neighborhoods to visit in sf

• Work with Me
• Start a Blog
• Yearly Roundups
• 101 in 1001 Goals
• how to start a travel blog
• tips for new bloggers
• write me a guest post!
• Work With Me

A Passion and A Passport

Proving Travel is Possible with a Full-Time 9-5

The Coolest Neighborhoods of San Francisco (All My Fave Spots + Map!)

last Updated: April 23, 2023 california Northern California san francisco

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

So you’re planning a trip to the City by the Bay and looking for the best San Francisco neighborhoods to check out?! I’m so excited for you — and this San Francisco neighborhoods guide will surely help you figure out where to spend your time! I’ve even included a map of neighborhoods in San Francisco to help you with your planning!

From the old-school taquerias of the Mission to the brightly-lit boutiques of Hayes Valley, San Francisco’s really got something for everyone! You probably imagine SF to be all fog, cable car rides, and Full House houses. Sure, the Golden Gate Bridge sure is a beauty, but to get to know the real City by the Bay, you’ve gotta explore some of the best neighborhoods of San Francisco — beyond Fisherman’s Wharf.

SF is one of the most diverse cities I’ve been to (and I’ve been to my fair share of cool spots around the world ). We loved it so much we even chose to move here after visiting only once or twice. And on that first visit we barely scratched the surface. 

Now?! You’ll find us exploring these different neighborhoods of San Francisco after work and on the weekends. 

Whether you’re a long time visitor or it’s your first time here, you’ll be smitten with the diversity within the different neighborhoods in San Francisco. Each neighborhood really has its own personality, and you can walk one block over and bam — it’s like you’re in a whole different world. Here you’ll find trendy neighborhoods to grungry areas and everything in between.

While San Francisco is super small and geographically compact (compared to massive cities like my beloved NYC ), it sure packs a punch into it’s mere 49 square miles. But this just means you’re never too far from picturesque views, European charm, unique cultural history, and of course, countless culinary gems. And within its diverse neighborhoods, you can grab an egg tart on one block and climb 300 steps to a panoramic view of the city from another. 

And honestly, after checking out these San Francisco neighborhoods, I bet you’ll wanna move to at least two or three. Or at least add a whole bunch to your SF itinerary.

My suggestion for any San Francisco itinerary ? Leave some wiggle room in your plans so you’ve got time to venture around a few of my favorite neighborhoods of San Francisco (I have a lot).

A few things to note:

• Microclimates are a real thing here! It’s true — it could be super sunny and beautiful out in one neighborhood, while another area of the city is foggy and windy. ALWAYS bring along a light sweater, especially if you’re planning to spend time on the coast.
• Some neighborhoods are tiny, with some being only a few blocks long. While this is awesome because it sometimes means it’s easier to get from neighborhood to neighborhood, this also means you could walk one block too far and reach less-than-desirable spots. If you ever feel super uncomfortable, turn around and walk a different way — you’ll more than likely find something more favorable.
• SF is smaller than other metropolises, but it still takes a while to get around. It can sometimes take an hour or so to get from one end of the city to the other, so don’t underestimate time or try to cram in too much. Look at the map of neighborhoods in San Francisco below and choose 2-3 that are next to each other per day to minimize travel time.
• Prepare for unwanted sniffs and smells — if you’re not used to a large homeless population, SF may be culture shock to you. While the city has made great efforts over the years to rectify this, homelessness is still a big thing in San Francisco. You might even see some tent cities — walk and move on.
• Tourists: you probably won’t venture to the southern part of SF (the more residential areas). Most of the touristy stuff is located within the northern half of the city. Take a look at the map of neighborhoods in San Francisco to see what I mean. 😉

And just FYI, (in case you were wondering), the best way to piss off a local: calling San Francisco “San Fran” or even worse, “Frisco”. Just don’t do it – please! The only acceptable nicknames are SF (literally saying the letters) and “the city”. I don’t mean to be harsh, but I cringe anytime I hear anything else. And while we’re at it — don’t call California “Cali”. That is unless you wanna show off your tourist status! #sorrynotsorry

Visiting soon? Here’s (lots) more San Francisco content!

• The Perfect 3 Days in San Francisco (a locals itinerary)
• All My Favorite Desserts in SF (over 50 of them!)
• The Ultimate San Francisco Bucket List
• The Prettiest Mosaic Staircases in SF
• Where to Watch the Sunset in San Francisco
• 30+ San Francisco Day Trips (so many!)
• My Favorite Spots to See the Golden Gate Bridge

Let’s get to it! I’m rounding up the coolest neighborhoods of San Francisco in this (ridiculously wordy) SF neighborhood guide!

Cultural Foodie Neighborhoods of San Francisco

1. north beach.

What you’ll find here: true Italian heritage, authentic Italian food, and great views at Coit Tower

If you’ve done any research on the different neighborhoods of San Francisco, you’ve surely heard of North Beach. I mean, it’s basically the Little Italy of San Francisco (and yes, this just means it’s filled with pizza — a hot commodity over here since there’s not much decent pizza in all of California unfortunately).

So with that being said, whenever we want fresh pasta or authentic Italian food, we head on over to North Beach. Always. I’ll never say no to some cannoli cream and/or focaccia bread!

But besides all it’s culinary delights, North Beach really is worth checking out (just don’t eat beforehand) — popular Coit Tower and Washington Square Park are over here! It’s a vibrant community with a rich historical connection to Italian immigrants and hence, seeped in Italian heritage.

There’s tons of independent coffee shops to sip your morning cappuccino, checked-tablecloth trattorias for afternoon dates, and retro-flavored bars serving cocktails al fresco. Expect a lively nightlife, antique shops, lots (and lots) of cute cafes, and interesting architecture!

Top Things to do:

• Browse City Lights Booksellers — a wildly famous bookstore with an emphasis on world-lit, the arts, and progressive politics
• Have a pizza picnic on the grassy park at Washington Square facing Saints Peter and Paul’s Church, known as the “Italian Cathedral of the West”
• Gawk at the views from Coit Tower (don’t miss the free murals at the base) and listen for the wild parrots of Telegraph Hill while climbing up
• Burn those thighs on the Filbert Street Steps (they have what I call an “urban jungle” feel) and make sure to check out the pre-1900, cottage-like homes on Napier Lane
• See the cable-pulling equipment in action at the San Francisco Cable Car Museum (a super quick stop but great for those who like history)
• Go gaga over maps (and other fascinating items like prints and rare books) at Schein & Schein 
• Take a food tour — indulge in freshly baked bread, olive oils, gourmet chocolates, and of course, outstanding Italian pizza. Then sip and savor some cappuccinos!

What/where To Eat:

There’s lots of good stuff over here, but these are just the faves:

• Cafes and bakeries: Mara’s Italian Pastry, Cafe Trieste, Stella Pastry & Cafe, Liguria Bakery (go super early for some fresh focaccia, they sell out fast)
• Pizza : Golden Boy Pizza (always my #1 pick), Tony’s Pizza Napoletana
• Italian : Original Joe’s (always get the ravioli as your side and make sure to leave some room for their famous butter cake), The Italian Homemade Company
• Other : Firenze by Night, Sotto Mare, Portofino Seafood Co., Mama’s on Washington Square (great brunch)

2. The Mission

What you’ll find here: old-school taquerias, colorful Latino roots, diverse hipster vibe

The Mission District, commonly known as the “The Mission” to locals, is by far one of the coolest neighborhoods in San Francisco. No matter how many times I visit, I never get tired of it.  It’s eclectic, colorful, vibrant, youthful, and artistic (to name a few), and here you’ll find tons of colorful murals and street art that everyone talks about.

The Mission is actually the oldest neighborhood in San Francisco (true story!), and it has a long history rooted in Latin American heritage and traditions. Some serious gentrification has occurred, but the rich Latin heritage still shows along it’s streets.

Like Noe Valley, The Mission is one of the sunniest and warmest neighborhoods of San Francisco. You’ll see people chilling out at Dolores Park, walking along the main streets of Valencia and Mission, and stuffing their faces with a massive Mission burrito. Take part in it all — you won’t be disappointed!

Top Things to do

• Have a picnic and chill out at sunny Mission Dolores Park — bring a blanket, a frisbee, and some yummy drinky drinks and you’re good to go
• Stop by Dandelion Chocolate for some samples, a small-batch bean-to-bar chocolatier (try a giant marshmallow and the heavenly s’more, too — my favorite!)
• Stumble upon street art in Balmy Alley + Clarion Alley. You just cannot visit the Mission without stumbling upon its passionate, mural-filled alleyways. Admire the colorful Women’s Building as well!
• Drive down Vermont Street, the curviest street in SF (and nope, it’s not Lombard like everything thinks!)
• Stroll down Valencia Street (think hipster central) and Mission Street (you’ll feel like you’re in Mexico City, no joke!)

What/where to eat:

• Treat yourself to a warm morning bun and an iced coffee from Tartine (the ultimate pastry heaven) 
• Brave the line at Bi-Rite, for one of my favorite homemade ice creams in all of the city – salted caramel in a cone
• Stuff yourself silly with a few too many tacos — favorites being Taqueria Cancun, El Metate (one of my faves), and El Farolito
• Devour a Mission Burrito. La Taqueria, Pancho Villa, and El Farolito all take the cake, err guacamole. You can never go wrong with some carnitas or carne asada. 
• Sick of Mexican food? Check out Farmhouse Thai Kitchen, Media Noche for some bomb Cuban food, a Rebel muffin for breakfast at Craftsman and Wolves, and Foreign Cinema for an upscale dinner and a movie

3. Chinatown

What you’ll find here: deliciously authentic dim sum, pagoda-style architecture, exotic menus

Many people don’t know this, but Chinatown SF is actually the oldest and most established Chinatown in the entire country. Here you’ll find the oldest Chinese community in the United States, AND the largest enclave of Chinese residents outside of Asia. Because of that, the food is to die for, and you could honestly spend an entire day eating and still not experience it all. Making Chinatown one of the best San Francisco neighborhoods for foodies, obviously!

Surprisingly (or not!), Chinatown actually attracts more tourists yearly than the Golden Gate Bridge, which is kinda hard to believe! But when there’s authentic cuisine (hello wonton noodle soup and pineapple red bean buns), a plethora of cultural experiences, and super fun festivals, I kinda get it. I’m low-key obsessed with Chinatown myself.

Expect pagoda-style architecture, ornate lamp posts, exotic menus, and an endless supply of fresh fish and cheap produce. It’s truly a “city within a city”, and no other spot in SF feels like it. These 24 blocks are the most densely populated neighborhood west of NYC, which is crazy to imagine! If you wanna see all the action, come on a Saturday; it’s by far the busiest day!

• Enter Chinatown through its iconic Dragon Gate, adorned with guardian lions (don’t forget to snap a quick photo)
• Wander the maze of streets and alleys off of Grant Avenue (and grab some dim sum and other traditional eats), to find herbalists, bakeries, souvenir shops, dark cocktail lounges, and karaoke bars
• Check out the third floor of the ornate Tien Hau Temple, the oldest Taoist temple in Chinatown 
• Learn about the community’s history at the Chinese Historical Society of America Museum, complete with more than 50,000 artifacts (whoa!)
• Take yourself on a DIY food tour of Chinatown, or sign up for a Chinatown Culinary Walking (and Food!) Tour
• Check out some iconic buildings, like the Sing Chong Building, Bank of Canton, and Waverly Place
• Hang with the locals on Stockton Street — this is where they do their shopping and bartering
• Stand on line (if they’re open!) at Golden Gate Bakery for one (or a few) of their famous egg tarts
• Sip some (deliciously-sweet) Chinese Mai Tai’s at Li Po Cocktail Lounge; we LOVE taking visitors here
• Dine where Obama dined — at Great Eastern, a quintessential dim sum restaurant with lots on their menu
• Watch fortune cookies being made at Fortune Cookie Factory, and pick up a few bags for later
• Slurp some spicy tan tan noodles at Chong Qing Xiao Mian
• Get dim sum to-go at Good Mong Kok Bakery — always opt for the har gow/shrimp dumplings and the char siu bao (bbq pork buns)
• Order some Sichuan at Z & Y, another favorite of Obama, with great chilled beef tenderloin and explosive chili pepper chicken wings

4. Japantown

What you’ll find here: Japanese sweets, anime and manga, the best ramen ever

Sushi! Shabu-shabu! Kitschy gift shops! Asian-style day spas! We visit Japantown whenever we’re desperately missing Japan (it’s one of our favorite countries)! There’s delicious ramen and takoyaki, Japanese sweets (like dango and mochi), anime and manga, kimonos, Japanese street fashion, kawaii cuteness, and of course karaoke bars. 

Being one of only three Japantowns left in America, you can’t miss this neighborhood in SF. Unlike Chinatown, Japantown is a lot more peaceful, much more quiet, and feels pretty secluded.

Japantown is technically only 6 blocks long, so you can really see a lot in a short amount of time. It’s like a neighborhood within a neighborhood, and it’s actually in the Western Addition. And right outside the Japan Center, you’ll find the striking 5-tiered Peace Pagoda in the courtyard!

It’s especially beautiful in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom — don’t miss the annual Cherry Blossom Festival in April.

• Hang at in the Japantown Peace Plaza and admire the 5-tiered Peace Pagoda
• Shop-til-you-drop at the Japan Center, a cluster of two malls with tons of fun shops, restaurants, pika pika photo booths, and even a Daiso (Japanese dollar store)
• Feast on ramen and all the Japanese snacks you can find (my top recs below!)
• Spend an afternoon soaking at Kabuki Springs and Spa, a traditional bathhouse in the heart of Japantown 
• Local? Stock up on seafood and veggies from Nijiya Market, an Asian market with lots of prepared foods and unique overseas products
• The Best Ramen: Marufuku Ramen (expect a long line – well worth it though!), Hinodeya Ramen Bar, Waraku
• Desserts/snacks: Mochill Mochidonut, Belly Good Cafe & Crepes, Uji Time Dessert, Benkyodo for mochi, Takoyaki Yama-chan, and Matcha Cafe Maiko. Some of my favorite desserts in SF are over here in Japantown!

Touristy Neighborhoods of San Francisco

5. fisherman’s wharf and embarcadero.

What you’ll find here: kitschy tourist shops, those famous barking sea lions, sourdough clam chowder bread bowls, old-school carnival vibes

Tourists always wanna go to Fisherman’s Wharf, so I’m including it, but just know it’s by far my least favorite neighborhood in San Francisco. Not only is it incredibly crowded and touristy (especially on the weekends), but there’s honestly not much charm around these parts.

It’s still pretty fun if you’ve never been, just make sure you don’t spend all your time here. I’d compare it to an old-school carnival mixed with a few more sea lions and sourdough.

Fisherman’s Wharf is kiiiiinda like the Times Square of San Francisco, and you’ll never find locals hanging out here. But this is where Pier 39 and the famous sea lions are, there’s dozens of restaurants (including delicious sourdough clam chowder bread bowls at Boudin), tons of kitschy attractions, and even an aquarium. Don’t miss the kinda-new Umbrella Alley for some fun street art and color !

Right over here is the Embarcadero, another of these neighborhoods of SF, which is where the famous Ferry Building is. Here you’ll find lots of gourmet shops and restaurants, and it’s fun to take a stroll grabbing samples of cheeses, olive oils, artisanal ice cream, and craft beer. 

• Look out for the sea lions basking in the sun at Pier 39
• Get lost in Magowan’s Infinite Mirror Maze; it’s super psychedelic and kinda belongs in the Haight
• Stand underneath the shark tunnel of the Aquarium of the Bay, or just admire the many jellyfish and (super-cute) sea otters
• Take some colorful photos at Umbrella Alley; it’s where you’ll find the “Welcome to San Francisco” mural ! (just check on opening hours — they close randomly)
• Grab some samples at the Ferry Building, a sprawling marketplace with gourmet shops lining the interior of the building (think locally made cheeses, olive oil, fresh oysters, artisanal ice cream, craft beer, and much more)
• Peruse SF’s best farmer’s market right outside the Ferry Building (only on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, before 2pm)
• Go for a stroll in Rincon Park and check out Cupid’s Span
• Head to Pier 7 for that perfect shot of the Transamerica Pyramid (just look behind you)

The Original Ghirardelli Ice Cream Factory, Boudin Bakery & Cafe (for some of the best sourdough bread bowls), Trish’s Mini Donuts, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., Fog City Diner, Humphry Slocombe, Hog Island Oyster Co., Acme Bread Company

Trendy, Clean-Cut Neighborhoods in San Francisco

6. noe valley.

What you’ll find here: a strong community feeling, clean-cut sunny small-town feel

Close your eyes and think of tidy rows of Victorian and Eduardian homes. A quaint main street with artisanal goods and tons of cute outdoor cafes. Lots of laid-back clean-cut families pushing strollers and walking dogs. That’s Noe Valley in a nutshell. And it’s downright glorious.

The fact that it’s one of the sunniest neighborhoods in San Francisco just adds to its appeal. It’s got the surrounding hills to thank for that! One of my favorite SF neighborhoods for sure!

In all honesty, you don’t really come to Noe Valley for the big tourist sites of SF, but to relax and take in the sunny weather and people watch. It feels like an intimate, small town despite being pretty central in SF.  And in spring, it’s bursting with blooms — my favorite time of year to visit!

• Be on the lookout for some funky houses; there’s a Rainbow House, Jungle House, Bunny House, and more
• Take a leisurely stroll down 24th street, full of bakeries, wine and cheese shops, artisanal goods stores, yoga places, and even a Whole Foods 
• Stop by the Saturday Farmer’s Market, featuring live music, food carts, local produce, and lots of childrens activities
• Peruse Omnivore Books — a little bookstore dedicated solely to cookbooks and other food-related reading
• Hang out with the locals at Billy Goat Hill Park, a little gem with amazing views of the cityscape (with a rope swing — only sometimes, though!)
• Climb the 22nd Street Stairs; you’ll be rewarded with great views from the top!
• Get your workout on by climbing the Harry Street Stairs — a local favorite and one of the longest staircases in SF
• Hike through Glen Canyon Park for sweeping views of the city, or just find a nice grassy spot for a picnic

Noe Valley Bakery (by far the most popular on 24th Street – get the cupcakes and some fresh bread), Viva la Tarte, The Little Chihuahua, Firefly Restaurant, Philz Coffee

7. Hayes Valley

What you’ll find here: brightly-lit boutiques, packed-for-a-reason restaurants, hip urban vibe

Wanna do some boutique shopping and eat at some of the best restaurants in the city? Head on over to Hayes Valley! It’s perfect for dinner dates with your significant other or a group of girlfriends — my husband and I just love coming here!

Just beware — the restaurants here are always packed, so you’ll wanna arrive way before hunger strikes. You can always hang at the park (in the central area) and people watch until your name gets called.

Not many people know this, but Hayes Valley has really changed a lot over the years. What was once a seedy area with crack houses, crime, and prostitution has turned into an area with trendy fashion boutiques, top-notch restaurants, and brightly-lit boutiques.

You’ll find locals and tourists sipping craft beer, hunting down designer tops, and stuffing their faces at plenty of on-trend dessert shops. Making it one of the coolest (and revitalized) neighborhoods in San Francisco.

• Hang out in Patricia’s Green, a small urban park with rotating public art installations
• Walk along Hayes Street, the main commercial stretch of Hayes Valley, and pop into the boutique shops and find a spot to eat 
• Sip a few cocktails at Smuggler’s Cove, a famous tiki-bar (always fun with its wacky interior and extensive rum menu) 
• Take a few pics with the Painted Ladies, just a few blocks away from Hayes Valley in Alamo Square

Don’t miss fresh pasta at a Mano (my favorite’s the pesto), artisanal ice cream at Salt & Straw, schnitzel and a beer stein at Suppenküche and Biergarten, super fancy macarons at Chantal Guillon, a fluffy pita gyro at Souvla (don’t forget the fro-yo), and some elevated Mexican at Cala.

Need some caffeine? Grab a cuppa coffee at Blue Bottle Coffee Company and/or Urban Ritual Cafe.

8. Russian Hill

What you’ll find here: hordes of tourists at Lombard Street, an upscale European flair, and charming Victorian architecture

Russian Hill, named after one of SF’s original seven hills (there’s 44 in total!), is next up on this list of best neighborhoods in San Francisco. Most of the neighborhood is actually pretty quaint and upscale and residential, but head on over to Lombard Street, and you’ll find hordes of tourists, cameras in hand! Yup, the famously crooked Lombard Street (one of the most famous tourist attractions in the entire city) is right over here. 

But once you take in Lombard Street, don’t leave so fast! Watch the iconic San Francisco cable cars on the neighborhood hills, walk around the scenic streets, and admire all the charming Victorian architecture.

If you look close enough, you’ll realize that Russian Hill kinda has a hip European flair to it — especially the boutiques and restaurants on the main streets of Union, Hyde, and Jackson. But beware for all the steep streets — Russian hill is one of the hilliest San Francisco neighborhoods.

• Drive down (or walk along the sidewalk next to) Lombard Street, the super-famous crooked street in SF (people live here, so please be respectful)
• Have a romantic evening and take your partner to watch the sunset from Ina Coolbrith Park; it kinda feels like an oasis in a big city
• Stroll along cobblestoned Macondray Lane, a small pedestrian street with flower gardens, fruit trees, and even a little zen fountain 

What/where to eat: We don’t typically come to Russian Hill for meals, but Berber SF, Fiorella Park, and Swensen’s Ice Cream Shop are good.

9. The Marina (+ Cow Hollow)

What you’ll find here: the romantic Palace of Fine Arts, boozy/bougie brunches, and trendy coffee shops

The Marina is just like it sounds — right on the water (on the city’s northern shore) with overwhelmingly gorgeous views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

And the stereotypes are true — wealthy, attractive, and young post-fraternity/sorority members live (and frequent) here. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t make The Marina a top contender on your list of neighborhoods in SF to check out.

Quite the opposite. There’s buzzy brunch spots, boutique shopping districts, trendy coffee shops, and stunning waterfront views. And plus, it’s one of the friendliest places around.

We love wandering around the Marina checking out the (gorgeous) yachts at the harbor, going for a stroll around the romantic Palace of Fine Arts, and chilling at Marina Green with a cup of Philz in hand. With some girlfriends? Go for a boozy, bougie brunch! They do them best in the Marina!

• Run, bike, or fly a kite at Marina Green, a grassy park with expansive views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and yachts on the water. 
• Marvel at the architecture of the Palace of Fine Arts, a beautiful neoclassical landmark with lots of grassy spots for picnics!
• Listen to the acoustic sounds of the The Wave Organ (the notes match the restless movements of the tide – super cool!)
• Stroll along the Marina Yacht Harbor, and pick out your next boat purchase while you’re at it (we love to do this, haha)
• Grab your girlfriends and go for a boozy brunch – it’s kinda what the Marina is known for!
• Take a photo with the famous bougainvillea house in Cow Hollow (the flowers bloom in spring)

And if all else fails — Go Shopping! You’ll find lots of shopping on Chestnut Street, while neighboring Cow Hollow’s got Union Street. There’s lots of independent boutiques with clothing, gifts, homewares, beauty, and accessories, all in beautiful Victorian buildings.

Brunch is especially fun in The Marina, and we love Le Marais, Blackwood, and The Dorian (it’s extra bougie). Del Mar is a bar/lounge with swings and great drinks, Wildseed’s got great vegan food, and go to Delarosa if you want some pizza. In the mood for some dessert? Don’t miss Loving Cup and/or U:Dessert Story.

10. Pacific Heights

What you’ll find here: sprawling mansions, grassy hilltop parks, sweeping views of the bay

I used to think Pac Heights was all sprawling mansions and manicured lawns, but it’s so much more than that. Although you definitely will find plenty of multi-million dollar homes over here (there’s even a section called “Billionaire’s Row”).

With that being said, it’s NOT a cheap place to live, but that doesn’t mean you can’t go for a visit (it is one of the most high-end neighborhoods of San Francisco, afterall!). Especially if you wanna check out the collection of French Chateau and Spanish-style mansions over here.

Go shopping on Fillmore Street, gawk at the opulent Spreckels Mansion, tour the only Queen Anne Victorian open to the public, and hang out on a grassy hilltop park. There’s sweeping views extending all the way across the Golden Gate Bridge to Marin, and psst — it’s absolutely gorgeous on a beautiful sunny day!

• Admire the view from the top of the Lyon Street Stairs, and don’t miss the heart statue (on your way up the steps) and Billionaire’s Row (on Lyon Street)
• Window shop on Fillmore Street, the main shopping hub of Pac Heights, with high-end stores like Prada, Ralph Lauren and Marc by Marc Jacobs
• Relax at Lafayette and Alta Plaza, two grassy hilltop parks with city views → great for picnics!
• Take in the views, because it’s almost like everywhere you look, there’s a view over here
• Visit some famous filming locales, like the Tanners Full House home (1709 Broderick), Grove High School from The Princess Diaries, and the towering Victorian from Party of Five
• Step foot in the Haas-Lilienthal House museum, San Francisco’s only Victorian home open regularly to visitors (check out the opulent Spreckels Mansion, too!)

Grab some Parisian and Viennese pastries at b. patisserie (you can never go wrong with a banana chocolate almond croissant), go for brunch at Sweet Maple, pick out a cupcake at Sift Dessert Bar and unique ice cream flavor at Salt & Straw, modern California comfort food at The Snug, and pitas at Noosh.

Go bar hopping at Santino’s Vino (for the wine lovers), Harry’s Bar (great whisky over here), The Snug (for cocktails and craft beer), and Flores (for when you want some tacos with your tequila).

Eclectic Neighborhoods of San Francisco 

11. the castro.

What you’ll find here: an openly gay community, a vibrant nightlife scene, risque and quirky adult shops, rich history

Ohhhh — the Castro! Commonly referred to as the “Gay Mecca” of San Francisco, the Castro is the beating heart of gay culture and LGBTQ Pride Week. It was one of the first established gay neighborhoods in the United States, and has been (and continues to be) a prominent location for LGBTQIA+ around the world.

It’s super fun and eclectic, with rainbow colored crosswalks, rainbow flags blowing in the wind, and unique shops and cafes. And the people are just as vibrant (although you may see a few nude people casually walking down the street — it’s common here).

Yes, the area is a little run down and it’s been a bit gentrified, but it’s definitely still worth a visit to soak up the history of the area and check out the risque and quirky shops (all part of the neighborhood charm)

• Catch a film at the iconic single-screen Castro Theatre, first opened in 1922
• Pop into shops on Castro Street to find interesting books and crannies (my favorite’s Local Take — a boutique showcasing local artists)
• Celebrate Queer History at the Harvey Milk Museum (otherwise known as the GLBT Historical Society Museum)
• Take a stroll on the brightly-colored rainbow crosswalks
• Stroll down the Rainbow Walk of Honor, which features bronze sidewalk plagues honoring lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender personalities 
• Walk down the Vulcan Street Stairs, a set of 219 stairs that kinda feel like a little secret garden
• Slide down the Seward Street Slides, a set of concrete slides hidden in a neighborhood park (bring your own cardboard to avoid ripping your pants) :p

What/where to eat/drink:

Hi-Tops (San Francisco’s first gay sports bar), Zumi’s, Fable, Hot Cookie, Kitchen Story and U: Dessert Story (get the mango sticky rice), Starbelly, Beaux and/or Lookout for drinks, and Double Rainbow Ice Cream.

And whatever you do, experience the vibrant nightlife: a few suggestions — Twin Peaks Tavern (an iconic gay bar and Castro landmark), 440 Castro (notoriously known for beards and booze), Badlands (one of San Francisco’s most popular gay bars), Toad Hall (well known for it’s drag and karaoke nights).

12. Haight Ashbury

What you’ll find here: psychedelic hippy vibes, rock stars’ Victorian homes, and tons of funky smoke shops, boutiques, and street art

The second you step into Haight Ashbury’s borders (simply known as “The Haight” to locals), get ready for some groovy hippy dippy vibes. There’s funky tie-dye shops, vintage clothing stores, psychedelic murals and posters, and tons of quirky oddities. You’ll never get bored over here!

The Haight is where the Summer of Love in 1967 occurred — when over 100k young people flooded out west looking for love, drugs, and rock and roll! What a time to be alive!

Because of this, it’s where a whole bunch of famous 60’s rock stars lived (including the Grateful Dead, Janis Joplin, Jefferson Airplane, etc), as well as the original Haight hippies. You can even go find their houses today!

The Haight also has one of the best collections of Victorians in the city. Since it wasn’t hit hard by the 1906 earthquake and fire, most of the beautiful Victorian houses remain today!

• Amoeba Music (famous for decades)
• Love on Haight (it’s absolute tie-dye heaven)
• vintage shops (don’t miss Decades of Fashion and Distractions)
• Piedmont Boutique (where the famous dangling legs are)
• smoke shops (pot is legal now, so there’s lots of those shops popping up)
• Map out a DIY tour of the famous 60’s rock stars homes, including The Grateful Dead (710 Ashbury Street), Janis Joplin (635 Ashbury), and Jefferson Airplane House (2400 Fulton)
• Take a guided walking tour of the Haight, and you’ll get loads of interesting info about the past and the guide will bring you to the exact locations of the rock stars’ homes
• Climb the 30 minutes or so to the top of Buena Vista Park for spectacular views of the city
• Stand at the corner of Haight and Ashbury; it’s the ultimate center of hippedom (take a picture!)
• Admire the beautiful Victorians on Waller Street; one of the best collections of Victorians in the city
• Check out the colorful murals of your favorite rock stars on Haight Street

Magnolia Brewery, Cha Cha Cha, Parada 22 (for some Puerto Rican comfort food), The Alembic (great cocktails over here!), Street Taco (tacos and draft beer), Hippie Thai Street Food, and VeganBurg 

Outdoorsy Neighborhoods in San Francisco

13. the presidio.

What you’ll find here: expansive views of the Golden Gate Bridge, golden sand beaches, a lush eucalyptus forest

Looking to get outside?! Don’t miss this neighborhood in San Francisco! I mean, get this — the Presidio is  actually a 1,500-acre park on a former military post! And the park couldn’t be any more varied — there’s forested areas, miles of trails, scenic overlooks, and even a golf course!

Some of SF’s best beaches are located right here in the Presidio as well! To say The Presidio is a major outdoor rec hub of the people of SF would be a massive understatement!

And tourists love it just as much — over five million people visit each year! I don’t blame them; this National Historic Landmark District is located right next to the Golden Gate Bridge — meaning, picture perfect views of the crimson cutie! 

• Set up the umbrella and bring the fam to Baker Beach, take a stroll, and feel the cold Pacific ocean on your toes
• Feel your legs burn on the Batteries to Bluffs Trail (just be prepared for all the steps and bridge views)
• Trek down to Marshall’s Beach for more great views of the bridge, although expect to see some nudes (it’s kinda clothing optional over here)
• Get great views of the bridge from both the Golden Gate Overlook and Golden Gate Postcard Viewpoint
• Snag views of the Golden Gate Bridge from Fort Point (you can basically stand under the bridge here) and/or the Torpedo Wharf (great views of the city, too!)
• Have a picnic (or fly a kite) at Crissy Field, a beach and picnic area where both locals and tourists hang out
• Unleash your inner child at the Walt Disney Museum (there’s even a film screen that continuously plays Disney classics)
• Pass by the Yoda Fountain outside the Lucasfilm HQ, an iconic stop for any Star Wars fan
• Stroll down Lover’s Lane, Andy Goldsworthy’s art installation “Wood Line”, which is hidden away within a lush eucalyptus forest

What/where to eat: We don’t eat much in the Presidio, but I’ve heard Presidio Social Club, Sessions at the Presidio, and Arguello are good.

14. Golden Gate Park

What you’ll find here: blooming gardens, tons of grassy green spaces for picnics, popular science and art museums

Okay, so Golden Gate Park isn’t actually one of the true neighborhoods of San Francisco, but there’s just so much to do here I couldn’t leave it off this list! And since it’s one of my favorite places to visit in the city, I couldn’t not include it!

Not many know this, but Golden Gate Park is actually larger than Central Park in NYC (roughly 20% bigger)! You could spend an entire day in the park and still not see everything! There’s plenty of cultural museums, spaced-out gardens, tons of grassy green spaces for lounging, and even a secret waterfall! Like The Presidio, it’s one of the best San Francisco neighborhoods for outdoor lovers!

Even though it’s the third most visited park in the USA (true story), it’ll never feel especially crowded. Must be because there’s miles and miles of green lawns, walking and hiking paths around lakes, and over 7,000 plants to admire and explore.

We’ve even taken a segway tour of the park once; it’s that big! It really is the emerald heart of San Francisco, being an ultimate haven away from the urban chaos that is the city.

Some of SF’s largest festivals and events are held here every year, including Outside Lands, Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, Opera in the Park, and Bay to Breakers.

* Do note that while the park is free to visit, a bunch of attractions do charge admission, such as the deYoung Museum, CalAcademy, Botanical Gardens, and the Japanese Tea Gardens. All well-worth the price tag!

• See the magnolias in full bloom in February/March at the San Francisco Botanical Garden (don’t miss the Redwood Grove Garden and Succulent Garden as well)
• Frolic in the flowers at the Dutch Windmill (the tulip garden is beautiful in spring!)
• Say hello to the Bison Paddock; yes, we’ve got bison here in the park!
• Take a stroll around Stow Lake (and/or go paddle boating!), and don’t miss Huntington Falls and the Golden Gate Pavilion
• Sip some tea at the Japanese Tea Garden surrounded by cherry blossoms (during spring) or gorgeous fall foliage (in fall!)
• Admire the art at the De Young Museum (don’t miss the FREE Hamon Observation Tower and Three Gems exhibit by James Turrell)
• Have a romantic picnic at Shakespeare Garden (come in the spring when the flowers are in full bloom)
• Spend an afternoon getting your science on at the California Academy of Sciences (complete with a planetarium, four-story living rain forest, an aquarium with a delicate coral reef, and a fascinating natural history museum)
• Check out the impressive array of flowers in and around the Conservatory of Flowers, a Victorian-era glass greenhouse (I love the Dahlia Garden and aquatic plants the best)

There’s not too many places to eat within the park, but you’ll find the Beach Chalet Brewery and Restaurant, Twirl & Dip Soft Serve (the BEST on a hot day), and Sam’s Chowder Mobile for lobster rolls and you guessed it – clam chowder (follow on Twitter for location updates).

Super Diverse Neighborhoods in San Francisco

15. the sunset.

What you’ll find here: beautiful mosaic steps, delicious dumplings on Taraval, and plenty of visits from Karl the fog

A neighborhood in San Francisco that used to be all sand dunes? That’s the Sunset for ya! There’s actually two parts (making it one of the largest neighborhoods in SF) — the Inner Sunset and the Outer Sunset, divided by 19th Street. The entire district borders Golden Gate Park (super close proximity!), so it’s super easy to pop on over there once you’ve gotten your fix of the Sunset.

Beware — It’s one of the foggiest neighborhoods in SF (yup, we’ve got microclimates over here), but don’t fret — there’s still plenty of epic sunsets over the Pacific at Ocean Beach (where the name Sunset actually came from!).

Besides that, it’s got some of my favorite mosaic steps in San Francisco , the world’s best chicken wings (you can be the judge), and a whole mix of happy SF locals (think college students, surfer bros, young families, and old retired couples).

• Hang by the water at Ocean Beach; you’ll see people flying kites, going windsurfing, and sometimes having bonfires
• Admire the tile work of the 16th Ave Mosaic Stairs, then continue up to Grandview Park, one of the best sunset spots in San Francisco  
• Walk a few extra blocks to the Hidden Garden Steps, another gorgeous mosaic stairway (and not as well-known as the ones on 16th Ave)
• If you’re in the city with kids, a visit to the San Francisco Zoo is a must!
• Walk along the redwoods at Stern Grove, and don’t miss the grassy dog park and yearly Stern Grove Music Concerts on Summer Sundays
• Relax at Golden Gate Heights Park, walking along the paved paths and the mini forest (and then watch the dogs play around in the dog park!) 
• Search for treasures at the Inner Sunset Flea Market (there’s antique jewelry, vintage coats, local crafts, you name it)

• Dumplings on Taraval → our two favorites are Dumpling Kitchen and Kingdom of Dumpling
• Chalos — get the churros (with dulce de leche dip) and made-to-order empanadas 
• Focaccia (or anything!) at Arizmendi Bakery; it’s all out of this world (expect a line, it moves fast)
• Others (still all good!): Irish Coffee at The Little Shamrock, Marco Polo Italian Ice Cream, Home Cafe (for instagram-worthy rainbow lattes), coffee at Hollow (a super charming little coffee shop), delicious ice cream at Honey Creme, the world’s best chicken wings at San Tung, and breakfast sandwiches at Devil’s Teeth Bakery Company

16. Richmond District

What you’ll find here: the best Chinese food (and croissant) in the city, Lands End and the Sutro Baths, international ethnic eateries

Sandwiched between Golden Gate Park and the Presidio, you’ll find the Richmond District; a neighborhood of San Francisco known for both it’s diversity and beautiful beach views! The Richmond District encompasses both the Inner Richmond (found more inland) and Outer Richmond (closer to the Pacific).

It’s located in the northwest corner of the city, and is a pretty quiet, mostly residential area. But don’t miss it — there’s lots going on if you know where to look! And ohhhh — so many great sunset spots in San Francisco over here!

