Overview
San Francisco is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, and for a good reason. With its many attractions, activities, and stunning landscape, it’s easy to see why. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the City offers something for everyone.
In this overview, we will take a look at some of the best things to do in San Francisco during your stay:
Location
San Francisco is a significant city in northern California, located on the West Coast of the United States. It features a hilly terrain and beautiful views of San Francisco Bay from many main attractions. It is known for its diverse cultures, eclectic architecture, landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge and cable cars, and its foggy summers.
San Francisco is Northern California’s cultural and financial center, home to many universities, parks, entertainment centers, and major sports team franchises. It has plenty of attractions that draw locals and tourists alike:
- Tourists come to experience the vibrant culture of Chinatown during Chinese New Year celebrations or relax at Golden Gate Park;
- While locals can enjoy an evening sail on Angel Island or participate in the City’s numerous cultural events like Carnival or Burning Man.
Weather
San Francisco’s mild climate is the envy of the nation. Its climate can be categorized as Mediterranean, characterized by cool, wet winters and dry, warm summers. As a result, San Franciscans may take advantage of outdoor activities almost year-round.
The summer months (May to October) offer the warmest weather, with much less rain and occasional heat waves when temperatures reach 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit (30-35 Celsius). Conversely, winter months (November to April) are marked by rain, significantly lower temperatures, and occasional sea fog, giving San Francisco its iconic “summer haze.”
Regardless of the season, San Franciscans recommend layers and an umbrella so visitors can dress accordingly in case of an unexpected change in weather throughout the day.
Population
San Francisco is a major city in northern California, centered on the north end of the San Francisco Peninsula and covering nearly 47 square miles. According to 2019 estimates from the US Census Bureau, San Francisco had a population of 881,549 people living within its boundaries – making it the fourth most populous CityCity in California and the 13th most populous City in America.
The population growth of San Francisco is directly related to its history of economic booms and busts which began during the Gold Rush era when thousands of gold seekers arrived in search of adventure and fortune. As jobs developed around service industries such as tourism, finance, and technology, many people were drawn to the region’s temperate climate and its attractions and other amenities – this trend continues today, with some 1 million people visiting annually.
As one of only two consolidated city-county governments in all of California – San Francisco City & County is made up of 16 distinct neighborhoods, including Chinatown, North Beach, Haight-Ashbury, West Portal/Forest Hill, Inner Sunset/Sunnyside/Westwood Park, Mission Bay/South Beach Ocean Beach/Outer Richmond amongst others – all richly diverse in culture with an equally rich array of architecture and amenities representative of their respective communities. Additionally, many nearby cities such as Daly City, Oakland, or Emeryville account for a large portion of workers who commute into San Francisco daily for employment resulting in an ever-growing population base for “The 5-Square Mile” (SF’s municipal area).
Attractions
San Francisco is an excellent city with attractions, sightseeing, and activities. With iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, the Painted Ladies, the Exploratorium, and Coit Tower, the CityCity offers a range of tourist attractions.
Plenty of activities can be enjoyed in the CityCity, from visiting museums and galleries to exploring the City’sCity’s parks and gardens. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular attractions in San Francisco:
Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge’s iconic symbol of San Francisco is an engineering marvel and an integral part of the City’sCity’s skyline. Spanning more than 4200 feet across San Francisco Bay, the bridge was completed in 1937 and provided incredible views of downtown San Francisco and Marin County. The bridge also has historical significance, becoming one of the first to use massive suspension cables in its construction.
Visitors to San Francisco can stroll across or take a leisurely bike ride from one side to the other. There are also various lookout points along its length, offering breathtaking views of downtown San Francisco’s skyline. Tourists visiting during summer should check out ‘Let’s Celebrate The Bridge!’, an event that celebrates this famous landmark with food stalls, live music, and fireworks around the 4th of July. Whether you walk or drive, it will surely be one of your most memorable experiences while exploring San Francisco.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf, a popular tourist area in downtown San Francisco, is a great visitor destination. Located along the waterfront of San Francisco Bay, it is home to numerous shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Fisherman’s Wharf has many historical sites, such as the Cannery Shopping Center and Ghirardelli Square. There is also an abundance of seafood restaurants and vendors offering their fresh catch. In addition, visitors can watch sea lions playing in the harbor or board a boat for a trip around the Bay or to the Golden Gate Bridge. Further down on Pier 39, several family-friendly attractions include a hands-on Discovery Museum and an Aquarium of the Bay.
