trip is you’ll get to relax with the wind flowing through your hair and without the sound of an engine to distract you from the serene beauty below.
10. Hang Out With the Sea Lions at Pier 39
Following an earthquake back in the winter of January 1990, sea lions started taking over the West Marina at Pier 39 and have been there ever since. Depending on the time of year, there can be anywhere from 300 to 900 sea lions sunning on the docks and flopping around looking for a delicious feed of fish.
Watching these fascinating creatures go about their daily activities is one of the best things to do in downtown San Francisco between July and May.
11. Enjoy a Mind-bending Experience for All Ages
At Magowan’s Mirror Maze, you’ll get lost in a world of colors and reflections as you try to navigate pathways that go in every which direction. Black lights, psychedelic-inspired artworks, and mirrors make sure you lose your way over and over again until your mind and senses are so mesmerized that you forget about the world outside.
This attraction is suitable for the whole family and is said to be among the most unusual things to do in San Francisco.
- Entrance: $10 per person
- Hours: Thursday – Sunday from 11 AM – 7 PM
- Address: Pier 39 O-11, San Francisco, CA, United States
12. See Beautiful Views of the City Skyline at the Top of Coit Tower
Coit Tower has loomed over the city skyline since 1933 and a visit to this landmark is one of the most popular things to do in San Francisco. Situated atop Telegraph Hill, the column-shaped structure is known for its observation deck where you’ll enjoy 360-degree views of the city, including iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge.
Before you get in the elevator that’ll take you to the deck, you’ll see beautiful murals that were created in 1934 by a group of local artists. Before you depart the site, make sure to take a stroll along the trails and meet the legendary flock of parrots that hang out there and grab a drink or snack at the Coit Tower Cafe.
13. Unwind and Awaken the Senses at Kabuki Springs and Spa
First opened more than 50 years ago, Kabuki Springs and Spa is one of the best spas in the city, and a visit to this luxurious facility is one of the best things to do in San Francisco.
The spa itself offers a range of treatments, such as massages and facials, inspired by herbal remedies and ancient world cultures.
The springs are a series of public bathhouses and other facilities, including a detoxifying dry sauna and steam room, a pain-relieving hot pool and a rejuvenating cold pool. Complimentary natural bath amenities are available for use in the showers, and refreshing beverages and herbal tea are served.
14. Spend a Day on Stow Lake
Stow Lake is a beautiful man-made lake surrounded by the serene backdrop of Golden Gate Park. While it’s within the city limits, you feel like you’re a world away when you’re out in the middle of the lake.
One of the most romantic things to do in San Francisco for couples is to rent a boat and spend a day on the lake. Rowboats, peddle boats, and quiet electric boats are available. When you return to dry land, make sure to stop at the cafe at the Stow Lake Boathouse and grab some snacks and beverages before hitting the road.
15. Admire Beautiful Art as you Climb the Mosaic Stairway
Grandview Park, also known as Turtle Hill, is a beautiful community park and popular hangout spot. The most popular attraction here is the Mosaic Stairway, which is also one of the most artsy things to do in San Francisco.
This unique stairway is more than just a passageway to the park; it served as a canvas for local artists who turned a simple stairway into a stunning work of art. As you climb the 163 steps, you’ll admire painted fish, birds, animals, and other intricate designs, contrasted with the spectacular view of the city skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, the Marin Headlands, and the Pacific Ocean. The sunsets are amazing here too.
16. Get Hands-on with Science, Art and Technology at the Exploratorium
At the Exploratorium, the goal is to have fun, experiment and learn about science, art and technology while engaging with a series of fascinating outdoor and indoor exhibits. A visit to this museum is one of the most unusual things to do in San Francisco.
As you make your way around the exhibits, you’ll do more than just admire the intriguing displays; you’ll get involved. Let loose and dance with your shadow and experiment with colors, light, magnets, water, gravity, air and much more. You’ll leave with your head full of new knowledge and a new perspective on the everyday things around you.
- Entrance: Adults (18–64) – $29.95, Youth (13–17), Teachers, Students, Seniors (65+), People with disabilities – $24.95, Youth (4–12) – $19.95, Children (3 and under) – FREE
- Hours: Tuesday to Sunday (All Ages) 10:00 AM –5:00 PM
- Address: Pier 15(Embarcadero and Green Street) San Francisco, CA
17. Indulge with Authentic Chinese Cuisine and Culture in Chinatown
While Chinese food is widely available all over San Francisco, you’ll find the best authentic Chinese cuisine in the Chinatown District. If you really want to sample the best Chinese cuisine, opt for a food tour of Chinatown.