Not many tourists know this, but the Inner Richmond (especially Clement Street) is known as “New Chinatown”. Not only is there the best Chinese food in the city over here (move over, Chinatown!), but there’s shops with tai chi sandals, potted orchids, and even Chinese herbal treatments.

Keep on walking and you’ll find international ethnic eateries, with foods like peking duck, pho, Korean BBQ, and more. There’s also Burmese, Japanese, French, Middle Eastern, Russian — you name it! It really is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in San Francisco!

• See the remnants of the Sutro Baths, a historic salt-water swimming pool complex that you can now explore
• Go for a scenic hike at Lands End (don’t miss the secret labyrinth and views of the Golden Gate Bridge!)
• Track Down the Camera Obscura & Holograph, a giant pinhole camera that actually works!
• Check out the colorful tiles of the Lincoln Park Steps, the largest of all the tiled staircases in San Francisco
• Pop into Green Apple Books and pick up a pre-loved novel
• Wander around the colorful mansions of Sea Cliff (technically a different neighborhood of San Francisco but it’s right there)
• Check out 4,000 years of ancient & European art at the Legion of Honor
• Catch a film at the Balboa Theatre, a historical two-screen movie palace
• Stroll down Clement Street and feast on BBQ pork buns, mouth-watering Swedish Princess Cake, and delicious crepes

• The best chocolate almond croissant in all of San Francisco at Arsicault Bakery
• Traditional Moroccan food and belly dancing (so fun!) at El Mansour
• PPQ Dungeness Island
• Fiorella Clement
• Na Ya Dessert Cafe
• The best Peking Duck in all of SF at Chili House SF
• Bread Belly (try the Kaya toast, brown butter mochi, chicken karaage, and watermelon lychee)
• House of Bagels
• Traditional Russian pastries and meat pies at Cinderella Bakery (try the pelmeni dumplings and piroshky)

Other San Francisco neighborhoods to explore if you’ve got more time:

17. Financial District (FiDi): This is where you’ll find the city’s high-rise office buildings. Honestly, it’s totally dead on the weekends (AKA not much is open), AND it’s a little more generic than other neighborhoods in San Francisco.

There’s mostly office buildings over here, so it’ll be a bit more popping during the week (granted people aren’t working from home or a coffee shop). It’s still worth a quick visit if you wanna check out the Transamerica Pyramid (and Redwood Park) as well as the Diego Rivera Mural in the City Club (on the 10th floor).

In terms of where to eat, Leo’s Oyster Bar, Wayfare Tavern, and Barbacco (for Italian small plates) are popular. Head on over to Coffee Cultures and/or Cafe Terminus for drinks.

18. Tenderloin : Honestly, I just come to the Tenderloin to eat, haha. It’s not really a place you wanna be wandering around. But if you’re nearby and want some good food — don’t discount the Tenderloin!

We love Brenda’s French Soul Food (the crawfish beignets are to die for), Bandit (breakfast sandwiches, anyone?!, Jane on Larkin (technically in Polk Gulch but I consider it the Tenderloin), and Mr. Holmes Bakehouse (always go for a cruffin) for breakfast/brunch. 

Charmaine’s Rooftop Bar is super fun, and Saigon Sandwich has some of the best (and super cheap) banh mi sandwiches in the city. It really is one of the best neighborhoods in San Francisco to eat!

19. SoMa: The SoMa, technically called South of Market, is where you’ll find Oracle Park (where the Giants play) and Yerba Buena Gardens (a great spot for some yoga or frisbee-throwing). While it’s definitely not the prettiest place to wander around SF, you’ll find some of San Francisco’s top museums like the SF MOMA over here. 

There’s tons of events at the Moscone Center, a sleek convention center complex, as well as the new Salesforce Park atop the Salesforce Transit Center. It’s also where the Folsom Street Fair (a risky event celebrating the leather subculture) happens every September.

20. Nob Hill: If you’re interested in some old San Francisco vibes, look no further than Nob Hill. I really think it’s one of the most underrated neighborhoods in San Francisco, and most visitors don’t think of going! It’s got most of the city’s swankiest hotels, including the Top of the Mark lounge with great views! 

Don’t miss the largest donut you’ve ever seen at Bob’s Donuts and Pastries, yoga at the ornate, Gothic-style Grace Cathedral (hang at Huntington Park, too!), the kissing trees on Sacramento Street, and prime rib and martinis at House of Prime Rib.

Phew — that was a long one! Which of these San Francisco neighborhoods will you be visiting on your next trip?!

Loo king for more California content? Explore my other California guides here!

Did you know that …

When you purchase something through our links, we earn a small fee (but you still pay the same) ! Win-win! If you found this article useful, consider using the links within the article or below. Thanks for your support! 

• Book a hotel
• Best place to find tours
• Second favorite place for tours
• Favorite travel insurance
• Book a rental car
• My favorite packing items on Amazon
• Start your very own blog!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

March 4, 2021 at 1:25 pm

Something to keep in mind right now: pretty crimes/muggings/car break ins/etc. at a high, so when visiting take care. Even neighborhoods you wouldn't expect it in are experiencing it. There's also been a rise in anti-Asian assaults as well in SF and Oakland. 🙁

July 22, 2021 at 8:22 pm

I used this list today to visit a couple of neighborhoods, so helpful!! thank you so much.

August 9, 2021 at 8:07 am

Thank you!!!

You may also love...

Subscribe To The Newsletter

FOR TRAVEL INSPO   and   FUN

No spam, only fun!

Favorite Destinations

• About Jessica
• How to Plan a Trip
• Fave Travel Companies
• Shop My Faves

Destinations

• World Travel
• San Francisco
• Northern California
• Southern California
• Central Coast

15 Best Neighborhoods in San Francisco to Explore

Looking to hit up the best neighborhoods in San Francisco during your trip but not sure where to start? We got you, boo!

You’ll be in San Francisco, so you have tons of amazing options for things to see, do, eat, and take in one of the coolest cities in the country. In fact, I truly believe San Francisco is one of those cities that truly has its own identity and characteristics that just aren’t comparable to anywhere else in the world.

Planning a trip can be overwhelming though. With so many cool things to do in San Francisco , where do you even begin? That’s why we narrowed down a few of the best quintessential San Francisco neighborhoods to visit as well as a few others that are a little less touristy and still offer plenty to do, see, eat, and drink!

Oh, we also have a great San Francisco itinerary too, if you need a little extra help or suggestions while planning.

So without further ado, check out our roundup of the fun neighborhoods in San Francisco to explore as well as what each neighborhood is known for and a few attractions and not to be missed highlights of each area.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links

San Francisco Neighborhoods You’ll Want to Visit

Fisherman’s wharf.

When looking at the best neighborhoods in San Francisco, where else is there to start than with Fisherman’s Wharf? This bustling waterfront district on the north shore holds immense significance in the city’s history and culture. This iconic area offers a taste of classic maritime charm, plus modern entertainment.

Fisherman’s Wharf stands as one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations, drawing visitors with its festive atmosphere and fun attractions. If you have time to only visit one neighborhood in San Francisco, this is definitely a top contender!

The neighborhood is known for its outstanding seafood, souvenir shops, and excellent bay views. All of this and more gives you a great feel for San Francisco’s coastal past and present.

You can get an iconic Boudin sourdough bread bowl with clam chowder at their flagship location or eat at any of the little eateries here. We really liked Sabella & La Torre for seafood!

Be sure to stop by the Musee Mecanique, a free museum and vintage mechanical arcade filled with antique games, automata, and coin-operated machines! You can exchange bills for coins to play many of these century-old games too! This is one of our absolute favorite things to do in Fisherman’s Wharf !

Strolling along the scenic promenade, Pier 39 where most people start when in Fisherman’s Wharf. This is a major hub of attractions located on an old pier. You can watch street performers and explore shops, restaurants, and all kinds of tourist attractions including more places to eat.

Ghirardelli Square is another must-visit when in the neighborhood. This is where the classic chocolate company started over 125 years ago! Make sure to pick up some of the famous chocolate while you’re here or one of their gooey, rich hot fudge sundaes.

And you can learn about the history of the wharf at San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. With its breathtaking views of the bay, historic ships, and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in the distance, Fisherman’s Wharf offers the perfect backdrop for exploring!

• Union Square

If you’re into a lot of shopping, then the San Francisco neighborhood you want to head to is Union Square! This is the bustling commercial district that has a ton of brick-and-mortar retail stores as well as restaurants, not to mention you’re surrounded by entertainment. Union Square has something for everyone. It’s a great example of the diversity of neighborhoods in San Francisco.

But, above all else, Union Square is the city’s premier shopping hub. High-end boutiques and famous department stores line the streets, with household names like Macy’s, Gucci, Zara, and more. The area boasts a thriving nightlife, with theaters, elegant restaurants, and bars. It’s also where you’ll find a variety of luxury and boutique hotels.

Architecture fans can enjoy Union Square’s remarkable buildings, each of which adds to the striking look of the neighborhood. Wander through the historic Westin St. Francis Hotel, which has graced the city since 1904. Or marvel at the elegant Flood Building, an iconic Beaux-Arts masterpiece from the same era. And you’ll want to see the historic Macy’s Union Square, another significant San Francisco landmark.

Another of the neighborhood’s unique features is its central role as a transportation hub. The famous cable car turnaround at Powell and Market Streets is a must-see! Watching the cable cars make their dramatic turns is a quintessential San Francisco experience that captures the city’s charm and history. This is also a great place to hop on (if there’s not a huge, long line of course).

And if you’re looking for a centrally located neighborhood in San Francisco to stay in, Union Square is an excellent choice. We stayed at the Beacon Grand Hotel and not only is it located in a historically beautiful building with gorgeous rooms, it’s location was so convenient for exploring all the best things to do in San Francisco .

Just north of Union Square, Chinatown stands out as a cultural gem among the San Francisco neighborhoods. It holds the title of the oldest and one of the largest Chinatowns outside of Asia and it really is one of the most beautiful and aesthetically charming neighborhoods in San Francisco too!

Dragon’s Gate is the magnificent entrance that marks the beginning of San Francisco’s Chinatown. This impressive gateway welcomes visitors to an immersive cultural experience. Flanked by two imposing lion statues, Dragon’s Gate is a symbol of Chinatown’s heritage.

Step into Chinatown and enter a world of vibrant colors, intricate traditional architecture, and an atmosphere brimming with energy. You can venture through the bustling markets to find all sorts of exotic goods and herbal remedies. A patchwork of storefronts features both modern boutiques and old-school gift shops.

One of the main draws of Chinatown is its authentic cuisine. This is the place to come for authentic dim sum at bustling teahouses or Peking duck at renowned restaurants. And don’t forget to explore the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory– yes, the fortune cookie was born right here in San Francisco!

And one of the best ways to experience Chinatown is of course eating your way around the neighborhood. Consider joining a cultural walking and culinary tour that includes an intimate history of the neighborhood and a traditional Chinese lunch. Or this wonderful history and cultural tour through Chinatown .

• North Beach

North Beach, often dubbed “Little Italy,” is a vibrant neighborhood that represents the Italian heritage of San Francisco. Strolling through its charming streets, you’ll enjoy a unique blend of history, culture, and my favorite part – the flavors and food.

Unsurprisingly, the food scene is a highlight of North Beach. The smell of freshly brewed espresso wafts into the streets from the many sidewalk cafes. And Italian restaurants serve up classic pasta dishes and iconic pizzas.

We recommend checking out Tony’s Pizza Napoletana. It’s famous for its award-winning pies baked in a variety of ovens, and they even hold a Guinness Book of World Records title! There are some places that have a lot of hype and don’t live up to it, but Tony’s does. The worst part is it can be hard to get a table, but the good news is you can order takeout and walk across the street and enjoy it in Washington Park!

There are plenty of popular and great restaurants here! Check out The Stinking Rose for their famous garlic-focused menu, Mario’s Bohemian Cigar Store Cafe (don’t be fooled by the name) is a great spot for lunch, and if you have a sweet tooth head to Stella Pastry!

But North Beach is more than just food. Another reason it’s considered one of the most popular neighborhoods in San Francisco is the historic City Lights Bookstore. This renowned literary landmark from the Beat Generation boasts a legacy that continues to inspire writers and intellectuals from around the world. You can also visit the Beat Museum, which pays homage to the iconic Beatniks that once thrived in North Beach.

Nestled in the heart of North Beach, Washington Square is a historic gem. It dates back to the 19th century when it became San Francisco’s first public park! Today, it’s a popular urban park with views of Saints Peter and Paul Church. Visitors and guests alike enjoy picnics on the grass or people-watching after a long walk. Just off Washington Square, you can visit different cafes, bakeries, and restaurants.

You could also just take a stroll down North Beach’s stretch of Columbus Avenue and enjoy the sights! Colorful murals decorate the streets, and European-style architecture gives old-world charm.

Also, make sure to step into Al’s Attire on Columbus! This is the cutest vintage shop where you can get hand-made, one-of-a-kind clothes. 

• Haight-Ashbury

Step into the vibrant world of Haight-Ashbury, a San Francisco neighborhood steeped in history and renowned for its pivotal role in the 1960s counterculture movement. Come here for top-notch vintage shops, funky boutiques, and colorful Victorian houses. To this day, Haight-Ashbury maintains a bohemian spirit that makes it one of the best San Francisco neighborhoods to check out!

In fact, one of the top things to do in Haight-Ashbury is simply walk its streets! You’ll feel the vibe of the era as you glimpse the businesses and artwork. And make note of the stunning pastel houses that date back to the early 1900s. It’s like you can sense the neighborhood’s layered past. Whether you’re hunting for vintage items or just soaking up the atmosphere, strolling Haight-Ashbury will reveal authentic San Francisco.

And definitely add Amoeba Records to your San Francisco bucket list! This music warehouse is a treasure trove of vintage music and memorabilia. Come peruse the stacks and bins full of records, 45s, CDs, VHS tapes, and more that spans genres and eras. There’s often live music in the store, too.

Music lovers, you’ll also want to check out The Grateful Dead House! This historic house on Ashbury Street was the former residence of the iconic band during the 1960s. And only a block away is the house Janis Joplin lived in during the same decade! Both are private homes today, but if you’re a fan, it’s fun to see the exteriors.

While you’re in Haight-Ashbury, you’ll want to visit its neighboring landmark, Golden Gate Park. Take time to explore this sprawling green space, where you can hike, check out ball fields, or picnic. The park is also home to prominent museums and remarkable gardens including the San Francisco Botanical Gardens.

• Mission District

Named after the nearby 17th-century Mission Dolores, the Mission District represents a neighborhood with Latino roots and a hipster spirit. One of the top neighborhoods in San Francisco to visit, every street oozes a creative vibe. You’ll want to come here for the thriving food scene, street art, quirky boutiques, vintage shops, and hopping nightlife!

Whenever we’re here, I have to stop at Nooworks. This woman-owned brand features stunning prints that you won’t be able to get enough of! And Jenny Lemons is another favorite. Here, you can find all kinds of darling fruit-themed one-of-a-kind items or even take DIY classes.

If you’re hungry, you can feel good about supporting Shuggie’s Trash Pie, a funky pizza parlor built around a passion for reducing food waste. And no mention of the Mission District is complete without eating iconic Mission-style burritos! You can find them at any of the neighborhood’s taquerias and other eateries.

And a huge part of the Mission District is its street art. Though it’s everywhere, the main spots are Balmy Alley and Clarion Alley. These alleys showcase an array of colorful murals that tell stories of culture, history, and social issues. Balmy Alley’s art is deeply rooted in Latino heritage, while Clarion Alley’s works embrace a variety of themes. Both alleys offer a visual journey celebrating the diverse spirit of the Mission District.

Oh, and don’t miss Dolores Park if you need a bit of respite from all the walking you’ll be doing!

• Castro District

Within Eureka Valley is a special neighborhood called the Castro. In San Francisco, think of gay culture and the Castro District comes to mind! Renowned as the city’s LGBTQ+ neighborhood, its welcoming spirit and rich history make it one of the best San Francisco neighborhoods to explore.

A local guide on a tour told us this is where you find the best Victorian homes, and we agree! For classic multi-level structures, for sure take a walk down Hartford Street, but you’ll find them everywhere. It’s an eclectic collection of colorful Victorian homes, radiating a unique charm in the neighborhood.

For iconic LBGTQ+ history, just look up and down Castro Avenue. At the northern end, Harvey Milk Plaza commemorates the LGBTQ+ trailblazer.

Nearby, Pink Triangle Memorial Park honors victims of the Nazi regime during World War II. Down Castro Avenue, there’s the Rainbow Walk that honors prominent LGBTQ+ figures. And you can check out the museum exhibits at the GLBT Historical Society nearby.

At night, the district comes alive with a myriad of bars and clubs, and you can take your pick when it comes to entertainment options. A notable historic spot is the Twin Peaks Tavern.

• Alamo Square

Nestled among the array of San Francisco neighborhoods, there’s Alamo Square. Even if you’re unfamiliar with San Francisco, you probably recognize this cherished neighborhood! Alamo Square’s fame rests upon its iconic feature: the world-renowned Painted Ladies.

These beautifully restored Victorian houses make Alamo Square one of the most visited neighborhoods in San Francisco. Visitors from around the world come to Alamo Square’s hilltop park to witness the timeless beauty of the Painted Ladies. And if your a child of the 90s, you’ll probably have flashbacks to Full House’s opening credit scene here where the entire Tanner family is picnicking in front of the Painted Ladies and SF skyline in the backdrop!

Yep, this is a great spot for skyline views too, you actually get great panoramic views of the city, complete with the iconic Transamerica Pyramid in the background!

History enthusiasts will appreciate another beautiful home in the neighborhood, the William Westerfield House. Nicknamed “The Russian Embassy,” this historic Victorian beauty is striking to see. Built in 1889, it’s had quite a few lives during its storied history! Like the rest, this is a private residence, so you can’t go inside. But it makes quite the impression when seeing the structure in person.

• Lower Haight

South of Alamo Square is Lower Haight, a small, laid-back neighborhood among the best neighborhoods in San Francisco if you’re looking for less touristy areas to explore but still be nearby all the big attractions. It’s known for its cool bars. Among them, Woods Lowside stands out as a favorite. Come here for craft brews, curated wine, Detroit-style pizza, and a warm ambiance.

If you’re looking for a chill dive bar, go with Tornado! They’re a neighborhood staple and have a diverse selection of beer! Just make sure you have cash because they don’t take cards.

Or for a unique experience, check out Noc Noc. This quirky bar features a mash-up of neon lights, alien paraphernalia, and aboriginal décor. There’s a welcoming vibe at Noc Noc, and you’ll probably see the friendly owner tending the bar!

Most of the restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops are along Haight Street, especially between Scott Street and Webster Street. But throughout the neighborhood, you’ll find some more hidden gems. Go roller skating at the Church of 8 Wheels. At The Center SF, you can retreat into a good book and a cup of tea or join a Thai Chi class!

• Pacific Heights

Among the San Francisco neighborhoods, Pacific Heights reigns as a posh residential haven. It’s known for its upscale mansions, breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge, and picturesque Fillmore Street.

Pacific Heights sits on a geographic ridge that rises dramatically from the Marina District, almost 400 feet above sea level. This offers unparalleled views everywhere you go of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and the sweeping San Francisco Bay beyond!

A big draw for visitors to the neighborhood is a collection of upscale mansions that are celebrated for their unique and distinctive architecture. Want to hunt some down? Here are just a few stunning examples:

• Spreckels Mansion (2080 Washington Street)
• Flood Mansion (2222 Broadway Street)
• Haas-Lilienthal House (2007 Franklin Street)
• Spreckels Mansion II (2083 Washington Street)

If you want to see the inside, the Spreckels Mansion offers tours on the weekends!

Fans of Full House visiting Pacific Heights can see the house used for exterior shots at 1709 Broderick Street. You might recognize 2640 Steiner Street as the house from Mrs. Doubtfire! And you can see where the Salinger family lived in Party of 5 by visiting 2311 Broadway.

However, the biggest draw of Pacific Heights is the enchanting Fillmore Street. Between Jackson Street and California Street, it’s lined with boutiques, cafes, and salons. It’s also a popular street for street fairs and festivals throughout the year.

• Embarcadero

Ranked among the must-see neighborhoods in San Francisco, Embarcadero offers a fascinating history, scenic views, and compelling attractions. Set along the eastern shore, the main feature of Embarcadero is a picturesque promenade that traces the Bay’s edge.

The Embarcadero Promenade is the perfect spot for a tranquil walk. You’ll enjoy amazing views of the iconic San Francisco Bay Bridge as the boats come in and out of the harbor. Along the way, you’ll see various  public art installations  along the waterfront! The promenade also connects you to all the main attractions along the bay.

A focal point of Embarcadero and the promenade is the renowned Ferry Building Marketplace. This historic landmark once served as the city’s primary transit terminal. Built in 1898, it’s simply a beautiful building with a long history that’s worth seeing. Today, it’s a busy hub filled with eateries, artisanal shops, and a bustling farmers market! Grand Creperie was a great breakfast stop that we enjoyed on our most recent trip!

Beyond the Ferry Building Marketplace, you can take a ferry ride to explore other parts of the Bay Area, like Sausalito or Angel Island. Or head to Pier 33 to take a bay cruise to iconic landmarks like Alcatraz Island. A boat ride would offer a different view of the Golden Gate Bridge and a way to experience the city from a different perspective!

Nestled atop one of San Francisco’s iconic hills, Nob Hill exudes elegance and refinement as the former site of California’s Big Four mansions. The area’s past evokes the grandeur of a bygone era and makes it one of the best neighborhoods in San Francisco to visit.

Nob Hill’s allure extends to its luxury hotels, each a masterpiece unto itself. Head down Powell Street to find the grand architecture of the Fairmont Hotel, the Stanford Court, and the Ritz-Carlton. Be sure to walk through the grand lobby of the Fairmont, especially around the holidays!

For an iconic San Francisco experience, take a ride on the famous cable cars! Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from spots like Huntington Park. As you ascend, be prepared for breathtaking panoramic views of the city from above!

While you’re here, don’t miss the opportunity to explore Huntington Park. It’s a stunning hilltop urban park with all the extravagance of Nob Hill! Relax and enjoy the fountain or relax on green lawns. You can also enjoy the impressive architectural wonders that frame the park, including the Grace Cathedral and the James C. Flood Mansion.

And for a deeper dive into the history of San Francisco’s cable cars, visit the Cable Car Museum in Nob Hill. You’ll learn about the history of these iconic vehicles, how they work, and even get to explore vintage cable cars.

• Russian Hill

Another one of the most famous San Francisco neighborhoods, Russian Hill has a unique charm that captivates all who visit! It’s best known for its picturesque Lombard Street, aptly named “the crookedest street in the world!” But this neighborhood offers more than meets the eye.

The famous Hyde Powell cable car line traverses through Russian Hill, working as both a commuter rail for locals and a sightseeing opportunity for visitors. It’s truly the best way to soak in breathtaking views of the city’s stunning skyline.

Russian Hill is also a fun place to find hidden gems! Stroll along tucked-away staircases that wind through charming residential streets. Visit small green spaces that feel like secret gardens. Or explore quaint storefronts, local cafes, and enjoy a leisurely afternoon in this idyllic residential neighborhood.

• Telegraph Hill

Telegraph Hill is just one neighborhood over from Embarcadero. It’s one of the most captivating neighborhoods in San Francisco, with its unique attractions and great views of the bay.

Its most iconic landmark, Coit Tower, stands at the neighborhood’s tallest point inside Pioneer Park. For a small fee, you can go up inside the tower of the Art Deco building for breathtaking views of the city. Plus, you’ll also get to see the wild parrots who live there!

Another enchanting feature of Telegraph Hill is the Filbert Steps. From the waterfront up to Pioneer Park, they climb through lush gardens and past charming cottages. Along the way, you might see more wild parrots and get a glimpse of surrounding Art Deco-style buildings.

• Marina District

Situated along San Francisco’s northern shore, the Marina District is a coastal retreat among the San Francisco neighborhoods. This pretty area offers an array of attractions that perfectly capture the city at its finest.

One of the Marina District’s crowning jewels is Crissy Beach, with its sweeping shoreline and unobstructed views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Whether you’re simply enjoying the view or going kitesurfing, Crissy Beach offers an escape from the urban bustle!

For more architectural splendor, head to the Palace of Fine Arts. This unique monument was built in 1915 for a world exhibition and is today an event center and performing arts theater. It’s free to visit the grounds and wander the towering structure. Take your time marveling at the Greco-Roman elegance and tranquil lagoon.

Beyond its landmarks, the Marina District is considered one of the best neighborhoods in San Francisco because of the lovely Chestnut Street. This commercial street boasts retail stores, cafes, and restaurants in a lovely mix of buildings from different eras.

And for old theater lovers on Chestnut Street, take your pick! There’s the historic Marina Theater that dates back to the 1920s. Or there’s the larger Art Deco-style Presidio Theater from the 1930s!

Cool Neighborhoods in San Francisco (Post Summary):

• Fisherman’s Wharf

Fun San Francisco neighborhoods such as historic North Beach for Italian culture, the vibrant Mission District for art and food, picturesque Pacific Heights for stunning views, and trendy Haight-Ashbury for a taste of the 1960s. Each offers unique experiences and a glimpse of the city’s charm.

When visiting San Francisco, choose Union Square for central location and shopping, Fisherman’s Wharf for waterfront attractions, or Nob Hill for upscale experiences. The choice depends on your preferences, as each neighborhood offers its own character and convenience for exploring the city.

Nob Hill is often considered one of the nicest areas of San Francisco. With its elegant architecture, upscale hotels, and stunning views, it offers a luxurious and charming atmosphere.

San Francisco’s most walkable area is Union Square. It’s a bustling hub for shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. With its central location, pedestrian-friendly streets, and access to public transportation, Union Square is ideal for exploring the city on foot.

Enjoyed this guide to all the best neighborhoods in San Francisco to explore? Bookmark for later or share the love below on Pinterest!

And if you’re doing a larger road trip, be sure to check out all our favorite stops on the San Francisco to San Diego drive too!

Megan loves cats, pizza, and finding cool themed bars and hotels in New York and on her travels!

Similar Posts

20+ DREAMY Warm Winter Vacations in the USA

Brrr…winter is here and you need a break from the cold. Good thing there are several sunny and warm…

15 Enchanting Things to Do in Roxbury NY (Weekend Getaway Guide)

Looking for all the amazing things to do in Roxbury, NY? You’ve come to the right place! This charming…

Best Beaches in Laguna Beach + Map (Local’s Picks!)

Looking for the best beaches in Laguna Beach, California? We got you. This gorgeous coastal spot is one of…

Things to do in Lake Placid in Winter Getaway Guide

Check out all the amazing things to do in Lake Placid in winter making it the perfect winter getaway…

10 Amazing Stops on the Montreal to Washington DC Drive

There are many amazing stops along the Montreal to Washington DC drive or DC to Montreal drive that make…

25+ Scenic Stops on the San Francisco to San Diego Drive

Planning an amazing adventure by doing the San Francisco to San Diego drive or San Diego to San Francisco…

GET 5 FREE  LIGHTROOM PRESETS

Map of San Francisco by Neighborhood (16 You Should See)

San francisco neighborhoods.

San Francisco has what can only be described as a ridiculous number of neighborhoods. The whole city is 46 square miles but I swear that if they had their way each San Francisco resident would get their own neighborhood.  The good news is that unless you plan to sell or buy real estate in the city, you don’t need to know much more than a dozen neighborhoods.

While I am sure that every neighborhood is a precious snowflake, as a rule, most tourists won’t visit neighborhoods in the southern half of the city. Most of the well-known tourist sites are in the northern half of the city and many tourists will only visit the northeast corner of the city.

Russian Hill

• Fisherman’s Wharf North Waterfront

Telegraph Hill

North beach.

• Financial District Barbary Coast / Chinatown
• Downtown Union Square
• Van Ness Civic Center

South Beach

Yerba buena, mission dolores, central richmond, golden gate park.

• Lincoln Park Land’s End

One caveat is that as I researched this article I found maddingly inconsistent ideas of which area was in which neighborhood. Is Telegraph Hill its own neighborhood or is it part of North Beach.  Does Russian Hill go all the way to the shore as in the map above or not. I am using the map above to try and break down the neighborhood by neighborhood sites so that at least this article will be internally consistent.

One hint for getting around is that San Francisco is very hilly and you can assume that any neighborhood that includes the word “heights” or “hill” is on one of those hills.

Here are some of the notable neighborhoods and why tourists will visit them. I will start with the area by the Golden Gate bridge and then work my way east. I will skip most of the neighborhoods as I am focusing on what a tourist needs to know.

The two largest parks in the city are Golden Gate Park and the Presidio. The Presidio was an army based for most of the city’s history. It started as a Spanish fort, then Mexican and later American. The U.S. Army transferred the area to the National Park Service in 1994. Today it is a multi-use area including parkland, a number of visitor centers, businesses (including Lucasfilm’s Industrial Light & Magic), a golf course, and a beach. The Golden Gate Bridge connects to San Francisco in the Presidio neighborhood.

Significant Sites

• Presidio Visitor Center – The National Park Service has a visitor center at the Presidio with rotating exhibits and a bookstore.
• Golden Gate Bridge – San Francisco’s most iconic bridge connects the city to the county of Marin to the north. Check out 75 Facts about the Golden Gate Bridge including this one: The U.S. Navy was also concerned about the visibility of the Golden Gate Bridge and recommended painting it with black and yellow stripes instead. Immediately across the Golden Gate is the Marin Headlands part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

• Fort Point – Just below the San Francisco end of the Golden Gate Bridge is a Civil War era fort.
• Chrissy Field – Now it is a park with some of the best views of the bridge and one of the places you may have to park on a busy day to walk the bridge. But it was the site of the first airport in San Francisco. Why did the airport move? Someone built a bridge at the end of the runway.
• Baker Beach and Marshall Beach – Almost all the beaches in San Francisco are west and south of the Golden Gate bridge. North Baker Beach and Marchall Beach are clothing optional. Backer Beach is a mile long, but Marshall Beach which is closer to the bridge is a small hidden beach.
• Walt Disney Family Museum – This museum is not associated with the Disney company but with the Disney Family.
• Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary Visitor Center – The Farallones are a series of islands out of sight west of the Golden Gate Bridge. This museum has information about the wildlife in these remote and rugged islands. It is located at the west end of Chrissy Field.

Palace of Fine Arts

This area was built on debris from the 1906 earthquake and fire. Because of that, it was one of the most heavily damaged neighborhoods in the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake. It is just east of the Presidio and west of Ghirardelli Square and Fisherman’s Wharf

The Wave Organ

• The San Francisco Yacht Harbor – This is the marina that gives the neighborhood its name.
• The Wave Organ – Out on the breakwater that protects the yacht harbor is an odd art installation that makes sounds when waves hit it. The whole thing was designed to look like the ruins of some ancient city with these funky pipes poking out that is the “organ”.
• The Palace of Fine Arts – This beautiful spot is left over from the Panama–Pacific International Exposition. It is a popular site for brides to have their wedding pictures and you can often find at least one bridal party there on the weekends.
• Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture – The Fort Mason Center is yet another of San Francisco’s decommissioned army forts. You can find restaurants, theatres, galleries, an art supply store, and a bookstore. Fort Mason also has an International Youth Hostel with a view of San Francisco Bay that would make a 5-star hotel jealous. There are a couple of dozen different hostels in San Francisco spread throughout the city.

Lombard Street by Cynthia Lynch from Pixabay

• Ghirardelli Square – Italian Chocolate maker Domenico Ghirardelli came to San Francisco in 1853 from South America. His chocolate company is the 3rd oldest chocolate company in the country, but these days most people go to Ghirardelli Square to shop or to eat ice cream at the Ghirardelli ice cream parlor.

Ghirardelli Square

• Powell/Hyde Street Cable Car Turnaround – The Powell-Hide Street cable car turnaround is in front of Ghirardelli Square. Of the two lines that come down to FIsherman’s wharf, this one is the more popular so it usually has a longer line than the nearby Powell/Mason cable car turnaround. You can often find a street musician entertaining the people waiting in line.
• Lombard Street – Lombard Street is not the steepest street in the city, let alone the world, but it is the “The Crookedest Street in the World”. The best views of the street are from the bottom at Lombard and Leavenworth. It is fun to drive down, but what they don’t tell you is how nervewracking it is to drive up the backside of the hill.

Fisherman’s Wharf / North Waterfront

• Fisherman’s Wharf – This is one of the most touristy neighborhoods in San Francisco. You can get fresh seafood here like a walk-away shrimp cocktail. You can buy a cheap t-shirt or more likely a cheap sweatshirt because you thought California would be warmer. There are still working fishing boats in the area.
• Musee Mecanique – Old arcade games, ski ball, video games
• SS Jeremiah O’Brien – One of only 2 surviving Liberty Ships from the 2,710 built for World War II. The O’Brian was one of the supports ships for the D-Day invasion. The San Francisco Bay Area built many of these ships especially across the bay in what is now The Rosie the Riveter/World War II Home Front National Historical Park. There you can find one of the last Victory Ships .
• USS Pampanito (SS-383) – A World War II submarine that saw service in the Pacific. You can tour this boat for $20 adults / $10 kids

Hyde Street Historic Pier

• 1886 square-rigger Balclutha
• 1895 schooner C. A. Thayer
• 1890 steam ferryboat Eureka
• 1891 scow schooner Alma
• 1907 steam tug Hercules
• 1914 paddlewheel tug Eppleton Hall
• Cartoon Art Museum – I have not been to this museum since my kids were younger but we loved it then.
• Madame Tussauds Wax Museum
• Ripley s Believe It or Not! ( Ripley’s Believe It or Not and Big Bus combo ticket )
• Powell/Mason cable car turnaround – This is the line that I recommend to ride back towards Union Square because its lines are usually shorter.

• Alcatraz Tours – If you booked in advance, maybe months in advance you can take one of the best tours in San Francisco of the Island Prison of Alcatraz. read Alcatraz Island – The Definitive Guide to Touring Alcatraz .
• Blue and Gold / Red and White Tours – This is where you can board one of the boats for a cruise around San Francisco Bay. The rival lines are in the colors of U.C. Berkeley and Stanford.

• Street Musicians and Entertainers – This area is where you can find more street entertainers and buskers than any other San Francisco neighborhood. But watch out for the bushman whose sole shtick is to jump out from behind two branches and surprise people.

• Pier 39 – Pier 39 is a shopping and entertainment complex. It is also where the California Sea Lions hang out on the west side of the pier. It has some of the best views of Alcatraz that you can get without getting on a boat. Pier 39 has a number of restaurants from simple to fancy as well as many shops and a carousel. It also has a stage with some of the best street performers. Pier 39 has a large parking garage but if you use an app like BestParking, you can often find cheaper parking a couple of blocks away.
• Aquarium of the Bay – This aquarium is located on Pier 39.
• Exploratorium – This hands-on science museum at Pier 15 is not just a museum for kids. This San Francisco institution is a great stop for nerds like me.
• Hornblower Cruises – Hornblower provides Bruch, Dinner, or Sightseeing cruises of the Bay. They board at Pier 3. Odd piers are north of the Embarcadero building and even piers are south of the Embarcadero building.

Coit Tower on Telegraph Hill

This is one of San Francisco’s original 7 hills and was named for a semaphore tower that was erected on the top of the hill in 1849. This twoer was used to signal to the city when ships entered the harbor. The southern end of the Telegraph Hill neighborhood (which I would call part of North Beach but our map shows as Telegraph Hill) is Columbus Ave where you can find some great Italian restaurants like the historic Original Joe’s or one of my favorites Calzone’s .

Significant sites

• Coit Tower – Coit Tower was built in 1932-1933 using money left to the city by Lillie Hitchcock Coit. It was built as a memorial to volunteer firefighters. The interior, as mentioned above, is decorated with murals painted as part of the Public Works of Art Project (PWAP) during the depression. The resemblance of the tower to the nozzle of a fire hose is coincidental.

Washington Square Park San Francisco

North Beach is San Francisco’s Little Italy and has been named one of the 10 best Italian neighborhoods in the country. You can still find lots of Italian restaurants in the area and a recreation area named for native son Joe Dimaggio. A North Beach food tour is a great way to explore the neighborhood.

The heart of North Beach is probably Washington Square Park and Saints Peter and Paul Church which looks up at Coit Tower.

I was once pitched an article on surfing in San Francisco in North Beach. There is no beach in North Beach and no surfing. Apparently, not everything you read on the internet is true. Who knew?

• City Lights Bookstore  – This eclectic bookstore is a San Francisco institution that is probably the best spot in the city to remember the Beat Generation.
• Beach Blanket Babylon – This is a long-running only in San Francisco live performance musical known for its elaborate costumes will hold its last performances on Jan 1, 2020.

Transamerica Pyramid and American Zoetrope building

Financial District / Barbary Coast / Chinatown

This is San Francisco’s traditional button-down financial area which is the headquarters to companies like TransAmerica (in the Trans America Pyramid) and Bank of America. Bank of America was the Bank of Italy at the time of the 1906 earthquake and got a big boost because it was one of the first banks that started loaning money to rebuild, while the city was still smoldering.

But this area was also the area of Barbary Coast bars where a “sailor” might get passed out drunk and wake up on a ship to Shanghai. The northern part of this neighborhood around Broadway east of Columbus is seedier. That’s where you will find strip clubs and peep shows.

