A hub of art and culture bracing the waves and nestled amongst redwoods, there is something mystical and alluring about San Francisco. Each day, when the fog of the bay clears and the vibrant city comes to life, there is no shortage of things to do. From gardens to grub, we’re letting you in on the best of what the city has to offer. We hope some of these spots will become your own highlights on your next trip to “The Paris of the West!”
Logistics
It’s better to get the boring stuff out of the way, so let’s start with some quick logistics. When visiting San Francisco, one of the things that you’ll often be warned about is frequent car break-ins. Because of this, the times I’ve visited I’ve opted to leave the car in a garage and traverse the city via other means. The bus system wasn’t difficult to use, but sometimes felt slightly unsafe. If you opt to use it, it can be a great budget option! Using their MuniMobile app, you can get a full-day pass for only $5. Otherwise, rideshare and walking are your best bet. Exploring the city by foot and seeing the stunning architecture of homes is an activity in and of itself! There are also rentable scooters and bikes that prove to be quite fun. In terms of lodging, I’ve stayed at Samesun Hostel and Club Quarters Hotel. The hotel stay was better than the hostel, but neither stood out as anything to write home about. Accommodations in San Fransisco can be pricey, and you’ll likely get what you pay for. Check out VRBO, Booking.com, or HostelWorld for options!
Now onto the 16 things you can’t miss on your next trip to San Francisco!
1. Golden Gate Bridge
Though these aren’t in a specific order, nothing else could be number one on our list. No San Francisco trip is complete without seeing the Golden Gate Bridge, and due to the fog within the bay, it can actually be harder than you think! Check for the clearest day of your trip and go midday to avoid the mist, unless that’s your vibe. There are many spots that claim to be the best for viewing and you probably can’t go wrong. For the tried, tested, and true, head to Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center. Plenty of nearby trails allow you to see the bridge from multiple angles. You can drive or cycle across the Golden Gate Bridge, but if you’re going by foot, just know that it’ll take longer than it looks! Ever since its opening in 1937, this 1.7-mile long marvel has been a staple of the skyline.
2. Painted Ladies
Known best for their appearance in the intro credits of Full House, the Painted Ladies have secured themselves as one of San Francisco’s most iconic landmarks. They aren’t new to the city and were built for wealthy families during the gold rush of the 1800s. Even today, these Edwardian and Victorian buildings are actually real homes to some lucky locals. That being said, please be mindful and respectful of staying off private property during your visit. Don’t worry — your best vantage point is actually right across the street is Alamo Square Park. Pack a picnic, lounge in the grass, and take in the Painted Ladies with their stunning skyline backdrop.
3. Alcatraz
Not as vibrant, but full of colorful stories, Alcatraz is another San Francisco can’t-miss. An island prison previously home to infamous inmates, including Al Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly, Alcatraz is now maintained by the National Park Service. For Harry Potter fans out there, the island truly feels a bit like Azkaban. It’s only accessible via a short boat ride that grants epic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, bay, and city skyline. The wind can bite, so don’t forget an extra layer! Upon your arrival, be prepared for narrow walkways and stairs. The eeriest, yet best, part of a trip to Alcatraz is the Cellhouse Audio Tour. As you walk amongst the cells, narrators tell stories of life in the prison using haunting audio. You’ll also learn of Alcatraz’s military role and inmate escape attempts. There are several tour options, including a night tour for brave souls.
4. Muir Woods
With such close proximity to California’s famed redwoods, you’d be remiss to skip them. One of the best spots to see them close to the city is Muir Woods. Drive across the Golden Gate Bridge and just 20 minutes beyond is a world of old. The eldest of the trees at Muir Woods National Monument have been around for 1,200 years. For reference, that’s older than even mechanical clocks. The entrance fee is $15 per adult and there are 6-miles worth of trails to explore.
5. Napa Valley Wine Tour
California is known for producing some of the best wine in the country. From San Francisco, it’s only an hour-long drive up to Sonoma and Napa Valley — and well worth it. Of course, safety is most important. Lucky for you, there are several wine tour companies that provide day trips right from San Francisco! Back in 2021, my mother and I took one that also stopped at the above Muir Woods. If you’d like information on that tour as well as other wineries in the area, check out our previous blog post: “2 Ways to Explore Napa Valley And Sonoma Wineries on a Budget”!
6. Palace of Fine Arts
Constructed for the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition, the Palace of Fine Arts was built to “wow.” While the original structure may not have stood the test of time, its grandeur did. Over a century later, the rebuilt structure is still one of San Francisco’s most popular landmarks. This is a perfect spot to get some stunning photos of your trip. Or, simply walk through the towering columns with awe. If you’re so inclined, it might even be nice to pack a picnic or bring a book. Make sure to watch your step — you’re sharing the grass and walkways with swans, herons, and families of geese!
7. Fisherman’s Wharf
San Francisco is all about the water, and thus, it’s a seafood lover’s dream, especially at Fisherman’s Wharf. I highly recommend choosing Boudin Bakery for your lunch or dinner option. I’ve had their crab legs and chowder bread bowl. Both were delicious, and the view of the harbor didn’t hurt either! They also had impressive loaves in the shapes of bears, crabs, and sea turtles. After you’re filled up your belly, fill up any of your remaining suitcase space with trinkets from the plethora of souvenir shops in the neighborhood. Like in any thriving coastal city, the Wharf bubbles with life. Pair some people-watching with a sunset view on the pier! This would likely be a very nice neighborhood to book your accommodations in.