San Francisco’s Chinatown is the biggest Chinatown in the world outside of China. It’s also among the oldest and most recognized in the United States, so you can imagine how many Chinese restaurants are in the district.
Many of these restaurants are run by Chinese immigrants who arrived in America ready to serve their culinary wonders based on time-honored recipes passed down through families.
As you explore the lively streets, you’ll find a wide assortment of dim sum eateries, bakeries, cocktail lounges, and traditional restaurants. Don’t forget to check out the quaint souvenir shops and stunning temples. Exploring Chinatown is one of the top essential things to do in San Francisco.
18. Fly Over San Francisco at Sunset
San Francisco is a beautiful city and one of the top things to do in San Francisco is a flyover where you’ll get to see the city’s sights from above.
Your flight leaves at sunset and for approximately 40 minutes, you’ll fly over the city and its surrounding areas and see many of the most iconic landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and Fisherman’s Wharf.
These sights are something to see during the day but are even more stunning at sunset when the lights of the city are starting to twinkle and the sky is morphing into that Golden Hour brilliance.
19. Take a Ride on a San Francisco Cable Car
The historic cable cars of San Francisco have been an endearing symbol of the city for many years and taking a ride on one or all of the three routes is one of the most unique things to do in San Francisco.
The city’s manually-operated cable car system has been in operation since 1878, and is the last of its kind in the world—the system is listed as a national historic landmark. As you ride through the city streets, you’ll see stunning views and some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including Fisherman’s Wharf and Union Square.
Before or after your excursion, you can learn more about the history of the cable cars at the Cable Car Museum in the Nob Hill district.
20. Try To Escape From The Escape Game!
If you are after something challenging, immersive but totally then then the Escape Game San Francisco may be just what you are looking for. The Escape Game features a variety of different rooms which participants (that’s you and your crew) must try to escape from by working as a team, solving clues and completing puzzles.
The games are designed to be suitable for everybody, from first-time players to experienced escapologists. No matter which one you decide to play, you’re sure to have an absolute blast!
21. Hear Music Being Played by the Wind and Waves
You may not have heard of it but the Wave Organ, which is situated on a quay overlooking San Francisco Bay, is one of the best free things to do in San Francisco.
A short coastal hike will lead you to this fascinating sculpture which features 25 organ pipes placed at different levels. The music is made when the waves and tides move in and out of the pipes. Take a seat on one of the benches and be entranced by this beautiful sound created by a combination of man-made ingenuity and nature.
The spectacular coastal views make the experience all that more amazing. Visit at high tide to get the best sound. For those backpacking San Francisco on a budget, you won’t want to miss this!
21. Tour the Home Field of the San Francisco Giants
Whether you’re a sports fan or not, a tour of Oracle Park is one of the best things to do in San Francisco. It’s among the best ballparks in the baseball world and you’ll get an exclusive look behind the scenes of the venue that’s home to the San Francisco Giants.
During the 90-minute tour, you’ll have the chance to walk onto the field, see the press box, hang out in a Major League dugout, check out the visitor team’s clubhouse and learn about the history of the park in the Giant Vault Museum.
22. Frolic in the Surf at Grey Whale Cove State Beach
There are many beautiful beaches around the Bay Area but Grey Whale Cove State Beach, 18 miles away from the city center, is one of the best beaches and one of the best things to do outside San Francisco.
The water tends to be chilly and rough so swimming is only advisable for strong swimmers under certain conditions. However, you can still wade into the refreshing waters and walk with your feet in the surf as you take in the lovely coastal views.
A two-mile trail is situated near the parking lot and this is where you can see more scenery and possibly even some whales in the distance. There are also some really stunning glamping sites in Bay Area near the coast, if you love sleeping to the sound of waves in the distance.
23. Channel your Inner Child on the Bernal Slide
Located in Esmeralda Park, the Bernal Slide is another one of the most unusual things to do in San Francisco. Since the 1970s, this seemingly misplaced slide has been attracting people of all ages, particularly grown adults, who just want to feel like a kid again.
This 35-foot slide is the main attraction in this pretty park and you can go down it as many times as you like as long, as you let the kids have a chance at it too!
24. Enjoy a Night on the Town at the Tonga Room
When it comes to the best things to do in San Francisco at night, not too many venues deliver an exciting night on the town the way the Tonga Room does.