• Transamerica Pyramid – The best views of the pyramid are on Columbus Street which deadends at the tower.

• Chinatown – The western edge of the Financial District runs up against Chinatown. San Francisco Chinatown is the largest Chinatown outside of Asia as well as the oldest Chinatown in North America. It was started by mostly people from Canton who came over to work on the Central Pacific Railroad or came over for the gold rush. These days you are as likely to hear Mandarin as Cantonese. Grant Ave is where the tourists go while the locals are as likely to shop on Stockton.
• Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory – In an alley off Chinatown you can still see people make fortune cookies from scratch. San Francisco claims to be the home of the fortune cookie (as does Los Angeles ).

California’s Big Four  (also known as the 4 nabobs or nobs) “robber barons” who built the Central Pacific Railroad all built their mansions on Nob Hill: Leland Stanford (after whom Stanford University is named), Collis Potter Huntington, Mark Hopkins, and Charles Crocker. All 4 mansions survived the 1906 quake and fire, but have since been torn down. The only mansion left from that era is the one built by silver magnate James Clair Flood which is now the very exclusive Pacific-Union Club. The best way to become a member of this club is to have a grandfather who was a member.

This is now an area covered with luxury hotels. The Mark Hopkins hotel , the Stanford Court Hotel , and Huntington Park are named for 3 of the Big Four.

• Grace Cathedral – San Francisco has two cathedrals. Grace is an Episcopalian cathedral built in a neo-Gothic style. The best part of Grace are the two labyrinths it has. One is outside and one is inside. Grace is across from the small Huntington Park.

• The Cable Car Barn and Museum – This is one of the sites I love to take tourists to before they ride a cable car, especially my engineer friends. A cable car has no motor. It just has a big set of pliers that it uses to grab onto a moving cable and this is where the big engines that drive the cables live. This is a free museum and a great stop.
• The Masonic Auditorium – This is a great concert venue. Check the schedule for events.

Downtown / Union Square

Downtown is one of the prime shopping districts in the city with high-end shops anchored by Union Square with its statue featuring Victoria, goddess of victory. The model for Victoria was Alma Spreckels who married sugar magnate Adolph Spreckels. She talked her husband into donating the money for the  California Palace of the Legion of Honor museum by Land’s End. The square.

Gerry Street is where many of San Francisco’s theatres are, most only a block or two from Union Square. For that reason, the Square is also surrounded by high-end hotels like the Sir Francis Drake Hotel (now a Kimpton) where the doorman wears Tudor England garb.

Market Street has also routinely been a big shopping street. The Westfield San Francisco Center is a high-end urban mall. The best parking in the area (not the cheapest) is the large garage at 5th and Mission. Union Square has a parking garage under it that is a bit claustrophobic but convenient.

In the winter, an outdoor ice rink and a large Christmas tree can be found in Union Square.

While this is a POSH neighborhood, you will also seem some of the largest numbers of homeless along Market street in the evenings or even more so in the Tenderloin.

• Union Square
• Theatre District – Theatres like the American Conservatory Theater, the Curran, the Marine’s Memorial Theatre are close to Union Square. The Golden Gate Theatre is just off Market Street a bit further west.
• Powell Street and Market cable car turnaround

Van Ness / Civic Center

This neighborhood is where you will find city hall and government buildings but it is also a center for arts in San Francisco.

• Bill Graham Civic Auditorium – Bill Graham came to the U.S. after World War II and made a name as a music promoter. He brought groups like the Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane, and Janis Joplin’s band to the Fillmore auditorium. This downtown auditorium still holds rock concerts and other events.
• War Memorial Opera House – Across the street from City Hall is the city’s opera house. Opera has been performed in San Francisco since around 1850 and San Francisco was popular with touring companies and singers in the late 1800s. Tenor Enrico Caruso performed in San Francisco the day before the great 1906 earthquake. But San Francisco got it’s own opera company in 1923 and the opera house opened in 1932.

Strolling along the Embarcadero in South Beach from the Ferry Building at the north to Oracle Park in the south is one of my favorite walks in the city. There are great views of the bay and the ships passing and of the Bay Bridge. There are also some large public art projects along the way. Until the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake, this area was a highway, and the conversion of it to parkland as well as the renewal of the area because of the ballpark has greatly improved this corner of the city.

• The Ferry Building – Before the Oakland Bay Bridge in 1936 and the Golden Gate Bridge in 1937, this was the second busiest transit terminal in the world, second only to London’s Charing Cross Station. Now the building has come back to life with great food shops and restaurants. You can also still grab a ferry here.
• Buy Travel Insurance
• Save at San Francisco's Top Attractions with a San Francisco CityPass
• Get a Car Rental
• Search for Great Tours HERE
• Book Your Accommodation HERE

• Oracle Park – As a San Francisco Giants fan I am biased but a discussion of the best baseball park in the United States at least needs to include Oracle Park. The cheap seats have a great view of the bay. Read more at Visitor’s Guide to Oracle Park – Home of the San Francisco Giants , including how you can get a glimpse of every game for free.

• The Oakland Bay Bridge – The Golden Gate Bridge is the more famous of the two San Francisco bridges but the Bay Bridge now has a great display of lights in the evenings.

This neighborhood is one of the most popular neighborhoods with visitors as it is the home to the Moscone Convention Center. When Salesforce is having its annual conference Dreamforce, for instance, there can be an extra 100,000 people in San Francisco. At that time hotel rooms are impossibly expensive. Dreamforce is held in early November. If you are not coming for the conference, come some other time.

• Moscone Convention Center
• San Francisco Museum of Modern Art – If you like modern art I would recommend this museum over the De Young Museum in Golden Gate Park… but what do I know. I don’t like modern art.

The original San Francisco Mission now sits inside another of San Francisco’s great food neighborhoods. If you are looking for a burrito and so much more, this is the place to go. Which burrito place is the best can cause great debate among city residents.

• Mission Dolores  – The original mission building, the Mission San Francisco de Asis, is the oldest building in the city and dates back to 1776. It is still a functioning local church. It is just to the left of the more modern church.

South of the Presidio is a neighborhood that tourists don’t usually visit but it is a great place to get some great ethnic food and to visit one of San Francisco’s most interesting independent book stores.

• Clement Street – If you are looking for Burmese food, Vietnamese or a number of other different cuisines then dining out on Clement Street might be a good experience for you.
• Green Apple Book Store – This book store takes up most of the block that it is on.

San Francisco’s largest park is Golden Gate Park in the north and west. This area used to be just sand dunes but was reclaimed over the years to build one of the best city parks in the country.

• Windmills – At the west end of the park are a pair of windmills. The northern one, the Dutch Windmill, is surrounded by a garden of tulips.
• Japanese Tea House and Garden – This beautiful spot dates back to 1900. It is a lovely quiet corner of the city.
• de Young Museum – The de Young Museum is a modern art museum.
• California Academy of Sciences – This distinct building is covered with a living roof and hosts a variety of exhibits mostly around the life sciences. It includes a planetarium, an aquarium, a natural history museum, gardens, a 3D theater, and an aviary. It has two surprisingly good restaurants.
• Steinhart Aquarium – To visit the aquarium you must purchase a ticket to the Academy of Science.
• Golden Gate Park Carousel – This carousel is part of the Koret Children’s Quarter and dates back to 1914.
• Conservatory of Flowers – One of the oldest buildings in the park, the Victorian-style Conservatory of Flowers building dates back to 1876.

Lincoln Park / Land’s End

This green space is the northwest corner of the city includes a golf course, an art museum, a labyrinth, and some memorable cliffs.

• Cliff House – This restaurant and event venue sites on the cliffs above the Pacific with great views. The original Cliff House was built here in 1858. The current one is the 5th version. The most beautiful version was the 3rd version built by Adolph Sutro in 1894.
• ruins of the Sutro Baths  – Just north of the Cliff House are the ruins of a set of swimming pools also built by Adolph Sutro.
• Palace of the Legion of Honor – The Palace of the Legion of Honor is a fine art museum in a beautiful park. Some of this area used to be a graveyard but from 1920 to 1941 San Francisco moved all the graves out of the city some 150,000 of them down to Colma. Although it is now illegal to bury a body in San Francisco, rumor has it that Alma Spreckels might have found a way to hide the grave of her late husband somewhere on the grounds.

Learn more about San Francisco by listening to Travel to San Francisco, California – Amateur Traveler Episode 622 .

and Travel to San Francisco, California – Amateur Traveler Episode 159

Related posts:

• San Francisco Food Tour – North Beach
• Weekend Getaways in the Bay Area – San Francisco
• Top of the Ninth and Top of the Mark – San Francisco Baseball Weekend
• 11 Best Campgrounds in the San Francisco Bay Area

by Chris Christensen

| @chris2x | facebook

11 Responses to “Map of San Francisco by Neighborhood (16 You Should See)”

Hi there, I am interested in your SF neighborhoods map. Is this image something we can purchase from you to print for a commercial setting?

Chris Christensen

I purchased it so I can’t resell it. I don’t recall where I got it. but if you save it you can ask Google images to find images like this and give it an image.

JOYCE MCKINNEY

Does a poster exist of the neighborhood map?

Not that I am aware of and I don’t have the right to make one I think.

The neighborhood is spelled “Mission Dolores”, with an O. But also, I don’t this is the neighborhood to get a burrito. Instead here you will find Dolores Park, where on a sunny weekend day you’ll find eccentric picnickers and views of the skyline. This is also the most gentrified part of the Mission with boutiques and trendy eateries. Inner Mission is more likely where you’d find that burrito.

Thanks Matt. If I could spell I would be dangerous.

Denny Smith

Chris, I admire the work and level of detail you invested in this survey. And the images are great. I wish I could have had your ear for about 15 minutes when you were compiling this because just a handful of modifications would add a lot of vernacular relevance. For example, I don’t know anyone who makes distinctions between the “Middle” Richmond and Outer Richmond. Same with the Sunset. Likewise, “Middle” Sunset and “Outer” Parkside seem overly granular. On the other hand, some details are missing or misrepresented—like Chinatown, The Embarcadero, Dogpatch, Polk Gulch, Valencia Corridor and the Castro! Those last three are ostensibly subsumed on the map by “Van Ness,” “Mission Dolores” and “Eureka Valley,” respectively, but no-one refers to those anymore as neighborhoods. Rather, Dolores Park and Mission Dolores are now subsumed by either the Castro or the Valencia Corridor, which runs between the Inner Mission and the Castro. I’m not an urban archivist or historian, Chris, so I want to be humble, not cocksure. But I arrived here in 1974 and have seen so many things change, so many people drift in & pout out, it’s hard to pass up even minor corrections. When I got here the beatniks & hobos had already signed off to hippies & bohos, who sorta evolved into drifters & dreamers or druggies & clubbies, with survivors going rural, the wounded living communal. Then a rebound came with refugees—the Pinoys & the gay boys, familias Latina & immigrants from Asia, then yuppies became the newbies, nimby’s the landed gentry, nighttime hipsters were daytime house flippers, with Gen X & Millennial techies moving from the Midwest and squeezing natives and boomers on social security. All this transpired against cycles-of-cycles of market-return inflation, vacancy-rate deflation, dot-com booms & drug-net busts, neighborhood gentrification, cultural strangulation, and now our creators of music, arts & letters are in economic exile. The City is still potentially magical, and you beautifully describe that. It’s nice to hear it’s glories described afresh! There is a lot of marketing agenda out there, however. For example, more than a few of these neighborhood labels sound “stately but unreal,” so “real estate,” I suspect, may have manufactured them, for reasons that evade reality. Here are some distinctions about which I am pretty confident: * The Civic Center, the Tenderloin, Polk Gulch, Chinatown, The Embarcadero and Dogpatch can all stand independently. * “Lower Pacific Heights” is actually not a ‘hood but an old joke, satirizing how some people south of true Pacific Heights wish they lived like “Specific Whites.” * Van Ness is merely a thoroughfare, not an area. * South Park, the only oval neighborhood in SF, should be embedded in Soma. * Forest Hill Extension, Mt. Davidson Manor and Westwood Highlands?—I never heard of these, and though they may exist in some dusty file, the wealthy owners of those properties are not so Balkanized, monastic or exclusive that they need their own tiny kingdoms like Monaco, Andorra and Vatican City. There are other things on that map, I think, that don’t rise to the naming scale of Noe Valley, Potrero Hill or North Beach, but more research would be warranted for certainty. Best to visit different hoods and talk casually to a sprinkling of folks who live in them, then amalgamate their current usage. Neither City records nor business-sector spokes-people are better authorities on a community than people who live there. So that’s my over-heated two cents, and we all know what a few pennies are worth today!

The map was drawn by someone else, but when I wrote the article I was surprised that ever different map I saw drew the neighborhoods differently 🙂

Fidel Cano-Leon

Chris, you have done a beautiful, full of information guide about San Francisco. Your time and efforts invested are appreciated. Best regards

Douglas Look

Hi Chris–I was also interested in the source of the neighborhood map. FYI I tracked it down and it looks like it’s available through Shutterstock: https://www.shutterstock.com/image-vector/modern-city-map-san-francisco-usa-1024529167

Leave a Reply

Name (must be a real name) (required)

Mail (will not be published) (required)

Tags: best , san francisco , san francisco bay area

This site is owned by Chris Christensen who has lived in California for over 50 years.

Checkout Chris's other efforts:

• Amateur Traveler blog
• Amateur Traveler podcast
• Hotel Scoop (hotel reviews)
• Passport Travel Marketing and PR podcast
• The Bible Study Podcast

Featured Destinations

• Monterey Peninsula
• an Amateur Traveler site
• Privacy Policy
• Amateur Traveler Media Kit
• Working with Amateur Traveler
• Guest Post Guidelines
• The Amateur Traveler Manifesto

A Resident’s Guide to Visiting The Best Neighborhoods in San Francisco

March 24, 2022 January 8, 2021 | Paroma

San Francisco , my adopted home for 10+ years, is only 49 square miles but this has not deterred the city from being dissected into dozens of neighborhoods, each as different from the other as chalk and cheese. Although it is hard to pick a favorite, the best neighborhoods in San Francisco are the perfect mix of old and new. They mirror the old school charm of a maverick town that seems to be all but gone.

From popular attractions to lesser known gems, unique foodie finds to best local shopping spots, these San Francisco neighborhoods will enthral you with their unique San Francisco vibe , something that you will not find in the touristy parts of the city such as Fisherman’s Wharf or Union Square.

In this post on the best San Francisco neighborhoods to visit , I’ll be talking about 10 of my favorites neighborhoods in the city with recommendations on the best of sightseeing , food and other insider tips that only a resident can provide! Although each of San Francisco’s neighborhoods are precious, I have selected only those that offer a good mix of local life along with some famous attractions for first time visitors.

The whole idea of this post is to nudge you towards the many other beautiful places in San Francisco that are often overlooked in favor of the oft-hashed tourist spots, so that you may discover a different side to this city and experience how locals live. Since most of these neighborhoods are a mix of business and residential, please be mindful and respectful of the residents while visiting. 

Best neighborhoods in San Francisco #1. Russian Hill

Russian Hill is vintage San Francisco and my absolute favorite neighborhood in the city . With its steep climbs that will test your gams but reward you with breathtaking views, alternate Instagram worthy spots , charming restaurants and cafes and breathtaking homes with secret gardens and alleyways, Russian Hill feels like that calm oasis far away from the madding crowd. Here are the highlights of this San Francisco neighborhood :

Popular attractions in Russian Hill

  Extremely touristy , yet one that you must see to believe is none other than Lombard Street, the crookedest street in the world. Arrive as early as possible to avoid the crowds. You can also board San Francisco’s world famous Cable Car from one of the Hyde street stops to go northbound to Fisherman’s Wharf.

Hidden Gems in Russian Hill

Russian Hill is filled with hidden gems and cool “locals only” spots that tourists flocking to Lombard street miss out on. Fay Garden , a stone’s throw from Lombard street is a beautiful public garden for picnic amidst the roses. Ina Coolbrith park is another great locals only spot for a panoramic view of the city as is the alleyway Macondray lane winding through a secret garden in the city.

Another Russian Hill treasure is the San Francisco Art Institute that is a must visit to see (completely free of charge if I may add) one of the three San Francisco murals painted by Diego Rivera , the  world famous Mexican muralist.

Dining in Russian Hill

Fiorella Polk, Lord Stanley, Leopold’s…or just anywhere on Polk street

Getting there

Hop on San Francisco’s famous Cable cars (Powell-Hyde or Powell-Mason lines) and get down at any stop between Vallejo and Lombard streets.

San Francisco neighborhoods to visit #2. Telegraph Hill and North Beach

These two iconic San Francisco neighborhoods are kind of joined at the hip, so even at the risk of sounding blasphemous they do come as a 2 for 1 package. North Beach or “Little Italy” is that rambunctious hood for delicious pizzas, gelato and a zesty nightlife with bar crawling being totally A-OK till the wee hours of dawn.

Telegraph Hill is the quieter cousin on the other side of Columbus Avenue, made famous by the wild parrots that have made this neighborhood their home. Here are some of the iconic attractions of these San Francisco neighborhoods:

Popular attractions in North Beach and Telegraph Hill

Coit Tower with fantastic views on the top and striking murals on the entrance walls that were inspired by Diego Rivera’s visit to our city. You can either walk up the Filbert street steps to take in the views of the city if you so dare or simply drive all the way up.

Viewing the murals is free of cost and is one of the many free things to do in San Francisco (psst.. subscribe here to download your PDF of 50 free things to do in San Francisco).

Next, comes the beautiful Saints Peter and Paul Church , right across from Washington Square. This Roman Catholic church is a sight to behold with an interior adorned with intricate murals, carved pews and stained glass windows.

Finally, don’t forget to visit another San Francisco heavyweight City Lights Bookstore , an independent book haven that opened its doors in 1953 and is considered a literary landmark amongst booklovers. Respected nationwide as a strong voice against authoritarianism, censorship and conservatism, City Lights is still going strong after 60+ years in welcoming bibliophiles from all over the world in a three storied store packed with literary wonders.

For those of you visiting San Francisco with little ones, the Joe Dimaggio playground right off Columbus Avenue is a fun spot for them to enjoy and is one of the many family friendly activities to do in San Francisco with kids .

Where to eat in Telegraph Hill and North Beach

Tony’s Pizza Napoletana -get pizza by the slice in the take-away spot right next to the main restaurant and enjoy it sitting outdoors or Washington Square, Sotto Mare (for their famous cioppino), Lush Gelato , Caffe Greco (one of the best places for dessert in San Francisco ), Caffe Trieste (serving espresso in San Francisco for over 50 years and cash only), Liguria Bakery (come in early for their mouthwatering focaccia), Baonecci (another family owned pizzeria), XOX truffles (authentic French truffles that are some of the best chocolates in San Francisco ).

Muni lines 8 and 45 from Powell Street BART station (downtown) will take you to North Beach

Best San Francisco neighborhoods #3. ChinaTown

Yes, this San Francisco neighborhood is touristy as heck, but Chinatown, the largest in North America , is an actual residential place. The kind where locals live, shop and go about their merry way and something that most tourists often overlook as they are snapping away photos of the overhanging red lanterns and the Dragon gate. So please be respectful, don’t insert your proboscis in private properties or businesses and check out these attractions:

Sightseeing in  Chinatown

Dragon’s Gate at the intersection of Bush Street and Grant Avenue marks a grand entrance into Chinatown, covered with a canopy of red lanterns swinging merrily overhead. Chinatown is also home to two blink-and you’ll miss rare Taoist temples (Tin How and Ma Tsu) that are worth a visit.

The biggest attraction is undoubtedly the Golden Gate fortune cookie factory in 56 Ross Alley which is where the historic fortune cookie originated. This factory diligently churns out 20,000 cookies a day (with those cutesy/esoteric/downright messages tucked inside) and is open to visitors. Arrive early or go on a popular food tour to skip the crowds.

Where to eat in Chinatown

Golden Gate Bakery (go early for their egg tarts and check their timings since they are a little eccentric about it), Z&Y ,  Good Mong  Kok bakery , Great Eastern Restaurant , Dim Sum Bistro (popular takeout spot for dim sum/dumplings), China Live (a spacious food hall), Mister Jiu’s (fancy Californian-Chinese dining)

Muni line 8 from downtown will take you to the Dragon’s Gate entrance or simply walk about 12-15 minutes from downtown (Powell Street BART station). I highly recommend doing the walk from downtown to Chinatown, especially during Christmas in San Francisco to see some beautiful Christmas lights .

San Francisco neighborhoods to visit #4. Mission

No trip to San Francisco, including a layover , is complete without visiting its largest and most vibrant neighborhood, i.e. the Mission. Encompassing both outer and inner Mission, this is one of the best neighborhoods of San Francisco   and the one that has weathered the most in terms of gentrification and changes and yet has somehow managed to retain its character and charm. These are the unmissable attractions of the SF Mission :

Popular attractions

The Mission neighborhood is the last Latino bastion in the city and is home to some of the most striking and larger than life murals in the country, conveying myriad messages on social justice, civil rights and a slice of life in San Francisco. Walk down 24th street to catch them and don’t forget to visit Clarion alley and Balmy alley to be surrounded by some of the best murals in San Francisco .

Besides murals, check out City Art Cooperative Gallery (owned by local artists) to check out our local art and stop by Dog Eared books on Valencia to pick up a good read for relaxing in Mission Dolores Park , the largest green space bordering this neighborhood and Castro.

Where to go shopping in the Mission

From the boutique niche stores on Valencia street to more family owned businesses along Mission street, this neighborhood in San Francisco is bustling with local stores that you must check out if you are looking for local, authentic souvenirs, gifts and San Francisco fashion .

My favorite places are The Plant Fairies (LGBTQ owned plant nursery), Often Wander , Therapy Store , Nooworks (colorful clothes made in the Bay Area), Acacia, Needles and Pens, Super Simple   and literally everything between 23rd-14th street on Valencia featuring home decor, gifts and thrift/consignment stores.

The best time to visit Mission is undoubtedly during Cinco De Mayo or Carnaval or Dia de los Muertos when the neighborhood comes alive in celebrating Latino and other indigenous cultures with singing, dancing and of course food stalls.

Where to eat in the Mission

The Mission is undoubtedly the gastronomic epicenter of the city and is also the go to place to taste some of the best Latino food (Central and South American) north of the border. Urban legend has it that this San Francisco neighborhood has enough restaurants to seat the entire population in the city on any given night! Plus, with the diversity of cuisines that are all so good, you’ll have a really tough time choosing your next meal.

Mission is brimming with hipster cafes and restaurants along the gentrified Valencia street and mom-and-pop stores along Mission and on 24th street. Although the food game is strong in Mission, there are several places that are popular with tourists and those that remain tucked away for only locals to enjoy. My picks from both categories are:

Restaurants/cafes popular with tourists

Tartine bakery and Tartine manufactory- legendary bakery for some of the best desserts in San Francisco , Bi-Rite ice cream , Craftsmen and Wolves (sweet and savory baked goods), Flour and Water Pizzeria , Dandelion Chocolate (bean to bar chocolate makers offering tasty treats and hot chocolates of different kinds), Foreign Cinema , Beretta , Wise Sons Jewish Deli, La Taqueria (for Mission style burritos voted the best in the country), El Farolito, Stonemill Matcha, Farmhouse Kitchen (Thai), Mission Chinese food, Loló, Gracias Madre (vegan Mexican fare), AL’s place .

Local’s only/lesser known restaurants

Tortas Los Picudos , Balompié (for killer El Salvadorian pupusas), Udupi Palace (one of the best 100% vegetarian spots in San Francisco and also one of the best cheap eats in town ), Little Heaven , Gallardos Mexican restaurant , Panchita’s (El Salvadorian), Prubechu (Guam)

Finally, if you are just overwhelmed or want to dig deeper into the Mission’s fascinating culinary landscape, I suggest you go on this fantastic food tour !

Take the BART and get off at 16th street or 24th street Mission stops

Fun San Francisco neighborhoods #5. Castro

Castro is ground zero of the LGBTQ movement in San Francisco and California. Home to Harvey Milk , the first openly gay person to be elected to public office in USA (he was assassinated months later on the steps of City Hall), this iconic neighborhood in its present form is not only one of the most fun and progressive nooks of the city, but is also filled with lots of great places to eat, drink and shop. 

Plus with more than frequent sightings of delightfully ornate drag queens and near 100% nude men on their routine neighborhood stroll , there is never a dull moment in San Francisco’s quirkiest and most merrily outrageous neighborhood! One of the best neighborhoods in San Francisco to visit for those not too stuck up in their heads, here are some of the major attractions that you cannot miss:

Popular attractions in the Castro

Stop by the Harvey Milk Museum/GLBT Historical Society Museum  for a lesson on LGBT rights history or catch a film festival movie or a sing-along at the famous Castro Theater , only of the few remaining single screen theatres in the city where David Hegarty, the legendary organ player regales you with his tunes before the start of any show as the organ rises onto the stage from below. Take a photo on the Rainbow Crosswalk or beneath one of the many cheeky store signs.

If outdoors are your calling, then trek to the dog friendly Corona Heights park or Kite Hill open reserve , which are some of the several lookout points in the city offering fantastic views or slide down concrete Seward Mini park slides in the nearby park of the same name. Remember to pack warm for San Francisco since these places are at an elevation and it can get pretty windy up there.

Eat and Drink in the Castro

Castro is buzzing with loads of good places to drop your inhibitions and have a fun time! Be it popular spots like Harvey’s or Moby Dick , Mama Ji’s , Starbelly (go for brunch), Frances (one of my favorite places for fancypants dining), Dinosaurs (for Vietnamese Banh Mi sandwiches), Kitchen Story (be prepared for REALLY LONG brunch wait times), Fable, Kasa Indian Eatery (Indian thalis and wraps which are SO GOOD after bar crawls) and Twin Peaks Tavern , overlooking the very last stop of the muni F-line (the same one that hauls your tush to Fisherman’s Wharf).

Where to shop in the Castro

Get truffles at the Filipino inspired chocolate store Kokak Chocolates , find some new plant friends at Hortica and don’t forget to get SFMade gifts (all locally made) at Local Take .

The Castro is the last stop of the F-line (the same that ferries you to Fisherman’s Wharf), so come on aboard!

San Francisco neighborhoods to visit #6. Western Addition/NOPA

I am clearly biased here because this was my neighborhood for 8 golden years , but do hear me out! Western Addition along with NOPA (North of Panhandle) are these twin neighborhoods that extend from the lively Fillmore street on the east to another bustling artery Divisadero on the west and encompass a thriving community filled with arts, food, local stores and major attractions. These are as follows:

Famous landmarks in the Western Addition/NOPA neighborhood

Japantown , one of the three of its kind remaining in California is a good place to start. Go to the Buchanan-Post street mall for yummy Japanese delights and shops selling everything from Japanese dessert to ceramics, check out books at Kinokuniya bookstore, stop by the funky store “New People” have some Manju (tea cakes) at Benkyodo and give your tired feet a rest at the peace plaza under the shadows of a looming pagoda.

Next, head straight to the intersection of Steiner and Fulton streets to the dog friendly Alamo Square park (one of the many lovely dog parks in San Francisco ) to snap a photo of the set of colorful Victorian houses called “ The Painted Ladies ” which are a staple landmark of San Francisco!

Shopping in the Western Addition/NOPA

There is no dearth of local boutiques and luxury brand stores all along Fillmore street as well as on Divisadero for you to shop till you drop! I personally recommend shopping in Japantown itself (lots of gift and stationery stores) as well as places like Rare Device (a  delightful local gift store on Divisadero and Hayes) and Asmbly Hall (local small business carrying SFMade brands for clothing, home decor and gifts).

Hayes valley , another lively neighborhood filled with lots of great stores and restaurants, is right next to Western Addition. For those of you looking for local, one of a kind places to shop or good cafes and wine bars, do stroll down Hayes street to check out these businesses.

Dining in Western Addition/NOPA

This neighborhoods boasts of lots of heavy weights and a wide variety of cuisines, as you’ll find out just by walking down Fillmore street (between Fulton and Post) and Divisadero street. Here are some of my favorites:

Japantown mall: Marufuku Ramen (best Ramen in San Francisco), Cafe Hana, Benkyodo (come as early as possible for their Manju/Japanese tea cake), YakiniQ cafe (for their famous sweet potato latte), Uji time dessert, Belly Good Cafe & Crepes, Matcha Cafe Maiko, Oma San Francisco Station (sushi), Sasa (sushi), Crown and Crumpets for afternoon tea in San Francisco

Fillmore street (upto Post) and around: State Bird Provisions (2 Michelin star restaurant) and its sister restaurant The Progress , Avery (fine dining), Wise Sons Jewish Deli, The Social Study

Divisadero street and around: Brenda’s Meat & three, Oasis cafe, The Mill (hipster cafe with oh so good bread and toast), Hahdough (German bakery), Ragazza, Little Star Pizza, Che Fico, Souvla (SF style Greek), Zaytoon, famous restaurants Nopa and sister Nopalito .

Resident’s pro-tip

Although Western Addition/NOPA is cool to visit anytime of the year, there are certain times of the year when you must visit Japantown to see it come alive during festivities ! The Spring Cherry Blossom Festival (Feb-March) or the Nihonmachi Street Fair (celebration of Asian-Pacific American culture in August) are great occasions to see the community come together and celebrate with music, food and cultural events!

Muni lines 22 (Bay Street bound), 38  (Land’s End bound) and 31 (Ocean Beach bound) will all bring you to JapanTown from downtown San Francisco

Famous San Francisco neighborhoods #7. Haight

This is possibly the most famous neighborhood of San Francisco besides the Mission , that has been immortalized in pop culture. Thanks in part to the hippie/flower power movement of the 60s and being home to musical celebrities such as Janis Joplin and Grateful Dead, this neighborhood is where eccentricity hangs in the air laced with faint afternotes of weed. Visiting Haight is a must, as is checking these attractions out:

Main attractions in Haight

Vivid and colorful Haight murals in all shapes and sizes, all of which can be found as you walk down Haight street (all the way from lower Haight up to Golden Gate Park).

The Fishnet stocking clad dangling legs at Piedmont Boutique on Haight Street, which is one the many alternate Instagram worthy spots in the city .  Speaking of stores, there are lots of quirky boutiques and stores on Haight street selling eccentric gifts and one of a kind souvenirs. Music lovers should not give the legendary Amoeba Music a miss which is home to thousands of new and used vinyls.

The Grateful Dead house , aka a colorful Queen Anne on Ashbury Street (710 Ashbury) where the legendary music band stayed and rehearsed.

Finally, San Francisco’s famous Golden Gate Park borders the western end of Haight. Do spend some time here since this is a treasure trove of many a San Francisco wonders and is bigger than NYC’s Central Park! From a lush Japanese tea garden to beautiful museums and exploratoriums, from hidden waterfall and lake to flower conservatory and arboretum, from botanical garden to windmills and even Bisons , this park truly is a paradise for the nature lover in an urban jungle.

Where to eat in Haight

My favorite place for small bites and drinks is undoubtedly The Alembic, one of Haight’s more popular and cozy bars. The Grind, Cha Cha Cha and Parada 22 (Puerto Rican) are other good places for sandwiches and lunch. Veganburg is a great place to go for meat free options.

Hop on Muni line 7 (Ocean Beach bound) to get to Haight from downtown San Francisco

Neighborhoods in San Francisco for famous landmarks #8. Marina

The Marina neighborhood is on the northwest edge of the city and home to lopsided, uber expensive pastel colored homes, the most judged SF residents aka yoga moms, the Marina (duh!) and of course, some killer views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Despite all the judgy eye-rolls that this San Francisco neighborhood gets, here are some not to be missed landmarks in this part of town:

Sightseeing in Marina

The Palace of Fine Arts, built during the Panama-Pacific exposition, is a striking piece of architecture resplendent with a lake and gliding swans. The grand rotunda of this Palace is a sight to behold and there is also a small museum inside dedicated to the history of this marvellous piece of architecture. The Palace is one of the many free landmarks to enjoy in the city.

Next, comes a sweeping view of the Golden Gate Bridge from the Marina boulevard, which is not to be missed as you walk down the paved pathway along the waterfront. This is one of the many places in San Francisco from where you can get a great photo of the orange bridge!

Finally, go all the way out to see the Wave Organ sculpture on 83 Marina Green drive, that was constructed in May 1986 by sculptor and mason George Gonzales and conceived and designed by artist in residence Peter Richards. The series of pipes in the organ interacts with the waves of our Bay to produce a wide octave of sounds!

Where to eat in the Marina

Head straight to Fort Mason on Friday evenings to taste some of the very best that San Francisco can offer on wheels, aka food trucks from the Off The Grid coalition or get a table for vegetarian fare at the Greens restaurant inside Fort Mason .

I also recommend Le Marais bakery in neighboring Cow Hollow as well as  A16 (my favorite Italian-Californian place in SF), Pacific Catch , Tacolicious , The Tipsy Pig, Cultivar, Wildseed (favorite vegan spot in town) and The Dorian (another favorite).

Golden Gate Transit operated bus lines 30 and 101 (Northbound line) will bring you to the Marina/Palace of Fine Arts

Best Neighborhoods to visit in San Francisco #9. The Presidio

It is a shame that the greenest, most tranquil patch of San Francisco is never really considered more than a former army barracks. The Presidio, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation area, is very much a residential neighborhood in San Francisco filled with restaurants, pristine dog friendly hiking trails , a Walt Disney Museum and some of the best local (dog friendly) beaches in San Francisco . Here are some of the things not to be missed at one of the best neighborhoods in San Francisco :

What to see in the Presidio

Breathtaking views of the Palace of Fine Arts at Inspiration point , one of the entry points in the Presidio and its many hiking trails. The Presidio has some of the best hiking trails in San Francisco , the famous ones being Batteries to Bluffs trail, Ecology trail (starting from Inspiration point) and Mountain Lake trail.  The California Coastal trail , starting from Lands End (in the Sea Cliff neighborhood mentioned below) snakes through the Presidio and ends at the Golden Gate Bridge.

The Presidio is home to two of San Francisco’s local gems, aka beaches , which are Baker Beach and Marshall’s Beach , both of which offer the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge . Of these, only Baker Beach is one of the many dog friendly spots in San Francisco.

Besides these two pristine California beaches , you can also get spectacular views of the Bridge from the Golden Gate Overlook or Battery East, Presidio promenade trail or Crissy Fields , which is a great place to have a nice picnic during the day.

Other points of interest in the Presidio include the Walt Disney Museum, the Society of California Pioneers Museum and Library to get a glimpse of the thousands of untold stories embroiled in California’s checkered history and the publicly accessible Korean War Memorial built in 2016 to honor the memory of the valor, service and sacrifice of those who fought the war.

The Presidio is also home to one of the many hidden gems in San Francisco, aka  a cute as heck statue of Yoda atop a fountain (Yoda fountain) from Star Wars right outside of Lucasfilms Headquarters on Letterman Drive.

Where to eat in the Presidio

Visit the Presidio on a Sunday to sample food truck fare during “Picnic at the Presidio”. I simply love The Commissary (serving Spanish-Mediterranean cuisine). Other notable restaurants include The Presidio Social Club Exchange, Sessions at the Presidio (gastropub) and Garibaldi’s .

GGT buses 30 and 101 (both Northbound) and Muni line 45 (Lyon and Greenwich bound) will take you to San Francisco’s Presidio from downtown

Neighborhoods of interest in San Francisco #10. Sea Cliff

This north-westernmost neighborhood of San Francisco is a quiet one, but is chock filled with some of the top attractions in the city as well as some fantastic lookout points and hidden beaches , not to mention some of the most expensive real estate that ever was. Here are some major attractions:

Popular attractions in Sea Cliff

Start off the Sutro Bath Ruins , a historic bath house built by millionaire Adolph Sutro in 1894. Then get on the Coastal trail from Point Lobos to see beautiful vistas, Seal Rock Beach and finally Land’s End labyrinth as mentioned below. Before you start your hike, don’t forget to snap photos of The Cliffhouse , San Francisco’s iconic landmark that is  to the left of the bathhouse.

The two other attractions in SeaCliff are as follows: first, the Legion of Honor museum , the fine arts museum which is sister to  the deYoung Museum in Golden Gate Park. It has the largest collection of Rodin sculptures outside of Paris.

The second one are the oft forgotten colorful Lincoln street steps on California street , on the eastern edge of Seacliff. The Land’s End trail, also revealing beautiful views of the coastline and the Bridge starts from here.

Hidden gems in Sea Cliff

This has to be our locals only beaches, i.e. China Beach and Mile Rock Beach , from where you can enjoy crowd free sunsets. Another hidden gem is the man made Land’s End Labyrinth that you can stop by on your way to Mile Rock Beach along the beautiful coastal trail.

Dining at Sea Cliff

Unlike other neighborhoods mentioned above, Sea Cliff is pretty thin on dining options. Unfortunately, the Cliff House restaurant, its main culinary draw (more for the views than the food), closed down in 2020 after 157 years and a new business occupancy is pending there. The building itself has been stripped off its iconic sign   (the letters came down on December 31, 2020) and is now just standing there, waiting to be turned into a boring federal building.

However, this quiet neighborhood known for its hiking trails and breathtaking views is right next to the Richmond neighborhood, which is known for its diverse culinary landscape (see a list of popular restaurants right here ).

