Planning a trip to San Francisco, California? Visiting a city as big and old as San Francisco can feel daunting, especially when figuring out your itinerary. With so many iconic places packed in one area, you might begin to stress about hitting all the seminal spots.
The whole point of going on vacation is to let off some steam and have lots of fun, so let us do the planning for you! From hidden gems to popular tourist spots, here is a full list of things to do during your time in the Bay Area.
1. Golden Gate Bridge
Perhaps the most iconic landmark in San Francisco, and one of the most popular in all of America, is the Golden Gate Bridge.
Construction on the iconic bridge began in January 1933 and opened to pedestrians and drivers four years later in May 1937. The suspension bridge is painted the iconic shade of International Orange and features two main cables passing over the top.
According to the Golden Gate Bridge Highway and Transportation District, the bridge still attracts more than 10 million visitors a year. Don’t miss your chance to see this historic site for yourself!
2. Golden Gate Park
You can also catch beautiful views of the Golden Gate Bridge from Golden Gate Park, which features hiking trails overlooking the suspension bridge and San Francisco Bay.
Golden Gate Park also serves as home to the Japanese Tea Garden, a stunning five-acre garden built in 1894 for the World’s Fair. In addition to beautiful flora and fauna, there is also a cafe serving Japanese food and beverages.
You can also find The California Academy of Sciences at Golden Gate Park. This impressive research institute serves as a planetarium, aquarium, and natural history museum all at once! Spend a few hours viewing the hundreds of plants, animals, and artifacts.
3. Ferry Building
The Ferry Building is an iconic marketplace that has served San Franciscans since 1898. The structure, located on Market Street, includes an arched ceiling, skylights, and a 245-foot tower.
At the Ferry Building, you can purchase products from local artisans and farmers. Locals often purchase fresh produce at the marketplace, but tourists are more than welcome to come by for some shopping and tasty samples.
Along with housing vendors, cafes, and restaurants, the Ferry Building also functions as a terminal for ferry rides to neighboring cities, including Sausalito and Oakland.
4. Alcatraz Island
Speaking of ferry rides, one of the most popular ferries in town heads out from Pier 33 over to the historic Alcatraz Island. Alcatraz Island began functioning as a prison in 1934 and went on to house infamous criminals like Al Capone, Robert Franklin Stroud, and George “Machine Gun” Kelly.
The location became known for being impossible to escape, thanks to the rough surrounding waters. Still, there are 14 escape attempts on record. The infamous federal penitentiary closed its doors in 1963.
Today, visitors can go on guided tours of the island to see the old warden’s lighthouse, prison library, dining hall, recreation yard, and prison cells. They also have the opportunity to walk through the island gardens and bird sanctuary.
5. Chinatown
Covered in contemporary murals and traditional architecture, Chinatown is one of the most vibrant cultural hubs in the USA.
Established in the mid-19th century, this neighborhood features an abundance of famous NorCal attractions, including Grant Avenue, one of the oldest streets in San Francisco, Tin How Temple, the oldest American Chinese temple, and the iconic Dragon Gate.
Chinatown is the perfect spot for tourists to indulge in Chinese American cuisine. From dim sum to mooncakes, there is something tasty for everyone! For a traditional experience, visit one of the Chinese tea houses.
6. Painted Ladies
The Painted Ladies are a row of Victorian-style houses situated across from Alamo Square Park on Steiner Street. The gabled roofs and bay windows are only part of the reason why these are arguably the most photographed homes in San Francisco.
First built in the 1890s, these houses were re-painted in bright colors in the 1960s and 1970s, earning them their new name. The Painted Ladies famously appeared during the opening credits of the iconic 90s television show “Full House.”
7. Fisherman’s Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf is a historic fishing spot overlooking the Pacific Ocean in San Francisco. This area played an important role in California’s fishing industry in the 19th century and today serves as a popular tourist destination.
Located on the wharf is the Musée Mécanique. This interactive museum features antique arcade machines and provides a fun time for guests of all ages. Those with a sweet tooth can head to Ghiradelli Square to try delicious Ghirardelli chocolate and pastries.
Still hungry? The Boudin Bakery is a must-see for all foodies. First opened in 1849, visitors have the opportunity to watch bread get made from scratch and to taste delicious sourdough bread. History buffs can head to the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park to view warships.
8. Pier 39
In the center of Fisherman’s Wharf on the Embarcadero sits Pier 39. One of the main appeals of Pier 39 is the active marine life. Tourists will often spot sea lions swimming in the water or resting on the dock.
If you’re not lucky enough to see any during your visit, head to the Aquarium of the Bay! This aquarium features multiple exhibits, underwater tunnels, and touch pools. Guests even have the opportunity to pet live rays and sharks!
Along with the aquarium, anyone taking a day trip to Pier 39 should remember to eat at one of the several delicious seafood restaurants, do some souvenir shopping, hear live music, and ride the vintage, hand-carved carousel.
9. Mission District
The Mission District is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood in San Francisco that stems back to the creation of the Mission San Francisco de Asis, also called Mission Dolores, in 1776 by Catholic missionaries.
Today, visitors are welcome to visit the historic site and take a walking tour through the chapel and museum. They can then head to Mission Dolores Park to enjoy the multiple playgrounds, extensive picnic space, and some of the best views of the skyline in all of San Francisco.
The Mission District is also home to the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts which is responsible for putting on performances and fine arts exhibits featuring Latin talent. Don’t forget to grab a bite of delicious and highly acclaimed Mexican food located all throughout the district!
10. Cable Cars
Cable cars are such an iconic method of travel in San Francisco that they have become synonymous with the city itself. No visit to Frisco is complete without a ride on one!
Cable cars were originally designed as a safer and more convenient method for public transportation throughout the city’s iconically steep hills. The first cable car began riding in 1873, and in no time, cable cars were located all over the city.
Today, there are still three cable car lines that locals and tourists alike are welcome to ride. Sit or stand on the running boards and enjoy traveling throughout San Francisco.
11. Lombard Street
Lombard Street is one of the most distinctive streets in San Francisco, thanks to its extremely unique design. Lovingly coined “The Crookedest Street in the World,” Lombard Street draws loads of visitors every year.
Tourists can walk up and down the steep, winding road from The Presidio East to The Embarcadero. The street, built in 1922, is lined with beautiful homes and gardens for you to enjoy along the way.
Just a short walk from Lombard Street is North Beach, an area famous for its Italian heritage. So, after your hike, head over to North Beach for some delicious Italian cuisine.
12. Muir Woods National Monument
The Muir Woods were declared a National Monument by the U.S. National Park Service way back in 1908. Located just north of San Francisco, this iconic spot is well worth a day trip for anyone in the city.
The Muir Woods span 554 acres of land and are most famously home to old-growth redwood trees. These aren’t any ordinary trees. The redwoods are estimated to be over 1,000 years old and can measure as high as 250 feet.
Guests can choose to journey up the main trail that is marked along Redwood Creek or through one of the many alternate hiking trails. They can go solo or enjoy a guided walking tour. Look out for wildlife along the way!
Popular Frisco Resorts
Now that you have a full list of attractions to enjoy with your family in San Francisco, the only thing left to plan is where to stay. For your convenience, here is a list of popular San Fran resorts:
- Hotel Nikko San Francisco
- Hotel San Francisco Union Square
- Hotel Caza Fisherman’s Wharf
- Hyatt Regency San Francisco
- The Clift Royal Sonesta
- Hyatt Centric Fisherman’s Wharf
- SoMa House
If you would like to visit one of the resorts mentioned above without staying the night, don’t forget to use ResortPass to book your next great daycation!