If you are looking for souvenirs to take home, Fisherman’s Wharf is the place to go! Unique shops offer everything from homemade chocolates, t-shirts, and coffee mugs to handmade artwork and postcards. In addition, plenty of pubs and bars along Fisherman’s Wharf serve craft beers from local breweries.
Visiting Fisherman’s Wharf guarantees that you will have an unforgettable experience in San Francisco!
Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz Island is a notorious former prison located off the shore of San Francisco in the San Francisco Bay. Just over 1 mile offshore, Alcatraz was once home to some of America’s most infamous criminals, including Al Capone and Robert Stroud. The island was used as a federal prison from 1934 to 1963, and today is a tourist attraction that draws people from all over the world.
When visiting Alcatraz, you can experience life at the prison by exploring former inmate housing plus daytime activities such as gardening and basketball. Learn about the inmates’ stories through various exhibits or take a guided audio tour in 18 different languages to hear about how prisoners were brought to the island on “hell ships” and housed in tiny cells. Visitors can also view photographs, artifacts from life at Alcatraz, artwork created by inmates during their time there, and more.
Restrictions may be in place due to Covid-19; please check with local agencies for updates on openings before heading out. Admission fees vary depending on events that are taking place during your visit. For more information about hours of operation or activities on offer during your stay, don’t hesitate to contact us ahead of time or visit online for further discussion before arrival.
Muir Woods National Monument
Located just 12 miles north of San Francisco, Muir Woods National Monument holds the distinction of being a United States National Monument. This heavily forested area comprises coastal redwood forests and is a treasure trove for those looking to explore and gain insight into woodland ecosystems. In addition, its ancient redwoods have made Muir Woods a draw for visitors worldwide looking to witness their natural grandeur up close.
The park covers nearly 1,000 acres and ranges from sea level to 1,500 feet above sea level. It also hosts numerous trails that offer just as many views and climate as they make history. They allow you to explore the park’s depths at your own pace and soak in the majestic beauty offered by its tall redwoods and wooded trails.
Unusual plants, such as western wild roses, Douglas-fir trees, California Bay trees, and California buckeyes, are abundant at Muir Woods, making it home to some of Northern California’s most spectacular flora. Flora, like this, blooms for much of summer. During springtime, several colorful wildflowers appear on the forest floor, giving an even more vivid representation of all this park offers.
One U.S. Forest Service representative described it as “A sanctuary for humans as well,” Muir Woods is sure to bring a smile to anyone who takes advantage of its lush beauty or peaceful atmosphere – no matter their reason for visiting San Francisco!
Activities
San Francisco is an amazing city with a plethora of activities to do. From visiting iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge to exploring lush green parks or checking out the City’sCity’s vibrant museum scene, there is something for everyone in San Francisco.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best activities to do in San Francisco that will make your visit unforgettable:
Sightseeing Tours
San Francisco is a vibrant city full of attractions and activities to enjoy. One popular activity for visitors and locals alike is sightseeing tours. There are various types of sightseeing tours in San Francisco, so you’ll find some activities that meet your interests.
Some popular San Francisco sightseeing tours include:
- Walking tours offer an enjoyable learning experience with the opportunity to explore one-of-a-kind neighborhoods throughout the CityCity. Professional local tour guides take visitors through historic sites, iconic spots, gardens, and parks, offering unique perspectives and stories about specific locations.
- Bike tours are appealing for staying fit while taking in many of the City’sCity’s incredible sights.
- Foodie/cocktail tasting experiences are typically conducted by knowledgeable guides who lead you through neighborhood eateries or bars, highlighting traditional cuisine from each area visited and inviting guests to sample them as they go along.
No matter which type of sightseeing tour you decide, each offers a fun way to learn more about this vibrant CityCity!
Shopping
San Francisco, California, boasts an abundance of retail stores to explore. There’s something here for everyone, from upscale department stores to independently owned boutiques. So whether you’re looking for the latest fashion trends, unique antiques, or souvenirs to remind you of your trip, there are plenty of places to shop in this vibrant CityCity.
- Department Stores: Department stores like Bloomingdale’s and Nordstrom offer a range of well-known brands alongside special event launches and discounts throughout the year. Shop for quality garments for men, women, and children before taking a break at an onsite eater nearby.
- Independent Boutiques: Independent boutiques can be found throughout San Francisco’s distinct neighborhoods. From vintage clothing stores in The Mission District to modern fashion outlets in Union Square and North Beach, you’ll discover something that fits your style perfectly—all with the bonus of excellent customer service.