I highly recommend Cassava (one of my favorite brunch spots-try their Japanese breakfast), Fiorella (on Clement) and Pizzetta 211 , which are closest to Sea Cliff. For those looking for dinner and a show, head to Al-Masri , the Egyptian restaurant which has belly dancing shows.

Board the Muni lines 38 (V.A. Hospital bound) or 38R (Land’s End-48th Avenue bound/R stands for “rapid” and has fewer stops along the way) to get to Land’s End from downtown

I clicked this photo of the legendary Cliff House in 2015

Parting thoughts on San Francisco neighborhoods

I hope this post has given you a taste of some of the best neighborhoods to visit in San Francisco as a first timer , which are beyond the realm of the touristy northeastern city quadrant. San Francisco has so much more to offer than the often rehashed popular landmarks and its neighborhoods provide a great mix of local life, food and top attractions. Thanks so much for reading and do stop by my San Francisco local guides for more ideas!

Like this post? Pin it for later

5 thoughts on “A Resident’s Guide to Visiting The Best Neighborhoods in San Francisco”

I used to live in San Fransisco and miss it so much! My favorite neighborhood is Presidio, but I also love Russian Hill!

I love our city!! In the small 49sq miles, its surprise we have such distinct neighborhoods with distinct architecture, food, and vibe. I need to start looking at the neighborhoods through your lens.

So nice to see some photos of SF! I visited many years ago (in 2014 I think) but I would love to go back! I have seen many of the neighborhoods on your list but I will do my best to see them all next time!

I haven’t made it to SF yet so I’ll definitely save this really helpful guide for my future trip planning. Thanks for all of the great tips!

This is an amazing guide. I have been to SF many times but I LOVE your insider tips for places to eat and shop. So complete. I’m saving for the next time I get to visit!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Year of the Monkey is the participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.

@2020 YROFTHEMONKEY, INC. /

PRIVACY • TERMS • GDPR • DISCLOSURES

Designed by WPGeared

Privacy Overview

• 2024 Events
• Alcatraz Tours
• Attractions
• Family-Friendly
• Itineraries
• Things to Do
• Where to Eat
• Where to Stay
• SF Bay Area
• Cruises from SF
• All Beyond SF
• Northern California
• SF Arrivals and Transfers
• Weather & What to Wear
• Getting Around SF
• Earthquakes
• Games & Puzzles

SIGN UP  FOR MY EMAIL TO RECEIVE YOUR FREE  SAN FRANCISCO PLANNING GUIDE.

San Francisco Neighborhoods: Top Things to Do & See in SF's Top Districts

by Jill Loeffler   •

Each of the San Francisco neighborhoods offers a unique vibe with plenty of fun things to do. Top picks for those visiting include Fisherman's Wharf, Chinatown, and Union Square. 

A few other places you might want to explore include Haight-Ashbury, North Beach, and Alamo Square. You will find a different experience in each one! 

Discover tips for visiting each SF district including top attractions, museums, and activities. You will also find some tips on where to stay, what to eat and what's happening at night.

Disclaimer : I receive a small commission from some of the links on this page.

Alamo Square

Though Alamo Square is one of the relatively quiet residential San Francisco neighborhoods, it gets many visitors each day precisely for its beautiful homes.

It's from the park on the hill in this district that you can view the "Seven Sisters," the famous row of Painted Lady Victorians perched in front of the stunning SF skyline in the background.

You'll find Alamo Square just west of Hayes Valley, about halfway between Civic Center and Golden Gate Park. The main attraction, the park, is flanked by Fulton, Steiner, Hayes, and Scott Streets. 

>> Learn more about visiting Alamo Square

Bernal Heights

Bernal Heights is a quiet, residential San Francisco neighborhood, perfect for a little escape from the bustling city life. People come here for the nice selection of local shops and restaurants, and to hike up to the grassland on top of Bernal Heights Hill for great views and a taste of nature.

Bernal Heights is located on the south side of San Francisco, just south of the Mission District. It's easily accessible from Highway 101 or 280. 

>> More about visiting

San Francisco Neighborhoods: The Castro

The Castro is known for being SF's colorful gay district. It has a strong LGBT community, and was the home of Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official who was tragically assassinated in 1978.

Highlights include the historic Castro Theater, the GLBT Museum, and fantastic restaurants, bars, and clubs.

The Castro district is located at the southwest end of Market Street. It sits west of the Mission District and north of Noe Valley. It's part of the larger Eureka Valley area .

>> Visit the Castro

San Francisco Chinatown, home to the oldest and largest Chinese population in the US, is known as a 'city within a city' because it's packed with Chinese stores, markets, restaurants, temples, and everything this community needs to thrive.

Tourist highlights include visiting the fortune cookie factory, eating traditional dim sum, and bargain hunting.

Chinatown is one of the easiest San Francisco neighborhoods to get to, as it's just north of the popular Union Square shopping area, and just south of North Beach (SF's Little Italy). You can walk, bus, or take a cable car here. 

>> What to see & do in Chinatown

Fun Chinatown Tours

Civic center .

San Francisco's Civic Center district is not only centrally located, but also the center of lots of activity. Here, you'll find the beautiful gold-domed City Hall, the renowned Asian Art Museum, and the best venues to watch a theater, ballet, symphony, or opera performance.

Civic Center is bordered by Hayes Valley to the west and downtown/Union Square to the east. Sandwiched between Market Street and Van Ness Avenue, you can easily get here by BART, light rail, or bus from any direction. 

>> More on what to see and do in the Civic Center district

Cow Hollow is a small neighborhood right next to the Marina and Pacific Heights. It's a great place to do some shopping at boutique stores and grab a bite to eat.

It's also a fun nightlife destination for the younger crowds. You can stop at some old school SF bars and spend some time with the locals. 

Cow Hollow is also home to the only octagon house in SF that you can visit.

>> Learn more about visiting Cow Hollow

Dogpatch District

The Dogpatch District is a new, hip district to visit. This old warehouse district offers some great local art, tasty craft brews, and some wonderful places to eat. It's just to the south of Mission Bay .

Some of my favorites here in the Minnesota Street Project, Harmonic Brewing, and the Museum of Craft and Design. If you are looking for a place that is away from some of the crowds, then check out the Dogpatch.

>> More about what there is to see and do here

Downtown San Francisco

The downtown area is a combination of districts including the Financial District, Union Square and parts of both Chinatown and South of Market. This is where you will find the heart of the city and it's a wonderful place to stay and spend time on your visit.

Top things to do here include shopping, museums, tours, and so much more. The Union Square and Financial Districts together offer a large concentration of hotels from smaller boutiques to larger, well known brands such as Marriott, Hilton and Four Seasons. 

>> Find out more about what there is to see and do in downtown San Francisco

Embarcadero

This area runs along Embarcadero Street on the eastern end of San Francisco. This area is a flat street between Pier 39 in Fisherman's Wharf and Oracle Park. 

You will find plenty of things to see and do here including cruises, restaurants, and museums. Some of my top picks include the Exploratorium, Pier 24 and watching the SF Giants play at Oracle Park.

>> Find a list of all of the best things to see and do along the Embarcadero

Financial District

The Financial District is the heart of downtown SF, home to several Fortune 500 companies and recognizable skyscrapers like the Transamerica Pyramid. This area offers tourists the Wells Fargo Museum, excellent restaurants, convenient hotels, and the exhilarating feeling of being in a big city.

The Financial District is conveniently located just east of the Union Square shopping and dining district. To the north are Chinatown and North Beach, and to the east is the Embarcadero waterfront. 

>> Learn more about this district and what there is to see and do

Hop On Hop Off : One of the best ways to visit several San Francisco neighborhoods is on the Hop On Hop Off bus. These tours allow you to jump off and explore each district on your own. You then get back on to explore attractions on its other stops. Find tour availability here .

Fisherman's Wharf & Pier 39

Fisherman's Wharf is a hub of activities and attractions on the waterfront. From here you can catch the ferry to Alcatraz or Angel Island , eat world-famous clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl , shop at Ghirardelli Square and Pier 39 , and visit various small museums.

Fisherman's Wharf is located along the waterfront on the northwest side of the city, right between North Beach and the Aquatic Park. It's a great area to stay in, and easy to reach by cable car or the F streetcar . 

>> List of things to do in Fisherman's Wharf

Best Cruises from Fisherman's Wharf

Golden gate park.

Golden Gate Park is not one of the San Francisco neighborhoods, but it's certainly as big as one! With over 1,000 acres of green meadows, trails, a lake, and gardens, this park really allows you to immerse yourself in nature in the middle of the city.

It's also home to world-class museums like the California Academy of Sciences, the de Young Fine Arts Museum, the Japanese Tea Garden, and the Conservatory of Flowers.

You'll find Golden Gate Park on the west end of SF, stretching 50 city blocks all the way from Ocean Beach to Stanyan Street. It is bordered by the Richmond District to the north and the Sunset District to the south, where the residential streets are named Avenues 2 through 48.

>> Get skip the line tickets for the California Academy of Sciences

>> Ideas on what to see in Golden Gate Park

Haight-Ashbury

During the 1950s and 60s, the Haight-Ashbury became the famous hippie neighborhood of SF, and was home to bands like the Grateful Dead, Janis Joplin, and Jefferson Airplane. Today you'll find that psychedelic vibe very much alive as you walk the district's streets lined with Victorians of all different colors, funky shops, and great restaurants. 

The Haight-Ashbury is located in the geographic center of the city. It's bordered by Golden Gate Park to the west, the "Panhandle" (a small strip of park extending from GG Park) to the north, the Lower Haight district to the east, and Cole Valley to the south.

>> The Haight District

Hayes Valley

Hayes Valley is one of the new hot districts in San Francisco. It's the perfect spot for dinner or to do a little boutique shopping. It's also home to the SF Jazz Center with jazz most nights of the week. 

The Civic Center is its neighbor to the east with lots of performing arts options. Just a few blocks to the west is the Alamo Square District. You will find most of the action in this district along Hayes near Gough.

>> More things to do in this SF district

Top 10 Districts : Discover a list of my 10 favorites! Click here to learn more .

Though not as big as Chinatown, San Francisco's Japantown, the oldest in the country, is just as wonderful of a cultural experience. Here you can eat authentic Japanese food, catch a movie at the Kabuki Theater, relax in the Peace Pagoda, and enjoy the traditional Cherry Blossom Festival during the spring.

Japantown is a relatively small neighborhood tucked away near Lower Pacific Heights and the Fillmore District. You will need to drive or take a bus here. 

>> More on what to do in Japantown

The Marina is a trendy district that has a lot of history. Its most famous attraction, the beautiful Palace of Fine Arts , is a relic of the 1915 Panama Pacific Exposition, which transformed this neighborhood from the marsh land it was before. Now you'll find lots of boutique shops and excellent restaurants and bars, as well as the Fort Mason Center, which hosts large events and festivals.

The Marina is located in the north of San Francisco, right along the bay next to the Presidio. It's a quick walk west from Fisherman's Wharf, or you can drive or bus here from the rest of the city. From here you can walk east along a trail to access the Golden Gate Bridge.

>> More activities and visiting details

The Mission

The Mission is one of the liveliest San Francisco neighborhoods, with its colorful murals, ethnic diversity, and hot bars and restaurants. It is known for its Mexican and Latin American food and culture, and historically it is an important site from the Spanish rule of this area (hence the Mission San Francisco de Asis).

The Mission District is located in the southern part of the city, a few blocks south of the Civic Center, and bordered by the Castro and Noe Valley to the west. It's known for being one of the warmer, sunnier parts of SF, making its Dolores Park (part of its sub-district Mission Dolores ) the perfect place to catch some rays and enjoy views of downtown.

>> What to see and do in The Mission

At the turn of the century, Nob Hill began as a wealthy neighborhood with prominent mansions that overlooked the city. Today it is home to several high-end hotels, including the historic Fairmont and the Mark Hopkins, which are fun to visit.

You can also step into the beautiful Gothic and stained-glass Grace Cathedral, the largest church in SF. 

Nob Hill is bordered by Chinatown to the east and Russian Hill to the north. You can take the cable car here from either Union Square or Fisherman's Wharf.

>> Top options in Nob Hill

Noe Valley, sometimes nicknamed "Stroller Valley," is one of the quieter, quainter San Francisco neighborhoods, home to many young professionals and families. People come here to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and to enjoy upscale shopping and dining.

Noe Valley sits just west of the Mission District and south of the Castro. Like the Mission, it is also one of the sunnier and warmer parts of the city. You can drive or take the bus to get here.

>> Learn more about what there is to see and do here

North Beach

SF's North Beach is also known as Little Italy, and as you can guess, it's brimming with Italian culinary delights. In addition, it's also home to comedy clubs, great bars and cafes, and beautiful street art.

Take a stroll to admire Saints Peter and Paul Church at Washington Square Park or do a little shopping.

North Beach is located between Columbus Avenue and the waterfront in the northeast corner of the city. If you follow the Embarcadero along the bay from the Ferry Building, you'll hit North Beach right before the Fisherman's Wharf neighborhood. To the west is Russian Hill, and to the south is Chinatown. 

>> Find even more to do in North Beach

Best Hotel Deals Around San Francisco

Are you looking for some deals at hotels in the best San Francisco neighborhoods? Check out the options below to read recent guest reviews and select the best hotel at the best price.

Booking :  Find great deals all around San Francisco for your upcoming stay ! 

TripAdvisor :  What's the #1 hotel in San Francisco? Read reviews & find hotel deals on TripAdvisor !

VRBO : Besides hotels, you'll also find some great places to stay locally through VRBO. Book an apartment or a room and feel more like a local. Find some great places to stay on VRBO here . 

Pacific Heights

Pacific Heights is one of the less visited San Francisco neighborhoods, but offers some of the quintessential SF scenes you see in movies. All up and down the hilly streets of this district, you'll find gorgeous Victorian homes from the 1800s with stunning views of the bay.

Check out the huge mansions on Billionaire's Row, which is where many famous people own houses.

Pac Heights is located just east of the Presidio and south of the Marina. It can easily be reached by car, or by taking a bus to Fillmore Street.

>> Top options around Pacific Heights

Potrero Hill

Potrero Hill is another quiet residential neighborhood known for its hills, sunny weather, and views of the SF skyline from the south. It was once a working-class neighborhood, but with the gentrification of the Bay Area tech boom, it has become a popular area to live for commuters, as it has a Caltrain station and is close to the highways going out of SF.

Potrero Hill is on the southeast side of San Francisco. To the west is the Mission District, to the north is SoMa, and to the east is the bay. 

>> Learn more about this district

The Presidio is a great area to visit for those who love nature and military history. The whole district is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, and contains miles of hiking and biking trails, two beaches with views of the bridge, a high-end golf course, and one of the largest military cemeteries on the west coast.

Here you will also find the Walt Disney Museum. 

The Presidio is the northern district from which the Golden Gate Bridge crosses over to Sausalito. To its east lies the Marina District, to the south the residential Richmond District, and to the north and west, the bay.

You can take the free PresidiGo shuttle to more than 20 different stops within the district.

>> My favorite things to do in the Presidio

The Richmond District is a residential neighborhood with an ethnically diverse population. It is sometimes referred to as the "second Chinatown" or "new Chinatown" with its plentiful supply of highly praised Chinese restaurants, but it also has Irish and Russian roots, with many Catholic and Orthodox churches. 

The Richmond is located in the northwest corner of SF, sandwiched between Golden Gate Park to the south, the Presidio to the north, and the Pacific coast to the west. Its two main strips of shopping and dining are on Clement Street and on Geary Boulevard. 

The Richmond is made up of a few sub-districts including the Inner Richmond , the Outer Richmond , Lake Street, Little Russia, and Vista del Mar.

>> More tips to visit the Richmond District

Russian Hill 

Russian Hill is one of the highest San Francisco neighborhoods, giving it great views of the city and the bay. A result of the steep hills, this is where you'll find the famously crooked Lombard Street. You'll also find a great selection of restaurants and the Cable Car Museum.

Russian Hill neighbors North Beach and Fisherman's Wharf, two of the most popular tourist areas. It's easy and fun to get to, as the Powell/Hyde cable car runs right through it, offering spectacular views from up high. 

>> More to see and do in this SF district

Sunset District

The Sunset District is the largest and most populous district in San Francisco. It is known for its superb restaurants and proximity to Golden Gate Park.

The Sunset is often referred to as "The Avenues" because its north-south streets are named Avenue 1 through 48, ascending in number as you approach Ocean Beach at its west end. Bordering the Sunset to the north is Golden Gate Park.

It's also often split into to sub-districts: the Inner Sunset and the Outer Sunset .

>> Learn more about what you will find here

South of Market (SoMa)

Once an area of mostly warehouses and night clubs, the South of Market (SoMa) neighborhood has been gentrifying since the dot-com boom and now contains loft-style condominiums, restaurants and bars, several tech companies, and Oracle Park.

In this neighborhood, you can visit the SF Museum of Modern Art, the Museum of African Diaspora, the Contemporary Jewish Museum, and the Children's Creativity Museum.

South Beach and China Basin are two sub-districts within the SoMa area. 

As the name suggests, this triangular neighborhood is bordered to the northwest by Market Street, to the east by the SF Bay, and to the south by the Mission District and Potrero Hill. The Caltrain terminal is located in this district near Oracle Park.

>> Details on what to see and do here

Telegraph Hill

This neighborhood is the residential area surrounding Telegraph Hill, upon which Coit Tower sits as a lookout. Tourists come here to hike up the Filbert stairs lining the garden-covered hill, admire the flock of wild parrots that have made their home here, and enjoy the views of the bay and city.

Telegraph Hill sits near the bay between North Beach and the Embarcadero. Chinatown is to the southwest. You can drive or take Muni up the hill to the entrance of Coit Tower.

>> More about visiting Telegraph Hill

Theater District

Though not one of the official San Francisco neighborhoods, the SF Theater District is where you go to see a Broadway musical, a new drama or comedy, or an opera. This area is home to more than two dozen theaters and drama companies, ranging from large and historic to small and independent.

The Theater District encompasses the area between Union Square, the Tenderloin, and the Civic Center. It is very centrally located and a great place for catching public transit, dining, and lodging. 

>> More details about this district

Union Square

The Union Square District lies at the heart of the urban center and is packed full of brand name stores, restaurants, bars, and hotels. The plaza itself is a large gathering place that offers music festivals during the summer months and ice skating during the holidays as an outdoor reprieve from all the commercial buzz. 

Union Square sits north of Market Street between the Financial District and the Civic Center. This is where you can watch the cable cars turn around, hop on, and head north to other San Francisco neighborhoods such as Chinatown or Fisherman's Wharf.

You also have lots more public transit options from here.

>> More details about visiting Union Square

Other San Francisco Neighborhoods

• Ashbury Heights
• Corona Heights
• Divisadero Street
• Duboce Triangle
• Golden Gate Heights
• Lower Nob Hill

Comments? Questions? Suggestions?

I would love for you to join me in my private Facebook group ! 

It's a great place to interact with me and others who know the area well.

You can ask questions, get advice for your upcoming stay, and then share your photos and advice with others when you return home. It's a great community and the fastest way to get answers to those nagging questions about your visit!

Come join the fun here !

About Me    |    Contact Me    |   Privacy Policy    |   Terms of Service    |    Advertising Disclaimer

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Exclusive Member of Mediavine Travel

Copyright © 2009-2024 by SFTourismTips.com. All rights reserved.

This website does not sell any personal information. (See privacy policy )

San Francisco’s Neighborhoods Not to Miss

Of course, you’ll want to ride a cable car and view the golden gate bridge when you visit the city by the bay, but to learn why people keep leaving their hearts here, hit the hills and explore this multifaceted place..

• Copy Link copied

San Francisco has numerous distinct neighborhoods, and you can walk between many of them.

Photo by Robert Bye/Unsplash

For a city with such a big personality, San Francisco is surprisingly small. Bound on three sides by water, it measures only about seven miles by seven miles—you could easily walk across it in a day. And yet, upwards of 40 distinct neighborhoods cram into this relatively small space. (The secret? Those famous hills add much-needed surface area.)

The tech boom in Silicon Valley has reverberated up in the City by the Bay: Sleek high-rises have altered the skyline, swanky hotels are transforming formerly seedy areas, and everything from taxis to takeout has gone digital. These shifts present a challenge to a proudly free-thinking place with a long, quirky history. But San Francisco has always been a city of change with 250 years of practice blending history and tradition. From the docks of the San Francisco Bay in the east to the breakers along the city’s Pacific coast in the west, you’ll find Michelin-starred restaurants standing shoulder to shoulder with decades-old noodle shops and chic storefronts below elegant 1920s-era apartments. These are the neighborhoods where you’ll find the heart of San Francisco.

San Francisco’s bustling downtown is a good starting point—but don’t spend your whole trip there.

Photo by Chris Leipelt/Unsplash

Downtown and Nob Hill

San Francisco’s official downtown neighborhood is the Financial District, the busy business center. Here multistory offices and fast-casual restaurants crowd in around historic edifices such as the Flood Building , which survived the 1906 earthquake. But unofficially, “downtown” also includes the Embarcadero along the waterfront and Union Square—the central shopping district where you’ll find Neiman Marcus , the Apple Store, and designer boutiques along Maiden Lane. The Embarcadero is a main hub for public transportation, and most of the city’s hotels cluster here, so many visitors call it home base.

Rise above the commercial fray on a cable car—hop on at the base of Powell Street and ride to the top of Nob Hill. Here, take in the sweeping view of the city while surrounded by stately, early 20th-century grand dame hotels like the InterContinental Mark Hopkins and the Fairmont San Francisco as well as the French Gothic–style Grace Cathedral . Or grab the next cable car heading east on California Street and make your way down to the Ferry Building. More than a docking point for commuter ferries, the structure also houses an upscale market hall where you can shop for local, artisanal food and homegoods at Humphry Slocombe , Heath Ceramics , and more. In the evenings, discover intimate hole-in-the-wall sushi bars and French bistros along the narrow, hilly streets of downtown, or stroll the Embarcadero promenade in search of ritzier options—such as the Michelin-starred Angler —that look out at the Bay Bridge.

San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest in the nation.

Photo by Tupungato/Shutterstock

Chinatown and North Beach

Founded in 1853, San Francisco’s Chinatown is the country’s oldest. The strings of red lanterns, pagoda rooflines, and latticed woodwork make the neighborhood look a bit like a movie set, but if you stop by the Chinese Historical Society of America Museum , you’ll learn that the stylized architecture was a tactical addition to keep the area a haven for Chinese Americans when they faced displacement during the post-earthquake rebuilding efforts. Sure, souvenir shops are jammed around the ornate Grant Street Gate, but tucked in along alleyways and between sprawling Chinese groceries, you’ll also find tiny herbalist stores owned by the same families for generations, refined tea shops like Red Blossom Tea Company , and such buzzy restaurants as Michelin-starred Mister Jiu’s and China Live . Dim sum should be on your menu: Dim Sum Bistro and City View are reliable spots, but really, anywhere that looks crowded will likely be a winner.

Chinatown and North Beach are so close together, you might enter one before you realize you’ve left the other. In the early days of San Francisco, North Beach was the red-light district known as the Barbary Coast, and a few neon-accented holdouts still nod to that era. But later, it became a traditionally Italian neighborhood and old men still linger over newspapers and espressos at the many coffee houses, such as Caffe Trieste . The Beat poets flocked here in the 1950s and 1960s, and you can sip a cocktail at Vesuvio Cafe —the bar was one of Jack Kerouac’s haunts—and browse the shelves of City Lights Bookstore , founded by Lawrence Ferlinghetti. Today, North Beach is also a restaurant hot spot; waiters with Italian-accented English will coax passersby into the eateries along Columbus Avenue, but head for Washington Square further north, where you’ll find favorites like Tony’s Pizza and Sotto Mare .

Hayes Valley

As recently as the 1980s, Hayes Valley was considered a dangerous place to visit. But gentrification has swept through and now the main, wide, tree-lined streets of the sunny neighborhood are filled with high-end boutiques, clean Edwardian and Queen Anne townhouses, and chic wine bars, such as Fig & Thistle . It’s a lovely place to window shop. Find San Francisco–made knits at Marine Layer , rifle through local designers and antique jewelry at Reliquary , and browse minimalist essentials at Oak + Fort . At Fell and Franklin, a condemned building across the street from the SF Jazz Center has become an outdoor gallery, with portraits of jazz greats taken by photographer William P. Gottlieb filling the empty windows. Patricia’s Green, the tiny park at Hayes and Octavia, hosts temporary art installations. Head to the nearby cluster of shipping containers for a snack from Ritual Coffee Roasters or Smitten Ice Cream . In the summer, the area also hosts a pop-up outdoor movie theater .

The Davies Symphony Hall , the War Memorial Opera House , and the SF Jazz Center are all on the edge of Hayes Valley, so before showtime, fashionable patrons of the arts crowd the area’s best restaurants, such as Monsieur Benjamin , a modern French fine dining establishment. And while you’re exploring Hayes Valley, don’t miss a San Francisco icon, the Painted Ladies—a row of photogenic, ornate, colorful Victorian houses set against a panorama of downtown—just a short walk away at the edge of Alamo Square.

The epicenter of the LGBTQ rights movement in the 1970s, the Castro welcomes visitors with rainbow crosswalks and fluttering pride flags. The best way to enjoy this sunny neighborhood is by walking. Dive right in at Harvey Milk Plaza, the transit hub named after the first openly gay elected official in California. From there, head either south on Castro or northeast on Market to follow the Rainbow Honor Walk , an ongoing installation of bronze plaques (44 now, with an eventual total of 500) honoring notable individuals from the LGBTQ community from around the world, including James Baldwin, Keith Haring, Frida Kahlo, Sally Ride, and Freddy Mercury. Each plaque displays a portrait of the honoree, as well as biographical information and a description of the person’s impact.

Of course, remember to look up between plaque-readings: See what’s playing at the Castro Theater , the 1922 movie palace known for its classic film events and singalongs. Take in the pride-themed window displays at Cliff’s Variety or stop to shop at Sui Generis Designer Consignment . The GLBT Historical Society Museum and Archives offers a deeper look at 250 years of queer presence in the Bay Area. Hungry? Grab a cheeky sweet at Hot Cookie or a sundae at the old-fashioned Castro Fountain . Or raise a glass at legendary Twin Peaks Tavern or Moby Dick, one of the gayborhood’s favorite bars.

The Castro is also within walking distance of several parks. Stroll over to Duboce Park to watch dogs and their humans frolic, make the hike to Corona Heights Park for scenic views of the city, or head to Dolores Park and the taquerias of the Mission neighborhood beyond.

Haight Ashbury has changed significantly since its heyday, but pause for a moment and you can still feel a whisper of that flower power.

Photo by Sergio TB/Shutterstock

Haight Ashbury

In the late 1950s, the Haight Ashbury neighborhood in the center of San Francisco was a shadow of its current, vibrant self. Its magnificent Victorians had become shabby in the postwar years, and many were converted to cheap boarding houses that sheltered the bohemian types who were flocking to the city. Their shared liberal values and free-love ideals soon crystallized into a full-blown cultural movement that peaked in the 1967 “Summer of Love,” during which large gatherings of hippies broadcasted their message of peace to the nation.

Today, the Haight’s Victorian houses have been lovingly restored and the neighborhood has been polished. Vestiges of the counterculture Summer of Love linger though, such as the Haight Ashbury Free Clinic, which opened in 1967, and a persistent population of homeless hippies. Shop your way through outlandish tie-dye emporiums like Love on Haight , well-established vintage and thrift stores including Wasteland and Held Over, and high-priced sneaker boutiques. In the cavernous Amoeba Music , thumb through vintage vinyl from classic rock groups that played and stayed in this neighborhood, including the Grateful Dead and Jimi Hendrix. If you get hungry, grab a brew and a fancy bar snack like bacon-wrapped dates at Magnolia Brewing Company , or opt for a classy cocktail at the Alembic .

The Haight is bordered on the north by the Panhandle, a multi-block park popular with joggers, but it’s not the best spot to sprawl out. Instead, head west into Golden Gate Park; the Music Concourse, where you’ll find the de Young Museum and the California Academy of Sciences and plenty of grassy areas, is only a 20-minute walk from the edge of the Haight.

On the far western edge of the city, the Sunset neighborhood has always felt far away. In the 19th century, it was just a swath of sand dunes that San Franciscans referred to as “Outside Lands.” Even today you’ll have to brave an hour-long Muni light-rail ride on the N line or a 30-minute drive to reach this laid-back beach town blissfully removed from the hustle and bustle. Here, wetsuited surfers jog barefoot to the ocean, skateboarders carve lazily down the gently sloping streets, and neighbors gather to catch up outside small, locally owned restaurants, coffee shops, and taprooms.

It’s a notoriously foggy area, but even if the skies aren’t clear, it’s a glorious place to spend a few hours. Grab a gibraltar (a San Francisco spin on a cappuccino) from Andytown or Trouble ; wander quiet streets lined with colorful bungalows, and stop in at surf shops, bookstores, and showrooms, like 3 Fish Studios or Woodshop . Dig into easy beach fare at Hook Fish Co. , Devil’s Teeth Bakery , or Java Beach Cafe or put your name down at Outerlands , an upscale, destination brunch and dinner spot. Sunny or overcast, no day in the Sunset is complete without a walk along the beach.

>>Next: Plan Your Trip With AFAR’s Guide to San Francisco

• North America
• Must See Neighborhoods In San...

10 Must-See Neighborhoods in San Francisco

Editorial Manager

It’s difficult to choose the top 10 neighborhoods in San Francisco , because practically every nook and cranny of this colorful, charming city has something to offer. Celebrated for its diverse culture and rich history, the west coast destination continues to attract travellers from around the globe eager to explore its distinct neighbourhoods, each offering its own unique charm. The city’s vibrant districts promise an unforgettable adventure, ideal for every kind of traveller from art aficionados, history buffs and nature lovers, to those simply looking to soak up the iconic San Francisco experience

Fisherman’s wharf: for the bucket-list traveller.

Step into the heart of San Francisco’s maritime history at Fisherman’s Wharf, where an authentic experience of the Golden City awaits. This bustling waterfront, known for its historic charm, is home to the city’s iconic cable cars, the lively Pier 39 , the historic Alcatraz Island , and even offers travellers the chance to spot sea lions basking in the sunshine. Enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront dining establishments while soaking in the laid-back San Franciscan lifestyle.

SoMA: For Lovers of Cultural Attractions

The South of Market (SoMA) district is a dynamic cultural powerhouse, featuring a myriad of museums, galleries, and sporting venues. Travellers can explore numerous cultural attractions from the renowned San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA ) to Oracle Park, home of the San Francisco giants. This ever-evolving neighbourhood also hosts a variety of cutting-edge exhibitions, making it ideal for all culture enthusiasts.

The Castro: For the Inclusive Traveller

An integral part of the city, the Castro District is renowned for its welcoming spirit and rich history, making it a celebrated hub of inclusivity and acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community. This vibrant neighbourhood is perfect for exploring on foot, where travellers can enjoy walking across its iconic rainbow crosswalks, visit the historic Castro Theatre, a world-renowned entertainment and LGBTQ+ community landmark, and experience the lively nightlife at iconic venues such as the Twin Peaks Tavern.

Presidio: For Nature Lovers and Active Travellers

The Presidio district is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure-seeking travellers. Located at the northern tip of the city, this neighbourhood offers breathtaking views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge , the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay. Known for its lush forests, open meadows and picturesque trails, the Presidio is ideal for hiking, biking and picnicking. Travellers can also explore the scenic Sutro Baths, relax at Crissy Field, a beloved national park site, and enjoy stunning views from Tunnel Tops, an expansive park offering numerous outdoor activities and breathtaking landscapes.

Fillmore: For the Upscale Traveller

An upscale neighbourhood which combines luxury with cultural richness, Upper Fillmore is the ultimate destination for travellers seeking the best in opulent shopping, fine dining, and live music. TraveIlers seeking the finer things can indulge in decadent dining experiences, browse high-end boutiques like Rothy’s, and enjoy performances at The Fillmore , one of the city’s most iconic music venues.

North Beach: For the History and Literary Enthusiasts

Steeped in the city’s rich Italian-American heritage, North Beach is coined as San Francisco’s Little Italy and is the ideal location for history buffs and literary enthusiasts, allowing travellers to step back in time and marvel at the city’s literary culture. With charming cafes, family-run trattorias and breathtaking views of the Coit Tower, visitors can wander the streets where the Beats once roamed and visit the iconic City Lights Bookstore, a significant landmark of the Beat Generation.

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $1,200 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

The Marina: For the Active Traveller

Located along the northern waterfront, The Marina is a paradise for travellers who seek adventure with scenic vistas. With spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, this neighbourhood is perfectly situated for leisurely walks and bike rides along Marina Green and the grand Palace of Fine Arts. With a vibrant blend of recreation and relaxation, along with bustling nightlife and chic boutique shopping on Chestnut Street, the Marina is a versatile spot appealing to all visitors from the casual adventurer to those seeking picturesque charm.

Hayes Valley: For the Arts and Music Enthusiast

For travellers looking to immerse themselves in arts and cultural exploration, the trendy neighbourhood of Hayes Valley is brimming with avant-garde art galleries, boutique shops, and culinary innovation. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along Hayes Street and browse its eclectic mix of pop-up art exhibitions, designer shops, and gourmet restaurants, before catching a performance at the iconic SFJAZZ Center, making Hayes Valley the must-visit spot for culturally curious travellers.

Embarcadero: For the Waterfront Explorer

Travellers who yearn for stunning views of the bay and an authentic maritime atmosphere will find their paradise along the Embarcadero. Stretching along the eastern waterfront, this bustling district offers access to the iconic Ferry Building Marketplace, the perfect place to indulge in artisanal foods and local products, before taking in the breathtaking views of the Bay Bridge and Alcatraz, or hopping on a ferry for a day trip to Sausalito.

Chinatown: For the Culturally Curious Traveller

One of the longest-standing Chinatowns in the United States, San Francisco’s Chinatown is a vibrant hub of cultural treasures within the heart of the city, brimming with rich history and oriental architecture. Visitors can explore the neighbourhood’s bustling markets, enjoy traditional dim sum, and marvel at historic landmarks such as the Dragon Gate and the Tin How Temple.

Looking for great places to stay in San Francisco? Check out our guide to where to stay in San Francisco, bookable on Culture Trip.

This is an updated version of an original article by Hope Corrigan

The 14 Best Things To Do and See in San Francisco's Chinatown

The 9 Best Things to See and Do in SoMa, San Francisco

Top 10 Things To Do Along The Embarcadero, San Francisco

San Francisco Off The Beaten Path: 21 Quirky and Unusual Things to Do

The Best Nightclubs in San Francisco

11 Things To Do In San Francisco’s Haight District

The 9 Best Things To Do in San Francisco’s Nob Hill District

The Best Restaurants in San Francisco

The Top 10 Things to Do in North Beach, San Francisco

The Best Bookstores in San Francisco

The 9 Best Things To Do and See In San Francisco’s Financial District

Culture Trip Summer Sale

Save up to $1,200 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.

• Post ID: 1000785895
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Music & Nightlife
• Neighborhoods
• Shopping & Style
• Los Angeles

San Francisco neighborhoods

Explore the color and variety that san francisco neighborhoods have to offer.

Where to stay in San Francisco

San Francisco may be only 49 square miles, but it can be hard to know which neighborhood is best for you.

A guide to the Mission

Things to do in the Mission

One of the most culturally and historically rich neighborhoods in SF.

The best restaurants in the Mission

San Francisco’s Mission district is an undisputed culinary hub.

The ultimate guide to the Mission murals

Find these color-drenched murals on almost every bustling street and narrow alleyway.

The best Mexican restaurants in SF

Chow down on tacos, tamales and enchiladas at these authentic Mexican spots.

A guide to Chinatown

Things to do in Chinatown

Explore one of the oldest and largest Chinatowns in the United States. 

The best restaurants in Chinatown

Our guide to the nabe's newcomers and old-school favorites.

The best Chinese restaurants in San Francisco

Head here for exceptional dim sum and regional specialties.

The best dim sum in San Francisco

Looking for the city’s best dim sum? San Francisco has plenty.

Chinese New Year Guide

Get psyched about Chinese New Year in San Francisco.

More San Francisco neighborhoods

Financial District

Explore this bustling business district. 

Fisherman’s Wharf

There’s more to Fisherman’s Wharf than souvenir stands and clam chowder. 

Artists, designers, musicians and creative entrepreneurs flock to this still affordable neighborhood. 

Techies, AT&T Park and lofty industrial buildings mark this waterfront neighborhood. 

The Haight, Western Addition and Hayes Valley

The epicenter of hippie culture in the 1960s, now the center of SF's restaurant scene. 

Sunset and Richmond

Largely unexplored areas that sandwich Golden Gate Park. 

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Copyright agent
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

Time Out magazine

23 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in San Francisco

Written by Lisa Alexander and Lana Law Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Set along the ocean, with rolling hills and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco is one of the most beautiful cities in the United States and the jewel of Northern California. The city is full of history, great neighborhoods, parks , beaches , museums, entertainment options, and an astounding variety of restaurants.

Some of the most famous attractions are Alcatraz Island and Fisherman's Wharf, but the sightseeing possibilities here are extensive. San Francisco's Chinatown is the largest of its kind in North America and definitely worth visiting. For an exciting experience, hop on one of the historic cable cars and tour the city.