8. Ghirardelli Square
I don’t know why I assumed Ghirardelli Chocolate Company formed across the pond, but it’s home is actually right here in San Fran! With origins dating to the 1850s, those unlucky in the gold rush could cope with some chocolate. Now, after a successful renewal, Ghirardelli Square is full of a variety of hip businesses. From a brewery to minigolf to boutiques, a family could spend a full afternoon here. My friend and I came for the Ghirardelli, of course. We fended off a chill night with decadent hot chocolate that I’d funnel if I could. There are three locations where you can grab confections. Though I didn’t experience it, I’m sure the view from the Alcatraz room just adds additional sweetness.
9. Golden Gate Park
At 1,017 acres, Golden Gate Park is bigger than even New York’s Central Park. So, yes, there is obviously a lot to explore. As you won’t likely be able to squeeze it all into one trip, choose a few highlights to prioritize. Some of the most popular are the Japanese Tea Garden, California Academy of Sciences, Windmills, San Francisco Botanical Garden, Music Concourse, JFK Promenade, Bison Padlock, and the iconic Conservatory of Flowers. You can save by purchasing a multi garden ticket here. The best use of your time would likely be to head to the Music Concourse and explore the surrounding area. If the windmills are on the top of your list, those are going to be all the way at the far west end of the park. There is a brewery and sandy Ocean Beach on that end of the park as well.
10. Japanese Tea Garden
I want to give special attention to two locations within Golden Gate Park. I’m sure you can’t go wrong with visiting any of the gardens, but my friend and I opted for the Japanese Tea Garden (tickets $18) and were not disappointed! Masterfully crafted by Makoto Hagiwara, this garden is five acres large and the oldest Japanese garden in North America. Walking through the greenery via bridges, stepping stones, and paved paths, the Japanese Tea Garden offers a serene moment in your day. It’s the hush in an otherwise bustling city. Visiting in spring would allow you to see blooming cherry blossoms, but every season has something to offer. I personally loved being there in November when the leaves mirrored the scarlet of the pagoda. As you might have guessed, there is a tea house. Simply sip and overlook the peaceful pond. If you want a tour, sign up here.
11. California Academy of Sciences
The other spot in Golden Gate Park I wanted to specifically shout out is the California Academy of Sciences. You’ll want to allot several hours to explore this museum as it is truly massive. From the aquarium to the rainforest dome, and the planetarium to the natural history museum, the California Academy of Sciences is bursting with life. It’s a true celebration and testament to the diversity of the natural world. Right when you’ve started to hit your fill of one section, the next reinvigorates your curiosity. Whether you want to walk under a glass tunnel of fish or have butterflies landing on you as you look down at the tropics, your ticket will be worth the price. FIY, you have to make a reservation for the planetarium in advance. Also, there is a special event every Thursday night for adults over 21.
12. Chinatown
Established in the 1850s, San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest in the entire country. After you’ve snapped a pic with the neighborhood’s iconic Dragon’s Gate, simply walk the streets. If you’re visiting during daylight you’ll get to see vibrant lanterns strung whimsically across the street, but a visit in the evening really shows off Chinatown’s magical glow. Of course, you’ll have to grab something to eat. There’s everything from a Michelin Star restaurant to mom-and-pop bakeries. Personally, my mother and I preferred to simply walk around and grab various tastings; takeout from House of Xian Dumpling, bubble tea from Yi Fang, and rolled ice cream from Magical Ice Cream.
13. Lombard Street
While you won’t need long to appreciate it, Lombard Street is worth a visit. Lombard Street spans the length of the city, but the block you’ll want crosses with Hyde and Leavenworth. It may not be the “Crookedest Street in the World,” as it’s known, but it sure is shocking. The eight hairpin turns are open to both car and foot traffic, but we had a blast racing down via scooter. This is about as reckless as I get in life, so I will warn you to be safe if you follow in my ill advised footsteps — or more like scooter skid marks!
14. Coit Tower
Scanning the San Francisco skyline, you’ll notice a slim concrete tower protruding from Telegraph Hill. This is Coit Tower. You may view its interior murals, ride the elevator to its 360 degree observation deck, and get a docent-led tour for just a small fee. Sadly, the observation deck closes prior to sunset. You can, as I did, simply view the sherbert skies from the base of the tower. There is limited parking but I suggest embarking on the strenuous scenic route. Taking the Filbert Street stairs and climbing Telegraph Hill only adds to the adventure. Sure, you’ll be out of breath, but you’ll get to pass through a beautiful neighborhood!
15. Dinner at Bix
Bix may be highly-rated fine dining, but my mother and I simply stumbled upon it. The glow of string lights beckoned us down an alley, and we appeased our growling stomachs. The art deco interior looks absolutely stunning and they offer jazz music every night. As we were visiting during the mask-era, we opted to sit outside. The food was great, and the cocktails were even better. This was our “splurge meal,” but if the price is off-putting, you could always sit at the bar for a drink and enjoy being serenaded.
16. Smuggler’s Cove San Francisco
I am an absolute sucker for a nautical-themed bar, and San Francisco actually has a few to choose from. This speakeasy may be unassuming from the exterior, but its interior will transport you to the tropics. When I say “unassuming,” I mean Smuggler’s Cove is literally a black building with barely any signage at all. There will likely be a line to tip you off. Get there early if you want a seat. Inside, there are three snug stories draped in trappings of pufferfish lamps and cargo box tables. When in the “islands” you have to get rum! My friend and I enjoyed very strong painkillers and hopping from floor to floor for a full experience.
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