Walk into a lively atmosphere complete with tiki bar, colorful decor, tropical drinks, Pacific Rim-inspired cuisine, and even artificial tropical thunderstorms. The Island Groove Band performs live from a thatched-roof stage on the lagoon in the middle of the bar.
Here you can dance the night away on a dance floor made from the remnants of a famed schooner that sailed between the Bay Area and the South Sea. It doesn’t get any better than this!
25. Swing in the Breeze on an Instagram-friendly Rope Swing
Kirby Cove is a beautiful park that is home to one of the most popular things to do in San Francisco off the beaten path. Tucked away in a corner on a far end of the beach area is a simple swing hanging from a tree. From this swing, you’ll see some of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge and get some perfect Instagram-ready photos.
It’s only a short hike down to the swing and while you’re there, why not spread out a blanket and enjoy a picnic in the refreshing breeze coming off the bay?
26. Admire the Murals of the Mission District
The Mission District is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood famously known for its outdoor art gallery that consists of murals spread across several streets. Viewing these murals is another one of the most artsy things to do in San Francisco.
As you wander the streets, you’ll see beautiful artworks of cultural and political significance painted on walls and fences including the Carnaval Mural and the Women’s Building MaestraPeace Mural.
Where to Stay in San Francisco?
When it comes to accommodations in San Francisco, there’s no shortage of diverse hotels, hostels, and motels in San Fran.
Whether you’re seeking a luxurious high-end experience, a simple place to lay your head after a long day, or something in between, there’s always a place to stay in San Francisco for every taste and budget.
Below are some of the best places to stay in San Francisco.
Best Hostel in San Francisco: Amsterdam Hostel
Amsterdam Hostel is in the middle of it all. Many of the top things to do in San Francisco are only minutes away, including Union Square and the Cable Cars. For a budget price, you’ll have access to complimentary Wi-Fi, an outdoor terrace, and a kitchen.
This property is very social with staff often organizing events, such as pub crawls and movie nights. Bike rentals are also available.
Best Airbnb in San Francisco: Luxury Harry Potter Guest Room Downtown SF
Are you a Harry Potter fan? Even if you’re not, you’ll appreciate the fun setup of this unique Air B&B. The magical world of Harry Potter and Hogwarts comes alive in this modern property! Enjoy access to a private bathroom and shared kitchen, dining, laundry, fitness and lounging areas. Market St. and its shops and restaurants along with many of the top things to do in San Francisco are only minutes away.
Best Hotel in San Francisco: Club Donatello
Downtown is home to many of the top things to do in San Francisco and Club Donatello is right in the middle of it all. With spacious guest rooms that include complimentary Wi-Fi and access to a fitness center, Italian restaurant, rooftop lounge and sauna, you’ll live in the lap of luxury for a price more suitable to a budget property.
FAQ on Things to Do in San Francisco
Here are some quick answers to common questions about what to do and see in San Francisco.
Some Additional Tips for Visiting San Francisco:
- San Francisco is a very walkable city but it also has lots of hills so make sure you bring along a comfortable pair of walking shoes.
- Invest in travel insurance! You never know what may happen on the road.
- Just because San Francisco tends to have a damper and cooler climate than many other areas of California, that doesn’t mean you don’t need to carry water with you while you explore the city.
- Find some adventurous things to do in Fremont. It’s more than just another “city on the bay” — it boasts fantastic outdoor activities ideal for the entire family.
- No one wants to think about sickness or injuries on vacation but the reality is these things can happen and you want to be prepared. Make sure that you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy that covers you in case you do get sick or injured.
- Bring a good water bottle with you and avoid buying single-use plastic ones!
- Many travelers just book the first flight they find assuming they won’t get a better price but if you’re seeking a deal, it’s rarely a good idea to book a flight without shopping around first. With some patience and research, you can find a flight to San Francisco for a fraction of the price.
- In San Francisco and all areas of California, the number to dial in case of an emergency is 911.
- Find cheap flights. Every once in a while, a killer deal pops up.
- It doesn’t matter what time of year it is, San Francisco experiences abrupt temperature changes throughout the day, especially when the fog rolls in. Make sure to dress in layers! October is a great time to visit for the weather and crowds.
San Francisco is a world-class city with world-class attractions, restaurants and accommodations. There are so many things to do in the city and around the Greater Bay Area. The weather is nice and it’s easy to get around.
We hope you liked our list of top things to do in San Francisco. If you decide to travel to the city, now you’ll know many of the most popular places to visit, along with some hidden gems, so you can spend less time searching and more time exploring!
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