Discover more things to do with our list of the top tourist attractions in San Francisco.

Golden Gate Bridge

Alcatraz island.

• Fisherman's Wharf

Ride the Cable Cars

Golden gate park, legion of honor fine arts museum of san francisco, palace of fine arts, california academy of sciences, san francisco museum of modern art, de young fine arts museum of san francisco, asian art museum, exploratorium, golden gate national recreation area, oracle park, day trip to napa valley, hike and picnic on angel island state park, ghirardelli square, high tea at a historic hotel, walt disney family museum, muir woods national monument, where to stay in san francisco for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to san francisco, san francisco, ca - climate chart.

The Golden Gate Bridge appears even more beautiful and impressive in real life than it looks in photos. It is the most photographed site in the city, with the orange structure backed by blue water, or in many cases, peaking through a dense layer of coastal fog. At night, the flood-lit structure is equally striking.

Connecting San Francisco with Marin County and other districts further north, the Golden Gate Bridge was, at one time, designated the greatest man-made sight in the United States by the U.S. Travel Service. Opened on May 28th, 1937, the bridge took four years to build and at the time of its completion, was the longest suspension bridge in the world, measuring approximately two miles in length.

If you want to drive over the Golden Gate Bridge, the road is US Hwy 101 , or SR 1. On the east side of the bridge, a sidewalk is open to pedestrians. Bicycle access is allowed on both sides of the bridge.

The walk across the bridge begins at the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center (near the Presidio GO shuttle bus drop-off point) and ends in Marin County with a panoramic viewpoint of San Francisco's cityscape.

Many locals enjoy biking across the bridge to the nearby waterfront town of Sausalito .

For a great view of the bridge, or for anyone interested in photographing the bridge, there are a number of ideal vantage points. From the San Francisco side, Nob Hill , an area known for its posh old mansions, offers some beautiful views over the bridge.

On the opposite side of the bridge, in Marin County, the Golden Gate National Recreation Area is another good place to visit. Also, if you take a tour of Alcatraz Island, you will enjoy completely open views of the Golden Gate Bridge from the boat and island.

The former federal penitentiary, located on Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay, was one of America's most infamous prisons. It operated for almost thirty years, closing in 1963 and re-opening as a tourist attraction in 1973.

Some of America's most well-known criminals were incarcerated here, including Al Capone, "Machine-Gun" Kelly, and the "Birdman," who would later form the basis for the fictional movie The Birdman of Alcatraz .

In the course of its 30-year existence, the penitentiary received a total of 1,576 convicts. There were never more than 250 at any one time, even though therewere 450 cells measuring about 10ft by 4ft. At times the number of guards and staff was greater than the number of convicts. Alcatraz Island is also home to migrating birds.

You can visit Alcatraz on a guided tour (which includes round-trip ferry transportation from Pier 33). Choose from a daytime tour or an evening tour.

At the Alcatraz prison site, you are provided with an exceptional audio recording that offers a glimpse into life in the cellhouse, rather than just a historical list of the facts. The narration is even voiced by former inmates and guards of Alcatraz.

If you have just one day to explore San Francisco, try a combined Alcatraz and San Francisco City Tour which covers Fisherman's Wharf, Chinatown, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Alcatraz regularly sells out, so booking in advance is strongly advised.

Locals call it a tourist trap, but visitors can't seem to resist. Fisherman's Wharf ranks as one of San Francisco's most popular tourist spots. The picturesque waterfront scenery and old-fashioned Italian fishing boats ( feluccas ), not to mention the fresh-caught Dungeness crab, make quite an impression!

Originally the "Little Italy" district of San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf is known for its shops, restaurants, and spectacular setting. Italian immigrants began to arrive in San Francisco in the 1860s and brought the waterfront to life with seafood commerce.

Some of the best seafood is served in the bay-view dining room of Scoma's restaurant. It's a great place for a gourmet dining experience. Or you could sample the local specialty of seafood stew at Cioppino's Restaurant just steps away from the waterfront.

Pier 39 is a hub of activity at Fisherman's Wharf. Be sure to go for a stroll here and check out the dozens of boutiques and eateries. The shops are very touristy (T-shirts, souvenirs, pretzels, chocolate-chip cookies), but the seafood restaurants give you a true taste of the city. You can also find authentic local sourdough bread at Boudin Bakery .

Tourists are not the only crowds you'll encounter at Pier 39. Local sea lions love this waterfront spot and are often found lounging on the Pier 39 docks. There's a viewing area where you can check them out. It's easy to find. You'll hear the sea lions barking from quite a distance!

From Pier 39, you can take a sightseeing cruise for spectacular views of the San Francisco Bay. You might also want to organize a fishing charter boat trip or hop on a whale-watching tour.

Some of the main attractions of Fisherman's Wharf are Madame Tussauds Wax Museum , the Musée Mécanique , Ripley's Believe it or Not! , and Ghirardelli Square . Restored 19th- and 20th-century ships line the waterfront at the Hyde Street Pier , which is now the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park .

• The Cannery
• National Maritme Museum
• Maritime State Historic Park
• USS Pampanito
• Art Institute
• Telegraph Hill
• Coit Memorial Tower
• St Peters and Paul

Cable cars were introduced in 1873 to spare the horses from the city's grueling hills. Today, the few remaining cable cars are mainly a tourist attraction rather than a mode of transportation for local residents. Since 1964, these tram-like vehicles have had the unique distinction of being the only public transport system to be declared a National Historic Landmark .

Riding a cable car is an unforgettable tourist experience in San Francisco. It's an exhilarating way to take in the scenery. If you're standing on the open-air deck of a cable car, you'll feel the wind on your face. Anywhere you sit on a cable car, the noise of the brakes will surprise you.

Three sets of brakes are required to stop a cable car: A red lever operates the main brakes, a foot pedal controls the front brakes, and a really loud crank puts the rear brakes in action.

The Powell-Mason and Powell-Hyde are the most scenic routes. These cable car lines will get you to tourist attractions such as Fisherman's Wharf , Ghirardelli Square , the Ferry Building , Nob Hill , and Lombard Street . The California line runs through the Financial District, Chinatown, and Nob Hill.

You can wait for a Powell-Mason or Powell-Hyde cable car at the cable car turntable (departure point), either at Powell & Market Street near Union Square or on Hyde Street near Aquatic Park, Ghirardelli Square, and Fisherman's Wharf. You can catch the California cable car at the Market & Drumm turntable in the Financial District.

Alternatively, you can hop on a cable car at any of the stops. Tickets can be purchased onboard the cable car.

If you are planning on more than a couple of rides or are going to be sightseeing for a few days, consider buying a pass.

Author's Tip: The Powell & Market and California Street cable car turntables (departure points) are in downtown San Francisco, in areas that could be described as gritty. You should be aware of your surroundings and watch your wallet/purse while in these areas.

You may want to avoid taking public transportation if you are going to the Powell & Market turntable. Some consider the Powell Street BART station to be San Francisco's worst example of a station (in a close tie with the Civic Center station). The Embarcadero BART station, near the Market & Drumm turntable, is cleaner and less gritty.

Official site: http://www.sfcablecar.com/

Golden Gate Park, home to gardens and museums, is a fabulous green space in the heart of San Francisco. Before development began in 1871, this was an area of arid dunes.

Today, the park has a network of walking trails and cycling paths, more than 5,000 different kinds of plants and dozens of species of trees, several lakes, bridle paths, and a buffalo paddock.

The main attractions include the de Young Fine Arts Museum, the California Academy of Sciences which houses a planetarium, rainforest, and the Steinhart Aquarium, the Japanese Tea Garden , and the San Francisco Botanical Garden .

Other favorite spots include Stow Lake where you can enjoy boating and picnics, the Conservatory of Flowers which dates to the Victorian era, and the Koret Children's Quarter which has an old-fashioned Herschell-Spillman carousel.

You could easily spend a couple of hours at Golden Gate Park or visit several times over a couple of days. The park is too large to cover it all on foot. If you want to see all of the highlights of Golden Gate Park, you will need a car or a bicycle to get around.

Bike rentals are available, and this can be a good way to explore the park, rather than trying to do everything on foot. Parkwide Bike Rentals offers bicycle rentals at two locations in Golden Gate Park (near the Music Concourse and at the corner of Stanyan & Haight streets); the bicycles are rented out for a full day of use. The company also leads guided bike tours.

Alternatively, try an organized 2.5-hour Segway Tour with a local guide, and hit all the major highlights.

You may have been to Chinatown in other cities, but San Francisco's Chinatown is a whole other realm. It is both the largest and oldest Chinatown in North America. Almost completely destroyed in the 1906 earthquake, Chinatown was rebuilt entirely in the Chinese style and was soon even more attractive than before the disaster.

Chinatown gives you a glimpse of Chinese immigrant culture in San Francisco, an important part of the local heritage. In this compact area (San Francisco's most densely populated neighborhood), you'll find traditional green tile-roofed buildings filled with small businesses, restaurants, dim sum places, houses of worship, herbal shops, tea houses, and boutiques that sell jade jewels, antiques, and souvenirs.

For delicious and authentic Chinese cuisine, try the award-winning Z & Y Restaurant (655 Jackson Street). This Michelin Bib Gourmand -rated restaurant has served two Chinese presidents and several Foreign Ministers as well as other distinguished guests (such as President Obama).

If you are traveling through San Francisco during an important Chinese holiday or event, you can expect to see an elaborate celebration. Chinese New Year celebrations are often considered the best in North America. The main street in Chinatown for tourists is Grant Avenue , with the Chinatown Gateway at Grant Avenue and Bush Street.

San Francisco City Guides offers guided walking tours of Chinatown led by knowledgeable locals, free of charge (donations recommended). The Chinatown tour takes you beyond the main street into the neighborhood's hidden alleyways, to visit a Taoist temple, a fortune cookie factory, and a park where you'll see Chinatown residents practicing tai chi and playing chess outside.

If you don't mind a little exercise, you can do your own walking tour beginning in Chinatown with the help of our San Francisco Walking Tour .

Discover an exquisite fine arts collection, displayed in a beautiful location: a dramatic Neoclassical building surrounded by a woodsy parkland near the ocean. Just outside the museum, you'll find a walking path with perfect outlooks onto the Golden Gate Bridge.

For a scenic hike, continue on the walking path until reaching the Land's End Trail . This winding cliffside trail in a wild, rugged terrain offers sweeping Pacific Ocean views.

The Legion of Honor was the gift of the socialite, philanthropist, and patron of the arts Alma de Bretteville Spreckels. Because of her love for all things Parisian, the museum was designed as a replica of the Palais de la Légion d'Honneur in Paris.

This museum is one of the top cultural attractions in San Francisco. The Legion of Honor 's permanent collection includes European decorative arts, sculptures, and paintings, along with antiquities from the Mediterranean and Near East. Admission to the Legion of Honor Fine Arts Museum also gives you same-day admission to the de Young Fine Arts Museum.

The Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco is the last remaining structure from the 1915 Panama Pacific Exposition . Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this Neoclassical building is beautifully situated on a lagoon that reflects the mirror image on the surface of the calm water, while ducks and geese drift by.

The palace has been restored, along with the grounds, and today hosts art exhibitions and cultural events. The Palace of Fine Arts Theatre primarily presents comedy performances.

Address: 3301 Lyon Street, San Francisco

The California Academy of Sciences , in Golden Gate Park , is an architectural marvel as well as a multifaceted museum. The exhibition space is voluminous and bright, thanks to walls that are largely made of glass allowing for natural light.

This state-of-the-art building features an eco-friendly design. The 2.5-acre Living Roof is covered with native plants, grassy fields, and seven "rolling hills" to match the natural surroundings. The roof also has solar panels to generate electricity, and the soil acts as natural insulation.

Inside is an incredible natural history museum, planetarium, aquarium, rainforest, gift shop, café, and restaurant. Both the café and restaurant offer plant-based options and California cuisine specialties prepared from local ingredients.

The Steinhart Aquarium includes some 60,000 live specimens and a 25-foot-deep coral reef. You can descend in a glass elevator to arrive at the aquarium. When you exit the elevator, look up through an acrylic tunnel to see fish swimming overhead in the freshwater mangrove forest.

The four-story-high Osher Rainforest houses tropical flora and fauna (birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects) within a temperature-regulated environment, beneath an enormous glass dome. The temperature is kept at 82 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. With the humidity, heat, and butterflies fluttering about, you might think you're walking through a real tropical rainforest. Look out for the poison-dart frogs and golden-silk orb-weaver spiders!

The Kimball Natural History Museum has skeletons of a T. rex and a blue whale, along with an exhibit of brilliant gems and minerals and exhibits about earthquakes, coastal fog, local marine mammals, and ancient redwood forests.

Little kids love the Natural History Museum's Tusher African Hall because it houses a colony of African penguins , part of a program to protect endangered species. It's fun to watch these small penguins waddle and splash about in their glass-enclosed area (which replicates their natural habitat). From time to time, the penguins jump or slide into a refreshing pool of water.

Address: 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco

If you love modern art, be sure to visit the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) in the SoMa District. SoMa is in downtown San Francisco next to Union Square and the Financial District.

The museum focuses on 20th-century art, in all forms, and the innovative and interesting exhibits are constantly changing. You will have plenty to admire during your visit, as the museum displays thousands of artworks within 170,000 square feet of exhibition space spread across 10 floors.

You can visit one section of the museum free of charge . This area includes 45,000 square feet of space. Here you'll find a Diego Riviera mural and an exhibit of paintings and sculptures dating from the early 20th century to the present. Some of the museum's highlights (such as Femme au chapeau by Henri Matisse, Frieda and Diego Rivera by Frida Kahlo, Lake George by Georgia O'Keeffe, and Mark Rothko's No. 14 ) are in the free-of-charge section. The rest of the museum requires a ticket.

The museum is housed in a modern, architecturally stunning building that was extensively renovated and expanded in 2016. The light and airy building is a pleasure to wander about.

Should you work up an appetite, you can stop for a bite to eat. A lunch menu is available at the museum's casual restaurant and at Café 5 in the museum's Sculpture Garden which features fabulous city views. There's also a coffee shop that serves coffee, tea, pastries, and desserts.

About the neighborhood: SoMa is a happening urban area but unfortunately has recently experienced some of San Francisco's urban issues. Still, you should visit the museum and the attractions near the SFMOMA: the Contemporary Jewish Museum , the Yerba Buena Gardens , the Metreon shopping center (which has a movie theater, restaurants, and casual eateries), and the Children's Creativity Museum , but there's no need to explore SoMa much further.

Address: 151 Third Street, San Francisco

While visiting Golden Gate Park, set aside some time to explore the de Young . This fine arts museum is one of the top cultural attractions in San Francisco. The collection covers a wide variety of exhibits from Mayan antiquities to 19th-century Hudson River landscape paintings.

While art and period interiors from North America feature strongly in the collection, many other exhibits from Egypt, Greece, Rome, and the Near East are of note. British art and folk art from Africa, America, and the Pacific Islands, are also well represented.

Admission to the de Young Fine Arts Museum includes free same-day admission to the Legion of Honor .

Address: 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco

These two uninhabited hills, more than 900 feet high, have one of the finest views out over the city and bay. Access is easy - you can drive to the north peak parking area, park your car, and soak up the amazing vista.

If you're outdoorsy, take a hike along trails over the north and south peaks. This is some of the best hiking in San Francisco . While up here, you may be forgiven for thinking these are the highest of San Francisco's 43 hills; however, that lofty distinction belongs to Mount Davidson, which is 33 feet higher.

The Twin Peaks are the only hills in San Francisco not to have been built over and remain in their original state. The Spaniards called them " Los pechos de la Chola " or the Breasts of the Indian Maiden. Even on warm days, strong, cool breezes blow in from the Pacific, especially in the late afternoon.

The Asian Art Museum is unquestionably one of the most important museums in San Francisco. The museum opened in 1966, with the basis of the collection coming from art collector Avery Brundage.

Brundage built up a private collection, which in 1959 he offered to the city of San Francisco "to bridge the gap between East and West." The museum building was constructed, and on his death in 1975 at the age of 88, the museum also received the rest of his collection of works of art in the form of a legacy.

Building on this, the museum has continued to amass various pieces and now contains an extensive collection of sculptures, paintings, bronzes, ceramics, jade carvings, and architectural fragments from Japan, Korea, China, India, Iran, and other Asian cultures. The works span more than 6,000 years.

Author's Tip: Try to avoid taking public transportation to the Civic Center BART station or walking around the Civic Center area, as this is a rough neighborhood of San Francisco.

Address: 200 Larkin Street, San Francisco, California

If you are traveling with children or you are young at heart, you must visit the Exploratorium . This incredibly popular science museum is one of the most popular things to do with kids in San Francisco . It displays fascinating interactive science exhibits. Kids enjoy the hands-on learning experiences, which educate and entertain at the same time.

Children tend to rate this museum very highly because the exhibits are so much fun to check out. Adults also rave about the Exploratorium whether or not they have kids.

For a top-notch dining experience, try the museum's Seaglass Restaurant which serves seasonal cuisine prepared from local organic ingredients. The sleek modern dining room looks out onto the San Francisco Bay, the Bay Bridge, and Treasure Island. You may also enjoy your meal outside on the bay-view patio.

Address: Pier 15, San Francisco, California

Golden Gate National Recreation Area , not to be confused with Golden Gate Park, is a huge natural area located across the Golden Gate Bridge from downtown San Francisco. This 600-square-mile park in Marin County is a UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve and a recreational area. It is also simply a beautiful place to enjoy nature and relax.

The park has walking trails, campgrounds, picnic areas, and beautiful beach areas. Some of the beaches have fabulous views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

The park is home to the historic Fort Baker , a former US Army post from the early 20th century.

Home of the San Francisco Giants, Oracle Park is a fun place to take in a baseball game while visiting the city. If you want to gaze out over the ballpark to the sublime view of the ocean, buy tickets along the 1st base or 3rd baselines or behind home plate.

If you don't have time to see a game, consider taking a 90-minute Oracle Park Ballpark Tour for a behind-the-scenes look at places off-limits to most people. You can step onto the field, sit in the dugout, check out the clubhouse, and learn about the historic moments that have taken place at the ballpark.

Address: 24 Willie Mays Plaza, San Francisco

About a 1.5-hour drive from San Francisco are two gorgeous rural destinations: Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley. These are the two best-known and largest grape-growing areas in California. Many people day trip to this area to enjoy the scenery and stop in at some of the sites along the way.

Top tourist attractions include the quaint town of Yountville , which has many excellent French restaurants, the historic town of Sonoma , and the spa destination of Calistoga where you can see Old Faithful Geyser. In Sonoma, be sure to visit the Sonoma State Historic Park which is partly in the downtown near the Plaza and also includes the historic Mission that was founded in 1823.

Many people visit Napa or Sonoma as a day trip or for a relaxing weekend getaway. You'll find many lovely resorts in the Napa Valley.

Both Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley are renowned for gastronomy. You'll find fine dining establishments as well as casual gourmet restaurants. Napa Valley is home to the Culinary Institute of America where you can take cooking classes and the famous three Michelin-starred restaurant The French Laundry in Yountville.

If you are looking for a non-touristy thing to do in San Francisco, take a 25-minute ferry ride from San Francisco to Angel Island State Park for a refreshing escape to nature. The largest natural island in the San Francisco Bay, Angel Island affords panoramic views of the surrounding bay.

You can enjoy the lovely scenery while hiking or biking on the well-groomed trails. It's possible to hike up to the island's summit, Mount Caroline Livermore , at 788 feet, where the views are sensational.

Relaxation is another reason to visit. The island has picnic areas, campsites, and several sandy beaches ideal for taking a walk or sunbathing. If you enjoy guided sightseeing tours, take a tram tour to see the island from an open-air vehicle. Tram tours include audio guides that share interesting commentary about the island.

Angel Island served as an Immigration Station from 1910 until 1940. You can visit the Angel Island Immigration Museum to learn more about the island's history and to see the barracks where immigrants were detained for weeks or months during an interrogation process.

Well designed for visitors, the island has day-use boat docks, bicycle rentals, and a café that is open daily during the high season and from Wednesday through Sunday during the low season. The café sells snacks, sandwiches, salads, and beverages.

To reach Angel Island , you can take the ferry from San Francisco Ferry Terminal. The Golden Gate Ferry company provides service daily year-round. Keep in mind that it can be expensive to park in this area of San Francisco, so it's best to get a taxi or ride to the San Francisco Ferry Terminal.

Alternatively, you can get to Angel Island from Marin County (north of San Francisco). The Angel Island Tiburon Ferry company runs ferries from Tiburon to Angel Island daily from early March through October; service is limited from November through February.

If you are traveling with a car, you could combine a visit to Angel Island with a trip across the Golden Gate Bridge and a stop in Tiburon. This takes longer if you are based in San Francisco, but it's an incredibly scenic drive and you avoid the hassle and the crowds taking the ferry from the San Francisco Ferry Terminal.

For a full-day outing, add Tiburon to your itinerary. This bayfront town has a charming downtown and an idyllic seaside setting. It's definitely worth visiting, especially if you want to have a meal at a waterfront restaurant with views. The vistas of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco across the bay are spectacular.

When visiting the Fisherman's Wharf area, you must visit Ghirardelli Square . Overlooking the bay, this quaint shopping and dining complex occupies historic brick buildings: a former chocolate factory, a woolen mill, and a mustard company. The square was inaugurated in 1964 and is listed on the National Historic Register .

Today, Ghirardelli Square appeals to chocolate lovers and anyone with a sweet tooth. The main tourist attraction of the square is the Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop . Here, you can indulge in a decadent hot fudge sundae or shop for Ghirardelli chocolate bars and candies.

Besides chocolate and ice cream, Ghirardelli Square offers an inviting ambiance, with its fountains and flowers, and splendid bay views. Take a stroll around the square as you browse the boutiques. On sunny days, you'll want to spend some time sitting on the outdoor terraces.

The dining options at Ghirardelli Square include an excellent dim sum restaurant, Palette Tea House (which requires advanced reservations), and McCormick & Kuleto's, an old-timey restaurant that specializes in seafood and steaks. If you're looking for stunning bay views, McCormick & Kuleto's does not disappoint. The dining room has floor-to-ceiling windows that look out to the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island.

Steps away from Ghirardelli Square near the Hyde Street cable car turntable, you will find Aquatic Park Cove where there is a small beach. Aquatic Parc Cove is also home to the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park.

Enjoy afternoon tea at one of San Francisco's landmark hotels, and you'll experience the refinement of another era.

Opened in 1907, the Fairmont San Francisco on Nob Hill delights guests with its opulent lobby and elegant ambiance. The Fairmont offers afternoon tea service on Saturday afternoons, in the lovely Neoclassical Laurel Court dining room. You will be treated to a choice of organic tea, house-made scones with clotted cream, gourmet finger sandwiches, macarons, and other desserts.

The Palace Hotel , in the downtown area near Market Street, is famous for its fancy afternoon tea service. This Gilded Age landmark has a magnificent glass-domed reception area, the Garden Court , where you may enjoy the Signature Tea on Saturday afternoons. It's a sophisticated affair, complete with fine china, sterling silver, and haute cuisine afternoon tea specialties.

If you love the original Disney cartoons or you're traveling with kids who love Disney stories, then make a beeline for the Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco. This unique museum is dedicated to chronicling the life and works of Walt Disney.

Exhibits showcase drawings, cartoons, and films created by Walt Disney and describe his worldwide business empire. Also on display are the numerous awards he won over his career, along with priceless sketches of Mickey Mouse.

The Walt Disney Family Museum is located in the Presidio National Park , which has picnic areas, a children's playground, beaches, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks including views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Take a 45-minute drive north of San Francisco to marvel over the magnificent ancient redwood forest at Muir Woods National Monument . At this serene and shady nature site, meandering paths wind their way alongside a babbling creek and beneath enormous old-growth redwood trees, some of which are nearly 260 feet high.

Until you visit, it's hard to appreciate the incredible sight of these stoic sentinels that have been living quietly in the forest for almost a thousand years.

To get a deeper understanding and to make the most of your visit, check out the Visitor Center , where you'll find fascinating exhibits and displays along with park staff who are happy to answer any questions you may have.

Note that to visit the park, you will need to reserve your parking space or shuttle tickets in advance. Plan ahead to secure a spot in this popular tourist attraction.

As you look up Telegraph Hill in San Francisco, you may notice the cylindrical tower that looks a little like the Leaning Tower of Pisa (without the lean). This is the Coit Tower. Completed in 1933, the tower stands 210 feet high and is one of the best places for panoramic views of the city.

From the top of the tower, the sights that lie before you include Lombard Street, Pier 39, the downtown skyscrapers, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz.

Inside the tower are wonderful murals painted in the early 1930s depicting views of daily life during the Depression. The tower is named after its benefactor, Lillie Hitchcock Coit, who was a wealthy and somewhat eccentric lady.

Nestled within charming gardens in the Telegraph Hill neighborhood, Coit Tower is open daily year-round except for a few holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, and January 1st). Groups of four or more people may arrange to take a guided tour, for an additional fee, to learn about the murals.

Address: 1 Telegraph Hill Boulevard, San Francisco

If you'd like to visit the key tourist attractions on foot, the best place to stay is near Union Square or in the Nob Hill neighborhood, a short uphill walk from Union Square. You'll find plenty of upscale shops, restaurants, galleries, theaters, and hotels here. San Francisco's famous Chinatown and North Beach ("Little Italy"), with its bustling Italian restaurants and cafés, are just steps away from Union Square.

Union Square is a major transport hub, so it's easy to venture further afield to other attractions via cable car, bus, BART, or taxi.

Fisherman's Wharf is also a popular place to stay, with lively vacation vibes and picturesque bayfront scenery – especially for families who might prefer being in a safer neighborhood than the Union Square/downtown area. Below are some of the best places to stay in San Francisco for sightseeing.

Luxury Hotels:

• The five-star Four Season Hotel San Francisco at Embarcadero is a sleek contemporary-style property on the top floors of a 48-story building. The plush guest rooms and suites feature incredible views of San Francisco Bay and the city skyline.
• A short walk from Union Square, the Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco on Market Street in the SoMa neighborhood provides exceptional service and amenities. The hotel has recently renovated guest rooms and a trendy lounge/restaurant that specializes in California cuisine.
• Consider The Ritz-Carlton for posh accommodation on Nob Hill, the most exclusive neighborhood in San Francisco. Housed in a colonnaded Neoclassical building, this five-star hotel blends old-world elegance with modern amenities including a fitness center, concierge, sun terrace, and an award-winning restaurant.
• Chic contemporary style defines The St. Regis San Francisco , right in the heart of downtown San Francisco in the vibrant SoMa District. This five-star hotel boasts recently redecorated guest rooms, an up-to-date fitness center, a yoga & meditation room, and a fine-dining restaurant that serves seasonal cuisine. The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) is steps away, and the Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD) is next door.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Chancellor Hotel on Union Square offers excellent value in the heart of Union Square and treats guests to complimentary tea and cookies. This three-star hotel occupies a historic building that has been updated for today's travelers. The cable car runs right past the front of the hotel.
• The boutique three-star Cornell Hotel de France exudes Parisian style in a convenient location between Union Square and Nob Hill. The hotel dates from 1910 and is on the Register of Historic Places. The hotel has a restaurant on the premises which is renowned for its cozy ambiance and traditional French cuisine.
• In a salt-tinged setting by the water, the three-star Courtyard by Marriott San Francisco Fisherman's Wharf boasts a fantastic location. This hotel is a good choice for families seeking accommodations near Ghirardelli Square and Fisherman's Wharf.

Budget Hotels:

• If you're on a budget, try The Herbert Hotel in the heart of downtown. This two-star hotel offers excellent value a short walk from Union Square.
• Between Fisherman's Wharf and Union Square, the Castle Inn provides good value for the price, along with wonderful views. You can walk to Fisherman's Wharf in about 25 minutes and Union Square in 30 minutes.

Several interesting tours in San Francisco make exploring the city easy and hassle-free. Since San Francisco is a large city built on hills, with many uphill climbs and stairs, tours are an especially good idea for anyone with mobility issues.

Tours are also ideal if you have only a couple of days and want to see as much of the city as possible without the challenges of driving or trying to find parking. The following tours are some excellent options for saving time, seeing the sights, and exploring some of the areas outside the city. These also guarantee the lowest prices.

See the Sights :

• The best explore-at-your-own-pace sightseeing tour is the Big Bus San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Tour. This double-decker bus tour, with guided narration, allows you to get on and off at the major tourist spots and is a great way to get acquainted with the city while learning a little history and seeing the highlights.
• To add a splash of fun to your sightseeing and save your legs some extra walking, book a San Francisco Waterfront Segway Tour and cruise around Fisherman's Wharf, Ghirardelli Square, and other popular areas.

Cruise the Bay :

• To get out on the water and enjoy the city skyline in the evening, hop on a San Francisco Bay Sunset Catamaran Cruise . This 1.5-hour cruise sails past Alcatraz Island and under the Golden Gate Bridge while the sun sets and the city lights begin to glow.

Get Out of the City :

• San Francisco lies within easy striking distance of some fantastic scenery. The Monterey, Carmel, 17-Mile Drive Tour treats you to an action-packed day. You will see the fabulous coastline, shop at Monterey's Cannery Row, see the charming seaside town of Carmel, and drive along the oceanfront 17-Mile Drive.
• Another very popular trip, offering a chance to see one of America's great national treasures, is a Tour to Yosemite National Park . This is a must for nature lovers who want to see the famous sites of El Capitan and Half Dome and walk among the Giant Sequoias of Sequoia Grove. This tour includes pick-up and drop-off from some San Francisco hotels.
• For a half-day tour that covers a little of everything, the Muir Woods & Sausalito Half-Day Trip is a good mix of nature, sightseeing, and shopping. This tour is available in the morning or afternoon.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

More on San Francisco: Plan out a free walking tour beginning in Chinatown with the help of our San Francisco Walking Tour . For families looking for activities to entertain children, see our article on San Francisco with Kids: Top Things to Do . If you're interested in some healthy dining options, have a read through our list of the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in San Francisco .

Exploring Northern California: San Francisco is the gateway to some of California's most amazing sites. In three or four hours you can be exploring the sites of Yosemite National Park or gazing out at Lake Tahoe . If you don't want to go that far, have a look at our top-rated day trips from San Francisco to see where you can get to in even less time.

More on California

The 16 best things to do in San Francisco

Feb 5, 2024 • 9 min read

From riding cable cars to exploring the city's food scene, these are the essential things to do on a visit to San Francisco © lechatnoir / Getty Images

Famously beautiful,  San Francisco  is one of the most filmed, photographed (and shared on social networks) cities in the world. It’s even better in real life.

Pictures can never capture the taste of mouthwatering, farm-fresh dishes, the clang of the cable car and the truly joyous celebrations of individuality you’ll find on any visit here. But where do you start your urban exploration? From world-class museums to the best in LGBTIQ+ culture and incredible city vistas, here are the best things to do on any visit to San Francisco.

1. Admire the Golden Gate Bridge from these vantage points

Other suspension bridges are impressive feats of engineering, but the Golden Gate Bridge tops them all for its razzle-dazzle. On sunny days, this American icon transfixes crowds with its radiant glow (there are great views from Crissy Field ), made possible by the work of 28 daredevil painters who reapply around 1000 gallons of International Orange paint each week. To inspect their work, duck under the bridge into Fort Point , make your way to the roof and look up: you’ll notice that even on the underbelly of the bridge, not a single rivet is allowed to get rusty.

Planning tip:  Head to the Marin County end of the bridge as the late-afternoon fog rolls in, and you’ll witness the ultimate magic show: now you see the Golden Gate Bridge, now you don’t. Return tomorrow for its dramatic unveiling, just in time for the morning commute.

2. Explore the attractions of Golden Gate Park

Golden Gate Park seems to contain just about everything San Franciscans love about their city, from bonsai and buffalo to flowers, free music and free spirits. The  de Young Museum  offers superb exhibitions of fine art in a striking contemporary building designed by Herzog & de Meuron, while the nearby  California Academy of Sciences  is a research institute and fabulous natural history museum complete with its own rainforest and aquarium. The park is also home to the  San Francisco Botanical Garden , Japanese Tea Garden , Conservatory of Flowers and Stow Lake . Today, everything SF needs is here: inspiration, nature and murals.

Planning tip:  With its myriad attractions, you could wander the park for a week and still not see them all. Select a few, take your time, and end your day enjoying the sunset over the Pacific with a fresh-brewed beer at the Beach Chalet .

3. Photograph the Mission’s 400+ street murals

Love changed the course of art history in the 1930s when modern-art power couple Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo honeymooned in San Francisco. Kahlo completed her first portrait commissions during her time in the city, while Rivera created public masterpieces that inspired generations of San Francisco muralists. Today San Francisco’s Mission District is an urban-art showstopper, featuring more than 400 murals throughout the neighborhood .

Planning tip: Head to  Balmy Alley for some of the oldest murals, while 24th St and the landmark San Francisco Women’s Building are covered with glorious portrayals of community pride and political dissent.

4. Browse the iconic City Lights Books

Free speech and free spirits have rejoiced since 1957, when City Lights founder and poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti and manager Shigeyoshi Murao won a landmark ruling defending their right to publish Allen Ginsberg's magnificent epic poem Howl . Celebrate your freedom to read freely in the designated Poet’s Chair upstairs, overlooking Jack Kerouac Alley. Then load up on zines on the mezzanine and entertain radical ideas downstairs in the new “Pedagogies of Resistance” section.

5. Jump on a cable car – and hold tight

Carnival rides can’t compare to the time-traveling thrills of the  cable car , San Francisco’s steampunk mode of public transport. As the rickety wagons ascend notoriously steep streets, first-timers slide into strangers’ laps – cable cars were invented in 1873, long before seat belts – as regulars just grip the leather hand straps, leaning back and riding the downhill plunges like pro surfers. Follow their lead, and you’ll soon master the San Francisco stance and find yourself conquering the city’s hills without even breaking a sweat.

6. Be inspired at the Asian Art Museum

Inspiration can be found across three floors spanning 6000 years of Asian art at this inspiring museum. Visitors can take in everything from meditative Tibetan mandalas to palace-intrigue Mughal miniatures, with stops to admire intricate Islamic geometric tile work, giddy arrays of Chinese snuff bottles and an entire Japanese minimalist teahouse. Besides the largest collection of Asian art outside Asia – 18,000-plus works – the Asian Art Museum offers excellent all-ages programs, from shadow-puppet shows to DJ mixers. Expanded ground-floor galleries host groundbreaking contemporary installations, from Jean Shin’s melted cell phone towers to teamLAB’s immersive Tokyo dreamscapes.

7. Savor California food culture at the Ferry Building

Global food trends start in San Francisco. To sample tomorrow’s menu today, head to the Ferry Building , the city’s monument to trailblazing local, sustainable food. Don’t miss the Saturday farmers market , where top chefs jostle for the first pick of rare heirloom varietals, and foodie babies blissfully teethe on organic California peaches.

Planning tip: Take a trip to Pier 14, where you can make a picnic from food truck finds as you overlook the sparkling bay – and let lunch and life exceed expectations.

8. Tour Alcatraz, the notorious island prison

From its 19th-century founding as a jail for Civil War deserters and Native American dissidents until its closure by Robert Kennedy in 1963, Alcatraz was America’s most notorious penitentiary. With easy access from the city, a thrilling and unexpected history, daring tales of thwarted escape attempts and stunning views of the San Francisco skyline, “the Rock” garners 1.4 million visitors each year. Freedom will never feel so good as it will on the return ferry to San Francisco, only 1.25 miles across the bay’s riptides.

Planning tip:  For maximum chill factor, book the spooky night tour .

9. Duck down the backstreets of Chinatown

Enter Dragon’s Gate to saunter down Chinatown’s main tourist drag, Grant Ave. It's hard to believe this pagoda-topped, souvenir-shop-packed strip was once the wildest spot in the West – at least until you see the fascinating displays at the Chinese Historical Society of America . Walk Waverly Place , Chinatown’s soul, lined with flag-festooned, colorful temple balconies and family-run businesses. Then duck into Chinatown’s historic alleyways to glimpse a neighborhood that’s survived against daunting odds, listening for mah-jongg tiles, temple gongs and Chinese orchestras as you wander the backstreets.

Local tip: Finish your tour by refueling with some tantalizing traditional dim sum.

10. Trace the history of the avant-garde at SFMOMA

From the moment of its founding in 1935, the  San Francisco Museum of Modern Art envisioned a world of radical new possibilities. SFMOMA was a forward-thinking early collector in such then-emerging media as photography, murals, film and installation. Today, the institution has tripled in size and ambition, dedicating entire wings to new media, room-size paintings, high-tech design and monumental Richard Serra sculptures.

Planning tip:  If you want to visit all seven floors, it's best to set aside a whole afternoon.

11. Go over the rainbow in the Castro

Somewhere over the rainbow (crosswalk), you’ll realize you’ve officially arrived in the Castro district – the most out-and-proud neighborhood on the planet for more than 50 years. Walk in the footsteps of LGBTIQ+ trailblazers along the  Rainbow Honor Walk , get to know civil-rights champions at America’s first GLBT History Museum and join history perpetually in progress at San Francisco’s month-long, million-strong Pride celebrations in June .