- Outlet Shopping: Want designer goods at unbeatable prices? Head to San Francisco Premium Outlets, where luxury outlets like Bloomingdale’s Outlet and Neiman Marcus Last Call offer discounted must-haves from famous designers at significantly lower prices than their full-priced counterparts. While deals vary daily, expect designer goods to be marked down by 40-60% every visit! Also, don’t forget to sign up with their loyalty program; it pays off when it comes to savings!
Dining
Whether you’re looking for fine dining, an atmosphere with character, or an eclectic blend of flavors and cuisines, San Francisco’s culinary scene will surely leave your taste buds happy. In addition, many of the City’sCity’s restaurants offer views of iconic attractions such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Alamo Square Park.
There is something for every palate in this vibrant City. Discover a range of culinary experiences, including Michelin-starred modern American eateries like Corey Lee’s chef-driven restaurant In Situ and Alfred’s steakhouse, which has become San Francisco’s classic chophouse since 1937. Treat yourself to world-class handcrafted dim sum at Yank Sing, or explore the vast array of food trucks that dot the streets throughout the CityCity. The Barbary Coast Trail provides a unique contemporary dining tour through 50 restaurants in downtown San Francisco where diners can get their fill of international favorites like Italian, Chinese, Mexican, and Nordic fare.
The culinary experiences will be unforgettable wherever you dine in San Francisco!
Museums and Galleries
San Francisco, California, is well known for its numerous museums and art galleries. From the world-renowned Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco to the modern galleries of downtown, travelers have many options for cultural exploration. Spend a day or more perusing fascinating exhibits on everything from contemporary art to ancient artifacts.
The Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco cover California and international art with locations at the de Young in Golden Gate Park and the Legion of Honor in Lincoln Park. The de Young Museum features one of the most comprehensive collections of American art. At the same time, the Legion of Honor houses an impressive selection of ancient Greek, Roman, and Near Eastern antiquities.
The Museum of Modern Art also must be included on your list as it offers an excellent range of contemporary works. And don’t forget to check out other noteworthy exhibitions such as Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, Cartoon Art Museum, Contemporary Jewish Museum, and Wells Fargo History Museum.
Art enthusiasts will find something to satisfy their longings, with over 50 galleries showcasing artistic works from local and international artists throughout the Soho (South Of Market) gallery district near Union Square. These galleries host exciting new shows every week, so make sure to do some research before your visit! From abstract paintings to blown glass sculptures, you will find something interesting at any of these cutting-edge venues!
Accommodation
San Francisco is a great place to visit and explore with its cosmopolitan atmosphere, fantastic sights, and lively atmosphere. When it comes to accommodation, there are plenty of options to choose from, ranging from budget B&Bs to luxury hotels. San Francisco has something for everyone, whether looking for a comfortable place to stay or a hotel with a more boutique feel.
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular accommodation options available in San Francisco:
Hotels
San Francisco is a vibrant city with exciting destinations, activities, and accommodations. Many hotels in this iconic CityCity offer different styles, amenities, and locations to suit travelers.
For visitors who want to stay close to the waterfront, numerous world-famous San Francisco Marina hotels provide unobstructed views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island.
Boutique hotels in the city center are great for travelers who want access to top attractions like Fisherman’s Wharf and Chinatown; these luxury accommodations offer modern comforts, spacious rooms with stylish decor, and all-inclusive amenities services such as room service, spas, and restaurants.
For those seeking a quiet retreat just outside San Francisco’s limits, there are resorts near wine regions and picturesque coastline villages – all within easy driving distance from downtown San Francisco.
All in all, there’s something for everyone when it comes to finding your perfect hotel in the City by the Bay.
Hostels
Hostels are a popular option for travelers looking for accommodations in San Francisco. Available to rent on a nightly basis, hostels offer travelers single beds in family-style settings and can be more cost-effective than traditional hotels. Hostel rooms range from bunk-bed dorms to bigger private rooms with two or more queen-sized beds. Depending on the hostel, shared lounge areas, fully equipped kitchens, and laundry services may also be available.
Popular San Francisco hostels include:
- Green Tortoise Hostel offers dorms, private rooms, rustic cabins that sleep up to 8 people, and camping facilities with RV hookups.
- HI San Francisco Downtown Hostel provides guests with 24-hour front desk service, linen hire service, guest laundry facilities, luggage storage, and security lockers or safes in all rooms.
- USA Hostels San Francisco offers budget-friendly accommodation near Union Square and Chinatown with double-, twin-, four-bedded dorms and four-bed private rooms upon request.
Vacation Rentals
Vacation rentals can provide an ideal accommodation for those looking for more privacy and comfort than a hotel room. Vacation rental homes, apartments, and villas can now be abundant throughout San Francisco, offering travelers everything from city-view studios to beachfront getaways.