12. Take in the city panorama from Coit Tower

Wild parrots might mock your progress up Telegraph Hill – but then again, they shouldn’t expect to keep scenery like this to themselves. The Filbert St Steps pass cliffside cottage gardens to reach SF’s monument to independent thinking: Coit Tower . Fire-fighting millionaire Lillie Hitchcock Coit commissioned this art deco monument to honor firefighters, while muralists captured 1930s San Francisco in its lobby frescoes. Coit Tower’s paintings and panoramic viewing platform show off the city at its best: all broad perspectives, outlandish and inspiring. 

Detour:  SF has 41 peaks, and as you scale those steep hills, your calf muscles will strain, and gravity will seem unkind – but persevere. All grumbling will end once you reach the summit and feel like you have the world at your feet. For different angles, head to hilltop green spaces like George Sterling Park and Ina Coolbrith Park , San Francisco’s crowning glories. Alternatively, go to  Corona Heights  and  Buena Vista Park  for wind-sculpted trees and Victorian turrets.

13. Hear the sea lions bark at Pier 39

Sea lions took over Pier 39 , San Francisco’s most coveted waterfront real estate, in 1989 and have been making a public display of themselves ever since. Naturally, these unkempt squatters have become San Francisco’s favorite mascots, and since California law requires boats to make way for marine mammals, yacht owners have had to relinquish valuable slips to accommodate as many as 1000 sea lions. Night and day, they canoodle, belch, scratch and gleefully shove one another off the docks. It’s a joy to watch.

Planning tip:  These giant mammals can be found on the docks between January and July (and whenever else they feel like sunbathing). 

14. Get hands-on with science at the Exploratorium

Can you stop time, sculpt fog or make sand sing? At the  Exploratorium , San Francisco’s hands-on laboratory of science and human perception, you’ll discover superhuman abilities you never knew you had. But the Exploratorium is not just for kids: there are kid-free hours on Thursdays offering mad-scientist cocktails, technology-assisted sing-alongs and themed exhibits for an 18-plus crowd. 

15. Play vintage amusements at Musée Mécanique

A flashback to penny arcades, the Musée Mécanique  in Fisherman’s Wharf houses a mind-blowing collection of vintage mechanical amusements. Sinister, freckle-faced “Laffing Sal” has freaked out kids for over a century, yet don’t let this manic mannequin deter you from the best arcade west of Coney Island. A quarter lets you start brawls in Wild West saloons, peep at belly dancers through a vintage Mutoscope and get hypnotized by a Ferris wheel made from toothpicks.

16. Sip a cocktail at a Barbary Coast bar

Friendly bartenders were once highly suspect in Barbary Coast, San Francisco’s Gold Rush–era red-light district. Circa 1849, a night that began with smiles and a 10-cent whiskey could end two days later, waking from a drugged sleep on a vessel bound for Patagonia. Now that double-crossing barkeep Shanghai Kelly is no longer a danger to drinkers, San Franciscans can relax over historically correct cocktails at North Beach’s revived Barbary Coast saloons, including Comstock Saloon , Devil’s Acre  and  15 Romolo . Today’s saloon scene is a fitting homage to drunken sailors of yore, with iron stools, absinthe fountains, dim lighting and reassuring barkeep banter.

This article was first published Feb 3, 2015 and updated Feb 5, 2024.

Explore related stories

Feb 19, 2024 • 6 min read

After years of hard work, what better way to celebrate than with an amazing adventure? Here are the best places for a graduation trip.

Feb 15, 2024 • 15 min read

Sep 9, 2023 • 7 min read

Mar 28, 2023 • 6 min read

Jun 14, 2022 • 8 min read

Sep 18, 2021 • 15 min read

Aug 30, 2021 • 8 min read

May 27, 2020 • 6 min read

Jan 21, 2020 • 3 min read

Oct 29, 2019 • 4 min read

San Francisco   Travel Guide

30 Top-Rated Things to Do in San Francisco

San Francisco is only 7 miles square, but it's packed with activities to delight outdoorsy types, art and culture lovers, foodies and curious wanderers of all ages. San Francisco offers so much more than its iconic landmarks. While Coit Tower and

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Crissy Field & The Presidio Tunnel Tops Crissy Field & The Presidio Tunnel Tops free

Part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Presidio Tunnel Tops is the nation’s newest national park space and reconnects the city to the bay. The 14-acre park, which was designed by James Corner Field Operations (the same team behind NYC ’s High Line ) bridges over the newly tunneled Presidio Parkway. The parkway (formerly Doyle Drive) separated the historic Main Post from the waterfront. Connecting pathways, bluff landscapes and overlooks have made the park a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. 

One of the park’s largest areas, the Golden Gate Meadow, is a popular spot for families for picnics, kite-flying and other outdoor activities. Gardens and accessible cliff walks border the meadow, which also offers views of the Golden Gate Bridge , the bay and the Marin Headlands. A 2-acre play space called the Outpost features huge play structures built from fallen tree trunks, boulders and other things inspired by nature, allowing children to swing, crawl and climb. 

Golden Gate Park Golden Gate Park free

If California had a Central Park equivalent, Golden Gate Park would undoubtedly be it. Though Golden Gate Park sees a small fraction of the visitors its New York counterpart does (Central Park welcomes more than 42 million, while Golden Gate sees more than 24 million yearly), it's about 174 acres bigger (Central Park is 843 acres). The park offers so much to see and do, it could take an entire day to experience all that it has to offer. Trails, picturesque picnic spaces, playgrounds, sports courts, gardens, museums and more can be found within its evergreen borders. With so many options available, it's best to map out what you want to do ahead of time, though some attractions warrant a visit, regardless of traveler taste.

The Japanese Tea Garden is one of those standout sites. This attraction is one of a kind, serving as the oldest Japanese garden in the U.S. It features 5 acres of manicured gardens outfitted with cherry trees, bamboo-lined pathways, koi ponds, a five-story pagoda, a Zen garden and a tea house, among other features. There's also the Conservatory of Flowers, the oldest existing public conservatory in the Western Hemisphere. The conservatory offers visitors a look at a plethora of vibrantly colored blooms and a chance to learn more about the nearly 2,000 species of plants that call the conservatory home. 

Coit Tower Coit Tower

Rising from its position on the peak of Telegraph Hill in Pioneer Park, Coit Tower serves as a vantage point to take in the northwest corner of San Francisco. Visitors might think the 210-foot-tall tower was designed to resemble a fire hose nozzle. While Lillie Hitchcock Coit commissioned the tower as a monument to volunteer firefighters, the concrete pillar's nozzle-like appearance is coincidental. The tower was completed in 1933, while artists painted the murals around its base (and repainted them due to some illustrations containing communist imagery) in 1934. The Coit Tower currently resides on the list of San Francisco Designated Landmarks and the National Register of Historic Places.

Recent travelers enjoyed the murals and 360-degree views of San Francisco from the top of the tower, but have complained about paying to climb stairs. The easiest way to access the Coit Tower is via the N line of the Muni. From downtown, you can take either the No. 30 or No. 45 line to Washington Square, located at the corners of Union & Columbus and transfer to the No. 39 Coit Tower bus.

Popular Tours

Alcatraz with San Francisco Bay Cruise

(732 reviews)

from $ 139.00

Napa and Sonoma Wine Country Full-Day Tour from San Francisco

(4028 reviews)

from $ 169.00

Inside Alcatraz Tour Including Fisherman's Wharf Lunch Credit

(407 reviews)

from $ 99.99

Lands End Lands End free

One of the top places in San Francisco to catch the sunset, Lands End offers whimsical, winding trails through rocky cliffs. Located in the northwestern corner of San Francisco, the park sits inside of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The park encompasses multiple historic sites, monuments, multiple trails and a shoreline labyrinth with excellent views of the Golden Gate Bridge .

Visitors often rave about the park’s trails and the views of the Golden Gate Bridge and other San Francisco landmarks. Many have appreciated the historic ruins of the Sutro Baths, which San Franciscans used as a recreational swimming facility from 1898 to 1964. The baths were demolished in 1964, then further destroyed by a fire in 1966, leaving the structure that travelers can visit today. Similarly, the park's iconic Cliff House was destroyed twice by fire, but it was rebuilt each time.

Golden Gate Bridge Golden Gate Bridge free

The Golden Gate Bridge's vaulting, orange arches amidst the rocky seascape of the San Francisco Bay have made it one of the West Coast's most enduring symbols and the city's most popular tourist attraction. The bridge's name, "Golden Gate," actually refers to the body of water it spans (the Golden Gate Strait that connects the Pacific Ocean with the San Francisco Bay), and was built to make travel between San Francisco and Marin County an easier feat. 

There are plenty of great spots to capture a snap of the majestic bridge. But if you want a truly postcard-worthy shot, head to the Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point, situated high on a hill overlooking San Francisco. If you have extra time, make sure to explore the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The actual span of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area encompasses multiple places in San Mateo (south of San Francisco), San Francisco and Marin counties ( Alcatraz and Muir Woods included), but notable parts of this recreation area can be found just a stroll away from the Golden Gate. From the bridge, travelers will find some scenic, bayside trails, some of which lead to secluded beaches, including Kirby Cove and Black Sands Beach. If you really want a trek, journey to the Point Bonita Lighthouse for sweeping views of the bay, found at the very tip of the Golden Gate Strait.

Ferry Building Marketplace Ferry Building Marketplace free

Attention all foodies: this delectable attraction needs to be at the top of your San Francisco to-do list. The Ferry Building Marketplace is a public food market that features a variety of food stalls that act as small restaurants, snack stops and grocery stores. Here you can find everything from staples, such as seafood, burgers, Mexican food and plenty of coffee, to a Japanese delicatessen, empanada stand, a honey shop and an organic bagel shop.

Many travelers who stopped by the Ferry Building Marketplace enjoyed the lively atmosphere and were impressed with the amount, variety and overall quality of eats available on-site. The Saturday farmers market was a standout for many. Though there are formal restaurants available, some visitors say the best strategy is to pick up a to-go meal and enjoy it along the scenic waterfront. And if you're not one for lines, don't come on the weekends. For a different perspective of the marketplace, view it from the water on a narrated boat tour . Some of the best San Francisco food tours also make stops here.

Alcatraz Alcatraz

U.S. News Insider Tip: Depending on what time of year you visit, tours to Alcatraz can sell out months in advance. Play it safe by not waiting until the last minute to reserve your spot. – Alissa Grisler, Associate Editor

While riding a cable car and getting a snap of the Golden Gate Bridge is a must when visiting San Francisco, both visitors and travel experts tend to argue the same for Alcatraz. This is because Alcatraz is rich with history. Sitting on a small, rocky island in the middle of San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz is best known as being a former federal prison that housed some of society's biggest offenders, the most famous of which was Prohibition-era mob boss Al Capone. Before that, it was a military prison that housed prisoners from the Spanish-American War and Civil War, as well as the site of the West Coast's first operating lighthouse. The prison closed down both times due to high operating costs and was handed over to the National Park Service in 1972 after the island experienced a short occupation from Native American activists. Today, the attraction welcomes more than one million visitors per year. 

California Academy of Sciences California Academy of Sciences

Attention, families: recent visitors said this is the perfect place to bring kids in San Francisco. The California Academy of Sciences brims with plenty of things to see, including an aquarium, a planetarium, a natural history museum and even a rainforest. 

The Steinhart Aquarium is home to about 40,000 animals representing more than 900 different species, including a penguin colony from Africa, a swamp with an albino alligator, a shark lagoon and a separate 100,000-gallon tank that mirrors the ecosystem of the California coast. Meanwhile, the Osher Rainforest houses more than 1,600 animals, including 250 free-flying birds and butterflies, and about 100 reptiles and amphibians in its four-story complex. The Morrison Planetarium is known for its 75-foot-diameter screen, which plays "Tour of the Universe" shows daily. And the Kimball Natural History Museum boasts dinosaur fossils, an interactive science exhibit and a unique earthquake simulator. 

San Francisco: Yosemite National Park and Giant Sequoia Day Tour

(3024 reviews)

from $ 209.00

Muir Woods & Sausalito Half-Day Tour (Return by Bus or Ferry from Sausalito)

(4602 reviews)

from $ 89.00

San Francisco: Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour

(3869 reviews)

from $ 63.00

Palace of Fine Arts Palace of Fine Arts free

The only remaining structure from an early 20th-century world’s fair that helped put San Francisco on the international map, the Palace of Fine Arts is a faux palace surrounded by a lagoon frequented by snow-white swans. That setting combined with the building’s neoclassical design makes the Palace of Fine Arts one of the most popular spots in the city for wedding photos and Instagram shots. 

Described as a Beaux-Arts wonder, the palace was restored in the early 1960s, duplicating the original with a towering colonnade, bas-relief urns and a domed ceiling with allegorical paintings.

Hayes Valley Hayes Valley free

One of the best areas for shopping, eating, and people-watching, Hayes Valley is a cool, revitalized neighborhood located in the heart of the city. The main commercial strip, along Hayes Street between Laguna and Franklin, teems with stylish and unique home decor shops and clothing boutiques interspersed with charming outdoor cafes, dessert spots and a wide array of well-established restaurants and trendy watering holes. The neighborhood also features beautifully restored Victorians, a community garden and an art park.

Past visitors enjoyed the eclectic, European feel of the neighborhood and the quintessentially San Francisco experiences they've had there. These include customizing your own bag at the original Timbuk2 store , grabbing a coffee at Blue Bottle Coffee 's first brick-and-mortar tucked into a garage or enjoying a made-to-order ice cream at Smitten's kiosk overlooking the lively urban park, Patricia's Green .

Dolores Park Dolores Park free

On the western edge of The Mission , this 16-acre park is billed as one of the city’s most popular – because of its views of the San Francisco skyline and beyond, as well its ample green space. On sunny days, the park is a favorite among families who flock here to picnic on the grassy lawns that are shaded by palm trees. There’s also a playground and two off-leash dog play areas, as well as several sports courts. If you’re hoping to bring a picnic to enjoy at the park, experts suggest stopping by Tartine Bakery, Rhea’s Market & Deli and Nopalito.

Interestingly, the park is situated on land that was once a Jewish cemetery. In 1905, the city purchased the land and created the park. A year later, it became a refugee camp for hundreds of residents who became homeless after the historic 1906 earthquake and fire. 

The Mission The Mission free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Walk along Valencia Street between 20th and 22nd streets for unique and creative shops and affordable restaurants. Check out local favorites like sustainable bag brand Baggu, Dog Eared Books and Paxton Gate. – Lili Weigert

The Mission has attracted San Francisco's young bohemian crowd in the past decade, but its history is rooted in Hispanic heritage. After all, its namesake is the city’s oldest building, Mission Dolores. This is the place that introduced the burrito to the wider world, so be sure to check out Latinx-owned businesses like La Taqueria, Taqueria La Cumbre and El Farolito for some tasty eats loved by both locals and travelers alike. The Mission is also a great neighborhood for getting away from the heavily visited tourist attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman's Wharf , plus it's a popular stop on many of the city's best walking tours .

San Francisco's Chinatown San Francisco's Chinatown free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Did you know that fortune cookies were invented in San Francisco? While in Chinatown, stop by the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory where you can watch the cookies being made and sample different flavors and toppings. – Lili Weigert

While New York City 's Chinatown tends to take center stage in the U.S., San Francisco's Chinatown is just as much of a star. San Francisco's Chinatown hosts one of the largest Asian communities outside of Asia, and is considered one of the oldest in North America. Chinese immigrants first started coming to California in search of fortune during the Gold Rush. After being driven out of the gold mines due to discrimination and restrictive legislation against Chinese immigrants, the Chinese moved to build businesses of their own in the area that is now Chinatown – one of the city's most visited neighborhoods. 

San Francisco Bay Sunset Cruise

(1414 reviews)

from $ 58.00

Small-Group Tour: SF, Muir Woods, Sausalito w/ Optional Alcatraz

(1146 reviews)

from $ 144.00

Golden Gate Bay Cruise

(1277 reviews)

from $ 38.00

Haight-Ashbury Haight-Ashbury free

Named for the intersection of Haight and Ashbury streets, this neighborhood is best known as the center of the 1960s counterculture movement. Remnants of the long gone hippie culture endure, including the former Grateful Dead house at 710 Ashbury St., and the Jefferson Airplane house at 2400 Fulton St. Both are private residences, but remain perennial attractions. 

These days, trendy has replaced hippy. Colorful Victorian homes line the hillsides and restaurants and boutiques crowd the streets. Along Upper Haight, you’ll find flamboyant clothing shops, piercing and tattoo parlors, and hip restaurants. Downhill on Haight Street, you’ll find dive bars, consignment stores and music shops. 

Ocean Beach Ocean Beach free

U.S. News Insider Tip: After a walk along the beach, cross the Great Highway for brunch or happy hour at The Beach Chalet. Enjoy the ocean view from the spacious dining room or head around back to the Parc Chalet for outdoor seating and a more relaxed atmosphere. – Lili Weigert

Located in the northwestern corner of San Francisco, Ocean Beach separates attractions like the San Francisco Zoo and Golden Gate Park from the Pacific Ocean. This 3 ½-mile stretch of sand is a welcome respite from the city's bustling downtown. Visitors and locals can walk the beach, while experienced surfers brave the frigid water in search of the perfect wave.

Muir Woods National Monument Muir Woods National Monument

U.S. News Insider Tip: You won't find great cell service here, so download anything you need before you enter the park. – Leilani Osmundson, Digital Producer

What better exemplifies California's dramatic landscape than sky-high redwood trees? That's what you'll find at Muir Woods, the beautiful and expansive national monument just 16 miles north of San Francisco. This attraction is a must-see for anyone looking to get up close and personal with some of California's most famous topography, not to mention a nice break from the bustle of the city. The largest redwood tree in Muir Woods measures about 258 feet tall. To give you a better visual, imagine 45 six-foot-tall individuals stacked on top of each other. And if that wasn't enough to impress, the average age of redwoods in Muir Woods is 600 to 800 years, and that's not even some of the oldest in the park at the moment.

Japantown Japantown free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Navigating this part of town can be hectic, so if you drive, the best place to park is the Japan Center Garage. As an added convenience, the garage's website shows the number of spaces available in real time. – Lili Weigert

There are only three Japantowns left in the country, and San Francisco's is both the largest and the oldest, dating back to 1906. It's a vibrant and colorful community where you can immerse yourself in Japanese culture and experiences. The neighborhood offers a huge variety of Japanese items calling out to be purchased or consumed, including plenty of affordable options for the budget traveler.

Cable Cars Cable Cars

Chances are, you've seen a television show, movie, postcard or some type of San Francisco memorabilia emblazoned with the city's iconic cable car or trolley. So, of course, to fully experience San Francisco's charm, you should hop on board. San Francisco's cable car system is the last of its kind in the United States, given the title of a National Historic Landmark in 1964. The cable car was conceived after Andrew Smith Hallidie, an immigrant from England, witnessed an accident involving a horse-drawn buggy trying to climb a steep San Francisco hill and failing. His father had a patent for wire rope in England and he used that to design a transportation system that relied on just that. Thus, cable cars were born in the late 1800s. 

Though cable cars are seldom used by locals (due in part to their small travel network and high fare), tourists flock to them in droves. More than 9 million visitors ride the cable cars each year, and according to recent travelers, it's easy to see why. Tourists had a blast riding the cable cars up and down San Francisco's vibrant streets. Even though some said they encountered long lines to board, the majority of visitors believe the wait to be worth the experience and a must-do in San Francisco. Though if you're not one for long lines, some say to board at one of the stops along the line instead at the beginning. 

Small Group Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco

(2484 reviews)

from $ 229.00

Inside Alcatraz and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Cruise

(172 reviews)

from $ 133.99

Alcatraz with Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour

(863 reviews)

from $ 179.00

Presidio Heights Presidio Heights free

U.S. News Insider Tip: This is a great neighborhood for consignment stores. Sprinkled among the many high-end fashionable boutiques, check out local favorites Goodbyes and The Designer Consigner. – Lili Weigert

Presidio Heights is an elegant and immaculate neighborhood known for its stunning views and beautiful homes. It also includes the Sacramento Street Shopping District, which stretches over seven blocks and is where you'll find some of San Francisco's most established and sophisticated design shops and fashion boutiques. Whether you're looking for gifts, keepsakes, ideas or inspiration, it's a lovely area to explore away from the hustle and bustle of the city's other shopping districts.

Oracle Park Oracle Park

The San Francisco Giants have been calling this stadium home since 2000, playing host to multiple World Series games. Oracle Park is regarded as one of the most scenic baseball parks in the United States for its picturesque placement along the San Francisco Bay. The majority of attendees are afforded prime views of the glittering water from their seats all the while being able to enjoy one of America's greatest pastimes. 

Although baseball season runs from April to October, the stadium holds tours year-round (except on game days), providing a behind-the-scenes look at the field, dugout, the press box, luxury suites and more. Make sure to catch a glimpse of the World Series trophies and rings, which are on display on the Promenade Level behind home plate. 

Baker Beach Baker Beach free

While San Francisco isn't known for being a beach town, the city's Baker Beach is often considered one of the best in California . Located in the northwestern area of San Francisco in the Presidio, Baker Beach is primarily known for its sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the neighboring Marin Headlands. The mile-long beach offers travelers plenty of room to spread their legs and features picnic areas and access to nearby Presidio trails. Travelers flock here to snap photos of the bridge, however, if you're looking to catch some rays or get your feet wet, you should go elsewhere: Swimming at Baker Beach is dangerous due to large waves, undertow and rip currents, and the city's fickle weather means it's not always warm enough for sunbathing.

Travelers strongly recommend bringing an extra layer, no matter what time of year you visit. Reviewers also stress that those traveling with families should stick to the south side of the beach: North Baker Beach is clothing optional, and it's definitely practiced. 

Yerba Buena Gardens Yerba Buena Gardens free

After a day of hasty sightseeing, the Yerba Buena Gardens provide travelers with an opportunity to wind down and enjoy San Francisco's weather and unique culture. The gardens include 5 acres of landscaped lawns complete with flowers, trees, water features and public art. The Cho-En Butterfly Garden attracts native San Francisco butterflies with plants (also native) that encourage butterfly growth from eggs to adults. Meanwhile, the Reflection Garden serves as a tribute to the Ohlone Indians as well as a performance area for various oral traditions. The Upper Terrace Garden and the Sister City Gardens, which include plants from San Francisco's 18 sister cities from around the world, are where visitors will find the area's cafes and most of its seating. Additionally, the East Garden houses a variety of sculptures and water features. There are also three spaces designed specifically for kids, including a children’s garden and two playgrounds. 

What's more, attractions like the Children's Creativity Museum and the Yerba Buena Ice Skating + Bowling Center flank the Yerba Buena Gardens, so travelers could feasibly spend an entire day exploring this area of San Francisco. Due to the number of restaurants that also surround the gardens, many past travelers recommend stopping by the Yerba Buena Gardens after grabbing lunch or snacks nearby. They also find the park a great location to relax and enjoy the landscape.

Twin Peaks Twin Peaks free

If you want the best views of San Francisco, take a hike to Twin Peaks. These famous grassy peaks rise 922 feet in elevation, making them the second highest point in the city (after Mount Davidson). From the top, travelers can view multiple San Francisco landmarks, including the Bay Bridge and the downtown skyscrapers. Whether you decide to go during the day or night (some say you should do both), numerous visitors agree that the views are stunning and worth the trek. But make sure to bring a jacket: many recent visitors said it can get windier (and subsequently chillier) up top than at sea level.

The Castro Street station is the nearest Muni Metro stop and the Crestline Drive stop on the No. 37 is the best bus route (picks up from Market Street). The most common way that travelers visit the area is by walking or biking to the north peak parking lot. Many guided tours also stop here. If you’re up for a little more exploration, hike the nearly mile-long trail that ascends the two peaks. There are also more trails that meander along the southern and eastern slopes of the 64-acre park. Be sure to stay on marked trails, as poison ivy can be found in the area.

Muir Woods, Golden Gate Bridge + Sausalito with Optional Alcatraz

(641 reviews)

from $ 124.00

Small-Group Wine Country Tour from San Francisco with Tastings

(1233 reviews)

Small-Group Yosemite Day Tour from San Francisco

(577 reviews)

North Beach North Beach free

Don’t let the name of this neighborhood in northeastern San Francisco fool you: There’s no actual beach at North Beach. The name is more of a geographical marker for the neighborhood’s location on the bay. It’s better known as San Francisco’s Little Italy and remains home to a vibrant Italian-American community, with streets lined with restaurants and cafes. Among the neighborhood staples is Original Joe’s , which has been serving San Francisco residents for nearly a century. If you want a little help navigating the neighborhood’s delectable dining scene, consider signing up for one of the best San Francisco tours ; many of the companies featured lead guided food tours throughout North Beach.

In addition to its Italian restaurants, North Beach also gained fame as the preferred neighborhood for the post-World War II Beat Generation, which included authors Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Neal Cassady and Gregory Corso, among others. You can still see remnants of the Beat Generation in the City Lights bookstore and Vesuvio Cafe, which draws chess players, artists, poets and literary tourists. 

Union Square Union Square free

Situated a couple blocks north of Market Street and southwest of the city's Financial District, Union Square sits at the heart of downtown San Francisco's hustle and bustle. This area is loved by travelers and locals alike for its awesome location and incredible energy. Union Square Park is flanked by tall buildings (some of which are adorned with Times Square -size ads) and busy streets, offering people the unique opportunity to sit in the middle of a busy city and enjoy the atmosphere without the risk of getting hit by a car. The square also acts as a park, outfitted with small grassy spaces and palm trees. There are also multiple seating areas and works of art dotted across the square. The most recognized are the tall Dewey monument, situated in the center of the square, and the regularly photographed Hearts in San Francisco sculpture found at the base of the square. From late November to mid-January, an outdoor ice-skating rink is set up in Union Square Plaza.

Travelers appreciated the abundance of amenities that surround Union Square. There are plenty of hotels as well as dining options left and right. Union Square is pretty well-known, however, for its shopping, with many calling the area a "shopper’s paradise." Just blocks away, travelers will find everything from Neiman Marcus to Sephora. Getting to Union Square via public transportation is much easier than driving. The attraction sits just blocks from Market Street, a hub for all types of public transportation including the bus, Muni Metro and BART. Union Square is only two blocks from the Market St. & 3rd St. Muni Station and about four blocks from the Powell Street BART Station. Union Square can be visited all hours of the day and night for free. For more information on Union Square, visit the attraction's website .

Japanese Tea Garden Japanese Tea Garden

Located in Golden Gate Park , the Japanese Tea Garden offers visitors a slice of tranquility in a busy city. The garden, originally created as a "Japanese Village" for an international exposition in 1894, is the oldest continuously maintained public Japanese garden outside of Japan. 

The 5 - acre site features classic elements of a Japanese garden, including an arched drum bridge, pagodas, stone lanterns, stepping stone paths, native Japanese plants, serene koi ponds, a five-story pagoda and a Zen garden. You’ll want to plan your visit foo March or April when the garden’s cherry blossom trees are in full bloom. The garden is also home to a 9,000-pound Lantern of Peace, a gift given to the United States by Japan after World War II and meant to symbolize friendship between the two countries. 

Angel Island State Park Angel Island State Park

Angel Island State Park is situated in the San Francisco Bay and provides an abundance of outdoor activities for anyone willing to trek across the water by ferry. Some consider it the less famous (and thus, less crowded) sibling to the bay’s other well-known island, Alcatraz . Before the government converted the storied island into a park, it served as a hunting location, a cattle ranch, an immigration station and even a missile base. You can learn more about the island’s role as the West Coast’s Ellis Island with a visit to the Immigration Station, which tells the important story of the Chinese immigrant experience. 

Recent travelers say visitors should allot extra time to hike the roughly 6-mile perimeter loop, which offers excellent views of the water and is relatively easy. In addition to restroom facilities, bike rentals and tram tours, there is also a cafe on the island (though most recent visitors advised packing a lunch).

Fisherman's Wharf Fisherman's Wharf free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  For a sweet treat, grab some delicious beignets at Frankie's Pier 43. – Leilani Osmundson, Digital Producer

Fisherman's Wharf is so tourist-laden that some travelers might prefer the quieter, more authentic attractions nearby (like the Castro or Presidio Tunnel Tops ). But if you're looking to explore all of San Francisco – from its alternative underbelly to its mainstream attractions – Fisherman's Wharf really is a must-see. This waterfront neighborhood features a laundry list of things to do, as well as a few popular San Francisco sites. One of these is Pier 39. The Pier features plenty of shopping and restaurant options for tourists and is also famous for offering sweeping views of the bay, as well as the can't-miss attractions that call it home, including Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge . Though while you're there, don't miss an opportunity to snap a photo of the sea lions who have a habit of sunbathing on buoys near the docks.

San Francisco Love Tour

(2143 reviews)

from $ 85.00

Alcatraz Island Tour Package

(220 reviews)

from $ 134.80

From San Francisco: Half-Day Wine Country Tour, Tastings Included

(205 reviews)

from $ 125.00

Ghirardelli Square Ghirardelli Square free

Named after the famous purveyor of chocolate, Ghirardelli Square sits on the site of the company’s original factory. Framed by stately brick buildings, the square draws lots of tourists, thanks to its proximity to Fisherman’s Wharf and other landmarks. The square is home to shops, galleries, restaurants and, of course, the Original Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop. You can even hang your hat here: the Fairmont Heritage Place, Ghirardelli Square  sits within the complex.

Recent travelers were impressed by the views of San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge , as well as the variety of shopping, and the chocolate.

The Exploratorium The Exploratorium

This museum, or as it refers to itself, "a learning laboratory," features 600 hands-on exhibits that cover a plethora of subject matter, such as engineering, psychology, geography and biology. The museum spreads its knowledge over six main galleries, each with its own standout interactive offerings. Here, visitors can feel what it’s like to be inside a tornado, walk on an outdoor fog bridge, gaze at a bacteria terrarium, swim through the air with an anti-gravity mirror and more.

Though the Exploratorium appears as if it's designed for kids, travelers say it's a great attraction for all ages. Adults report feeling just as excited and amazed at the galleries and exhibits as kids. Though if you prefer to experience The Exploratorium without having to deal with kiddos running around, a few visitors suggested stopping by on a Thursday evening, when the attraction is open only to visitors 18 years and older. Regardless, travelers say there is so much to see and do, you could easily spend a whole day there. And though the high price of admission might turn some off, many agree that the experience is worth the price. 

Things to Do in San Francisco FAQs

Explore more of san francisco.

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

30 Fun Fall Weekend Getaways for 2024

Holly Johnson August 29, 2024

The 19 Best Fall Family Vacations for 2024

Amanda Norcross August 27, 2024

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

North America Chevron

United States Chevron

California Chevron

San Francisco Chevron

The 24 Best Things to Do in San Francisco

Don’t let San Francisco’s small seven-mile by seven-mile footprint  (under 10 percent the size of Los Angeles) fool you. This cosmopolitan, mini-metropolis surrounded by the bay and Pacific Ocean is awash with outdoor adventure, Michelin-star restaurants, historic sites, world-class museums, and independent mom-and-pop shops—all tucked into a tapestry of hilly neighborhoods lined with Victorian houses, green parks, and an independent ethos. Invigorating hikes through nature and walks along the city-proper trails and beaches are as much a part of life in San Francisco as Karl the Fog (yes, San Franciscans have named their most famous weather pattern), which can creep in at a moment’s notice in all four seasons. Whether you’re looking for a music- and art-filled visit, diverse food, or you simply can’t wait to fulfill your dream of riding a cable car or crossing the Golden Gate, this guide has you covered. Here are 24 of the best things to do the next time you’re in San Francisco.

Read our complete San Francisco guide here .

Golden Gate Bridge Arrow

Arching over the Golden Gate Strait, which connects the Pacific Ocean to the San Francisco Bay, the defining landmark of the city links San Francisco to Marin and Sausalito. At just under two miles, it's walkable by foot but also easy to see by car. It's hard to understand the magnitude or beauty of the bridge until you cross it. Stop outside the Welcome Center at the statue of Joseph Strauss, the bridge's designer, and look for the plaques explaining the bridge’s history and, of course, grab the obligatory snapshot. For more insights of the bridge’s backstory, sign up for a free walking tour of the bridge with San Francisco City Guides .

Edible Excursions: Japantown Food Tour Arrow

Edible Excursions is run by a team of expert guides obsessed with San Francisco, food, and showing off Japantown. Small groups walk and nibble, sip and savor, for around two hours while hearing stories about the neighborhood and meeting family-run business owners. This is a neighborhood where you can't be afraid to step through doors because behind them teems friendly people, delicious foods, and a community passionate about their heritage and culture. At first, Japantown appears quiet, but once inside a restaurant, a grocery store, or even a mall, your perception changes. For curious visitors and backyard travelers who want to learn more about San Francisco’s Japantown, its history, and its food, and for anyone who loves trying dishes they might not make or find at home, this is a can't-miss.

Muir Woods National Monument Arrow

The towering trees of Muir Woods National Monument might be known as Sequoia sempervirens to botanists and naturalists, but to travelers like us, they are California coastal redwoods and are some of the tallest and oldest trees on earth. This 558-acre preserve was named after conservationist John Muir and proclaimed a national monument by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1908. It is home to one of the last remaining ancient redwood forests in the Bay Area. Every step you take here is a do-not-miss wonder. There are around six miles of trails within the park, that wind among the mammoth trees to areas such as Cathedral Grove and Bohemian Grove, and along Redwood Creek. More experienced hikers can extend their treks to the adjacent Mount Tamalpais State Park.

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art Arrow

SFMOMA stands out among other elite museums in the city for its innovative, exciting exhibits in a cutting-edge building. Located by a BART station and right off MUNI bus lines, it's accessible in a busy downtown location. Architecture firm Snøhetta spearheaded an innovative expansion, which includes a two-story-high and half-block-long "living wall" covered in native plants, as well as fiberglass-reinforced panels on the exterior that evoke the waters of the Bay. The collection is full of heavy hitters and the Museum Store is packed with wonders, ranging from Lichtenstein-inspired vases to glowing book-shaped lamps, delicate silver necklaces to a chess set with San Francisco landmarks for pieces. Spending an entire day here is certainly not out of the question.

The Legion of Honor Museum Arrow

The Legion of Honor museum is not only one of San Francisco's best, but one of its most beautiful buildings, built as a replica of Paris ' Legion d'Honneur. It's home to more than 800 European paintings, including works from Picasso, Monet, and Rembrandt, as well as more than 90 sculptures by Rodin, most notably The Thinker. Save some time for a walk along the grounds, for breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge .

San Francisco Cable Cars Arrow

Horses and carriages long had trouble conquering San Francisco's steep hills, and so in 1873 the cable car system was born—three lines of the original eight remain today. They are a symbol of San Francisco, the world's last manually operated cable car system, and one of the city’s most popular attractions. An estimated 9.7 million people hop aboard each year–the vast majority are tourists, but some residents still use these moving monuments to crisscross the city, just as was intended more than 150 years ago. Riding is a blend of an open-air bus and a slow-moving roller coaster. When you board, you'll either sit on the wooden benches for a more comfortable ride, or seek thrills and stand on the car's exterior, gripping the poles as the car moves up and down the steep streets of San Francisco.

Lands End Trail Arrow

You know the well-worn piece of advice, not to spend too long in California, or it’ll ruin you? This hike will ruin you. Snaking along the rocky clifftops at the city’s wild edge, the Coastal Trail at Lands End follows the Golden Gate Strait out to the Pacific Ocean, delivering jaw-dropping views along the way. The 1.7-mile path wends around corners and over hills, through wide-open spaces and cathedral-like groves of trees, tracing the path of a long-gone railway that once ferried pleasure seekers to Sutro Baths and Ocean Beach. You’ll get there, too, but don’t hurry—this is a hike to be savored.

California Academy of Sciences Arrow

An impressive science and natural history museum in Golden Gate Park, the museum was completely rebuilt in 2008, and the new Renzo Piano-designed building features unique architectural elements like a rooftop covered in native plant life. The "living exhibits" are probably the highlights. There is a rainforest populated by plants, frogs, and free-flying birds and butterflies, with a flooded rainforest tunnel filled with Amazonian fish. Other live animal exhibits include a recreated swamp, where you can peer down at Claude, the resident albino alligator with ruby-red eyes, plus a colony of playful African penguins who share a tank with pyjama sharks and sea stars, where they swim and do flips. There's also the Steinhart Aquarium, with jellyfish and a living coral reef. The less “live” exhibits include Shake House, an immersive exhibit that allows visitors to (safely) experience the kinds of tremors that shook the Bay Area during the city’s two biggest quakes—the Loma Prieta Earthquake and the Great Earthquake of 1906.

Sutro Baths Arrow

These Instagram-worthy ruins overlooking the Pacific draw hikers and visitors during the day, especially at sunset, when the views are unforgettable. They are all that remains from a complex opened by Mayor Adolph Sutro in 1896, that burned down 70 years later. The spooky beauty makes this place stand out in a city with many outdoor spaces. Where else in San Francisco can you find sprawling ruins on the edge of the sea? It's practically like something out of the ancient world.

Chinatown Arrow

San Francisco’s Chinatown looms large in our collective imagination, and rightly so. Born during the California Gold Rush years, the neighborhood dates back further than any other Chinese community in North America. With  30 square blocks to explore, it’s also the largest neighborhood of its kind outside Asia. Explore Chinatown’s nooks and crannies on foot and you’ll find something new and wondrous beneath the swaying red lanterns and neon signs. Down one side alley sits Tin How Temple, a quiet, incense-filled space where locals gather to pray; down another sits Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory, a small shop where workers rapid-fold fortune cookies beneath a soundtrack of whirring machinery. You’ll see a real cross-section of humanity here—families  eating dim sum , older Chinese men and women playing mahjong in Portsmouth Square, dressed-up foodies making a night of it at Michelin-star Mister Jiu’s, gorgeous Empress by Boon, or the exclusive Eight Tables,  and tourists hunting for souvenirs (prices are cheaper here than in Union Square and Pier 39). 

Alcatraz Island Arrow

You may know it by its real name or you may know it as “The Rock” (thanks Nic Cage!). It is the prison that was open as a federal penitentiary for 29 years and, at one point, housed gangster Al Capone. It became notorious for failed escape attempts—the island is just 1.25 miles offshore and, lured by the glittering lights of the city, 34 prisoners tried their hand at swimming through the frigid, choppy waters to freedom. Today, you can take a 12-minute ferry ride out to the island and take in the infamous prison up close. Audio tours guide visitors through the main cell block, laundry facility, and chow house. Don’t miss the ruins of the 15-room Warden’s mansion, where lavish parties were held. It was burned to the ground during the 19-month-long occupation of Alcatraz Island by Native American activists in 1970. Outdoor spaces to see are Eagle Plaza, the Recreation Yard, and the island’s colorful gardens, maintained by volunteer gardeners of the  Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy .

Ferry Building  Arrow

The Ferry Building becomes San Francisco’s prime food destination during the Saturday Ferry Plaza farmers’ market, which brings more than 80 farmers and purveyors to the plaza surrounding the building, selling everything from rare citrus to small-batch miso to California olive oil. There's much to eat at other times, too, any time of day. Start your day with organic bagels at Daily Driver or vegan donuts from Donut Farm, washed down with Red Bay Coffee.  The ever-popular Hog Island Oyster Company has an outpost here serving briny delights pulled from its  flagship location on Tomales Bay . Also in the building is Grande Creperie, serving sweet and savory Brittany-style crepes in a French café setting. And recently opened  Reem’s  brings Arab street food, such as their popular mana’eesh and sharable mezze, from James Beard-nominated restaurant owner Reem Assil to the space vacated by Cowgirl Creamery. The Ferry Building outdoor seating currently holds 100 chairs and 50 tables on the back plaza, while all indoor dining areas are back to full seating capacity.

Mission District Street Art Arrow

The Mission's famous street art, which spills out of alleys, splashes across the exterior of grocery stores and bodegas, and covers homes, is one of its most pronounced characteristics. Some pieces are commissioned, others more spontaneous, but all of it contributes to the neighborhood’s character.  The spots you should make sure to hit if you’re touring around are Balmy Alley, just off Mission and 24th Streets, and Clarion Alley near the 16th Street BART station. If you have a bit more time, check out the neighborhood’s major mural corridors, 24th Street from Valencia to Portrero Avenue and Mission Street from the corner of 15th Street to Cesar Chavez. For a real deep dive, contact Precita Eyes Muralists, a nonprofit that runs street art tours of the neighborhood.

Angel Island Arrow

Once the port of entry for hundreds of thousands of immigrants from Asia and the Pacific Rim, Angel Island is a state park in the middle of San Francisco Bay. Hop on the ferry (your ticket includes the cost of admission), to get here from Tiburon or San Francisco. Once you get off, it's a lush scene for the eyes. The island is loaded with native plants and animals, and has views of both San Francisco and Marin. This is a great half-day activity: You can walk or bike the whole island in a few hours. You can also visit the Angel Island Immigration Station as well as the Angel Island Immigration Museum (AIIM), which opened in 2022 inside the former hospital building.

City Lights Booksellers and Publishers Arrow

Founded in the 1950s by poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti and college professor Peter D. Martin, City Lights became famous for publishing Howl by Allen Ginsberg (and undergoing an obscenity trial as a result) and developed a reputation as one of the country's most interesting bookshops . Today, City Lights still publishes some of its own books, with a particular focus on poetry and titles that speak to vital political and social issues, and runs a well-stocked bookstore. If you want to supports artists, discover a new writer published by a small press, to imagine yourself in Kerouac's shoes, or to kill an hour before meeting someone for dinner, this is your place. Their selection is great and, for poetry lovers, the Poetry Room upstairs—with its vast, comprehensive collection—is a place of legend. You needn’t look far for signs of fans’ love of the place. During the pandemic, when it was thought the store might close indefinitely—and the store’s CEO posted a heartfelt GoFundMe asking readers for support—City Lights devotees donated $500,000 in four days to help the iconic store survive.

The Presidio Arrow

A National Park established in 1994 from a massive converted Army base, the Presidio is a sprawling, scenic, wild-feeling park in San Francisco proper. The grounds have plenty of attractions, but the real appeal is visual, with trails leading to scenic overlooks of the city skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge . It is perfect for folks who want a remote-feeling walk without wanting to invest time or energy in a full out-of-town hike. The Batteries to Bluffs (.7 miles), Bay Area Ridge (2.5 miles), and Lovers' Lane trails (.6 miles) are all tremendously scenic without being strenuous and, a new addition: Hikers on the Tennessee Hollow Trail can walk through a new section of restored wetlands habitat, which stretches from Thompson Reach all the way to Crissy Field.

Tiburon Arrow

 This former railroad and maritime town is picturesque in a classic-New England-meets-laid-back-California kind of way, and an easy day trip for a bite and shopping. Just 30 minutes across the bay on the Golden Gate Ferry, Tiburon is practically another neighborhood of San Francisco and is fast becoming a culinary destination too. Here and you can visit a museum, sample caviar and champagne, sip California wine, pick up some hand-blended spices, and grab brunch on an outdoor deck, all in an afternoon. For budget minded travelers, Tiburon can be spendy, especially if you tack on a restaurant visit to the cost of a ferry ticket. That being said, there is no cost to simply walk around Tiburon and enjoy the atmosphere. There are also places to simply grab a coffee or a sandwich, or BYO picnic if you prefer. The ferry runs on a strict schedule so check ahead for departure and return times.

Park Life Store and Gallery Arrow

Located on Clement Street in the foggy Richmond District, the eclectic Park Life fits right in with the neighborhood's diverse restaurants, cozy coffee shops, unfussy dim sum joints, and other independent stores. Like an indi-mart married an art gallery, Park Life is a champion of emerging global artists and designers who create one-of-a-kind paintings, quirky curios, interesting books, and unconventional home accessories. The inventory is ever-changing, and art and design products collected from around the world are stacked on the tables, shelves, floors, and walls of the 1,400-square-foot space. Here you might page through a book featuring maps from National Parks spanning the last 100 years, spot an oil and acrylic painting of a pink tulip that’s just right for your new office, or pick up an embroidered throw pillow or colored pencils for your studio. 

Asian Art Museum Arrow

Housed in an airy 1917 Beaux-Arts Building—the former location of the city’s main library—the Asian Art Museum is home to a massive collection, with works from India, China, Korea, Japan, Tibet, Southeast Asia, and more. The museum’s vast holdings include pottery, carvings, calligraphy, and unusual artifacts such as coffins, pipes, weapons, snuff bottles, even an entire reconstructed Zen Japanese tea room. The collection of Chinese bronze sculptures is one of the best outside of Asia. If that sounds like a lot to take in, remain calm: in the fall of 2020, the museum unveiled redesigned collection galleries, structured around 15 strikingly displayed masterpieces. Chosen for their beauty, rarity, and significance, these objects give visitors a useful lens through which to view the other 2,500 works on display. Of special note: On the first Sunday of the month, the museum offers free admission.

Japanese Tea Garden Arrow

The oldest continuously operating public Japanese garden in North America, the Japanese Tea Garden, located in Golden Gate Park , is a wonderful spot to relax while exploring the park, but it's also worth a trip in its own right. Sitting among the perfectly pruned trees, small Japanese-style buildings, and gently flowing water features, sipping tea, it’s impossible not to relax, even on those Saturdays when the place gets a bit busier. Locals get a discount on entry ($7 instead of $10), so be sure to bring your ID.

Marrakech Magic Theater Arrow

Step off the busy streets near Union Square and make your way downstairs and into the Oasis Lounge, a former speakeasy with Moroccan tile, velvet banquets, and flickering lanterns adjacent to the 35-seat jewel box theater. This is the exclusive venue of mentalist and magician Jay Alexander, whose show is a little bit Broadway, a little bit Vegas, and a little bit comedy club. It begins in the lounge with close-up magic and sleight-of-hand. The main event moves to the adjacent theater–with Alexander on stage, the interactive performance brings in the audience for mind reading, human lie detector tests, and extraordinary stunts of mind-bending magic. Even skeptics will be convinced that magic is real!

Golden Gate Ferry San Francisco-Sausalito Arrow

The Blue & Gold Fleet, San Francisco’s largest ferry company, takes passengers to big-name destinations around the bay: Alcatraz , Tiburon, Angel Island . In 1997, the company launched a San Francisco to Sausalito ride. The journey begins, really, at the departure point: Fisherman’s Wharf. This is the city’s thrumming tourist heart: bicycle taxis fly down the street, aspiring soul-savers hand out pamphlets, the Silver Man poses for photos, and vendors sell T-shirts and knit caps. Once you board the ferry, though, you’ve entered another realm. The engine rumbles to life, and you’re heading out onto the bay. The sounds of the pier fade gradually; then suddenly, all you can hear is the water splashing off the ship, and the low hum of the motor. As the boat cuts through the water, the city starts to shrink and fade, the familiar forms of Coit Tower, Salesforce Tower, and the Transamerica Pyramid growing ever smaller, the rest of the city a sea of matchstick buildings in eggshell and gray and white and dusty rose. Then, perhaps before you even realized it, the boat’s engines decrescendo. Sausalito emerges, a vision in green.

Amoeba Music San Francisco Arrow

Think of Amoeba Music as the mascot of Haight-Ashbury, San Francisco’s famously countercultural neighborhood and the epicenter of the Summer of Love. Born in 1997—the same year as Radiohead’s OK Computer and the Notorious BIG’s Life After Death—Amoeba is colorful and fascinating, a riot of color and sound. An independent music shop thriving in the age of Spotify and Amazon, the whole place has a punky, free-spirited vibe: The walls are papered with band posters, cheeky merch abounds (Iron Maiden bobbleheads, Bob Ross action figures, a Nicolas Cage prayer candle), and the staff deejays, playing ear-catching CDs of their choice from bands you may have never heard before.

San Francisco Crosstown Trail Arrow

Conceived nearly a decade ago by volunteers, neighborhood activists, and outdoor enthusiasts, San Francisco’s Crosstown Trail finally became a reality when it opened in 2019. The epic 17-mile path takes walkers, runners, and bikers diagonally across the city, from the southeast near Candlestick Point Recreation Area to the northwest corner at Sutro Baths. Along the way, you’ll traverse city streets, meander through community gardens and neighborhoods, pass cafes and restaurants (for much-needed food and water breaks), and climb up hillsides and stairways where the city and bay views don’t disappoint. Walking, running, biking the trail is free, but to do the entire thing in a day would take 8-10 hours–break it up into small sections, being sure to pass the south end of sandy Baker Beach, a perfect place for a selfie with the Golden Gate Bridge in the background.

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• Perfect One Day in San Francisco Itinerary for First Timers

Want to make the most of your 24 hours in San Francisco?

You’ve landed at the right spot! In this article, I have curated a concentrated itinerary based on my many trips to this Californian city. Just a step down from full-on living there, I dated an SF local long enough to form a solid lay of the Bay Area land. 

While San Francisco itself is not particularly large, the Bay Area is, and the many neighborhoods within SF can prove overwhelming. One day in San Francisco will not be enough time, but you can still see the highlights and get a feel for the city. 

So, let me take you on a city tour covering the famous landmarks you can’t miss, including a sunrise at the Golden Gate Bridge and the history of Alcatraz Island. I’ll also include extra recommendations for those with a little more time on their hands, along with travel information to help your trip planning.

Sample One Day in San Francisco Itinerary

So, here’s everything you need for a jam-packed day trip itinerary, all in one scroll.

Travel Tip!  Parking is just abysmal. If you opt for public transportation, be ready for things to take a bit longer, even though they have awesome public transport. 

• Start your day with a  sunrise view at the Golden Gate Bridge
• Visit the  Palace of Fine Arts and Crissy Field.
• Walk down  Lombard Street,  the “Crookedest Street in the World.”
• Take in the  view from Coit Tower.
• Head to  Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39  for a (somewhat overpriced) meal looking out onto the water.
• Will take a large chunk of time:  Depart for  Alcatraz Island;  take a guided tour of the former prison and its grounds.

Late Afternoon:

• Arrive back onto the mainland for a  cable car ride to Union Square.
• Gasp for breath on the hills of  Chinatown and eat Dimsum  or do  tacos in the Missions District.
• End the day with a nightcap at a rooftop bar with views of the city skyline, the LGBTQ-friendly Castro neighborhood, or a rave at Bill Graham Civic Center.

Recommended hotel options for the night :

• Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel at Embarcadero (Union Square)
• Mid-range: Hotel Zephyr (Fisherman’s Wharf)
• Budget:  Cow Hollow Inn and Suites (Marina District)

Yes, it’s a full day. 

Personally, I thought visiting Alcatraz was totally worth it, but if you’d rather stay on the mainland, then you can swap it with Golden Gate Park and Haight-Ashbury Street instead.

Quick Facts to Visiting San Francisco

We’ve all seen pictures of those crazy steep streets in San Francisco. With 43 hills and 220 parks, SF is famous for the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, bustling Chinatown, and those cool red cable cars.

Coming from the California Gold Rush and through the memories of the Summer of Love, this city is now a thriving hub for innovation. The city attracts lots of tech bros, hipsters, and a wonderfully diverse international crowd.

What to Do in San Francisco in One Day

Sunrise at the golden gate bridge.

Wake up early, like real early. I mean the ‘get ready to catch the sunrise’ kind of early. You’ll want to watch as this iconic bridge lights up with hues of orange and pink and pray that the fog is at bay. 

Located at the mouth of San Francisco Bay, the bridge is open 24/7, and the most popular spots include Battery Spencer (for a front-and-center view), Crissy Field (if you fancy a morning jog with a view), and Fort Point (for a unique, underneath-the-bridge perspective). 

You can also walk or cycle across the bridge, but it does stretch for a whopping 1.7 miles.

Not everyone may be into waking up for the sunrise, but here are a couple of perks: free parking until 8 am, and if you come later, it can get very crowded.

Pro Tip : The weather here can be quite unpredictable, often chilly and foggy, even in the middle of summer.

The Palace of Fine Arts

After watching the sunrise at the Golden Gate Bridge, head over to the Palace of Fine Arts. This stunning architecture was built in 1915 and survived two major earthquakes. 

Once you enter its rotunda, be ready to be blown away by the grandeur of its Roman-style dome and intricate sculptural details. 

The nearby residential buildings are some of the most expensive in SF, so take a walk around to see how the other half lives.

Crissy Field

From there, walk along Crissy Field, a former airfield transformed into a park with views of the bridge and the bay. It’s an excellent spot for a leisurely morning stroll or a cycle ride along the beach.

Side Trip:  I once went to House of Air, a trampoline park on the west end of Crissy Field. They’ve got different sections, like a room full of trampolines, a trampoline dodgeball area, and parkour obstacles. It was so much fun!

Lombard Street

Next up, drive 10 minutes or walk for 40 minutes to the one and only Lombard Street, known far and wide as the “Crookedest Street in the World.” This quirky street is a part of many classic SF postcards. Its eight sharp turns are set against a steep hillside, flanked by beautiful Victorian mansions and blooming hydrangeas.

Located between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets, this block is often swarmed with tourists taking pictures and cars slowly driving down. 

Since 2020 , you need to pay and make reservations to drive down this one-way street. But you can always walk it up for free. Climb up the stairs on either side of the street for an even better vista, especially when it’s clear, and you can see Coit Tower and the Transamerica Pyramid. 

Walk through the North Beach neighborhood to Coit Tower, a 210-foot landmark on Telegraph Hill, to some of the city’s best panoramic views and beyond. Built in 1933 at the bequest of Lillie Hitchcock Coit to beautify the city she loved, the tower is also a tribute to the city’s firefighters.

Inside the tower, admire the beautiful murals painted during the Great Depression, depicting various aspects of life in California during the 1930s. 

To reach the top of the tower, you can either brave the stairs or take a two-minute elevator ride (there is a  small fee  for both options). Once you’re up there, you get 360-degree views of the city’s skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz Island.

Pro Tip : The area around the tower is a residential neighborhood with very limited parking. Also, make sure to spot the  wild parrots of Telegraph Hill , a flock of colorful and noisy birds that have made the area their home!

Afternoon: Alcatraz Island

Fisherman’s wharf and pier 39.

By now, you must be getting hungry. Head to Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 for some delicious clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl, freshly shucked oysters, or crab from the many seafood vendors.

Walk along the pier to see cute sea lions basking in the sun and enjoy street performers while you work towards Pier 33 to catch your ferry to Alcatraz Island. 

Alcatraz Island

This infamous island was once home to a federal prison and housed notorious inmates like Al Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly. The prison has been closed since 1963, and the island is now part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. 

Note!  Adding this attraction will take a large part of your San Francisco day trip itinerary.

To get to Alcatraz, you’ll need to take a ferry ride from Pier 33. Alcatraz Cruises is the official ferry provider, and it’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance  here  because they sell out quickly, especially in the summer. The short journey on the Pacific Ocean passes bay views, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the city skyline. 

The audio tour of the prison (included with your ferry ticket) is highly recommended. You’ll get a glimpse into the lives of prisoners, and it takes you through the eerie cells and hallways while sharing chilling tales about the prison’s most infamous inmates.

The narration is exceptionally well done, with stories from ex-prisoners and guards but also of the Native American occupation.

Alcatraz Island also has a dark, mysterious beauty outside the prison. You can wander around the prison’s exterior and the island’s gardens.

Planning Tip!  The tour can take anywhere from 2.5 to 3 hours, not including the 15-20 minute ferry ride. 

Book your Alcatraz tickets in advance, as they sell out quickly. You can check availability  here  and purchase them directly from their website. 

Evening: Chinatown or Mission District

After returning from Alcatraz Island, I’d pick between these two neighborhoods to end your day trip to San Francisco. And I would entirely base this on food preference, Mexican or Chinese fare.

The largest Chinatown outside of Asia, San Francisco, is bursting with color and culture. The entrance at Grant Avenue and Bush Street is marked by the Dragon Gate, an Instagram-worthy spot.

Walking down Grant Avenue, you’ll find endless antique shops, dim sum restaurants, and traditional Chinese pharmacies. Don’t miss Portsmouth Square, where locals practice Tai Chi and play mahjong.

With the steepest streets, you’ll catch the most amazing views of the red cable cars cruising down the hills in Chinatown in this perfectly organized city grid.

Fun fact:  did you know that the fortune cookie was actually invented here, not in China? You can also take a fortune cookie factory tour and see how they are made!

Mission District

A district with a strong Latino influence, Mission District has become one of the trendiest areas in San Francisco. Its streets are lined with colorful murals, taquerias, and trendy cafes.

Valencia Street is packed with boutiques and home decor stores, while 24th Street features many specialty shops for spices, herbs, and sweet treats. Dolores Park is a hub for youth on the rare sunny summer days.

Finally, Balmy Alley and Clarion Alley have some of the best murals in San Francisco. From political statements to abstract pieces, these alleys are constantly changing, so even if you’ve been before, it’s worth stopping by again.

Here, you can find the best burritos in the city at taquerias like La Taqueria or El Farolito. If you’re a fan of baked goods, Tartine Bakery is known for its mouth-watering pastries and fresh sourdough bread.

Safety Tip!  At night, it’s definitely not the safest area.

San Francisco Nightlife

Honestly, this is what I did the most while in this city. There are just so many options, and where you decide to go really depends on the kind of nightlife you’re into. 

As a techno lover, famous DJs always play, from big venues like Bill Graham to more club-like experiences like Halcyon, Temple, and Audio.

You can go club-hopping the eclectic Mission Street for salsa clubs, DJs, and tons of dive bars. The Castro is also full of life at night if you’re looking for a gay-friendly experience.

There are also plenty of rooftop bars with views and an abundance of live music from jazz to hip-hop.

Places to Visit with Extra Time

Other places around san francisco.

• Golden Gate Park:  This sprawling park spans over 1,000 acres and features numerous attractions, including the Japanese Tea Garden, the Conservatory of Flowers, the De Young Museum, and the California Academy of Sciences. You need a half day just for this park!
• Haight-Ashbury : Known for its link to 1960s counterculture, today this area is filled with boutiques, vintage clothing shops, eclectic eateries, and the constant stench of weed.
• Muir Woods National Monument : Just outside San Francisco, this forest is home to towering, ancient redwood trees.
• Sausalito : This beautiful town across the Golden Gate Bridge is known for its waterfront views, charming boutiques, and gourmet dining.
• The Painted Ladies : A famous row of Victorian houses, a great photo opportunity with the San Francisco skyline in the background.
• The Exploratorium : This hands-on science museum is immersive and fun for all ages. It’s located on Pier 15, just a short walk from the Ferry Building.
• Land’s End:  A scenic hiking trail that takes you along the coast and to some of the best views of Golden Gate Bridge.
• San Francisco Museum of Modern Art ( SFMFO ): This museum has diverse collections of modern and contemporary art, including works by renowned artists such as Andy Warhol and Frida Kahlo.
• Twin Peaks : A popular spot for tourists to get panoramic views of the city. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Oakland!

Day Trips from San Francisco

• Napa Valley and Sonoma:  Less than two hours away, these world-renowned wine regions are a scenic escape from the city. Explore wineries, enjoy tastings, and take in the beautiful countryside.
• Silicon Valley:  Visit the headquarters of some of the biggest names in tech, such as Google, Apple, and Facebook. You can also explore the Computer History Museum and learn about the evolution of technology.
• Big Sur and Carmel-by-the-Sea : Drive along the Pacific Coast Highway to see some of California’s most beautiful coastal landscapes, including the famous Bixby Creek Bridge.
• Yosemite National Park : Enjoy hiking trails, waterfalls, and breathtaking vistas of one of California’s most famous landmarks.
• Santa Cruz : A coastal town famous for its beach boardwalk and surf culture. Visit the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum or take a stroll along Pacific Avenue.
• Sacramento : The capital city of California, it’s packed with historical sites like Old Sacramento, the California State Capitol Museum, and the Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park.
• Big Basin Redwoods State Park : California’s oldest state park, home to ancient redwoods, beautiful waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

Where to Stay in San Francisco

For first-time visitors to San Francisco, Nob Hill and Union Square are highly recommended for their proximity to major attractions. Meanwhile, neighborhoods like Marina District, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Hayes Valley are also considered safe and deliver a mix of shopping, dining, and residential experiences.

Safety Tip!  It’s no secret that San Francisco has a homelessness and increasing crime problem. While the city is still generally safe, I would avoid the Tenderloin district, SoMa (South of Market Street), and parts of Chinatown, especially late at night, due to higher incidences of street crime.

Best Hotels in San Francisco

Is 1 day enough for san francisco.

San Francisco has a lot going on, and it would be tough to fully explore it in a single day. I recommend planning for at least three days. This doesn’t even include the time to see the entirety of the Bay Area.

San Francisco is a city full of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Trying to explore them all with such little time won’t do them justice. If you’re short on time, prioritize the must-see sights and think about hopping on a bus tour or city tour to cover more ground.

Best Time To Visit

San Francisco is famous for its cool, foggy weather and microclimates, but it’s a great place to visit any time of the year. The city has so many microclimates that it can be super foggy here while being completely sunny across the Bay Bridge in nearby Oakland!

That said, most people find the best time to visit is during September and October when temperatures are warmest and there’s less fog. If you are okay with slightly cooler weather, spring (March-May) can be a good time to go to San Francisco without the high tourist crowds. 

Contrary to popular belief, summer (June to August) is not the hottest season. The weather is cool, often draped in fog (known as the famous “Karl the Fog”). This is, however, the peak tourist season, so expect more crowds, especially at popular attractions.

Getting to San Francisco

San Francisco is possibly one of the most accessible cities in America. The city itself has an efficient public transportation system, including the historic cable cars, buses, and the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) metro system.

The city is served by three major airports. The San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is the largest and closest to the city, with direct flights from most major cities around the world. Oakland International Airport (OAK) and the San Jose International Airport (SJC) are also viable options and are well-connected with domestic flights.

By Public Transportation

Amtrak runs a network of train routes linking San Francisco with cities nationwide. The California Zephyr route, for instance, has scenic rides between Chicago and San Francisco.

Numerous bus companies, including Greyhound and Megabus, operate regular services to and from San Francisco’s main bus terminal, the San Francisco Transbay Terminal.

San Francisco is well-connected by a network of highways for those who prefer to take a road trip. If you’re coming from the south, you’ll most likely take the US-101 N, the beautiful coastal route that starts from Los Angeles. The I-5 S is the most direct route from the north, and the I-80 W is your best option from the east.

The Port of San Francisco welcomes domestic ferries from nearby cities like Oakland and Vallejo and international cruise ships.

Final Thoughts: Day Trip to San Francisco

While San Francisco has its fair share of problems and may not be my top pick to live, I think it’s an iconic city that tourists, both domestic and international, should add to their USA trip plans. This is especially true if you love going out.

If you’re planning other adventures in California, check out our comprehensive guides to other exciting destinations in the state.

Before you Close That Tab…Where to Next in California?

I’ve lived and vanlifed around, about, and through all of California for 3 years. If you’re looking for more information on California, check out these other destination itineraries.

• Perfect One Day In Lassen Volcanic National Park Itinerary
• Perfect One Day In Redwood National Park Itinerary
• Perfect One Day In Joshua Tree Itinerary For First-Timers
• One Day In Death Valley Itinerary For Adventurers
• Perfect One Day in San Diego Itinerary: What Not to Miss
• Day Trip to Lake Tahoe: One Day Itinerary for All Seasons

11 Unique Things to Do in San Francisco, CA: Tips from Locals

Reading Time: 8 minutes

Located in the heart of Northern California, San Francisco is a vibrant city renowned for its iconic landmarks, breathtaking views, and rich cultural landscape. From the stunning Golden Gate Bridge to the eclectic neighborhoods brimming with history, the city offers a captivating experience for residents and visitors alike. 

Whether you are looking for homes for sale in San Francisco , a house or apartment to rent in the area , we’ve put together a list of some of the most unique things to do in San Francisco, CA.

1. Explore the wonders of Golden Gate Park

Golden Gate Park is a very popular attraction for both locals and tourists. Spanning over 1,000 acres, the park features museums, well-maintained gardens, serene lakes, trails, and extensive recreational facilities, making it a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. 

“As wedding photographers and Bay Area natives, we love showcasing San Francisco’s stunning outdoor spaces to our couples—many of whom travel to our city for its breathtaking City Hall. We adore exploring the hidden redwood groves in Golden Gate Park ,” says Helena and Laurent Photography . “Marveling at the rugged beauty of Sutro Baths, and celebrating with a bottle of champagne or savoring delicious Boba Tea from Boba Guys on the sand dunes near Ocean Beach at sunset.”

Deciding between renting or buying your next home?

San Francisco is notable for its scenic hiking trails, and one of the most popular destinations is the Lands End Trail that offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific Ocean. Located in the northwest corner of the city, the trail features historic landmarks and scenic overlooks.

“San Franciscans love to be outside and our weather allows us to explore trails and parks nearly year round. Of all the abundant protected natural spaces nearby, Lands End is my absolute favorite,” says lifestyle photographer Ashley Kaplan . “There is a 1.5 mile main trail that offers views wrapping around the coast from the Pacific Ocean to the San Francisco Bay with some vistas out toward the Golden Gate Bridge and the Marin Headlands. There are two secret beaches that can be explored via small side trails off of the main trail. Be sure to keep your eyes open for whales, seals, and dolphins which can all be spotted off the coast. The most beautiful flocks of pelicans soar overhead, especially around sunset.”

Photo courtesy of Ashley Kaplan Photography

3. Take a stroll through Tunnel Tops Park

Experiencing Tunnel Tops Park is one of the most unique things to do in San Francisco. The park is built on top of the tunnels that run beneath the city’s roadways and offers a lush, elevated sanctuary with panoramic views of the Bay and Golden Gate Bridge. Visitors can explore its expansive views, enjoy recreational areas, and take a stroll along its scenic pathways.

“If you’re an outdoors enthusiast or architecture admirer, the newly-opened Presidio Tunnel Tops is a must-visit. This innovative park, built atop a freeway tunnel, seamlessly connects Golden Gate Beach and Crissy Field with the Presidio,” says local San Francisco architectural photographer, Rob Calderwood . “Perfect for an outing with loved ones, it offers everything from scenic bike rides to picnics on the Presidio’s parade lawn, where food trucks abound. The breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge are the cherry on top.”

According to San Francisco-based travel company, California Pacific Excursions , a visit to the park should be on your list of things to do in San Francisco. “At times during the day The Tunnel Tops Park in the Presidio with views of the bay, islands and Golden Gate Bridge is so rejuvenating.”

4. Visit the Farmer’s Market at the Ferry Building

If you’re new to the city, you will be pleasantly surprised by San Francisco’s farmers markets, offering fresh, seasonal produce and artisanal goods. At the lively Ferry Plaza Farmers Market , shoppers can find every kind of produce as well as unique gourmet products. Beyond the shopping aspect, these markets serve as social gatherings where visitors can enjoy live music and events.

“Besides the natural beauty of San Francisco, the thing that stands out most for us is the amazing bounty surrounding us,” says The Morris restaurant, a neighborhood staple offering inventive New American dishes in Potrero Flats. “Be it fruits, vegetables, wine, beer, spirits or nature, the bay area has some of the greatest examples of each of those things in the world.  We would suggest a visit to the Ferry Building Farmers Market on a Saturday.  There are tons of delicious prepared foods, but also some of the world’s best fruits and vegetables.”

Chef Dontaye Ball from Gumbo Social , providing San Francisco residents and visitors savory soul food, also recommends the Ferry Building Farmers Market. “One of my favorite vendors at the market, SF ChickenBox , run by chef and owner Christian Ciscle–also has one of the only late-night food spots in the city at 464 Broadway. They do a great fried chicken sandwich at the farmers market, and at the restaurant, they do an off-the-hook fried chicken.” 

“A trip to San Francisco wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market on Saturday mornings,” says Chef Mark Dommen from One Market Restaurant , which offers French-influenced California cuisine. “Immerse yourself in the bounty the bay area has to offer from local farmers and artisan food producers.  Stop by some of the food booths like Mark ‘n Mikes to pick up breakfast, lunch or a quick snack.  They have the best pastrami in the bay area.”

5. Delight in Napa Valley wines

While the city itself is not a major wine-producing area, it serves as a gateway to California’s renowned wine region in Napa Valley. Many of the local establishments offer selections from these areas year-round. Spend time exploring urban wineries within the city, offering a sophisticated environment for enjoying fine wines.

San Francisco’s year-round seasonality and proximity to wine country make it a prime dining destination with unmatched local produce. Two upscale restaurants renowned for contemporary American cuisine, Frances in the Castro District, and Octavia in Pacific Heights are centered around the signature hyper-seasonal cooking style of the Bay Area and offer housemade sourdough, local wines, and a chef’s tasting menu for those looking to splurge.

If you’re living in San Francisco and are looking for an escape from the city, make sure to take a day trip to the picturesque vineyards of Napa Valley. Chef Deborah Mullin from the Culinary Institute of America’s signature garden-to-table restaurant, The Grove at Copia , recommends that visitors start their day with a coffee at Naysayer Coffee Roasters . “Then, take in the natural beauty of Skyline Wilderness Park , perfect for a scenic trek right within the city. For dinner, head to Oxbow Market , where you will find a variety of enticing food stalls to satisfy any craving. End your day with a nightcap at Cadet Wine and Beer Bar in the heart of downtown,” says Chef Deborah Mullin.

6. Explore Ghirardelli Square

Ghirardelli Square is one of San Francisco’s historic landmarks and popular tourist attractions known for its charming shopping and dining experiences. Visitors can enjoy an assortment of local boutiques, unique restaurants, and picturesque views of the Bay.

The Cartoon Art Museum recommends visiting their museum and then heading to Ghiradelli Square. “From the famed chocolate shop to the historic Buena Vista Cafe , the beautiful view of the Bay, and the historic San Francisco Cable Cars. The perfect destination for anyone who wants to experience the best that San Francisco has to offer.”

7. Shop at the San Francisco Centre

The San Francisco Centre is a major shopping destination located in the downtown area. The mall offers a rich blend of luxury and mainstream retail, diverse dining options, and a comprehensive shopping and entertainment experience. To truly capture the spirit of San Francisco, don’t miss the iconic 102-foot-wide skylit dome on the 4th floor of San Francisco Centre. Built in 1908, this architectural gem brings a touch of historic elegance and natural light to your shopping experience, reflecting the city’s blend of old and new.

Photo courtesy of San Francisco Centre

8. Visit the Mission District’s vibrant art scene

Another unique thing to do in San Francisco is checking out the city’s art scene. Throughout the Mission District neighborhood , you will find vibrant murals that cover the walls of buildings and alleyways. 

“One of the most iconic experiences in San Francisco is exploring the vibrant murals of the Mission District,” says the team at the Naturalist Gallery of Contemporary Art , something explaining what the business is. “These colorful artworks tell the stories of the city’s diverse communities, blending political messages with striking visuals. A stroll down Balmy Alley or Clarion Alley is like walking through an open-air gallery, offering new residents a unique glimpse into the cultural heart of the city.”

The Mission District’s restaurant scene is also a must-visit for food lovers seeking both traditional and innovative culinary experiences. Safara , an online travel agency, recommends eating Italian classics with a native NorCal twist at Penny Roma. “Think fresh pasta (made daily), raw seafood, veggies galore, and a stacked wine list of Napa classics and Italian imports. With cozy indoor seating, a quiet patio, vine-lined walls, and a familiar vibe, it may feel more like your coolest friend is hosting a dinner party,” says Safara.

9. Check out the Castro Art Walk

The Castro District is rich in artistic expression with local art galleries, public art installations, and events. Schlomer Haus Gallery recommends immersing yourself in the creative community of San Francisco by going to the monthly Castro Art Walk . “ On the first Friday of every month, galleries in the Castro extend their hours and open their doors to showcase rotating art programs. From traditional galleries to unique venues, each participating business offers a distinct creative perspective, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of the Castro.”

10. Find your next favorite book at San Francisco’s unique bookstores

San Francisco is a good place to live if you love literature. The city is home to  a wide variety of bookstores that cater to diverse literary tastes and interests. Whether you are looking for rare finds or contemporary bestsellers, there’s something in the city for everyone.

Tucked away in the neighborhood of the same name, Noe Valley Books is a forthcoming independent bookshop opening this fall with the aid of the local community. With an emphasis on being a bookstore for all types of readers, by readers, you can be sure to find your new favorite book or converse with enthusiastic booksellers. 

Another cherished independent bookstore in the city of San Francisco is Argonaut Book Shop . They specialize in the history of California and the American West, and have an abundance of old, collectible books, maps, prints, and other ephemera on San Francisco and California. You can spend hours looking at everything in there.

11. Take a photography class to capture the beauty of the city

If you’re looking to capture the essence of San Francisco through the lens, Photosprouts photography workshops offer an immersive, in-person photography experience. Participants will not only learn valuable photography techniques but also explore iconic city spots like the Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street, The Palace of Fine Arts, The Embarcadero Coastline and more. You can use your iphone or the camera provided during the class. All you need is your enthusiasm and a love for the art of photography. Their instructors guide you every step of the way, making the classes suitable for beginners and seasoned photographers alike. 

House hunting made easy

Unique things to do in san francisco, ca: final thoughts.

In a city as charming as San Francisco, exploring its unique offerings can lead to memorable adventures. Even after you’ve experienced what San Francisco is known for , there is still a plethora of activities to uncover. Above all, you’ll gain a fresh perspective on The Golden City and all it has to offer. Whether you’re strolling through Golden Gate Park or grabbing dinner in the Mission District, San Francisco has something special for everyone to enjoy.

Find the right loan for the home you love

Popular homes for sale.

Browse homes you'll love

Explore popular neighborhoods in the area.

Alamo Square

Bernal Heights

Downtown San Francisco

Duboce Triangle

Financial District

Fisherman’s Wharf

Haight-Ashbury

Hayes Valley

Marina District

Mission Bay

Mission District

North Beach

Pacific Heights

Rincon Hill

Russian Hill

Telegraph Hill

The Castro District

Western Addition

Yerba Buena (SoMa)

Relevant articles.

Unique Things to Do in Bakersfield, CA: 8 Must-Do Activities

Is Malibu, CA a Good Place To Live? 10 Pros and Cons to Consider

Is Los Angeles, CA a Good Place to Live? 12 Pros and Cons of Living in LA

Is Long Beach, CA a Good Place to Live? 10 Pros and Cons to Consider

Is Irvine, CA a Good Place to Live? 10 Pros and Cons to Consider

Is Calabasas, CA a Good Place to Live? 10 Pros and Cons to Consider

Popular posts, latest posts.