For those seeking sunny escapes, alternatives such as Airbnb and HomeAway offer a range of vacation rentals in rare-to-find neighborhoods like Fisherman’s Wharf or Pacific Heights. However, families larger than four people may require something more spacious or with more amenities – such as swimming pools. In this case, longer leases through luxury sites such as VRBO may prove a better option. Travelers should assess their needs carefully before selecting suitable accommodations for them.
Each type of rental comes with its benefits and drawbacks. For example, some vacation rental sites are less regulated than hotels, so it is important to closely examine details like prices, conditions (i.e., pet fees), and location (so you’re sure you know exactly where you’re staying) before booking with any site to make sure it meets your needs and expectations. Additionally, depending on arrangements you have confirmed with the owner or agency managing the rental property, you’ll likely need to bring your bedding and towels to the property, which is something that many hotels will provide upon request at no or little expense to their guests.
Finally, calculate prices carefully as some Airbnb properties charge additional fees on top of hosting fees not initially listed in their quoted rate when comparing it alongside other options, such as hotels or vacation rentals on other platforms. Keep this cost in mind when budgeting for your trip!
Transportation
San Francisco, United States, offers a wide range of transportation options. From the Metro system to cable cars, transportation options exist to explore the City. The best part is that most transportation is affordable, so you can get around the CityCity without breaking the bank.
Let’s explore the different transportation options in San Francisco:
Car Rentals
Getting around San Francisco requires careful navigation through downtown and the neighborhoods. However, with companies like Hertz, Avis, and Dollar offering car rentals in the CityCity, it is easy to explore your way around in comfort and style.
Moreover, most car rental companies provide accessible vehicles, ensuring that people with disabilities or mobility needs can quickly move around. You’ll need to meet basic rental requirements depending on your chosen rental company. Furthermore, there are insurance options that you may opt for, so be sure to inquire beforehand.
Although not licensed by the State of California, many ride-sharing apps like Lyft and Uber also operate in San Francisco. Prudent travelers can create an account before arrival for an even more hassle-free experience finding their way around San Francisco from their destination to wherever they intend on having an adventure in the CityCity.
Public Transportation
San Francisco is one of the best cities for public transportation in the United States. The City has an extensive network of buses, subways (BART), trolley cars, ferries, and cable cars. With so many options for public transportation, it’s easy to get around San Francisco and explore what it offers tourists and locals alike.
The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system is a 24-hour metro system that connects the City to the East Bay and South Bay areas, including Oakland, Berkeley, and Palo Alto. BART runs from 4:00 am – midnight each day, with limited service on weekends and holidays. The fare varies depending on the distance traveled, with discounts offered for seniors, disabled riders, and children under four who ride free. Passes can be purchased as fares or multi-day cards that allow tourists to travel freely within San Francisco or throughout the entire region using all types of public transportation.
Popular cable cars are another public transportation option in San Francisco, operated by the San Francisco Municipal Railway (Muni). This nostalgic mode of transport serves a valuable purpose for getting up and down hilly neighborhoods such as Nob Hill, Russian Hill, and Chinatown, where steep inclines make riding even traditional buses difficult. Cable car fares are $7 per ride ($5 for seniors), but passes can save money if you plan multiple rides over several days or weeks.
For those looking to explore other destinations beyond downtown, like Sausalito or Tiburon, two ferry services depart from Pier 41 along Fisherman’s Wharf offering scenic outdoor rides. At the same time, commuters can take a ferry directly into downtown San Francisco from Marin County via the Larkspur Ferry terminal several times an hour during weekdays only. All ferries accept cash payment upon boarding or Clipper Card with one-way fares typically ranging from $8 – $12 unless using Muni monthly passes, which include fare aboard most boats in the SF bay area at no extra cost (a $5 prepaid card fee may apply).
Overall there are many ways to get around San Francisco while exploring all its attractions, whether commuting across town on a BART train or taking a memorable tour aboard a cable car along its famous hillsides. However, since distances within this compact City are quite manageable, walking remains attractive, given its ideal mild climate year round!
Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services
Taxis and ride-sharing services are two of the most convenient ways to get around San Francisco. Taxis can be hailed from the street or designated taxi stands, and you may also book them over the phone or through a mobile app. These services can be expensive compared to public transit options, but taxis are an excellent solution for quick trips or late-night rides home.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly popular in cities worldwide, including San Francisco. You can easily order a ride using your smartphone with just a few button taps. While more affordable than taxis, prices vary depending on the time of day and availability – peak times will often result in higher fees than expected. These fees can add up quickly, so it pays to plan as much as possible if you use these services regularly.