Natural Disasters in Nevada: What Homeowners and Renters Need to Know

Watts Up: Does Unplugging Appliances Save Electricity?

11 Fun Facts About Pittsburgh, PA: How Well Do You Know This City?

Getting a Home Inspection in Colorado: A Guide for Homebuyers and Sellers

Exploring Boise, ID: 8 Fantastic Free Activities To Do in the “City of Trees”

8 Free Things To Do In Myrtle Beach, SC

11 Charming Small Towns in Kentucky You’ll Want to Call Home

7 Charming Small Towns in Connecticut You’ll Want to Call Home

How to Save for a Down Payment in 7 Steps

Understanding Mortgage Interest: How It Works and What You Need to Know

Follow redfin, connect with a redfin agent.

• Albuquerque Real Estate
• Alexandria Real Estate
• Anchorage Real Estate
• Arlington Real Estate
• Ashburn Real Estate
• Atlanta Real Estate
• Aurora Real Estate
• Austin Real Estate
• Bakersfield Real Estate
• Baltimore Real Estate
• Baton Rouge Real Estate
• Beaverton Real Estate
• Bend Real Estate
• Birmingham Real Estate
• Boca Raton Real Estate
• Boise Real Estate
• Boston Real Estate
• Boulder Real Estate
• Bowie Real Estate
• Brentwood Real Estate
• Buffalo Real Estate
• Burlington Real Estate
• Cape Coral Real Estate
• Chandler Real Estate
• Charleston Real Estate
• Charlotte Real Estate
• Chattanooga Real Estate
• Chicago Real Estate
• Cincinnati Real Estate
• Colorado Springs Real Estate
• Columbia Real Estate
• Columbus Real Estate
• Dallas Real Estate
• Denver Real Estate
• Des Moines Real Estate
• Detroit Real Estate
• El Paso Real Estate
• Elk Grove Real Estate
• Eugene Real Estate
• Fairfax Real Estate
• Flagstaff Real Estate
• Fort Collins Real Estate
• Fort Lauderdale Real Estate
• Fort Myers Real Estate
• Fort Worth Real Estate
• Frederick Real Estate
• Fremont Real Estate
• Fresno Real Estate
• Frisco Real Estate
• Gilbert Real Estate
• Glenview Real Estate
• Henderson Real Estate
• Honolulu Real Estate
• Houston Real Estate
• Indianapolis Real Estate
• Irvine Real Estate
• Jacksonville Real Estate
• Jersey City Real Estate
• Kansas City Real Estate
• Knoxville Real Estate
• Lake Tahoe Real Estate
• Las Vegas Real Estate
• Little Rock Real Estate
• Long Island Real Estate
• Los Angeles Real Estate
• Louisville Real Estate
• Madison Real Estate
• Manhattan Real Estate
• Manteca Real Estate
• Memphis Real Estate
• Mesa Real Estate
• Miami Real Estate
• Milwaukee Real Estate
• Minneapolis Real Estate
• Modesto Real Estate
• Myrtle Beach Real Estate
• Naperville Real Estate
• Naples Real Estate
• Nashua Real Estate
• Nashville Real Estate
• New Orleans Real Estate
• New York Real Estate
• Newton Real Estate
• Oakland Real Estate
• Oklahoma City Real Estate
• Omaha Real Estate
• Orland Park Real Estate
• Orlando Real Estate
• Palm Springs Real Estate
• Philadelphia Real Estate
• Phoenix Real Estate
• Pittsburgh Real Estate
• Plainfield Real Estate
• Plano Real Estate
• Portland Real Estate
• Providence Real Estate
• Quincy Real Estate
• Raleigh Real Estate
• Rancho Cucamonga Real Estate
• Reno Real Estate
• Richmond Real Estate
• Riverside Real Estate
• Rochester Real Estate
• Sacramento Real Estate
• Salem Real Estate
• Salt Lake City Real Estate
• San Antonio Real Estate
• San Diego Real Estate
• San Francisco Real Estate
• San Jose Real Estate
• San Luis Obispo Real Estate
• Santa Clarita Real Estate
• Santa Fe Real Estate
• Sarasota Real Estate
• Savannah Real Estate
• Schaumburg Real Estate
• Scottsdale Real Estate
• Seattle Real Estate
• Silver Spring Real Estate
• Sioux Falls Real Estate
• St. Louis Real Estate
• Stamford Real Estate
• Stockton Real Estate
• Tacoma Real Estate
• Tampa Real Estate
• Temecula Real Estate
• Tucson Real Estate
• Tulsa Real Estate
• Virginia Beach Real Estate
• Washington, DC Real Estate
• West Palm Beach Real Estate
• Wilmington Real Estate
• Woodbridge Real Estate
• Worcester Real Estate
• Alabama  •  Homes for sale
• Alaska  •  Homes for sale
• Arizona  •  Homes for sale
• Arkansas  •  Homes for sale
• California  •  Homes for sale
• Colorado  •  Homes for sale
• Connecticut  •  Homes for sale
• Delaware  •  Homes for sale
• Florida  •  Homes for sale
• Georgia  •  Homes for sale
• Hawaii  •  Homes for sale
• Idaho  •  Homes for sale
• Illinois  •  Homes for sale
• Indiana  •  Homes for sale
• Iowa  •  Homes for sale
• Kansas  •  Homes for sale
• Kentucky  •  Homes for sale
• Louisiana  •  Homes for sale
• Maine  •  Homes for sale
• Maryland  •  Homes for sale
• Massachusetts  •  Homes for sale
• Michigan  •  Homes for sale
• Minnesota  •  Homes for sale
• Mississippi  •  Homes for sale
• Missouri  •  Homes for sale
• Nebraska  •  Homes for sale
• Nevada  •  Homes for sale
• New Hampshire  •  Homes for sale
• New Jersey  •  Homes for sale
• New Mexico  •  Homes for sale
• New York  •  Homes for sale
• North Carolina  •  Homes for sale
• Ohio  •  Homes for sale
• Oklahoma  •  Homes for sale
• Oregon  •  Homes for sale
• Pennsylvania  •  Homes for sale
• Rhode Island  •  Homes for sale
• South Carolina  •  Homes for sale
• South Dakota  •  Homes for sale
• Tennessee  •  Homes for sale
• Texas  •  Homes for sale
• Utah  •  Homes for sale
• Vermont  •  Homes for sale
• Virginia  •  Homes for sale
• Washington  •  Homes for sale
• West Virginia  •  Homes for sale
• Wisconsin  •  Homes for sale
• Albuquerque apartments for rent
• Alexandria apartments for rent
• Arlington apartments for rent
• Atlanta apartments for rent
• Augusta apartments for rent
• Austin apartments for rent
• Bakersfield apartments for rent
• Baltimore apartments for rent
• Barnegat apartments for rent
• Baton Rouge apartments for rent
• Birmingham apartments for rent
• Boston apartments for rent
• Charlotte apartments for rent
• Chattanooga apartments for rent
• Chicago apartments for rent
• Cincinnati apartments for rent
• Cleveland apartments for rent
• Columbia apartments for rent
• Columbus apartments for rent
• Dallas apartments for rent
• Dayton apartments for rent
• Denver apartments for rent
• Detroit apartments for rent
• Durham apartments for rent
• Fayetteville apartments for rent
• Fort Worth apartments for rent
• Fresno apartments for rent
• Greensboro apartments for rent
• Houston apartments for rent
• Huntsville apartments for rent
• Indianapolis apartments for rent
• Irving apartments for rent
• Jacksonville apartments for rent
• Kansas City apartments for rent
• Knoxville apartments for rent
• Las Vegas apartments for rent
• Los Angeles apartments for rent
• Louisville apartments for rent
• Macon apartments for rent
• Marietta apartments for rent
• Melbourne apartments for rent
• Memphis apartments for rent
• Mesa apartments for rent
• Miami apartments for rent
• Milwaukee apartments for rent
• Minneapolis apartments for rent
• Mobile apartments for rent
• Murfreesboro apartments for rent
• Nashville apartments for rent
• New York apartments for rent
• Norfolk apartments for rent
• Oklahoma City apartments for rent
• Omaha apartments for rent
• Orlando apartments for rent
• Pensacola apartments for rent
• Philadelphia apartments for rent
• Phoenix apartments for rent
• Pittsburgh apartments for rent
• Plano apartments for rent
• Portland apartments for rent
• Raleigh apartments for rent
• Reno apartments for rent
• Richmond apartments for rent
• Riverside apartments for rent
• Rochester apartments for rent
• Sacramento apartments for rent
• Saint Louis apartments for rent
• Saint Petersburg apartments for rent
• San Antonio apartments for rent
• San Diego apartments for rent
• Savannah apartments for rent
• Seattle apartments for rent
• Springfield apartments for rent
• Tampa apartments for rent
• Tempe apartments for rent
• Tucson apartments for rent
• Tulsa apartments for rent
• Virginia Beach apartments for rent
• Washington apartments for rent
• Abilene houses for rent
• Albany houses for rent
• Amarillo houses for rent
• Arlington houses for rent
• Atlanta houses for rent
• Augusta houses for rent
• Austin houses for rent
• Bakersfield houses for rent
• Birmingham houses for rent
• Charlotte houses for rent
• Chesapeake houses for rent
• Chicago houses for rent
• Clarksville houses for rent
• Columbia houses for rent
• Columbus houses for rent
• Concord houses for rent
• Dallas houses for rent
• Dayton houses for rent
• Denver houses for rent
• Destin houses for rent
• Dothan houses for rent
• El Paso houses for rent
• Eugene houses for rent
• Fayetteville houses for rent
• Fort Wayne houses for rent
• Fresno houses for rent
• Greensboro houses for rent
• Greenville houses for rent
• Griffin houses for rent
• Hampton houses for rent
• Henderson houses for rent
• Houston houses for rent
• Huntsville houses for rent
• Indianapolis houses for rent
• Jackson houses for rent
• Jacksonville houses for rent
• Kissimmee houses for rent
• Knoxville houses for rent
• Lafayette houses for rent
• Lakeland houses for rent
• Lancaster houses for rent
• Lansing houses for rent
• Lawton houses for rent
• Macon houses for rent
• Marietta houses for rent
• Memphis houses for rent
• Mesa houses for rent
• Mobile houses for rent
• Montgomery houses for rent
• Murfreesboro houses for rent
• Nashville houses for rent
• Orlando houses for rent
• Pensacola houses for rent
• Phoenix houses for rent
• Port Saint Lucie houses for rent
• Portland houses for rent
• Raleigh houses for rent
• Reno houses for rent
• Richmond houses for rent
• Riverside houses for rent
• Roanoke houses for rent
• Sacramento houses for rent
• Saint Petersburg houses for rent
• Salem houses for rent
• San Antonio houses for rent
• Savannah houses for rent
• Spokane houses for rent
• Springfield houses for rent
• Stockton houses for rent
• Tampa houses for rent
• Toledo houses for rent
• Tucson houses for rent
• Tyler houses for rent
• Valdosta houses for rent
• Vancouver houses for rent
• Waco houses for rent
• Warner Robins houses for rent
• Wichita houses for rent
• Wilmington houses for rent

Updated January 2020: By searching, you agree to the Terms of Use , and Privacy Policy .

REDFIN IS COMMITTED TO AND ABIDES BY THE FAIR HOUSING ACT AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY ACT. READ REDFIN’S FAIR HOUSING POLICY .

Copyright: © 2022 Redfin. All rights reserved. Patent pending.

REDFIN and all REDFIN variants, TITLE FORWARD, WALK SCORE, and the R logos, are trademarks of Redfin Corporation, registered or pending in the USPTO.

California DRE #01521930

NY Standard Operating Procedures

TREC: Info About Brokerage Services , Consumer Protection Notice

If you are using a screen reader, or having trouble reading this website, please call Redfin Customer Support for help at 1-844-759-7732.

Best places for 9 popular indoor activities in San Francisco

When the sun is shining and temperatures are warm, it's not too difficult to get out of the house and find something to do, whether it's a simple walk around the block or a day trip to the beach. But when temperatures are lower or rain is trickling down your windows, you're probably more likely to stay inside—and that's true no matter your age.

A 2020 survey of about 1,000 people from the National Recreation and Park Association showed that 58% of U.S. adults are less active in the winter . Similarly, a 2016 study out of the University of Cambridge found that average activity levels among children dropped to their lowest levels in February at about 48 minutes per day compared to 65 minutes per day in April, the peak month for activity.

The good news is there are an increasing number of ways to get out and be active, no matter the season and no matter what level of activity you're looking for. There are the longtime staples to visit year-round, from an awe-inspiring and educational visit to an aquarium or planetarium to a culturally stimulating night at the theater to a trip down memory lane at the bowling alley. For the gamers among you—or for those nostalgic for the 1970s, '80s, and '90s—there's always laser tag or an afternoon at the arcade.

Those looking to exercise their minds a bit more than their muscles could try the more recent sensation: escape rooms, which started captivating Americans of all ages in the mid-2010s. Meanwhile, people who want to sweat it out a bit can try to get into the skyrocketing success of indoor rock climbing, the bouncing business of trampoline parks, and the more adult activity that is ax throwing.

To motivate you to try a new activity this weekend, weather notwithstanding, Stacker compiled a list of the best places for popular indoor activities in San Francisco using data from Yelp. Data is as of Feb. 21, 2024. Businesses were selected using Yelp's ranking system, which calculates an adjusted rating value that takes into account the number of ratings as well as the rating score itself.

Arcade: Free Gold Watch

- Rating: 4.8/5 (168 reviews) - Address: 1767 Waller St. San Francisco, California - Categories: Printing Services, Arcades - Read more on Yelp

Bowling: Mission Bowling Club

- Rating: 4.0/5 (671 reviews) - Price level: $$ - Address: 3176 17th St. San Francisco, California - Categories: Bowling, Breakfast & Brunch, Cocktail Bars - Read more on Yelp

Rock climbing: Outdoor Adventure Club

- Rating: 4.8/5 (53 reviews) - Address: 1819 Polk St. Ste 222 San Francisco, California - Categories: Rafting/Kayaking, Hiking, Rock Climbing - Read more on Yelp

Aquarium: California Academy of Sciences

- Rating: 3.9/5 (3433 reviews) - Address: 55 Music Concourse Drive San Francisco, California - Categories: Museums, Venues & Event Spaces, Aquariums - Read more on Yelp

Planetarium: Morrison Planetarium

- Rating: 3.6/5 (20 reviews) - Address: 55 Music Concourse Drive San Francisco, California - Categories: Planetarium - Read more on Yelp

Ax throwing: Split The Wood

- Rating: 5.0/5 (8 reviews) - Address: San Francisco, California - Categories: Ax Throwing - Read more on Yelp

Escape games: BreakoutIQ

- Rating: 5.0/5 (96 reviews) - Address: San Francisco, California - Categories: Escape Games, Team Building Activities, Trivia Hosts - Read more on Yelp

Theater: The Racket: A Film Noir Party Game

- Rating: 5.0/5 (56 reviews) - Address: San Francisco, California - Categories: Performing Arts, Team Building Activities - Read more on Yelp

Trampoline park: House of Air

- Rating: 3.7/5 (550 reviews) - Address: 926 Mason St. San Francisco, California - Categories: Trampoline Parks - Read more on Yelp

This story features data reporting by Karim Noorani, writing by Jaimie Etkin, and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 251 metros.

Explore by Metro

Bakersfield, los angeles, san francisco, san luis obispo, santa maria, trending now, 50 longest-running tv series.

Best drama movies from the last decade

30 best nature documentaries of all time

50 best space movies of all time

Share this story

• The 19 Best Pizzerias in San Francisco
• 12 of San Francisco’s Best Pasta Destinations
• The 15 Best Indian Restaurants in San Francisco

Head to one of these restaurants for a euphoric carb feast

• Share this on Facebook
• Share this on Twitter
• Share All sharing options

Share All sharing options for: 12 of San Francisco’s Best Pasta Destinations

San Francisco is brimming with excellent Italian restaurants . But if you have your heart set on the city’s best noodles, it’s difficult to discern the best places to go when almost every spot in town has at least one pasta dish on the menu. This list highlights some of the better options for pasta, including classic Italian dishes or modern California takes.

The Italian Homemade Company

Despite ballooning to six locations — four in the Bay Area, plus one each in Chicago and Los Angeles — Italian Homemade Company remains a solid place for a meal. Available to eat in or take home, expect hearty, well-made pasta with sauce (plus flatbreads and salads). Pick a pasta, like fettuccine or pappardelle, and then choose a sauce, like pesto, bolognese, or butter and sage.

• Open in Google Maps

Also featured in:

16 Primo Italian Restaurants in San Francisco

The casual restaurant from the Quince team doesn’t disappoint, particularly in the pasta department. Don’t miss the rich and perfectly shaped agnolotti del plin, but really, really don’t miss the raviolo di ricotta, one of the most stunning pasta dishes in the city.

• Book with OpenTable

Chef Nick Kelly’s restaurant centers classic Italian dishes with great ingredients, and it’s a great neighborhood spot. The seasonal menu will feature items such as the raviolini filled with Brentwood corn passatina or check out the favorite pappardelle with 10-hour bolognese.

Chef Matt Accarrino has been perfecting his pasta techniques at his cozy Lower Pac Heights restaurant for over a decade. His impressive variety of pasta is imprinted all over the menu, such as squid ink and saffron linguini and paprika pasta lasagna with peperonata. Those who want to try more of Accarrino’s pasta would do well to try the five-course pasta tasting menu on Wednesdays and Thursdays, otherwise go for whatever catches your eye on the a la carte menu or try out the restaurant’s four-course menu.

These Bay Area Restaurants Offer the Best Affordable Prix Fixe and Tasting Menus

Pasta Supply Co

Chef Anthony Strong’s Pasta Supply Co. is both a retail shop and a restaurant, making it an excellent stop for dinner whether you’re heading home to cook or would rather the team whip up a meal. Bring home a selection of pasta, which come in a wide range of shapes and sizes , with an accompanying sauce, or stay at the restaurant with a glass of wine and dishes such as sweet corn ravioli or ricotta cannelloni “blossom” — the restaurant’s squash blossom sugo.

Here, rustic Italian is served in a very bustling dining room overlooking Divisadero Street. Chef David Nayfeld’s obsession with handmade pasta has yielded excellent results, such as cappelletti with ricotta and Sun Blaze Ranch summer squash or spaghetti topped with Early Girl tomato pomodoro. Don’t skip dessert and an accompanying amaro.

Sign up for the newsletter Eater SF

Sign up for our newsletter.

Thanks for signing up!

Check your inbox for a welcome email.

Oops. Something went wrong. Please enter a valid email and try again.

This Hayes Valley pasta spot has a long list of ever-changing pastas, like a seafood-laden paccheri or bucatini all’Amatriciana with guanciale, chiles, and pecorino. Shore up that carb feast with excellent small plates like duck liver mousse, or a margherita pizza.

Where to Find Fantastic Food and Drink Around Hayes Valley

Rich Table’s creative interpretation of Northern California cuisine draws in diners year after year, and while its pasta section typically spans just four dishes, it is worth paying close attention to. Expect stunners like the tonnarelli with sea urchin “cacio e pepe” with idiazabal cheese, a diner favorite. If you can't get reservations, grab a seat at the busy bar and slurp up your noodles with an excellent cocktail.

The 38 Essential Restaurants in San Francisco

Delfina has been going strong for over two decades , serving simple, excellent pasta from the very beginning. Diners can’t go wrong with the classic spaghetti pomodoro, or fazzoletti in pesto Genovese.

Flour + Water

Since it opened in 2012, this Mission dough destination has been a staple in the SF pasta scene. There are a variety of gorgeous stuffed pasta and toothsome noodles bathed in silky sauces — and there are no bad choices here. For the full experience, choose the pasta tasting menu which changes often but might include dishes like buckwheat and beef short rib cannelloni with sunchoke puree, roasted gold beets, and hazelnuts. (A vegetarian option is also available.)

If raw fish and fresh pasta are two of your favorite food groups, chef Daniel Evers’s Itria is your new favorite restaurant. There’s a healthy selection of crudo to start, then the menu gives way to fresh pasta items such as pappardelle with roasted pork sugo or rigatoni alla norma with smoked eggplant and ricotta salata.

Emmy's Spaghetti Shack

This boisterous Mission restaurant specializes in — you guessed it — spaghetti, with or without meatballs. Despite a recent change in ownership , management is keeping most of the menu intact, which means continuing the spaghetti special, as well as the lasagna and fettuccine with roasted garlic Alfredo.

25 Especially Child-Friendly Restaurants in San Francisco

More in Maps

• 19 Stellar Pizzerias in San Francisco

Related Maps

Follow eater sf online:.

• Follow Eater SF on Twitter
• Follow Eater SF on Facebook
• Follow Eater SF on Youtube
• Follow Eater SF on Instagram

Site search

• Los Angeles
• New Orleans
• Philadelphia
• Portland, OR
• San Francisco
• Twin Cities
• Washington DC
• Neighborhoods

• Skip to Nav
• Skip to Main
• Skip to Footer
• Saved Articles
• Newsletters

Night Markets Are Bringing Back Bay Area Nightlife, One Neighborhood at a Time

Please try again

If you’ve ever wandered the back alleyways of a stinky tofu–fragrant Taipei night market, or done a laksa crawl at a Singaporean hawker center, or strolled from yakisoba stall to takoyaki stand amid a sea of yukata at a traditional Japanese summer festival — then you know the power of a night market .

And you also probably know: We’ve never really had a street food culture quite like that in the Bay Area, and maybe we never will . And yet, four years into a pandemic that has isolated communities and crippled downtown shopping districts, the night market has emerged as the single most popular antidote to those woes. Loosely modeled after the kinds of late-night, food-centric markets that are ubiquitous through much of Asia, night market events have launched as a way to bring communities together in cities and neighborhoods all across the Bay — from the chilly west end of San Francisco to the vast suburban parking lots of Silicon Valley. There are some weekends this fall when a dedicated night market enthusiast can hit up two or three of these street food panaceas. Miracle of miracles , a few of them are even open as late as 10 p.m.

And as we head into the Bay Area’s relatively balmy autumn months, these night markets are some of the best places to taste a sampling of our region’s diverse, multicultural cuisines. Here are 10 night markets we’re excited about:

Prescott Night Market

Sept. 5 and Oct. 3, 4–8 p.m. 1620 18th St., Oakland

With its 8 o’clock end time, West Oakland’s popular new monthly Thursday night market might not be the most nocturnal of the Bay Area’s new nighttime street food events. But it does pack plenty of Town energy into each four-hour market, starting with an especially multicultural lineup of food vendors selling Cambodian meat skewers, Nigerian jollof, Cubano sandwiches, Taiwanese night market–inspired fried rice, whole roast pig and more.

Prescott Night Market is located in an increasingly lively stretch of West Oakland, on the same block where an affiliated food hall is expected to open later this year and just across the street from the Oakland Ballers’ ballpark , which has created a fortuitous bit of synergy when market nights have coincided with Ballers’ home games. Other highlights: a beer garden courtesy of Almanac Beer Co. and vertical dance performances from Bandaloop Studios (known for its high-flying side-of-building choreography).

Story Road Night Market

Sept. 6–7 and Oct. 11–12, 4–10 p.m. 1111 Story Rd., San José (Grand Century Mall parking lot)

What sets Little Saigon’s first night market apart from the crowd of generically trendy food truck festivals is its organizers’ close collaboration with the neighborhood’s two big Vietnamese shopping plazas — Grand Century and Vietnam Town — which means the sheer variety of both traditional and more fusiony Vietnamese street foods can’t be beat. Add a sprinkling of cultural performances and Vietnamese-style night market games, and you’ve got a winning formula: The inaugural Story Road Night Market drew such large crowds that the organizers decided to make the September and October editions about 30% bigger, adding even more food vendors (both Vietnamese and non-Vietnamese) to the roster. Newcomers for September include perennial favorite Pho Ha Noi (one of the Bay Area’s top phở spots) and vendors specializing in bánh xèo and fresh-pressed sugarcane juice.

Lucky Cat Night Market

Sept. 7, 4–9 p.m. 501 Buckingham Way, San Francisco (Stonestown Mall parking lot)

Co-organized by Annie Zhou of the Haight Street retail and events collective Everdaze and Sabrina Chan of Lovestruck Vintage , this new night market in the Stonestown Mall parking lot draws inspiration from hawker food markets in East and Southeast Asia — though its combination of street food, local artists and well-curated vintage fashion should feel right at home in SF. The tag line? “Good food, good finds and good vibes.” Foodwise, notable vendors will include Filipino street eats from Sarap Shop and Fairy Bites, rolled ice cream from Cool Rolls and Latin American flavors by GAX.

Oakland Chinatown Night Market

Sept. 7, 5–9 p.m. 8th Street (between Webster and Broadway), Oakland

Oakland Chinatown business owners and activists have long talked about how amazing it would be for the neighborhood to have its own large-scale night market. Now, finally, it’s happening. Two blocks of 8th Street will be glammed up with string lights, roll-up door murals and pop-up art galleries; rappers Seiji Oda and Dtrue will take the stage; and, to kick things off, local squads representing China, Laos, Japan and the Philippines will duke it out in a pan-Asian basketball tournament.

Mostly, though, this night market is all about food. For the market’s overarching “Dumpling Wars” theme, one of the neighborhood’s newer restaurants, Shunde Tastes, will cook up six different Asian dumpling styles, allowing visitors to vote for their favorites. Lounge Chinatown will set up several outdoor stations hawking street-style stinky tofu, grilled oysters and five-spice popcorn chicken, creating a Taiwanese night market vibe. All told, there will be at least 18 food vendors, from both within and outside of Chinatown, selling everything from ube mini pies to Latin American–influenced sushi rolls .

For the Oakland Chinatown Improvement Council , which is organizing the free event, the inaugural night market is a proof of concept. If all goes well, the nonprofit hopes the city will provide enough funding for it to put on at least four night markets a year — and, more importantly, to once again make Chinatown a vibrant night-time destination.

Bhangra and Beats Night Market

Sept. 13 and Nov. 15, 5–10 p.m. Battery Street at Clay Street, San Francisco

One of downtown San Francisco’s most unique night markets is essentially a massive, rollicking Friday night block party that shines a particular spotlight on South Asian culture — feet-pounding bhangra folk music and dancing and, of course, a wide spectrum of street food offerings, including biryani and chaat from the Pakistani food truck Lahore Di Khushboo and charcoal-grilled meat skewers from Indian barbecue sensation Wah Jee Wah .

Each edition of Bhangra and Beats has its own theme. The September night market, for instance, will incorporate a number of Latin American vendors and performers to celebrate Latino Heritage Month. And November’s market will be a full-fledged Diwali party — the first one of this scale in San Francisco.

Chinatown Night Market

Sept. 13, Oct. 11 and Nov. 8, 5:30–9 p.m. Grant Avenue (between Sacramento and Jackson), San Francisco

On the tail of several challenging pandemic-era years, San Francisco’s Chinatown now has its own night market, held the second Friday of every month. Hosted by BeChinatown , a coalition of Chinatown business leaders and other stakeholders, the Chinatown Night Market typically features big crowds , lion dancers , fun carnival games and a host of local vendors showcasing one of San Francisco’s most iconic food neighborhoods.

Cupertino Night Market

Sept. 14, 3–10 p.m. De Anza College, 21250 Stevens Creek Blvd., Cupertino

Would it surprise you to hear that Cupertino’s annual night market has a tech angle? But if the VR gaming truck or the big raffle for a chance to test drive a Tesla for a week don’t get the lithium ion–fueled engine of your heart pumping, there will also be lots of food — about 20 vendors in all, including South Bay stalwarts like longtime Taiwanese favorite Liang’s Village and Mexican pizza truck Tlaxiaco’s .

Ultimately, the core of the event is its strong community focus, which means instead of recruiting high-profile headliners to perform, the market’s live music and entertainment will mostly consist of local amateur acts and school clubs.

Moon Fest 2024

Sept. 14, 5–9 p.m. San José Flea Market, 1590 Berryessa Rd., San José

Every Friday through October, the San José Flea Market (aka La Pulga ) operates a weekly night market at its new “Garden at the Flea” beer garden and events space, often with a specific theme. Of particular note is the market’s Sept. 14 edition, which will be San José’s sixth annual Moon Fest — a modern Mid-Autumn Festival celebration hosted in collaboration with Asian American nonprofit EM Collective . A lion dance troupe and other local performers will take the stage to complement the night market’s crafts vendors, photo booths and a diverse lineup of food vendors serving pork sisig, poke bowls and Mexican street corn.

Heart of the Richmond Night Market

Sept. 21, 4–8 p.m. Clement Street (between 22nd and 25th Avenues), San Francisco

The Richmond District has long been one of the best dining destinations in San Francisco, between its well-established (if informal) designation as the city’s “New Chinatown,” status as the historical center for the local Russian-speaking communities, and sprinkling of trendy higher-end restaurants. It’s fitting, then, that the neighborhood’s new night market reflects that vibrancy and diversity.

While the food booth lineup for the Sept. 21 market (the last one of 2024) has yet to be fully set, previous iterations have played to the neighborhood’s strengths: dim sum, Chinese barbecue, rice dumplings, dragon beard candy, Uzbek-Russian pastries and more. All that, plus folk dance performances, mahjong, facepainting and free cartoons for kids at the 4 Star Theater.

Sunset Night Market

Aug. 30 and Sept. 27, 5–10 p.m. Irving Street (between 19th and 26th Avenues), San Francisco

Probably the largest and most ambitious among San Francisco’s new batch of night markets, this year’s editions of the Sunset Night Market have doubled in size, now spanning seven city blocks (!) after last year’s inaugural market already drew more than 10,000 visitors . With over 100 art and retail vendors and 50-plus food vendors, there should be something to suit every visitor’s tastes. The emphasis, though, will be on Asian street foods — garlic noodles, crispy pork belly, halo-halo, Thai-inspired larb burritos, extra-large Taiwanese night market–style fried chicken cutlets and more.

The itinerary for Sept. 27 is still a work in progress, but guests can expect a bit of extra razzle-dazzle as well. The Aug. 30 night market, for instance, will feature a stinky tofu eating contest and a guest appearance from Martin Yan.

Update: A previous version of this article stated that DJ Qbert would perform at the Sept. 5 Prescott Night Market. He is no longer performing  — instead, the Phat Luv band will perform at the event.

Thanks for signing up for the newsletter.

The Standard’s 12 ultimate SF sandwiches and where to take them on a picnic

When it comes to a delicious sammie, a bottle of chilled wine, and a park to sit in, we have opinions.

• Copy link to this article

The Standard staff has deep-seated, insider thoughts about San Francisco — and not just about politics. In time for Labor Day weekend, here are our picks for the best things between sliced bread — and the choicest parks and beaches for enjoying them.  

Avo Smash from Lucinda’s Delicatessen + Alamo Square

Tucking into this vegan sandwich feels like I’ve made a good, healthy choice —though usually it’s after an early start watching Manchester United at Danny Coyle’s pub, where I don’t often make good choices (unless Guinness is good for you). From there, it’s a short wander to Lucinda’s little sandwich shop, then to Alamo Square to take in the vistas while I restore my insides with the wondrous Avo Smash ($16), full of pickled veggies and smeared with an addictive, smoky cashew romesco.  — Joe Burn, news editor

Buffalo Bill from Turner’s Kitchen + Mission Dolores Park  

If you want to be shaken awake from your boring turkey-sandwich reverie, opt for Turner’s Buffalo Bill ($16), which pairs roasted turkey with aged white cheddar, crispy onions, and a buttermilk ranch coleslaw. The whole thing bursts with herbs and the zing of vinegar. Also included: a just-hot-enough buffalo sauce made even more decadent with brown butter. Take your sandwich and park it in the shadow of a Dolores Park palm tree. Prepare to take a nap after. — Lauren Saria, deputy food editor

Roast pork hoagie from Palm City + Ocean Beach

Anything loaded with bitter broccoli rabe is my friend, and Palm City’s deservedly lauded pork hoagie ($20) is just that. Added to the veg: sliced roasted pork, provolone, a piquant cherry-pepper sauce, and a 10-inch Rize Up roll. Clearly modeled after the famous Philly Italian pork sandwich , this sturdy beast is meant to travel — like on the quick walk over the dunes of Ocean Beach, shoes in hand. Yes, it’s pricey, but the sandwich is truly built for two, making it almost a deal. — Sara Deseran, food editor

Prosciutto & Brie from Angelina’s Deli-Cafe + Baker Beach 

For more than a decade, whenever I’m on the way to Baker Beach, my tradition has been to first stop by Angelina’s and get a sandwich. The no-frills, solid deli sandwiches attract long lines on the weekends. My choice is the comforting Prosciutto & Brie ($14.25) on toasted baguette, enlivened with a sweet but briny fig-and-olive spread. — Alex Vikmanis, deputy managing editor

Nashville hot chicken sandwich from Foghorn Taproom + Golden Gate Park  

As a spice lover, I’m drawn to any joint that offers heat levels ranging from “mild” all the way to “scorpion” and “reaper,” so Foghorn Taproom’s Nashville hot chicken sandwich ($14) is a favorite. To fully experience its hand-breaded, spice-coated chicken breast, start with “hot.” Topped with crunchy slaw and pickles, it’s best enjoyed while still toasty, so make haste to the Skatin’ Place in Golden Gate Park, take a seat, and watch the roller skaters glide on by.  — Sophie Bearman, director of special projects and host, Life in Seven Songs  

Salami on Dutch crunch from Roxie Food Center + Balboa Park

My wife’s been going to Roxie’s since high school. My children, practically since birth. They all take their “native sandwich” for granted. Me? I treat my Dutch crunch two-handers with the zealotry of a convert. You don’t have to get fancy at the deli, which has been slinging excellent sammies since ’75. My order: salami and the works (including pickled jalapeños). I get the junior size ($12.79), but no judgment if you wanna go regular ($14.69) or supreme ($19.99). Walk across the Muni tracks, plop down under Balboa Park’s trio of giant Monterey cypress trees, and have at it.  — Jon Steinberg, executive editor

BLT from Gus’s Community Market + Panhandle

Gus’s Community Market has five locations around the city, but the one at Haight and Ashbury, which opened in 1981, was first. Among the variety of deli sandwiches, I love the 710 BLT on rye ($12.95). It’s a classic done right: The bacon is crispy, the bread is toasted, and there’s a dab of mashed avocado for the California effect. Grab a cold beer or a bottle of wine from the market’s fridge and beeline two short blocks to the Panhandle for a no-fuss picnic. — Priya Anand, tech culture reporter

Lambwich from Avedano’s Holly Park Market + Bernal Hill

This high-end butcher shop doesn’t make the quickest sando in town, but your patience is rewarded with a high level of skill. The lamb sandwich ($14) — a hard thing to find — is a standout. It’s stuffed with tender braised meat, pesto, a few leaves of spinach, piquillo peppers, and provolone, griddled till crisp on a panini press. Yes, Holly Park is only a block away, but the mouth-watering flavors are more than enough to motivate you to ascend Bernal Hill for a picnic with a panorama. — Michael McLaughlin, deputy breaking news editor

Lou-Ben from Lou’s Sandwiches Cafe + Mountain Lake Park

A sandwich shop is only as good as its Reuben, and Lou’s has a standout. The Lou-Ben ($12.50), filled with the familiar ingredients (pastrami, provolone, sauerkraut), is kicked up a notch with the addition of turkey and Lou’s special sauce. It comes on sourdough, but I prefer Dutch crunch and ask for it wrapped with an extra layer of butcher paper for easy transport to the quiet beauty of Mountain Lake Park. — Jesse Rogala, multimedia editor

Cubano from Q’s Sandwich Shop + Buena Vista Park   

The Cubano ($17) at this mom-and-pop shop is not the most traditional, but the sauce-drenched, housemade pulled pork is more than a welcome alternative. For purists, there are still thin slices of ham, melty Swiss cheese, crisp pickles, and smashed and grilled bread on the edge of being burnt. Take the brief (but sharply uphill) trek to Buena Vista’s panoramic views, and the sandwich is your reward. — Kevin Truong, business editor

Turkey sandwich from Constanso’s  + Heron’s Head Park

Don’t get me wrong — I love a fancy sandwich with aged cheeses and imported charcuterie. But I’m also big on supporting small businesses that aren’t trending on TikTok. The family-owned and -operated Constanso’s is just that. They keep it simple, delicious, and very affordable. My order: turkey on a soft roll ($6), fully loaded with mayo, mustard, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, peppers, and pepperjack cheese. This might be the best deal in SF. And the lovely, industrial wetland walk through Heron’s Head Park happens to be free. — Meaghan Mitchell, partnerships manager

Muffuletta from Jane the Bakery + Raymond Kimbell Playground

Jane makes a killer muffuletta ($13), the smoky sandwich that always brings me back to the porch of my mom’s shotgun home in New Orleans, where they’re consumed voraciously in the sweltering corridors. The ingredients — mortadella, salami, hot capicola ham, an olive blend, and pepperoncini on a homemade ciabatta — are disparate and messy, and the effects on your breath are not for a first date. If you have kids, head to the playground across the street. If not, there’s plenty of green space for adulting in peace.  — Sam Mondros, culture reporter

Filed Under