san francisco tour spots

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.

1. Golden Gate Bridge

2. alcatraz island, 3. fisherman's wharf, 4. ride the cable cars, 5. golden gate park, 6. chinatown, 7. legion of honor fine arts museum of san francisco, 8. palace of fine arts, 9. california academy of sciences, 10. san francisco museum of modern art, 11. de young fine arts museum of san francisco, 12. twin peaks, 13. asian art museum, 14. exploratorium, 15. golden gate national recreation area, 16. oracle park, 17. day trip to napa valley, 18. hike and picnic on angel island state park, 19. ghirardelli square, 20. high tea at a historic hotel, 21. walt disney family museum, 22. muir woods national monument, 23. coit tower, 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 .

• Fisherman's Wharf
• Ghirardelli Square
• 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

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16 best san francisco tours (alcatraz, wineries & more).

Explore SF's top sights and hidden gems on these traveler-approved tours.

The Best San Francisco Tours

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See San Francisco's famous bridges with this dual bridge cruise from Red and White Fleet.

Whether by air, by bike, by boat, by bus or even by vintage Volkswagen, there are so many different ways to take in the beauty of San Francisco and experience its top attractions . To help you decide which method is right for you, U.S. News compiled 16 of the city's top tours, considering traveler sentiment and expert opinion. Foodies, history buffs, adventurers and everyone in between will find a tour on this list.

Red and White Fleet – Bridge 2 Bridge Cruise

Price: Adults from $48; kids from $36 Duration: 1.5 hours

Take in San Francisco's two most famous bridges on this 90-minute boat trip through San Francisco Bay. In addition to sailing beneath both the Bay Bridge and Golden Gate Bridge , tourgoers will see Alcatraz Island, Palace of Fine Arts and the city skyline, among other landmarks. Red and White Fleet provides an audio guide available in 16 different languages that details the city's history. Reviewers say they enjoy the views, the helpful commentary, and the clean and comfortable boats. They recommend wearing layers – especially on evening tours – because it gets chilly on the water.

Tours run daily, year-round. You can hop on a boat in the morning and the afternoon, but exact times vary by day and time of year. Cruises depart from Fisherman's Wharf . Tickets start at $48 for adults and $36 for youths ages 5 to 17. Children 4 and younger can ride for free, but require a ticket. Short on time? Red and White Fleet also offers an hourlong Golden Gate Bay Cruise, among other tours.

View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2

Vantigo – San Francisco City Tours

Price: Adults from $95; kids from $65 Duration: 3 hours

Instead of a traditional tour bus, Vantigo transports up to seven passengers in a vintage Volkswagen van to see all the city has to offer. The three-hour tour highlights 15 points of interest, with plenty of opportunities for photos and views of Haight-Ashbury, North Beach, Twin Peaks and more. Reviewers love the Volkswagen, which they say is roomy and comfortable, and describe the guides as fun and informative.

Tours generally leave Thursday through Saturday and Monday once or twice daily. You can board at either Fisherman's Wharf or Union Square . Tickets start at $95 per adult or $65 per child ages 5 to 11. Children 4 and younger are not permitted on public tours. Combo tours to Alcatraz are also available, as are brewery tours.

Seaplane Adventures – Alcatraz & City Sites Seaplane Tour

Price: From $239 Duration: 20 minutes

After you've walked the city streets and sailed the bay's waters, your next step should be an air tour. On this 15- to 20-minute flight from Seaplane Adventures, you'll fly over downtown and above Alcatraz and Angel Island before landing in Sausalito's Richardson Bay. Reviewers describe the trip as amazing and one of the best activities they did while visiting San Francisco.

Tickets start at $239 per person and tours depart Friday through Monday in the afternoon. Seaplane Adventures conducts several other air tours, including a 45-minute Greater Bay Area Tour.

View & Book Tickets: Seaplane Adventures

San Francisco Love Tours – The Love Tour

Price: From $85 Duration: 2 hours

Drive through the city in a classic Volkswagen hippie bus during this two-hour tour. As you drive around to sites like Lombard Street and Golden Gate Park , you'll hear all about San Francisco history and listen to music. You'll also make two stops for photos to capture the Golden Gate Bridge and the city skyline. Reviewers rave about the knowledgeable guides and the nostalgic music choices.

Tours, which start and end near Fisherman's Wharf, are generally available daily at 8:30 and 11 a.m. as well as 2 and 5 p.m. The van can accommodate up to seven passengers. Tickets start at $85 per person. Children 4 and younger are only permitted on private tours. The company also runs a night tour.

Eat your way through North Beach with Local Tastes of the City Tours.

Local Tastes of the City Tours – Tastes of Little Italy: North Beach San Francisco Food Tour

Price: Adults from $74; kids from $25 Duration: 3 hours

According to reviewers, this tour is a must for food and history lovers thanks to experienced guides who are engaging storytellers. Along the three-hour tour, you'll explore up to 10 blocks of North Beach (or "Little Italy"). Samples of the neighborhood's best pizza, pastries, coffee, chocolates and more are all included in the cost of the tour. Travelers say the portions are generous and recommend arriving to the tour hungry.

Tours are generally offered daily at 10:30 a.m. with an additional 2:30 p.m. tour available on select days. Tickets cost approximately $75 for adults, $50 for youths ages 8 to 13 and $25 for children ages 2 to 7; infants 1 and younger can tag along for free. Still hungry? Consider the company's Chinatown tours.

Big Bus San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Price: Adults from $65; kids from $55 Duration: 2 hours

If you're looking for a convenient way to visit the city's top attractions in one day, this hop-on, hop-off tour may be just the ticket. Big Bus lets riders disembark at any of its stops, explore the area and catch another bus when they're ready. Big Bus operates every 30 minutes and visits more than 20 locations, including Presidio Park , Chinatown, the Embarcadero and even includes a ride over the Golden Gate Bridge. The entire tour lasts a little more than two hours, if you don't choose to disembark. All buses have open tops and prerecorded commentary available in 10 languages. Reviewers enjoy the educational commentary and the opportunity to drive over the Golden Gate Bridge in the open-top bus, but many warn that buses get crowded quickly.

If you buy your tickets online, pricing starts at approximately $65 per adult and $55 per child ages 3 to 12 for the classic one-day ticket. Big Bus San Francisco also offers night tours of the city, as well as upgraded tickets that include free bike rentals, passes to the U.S.S. Pampanito or tours of Muir Woods.

Electric Tour Company – Official Golden Gate Park Segway Tour

Price: Adults from $89; kids from $68 Duration: 2.5 hours

Riding a Segway can be a fun and expedient way to see a number of top attractions in a short amount of time. The Electric Tour Company offers you a chance to see dozens of sights in the iconic Golden Gate Park in the span of 2 1/2 hours, visiting the Conservatory of Flowers, the Shakespeare Garden, the California Academy of Sciences and Stow Lake along the way. The tour begins with a 30-minute training for first-time riders. All riders must be at least 12 years old and weigh between 100 and 275 pounds. Reviewers praise their guides, who they say are helpful and descriptive, and say the Segways as easy to ride.

Tours are offered daily at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. year-round. From June to August, there are additional 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. tours Friday to Sunday. Tickets start at $89 per adult and $68 per youth ages 12 to 17. The company also runs private San Francisco tours.

View & Book Tickets

Gray Line San Francisco – Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour

Price: Adults from $96; kids from $75 Duration: 5 hours

This roughly five-hour excursion from Gray Line San Francisco takes you to Muir Woods National Monument to see its beautiful redwood trees up close. After exploring the forest, the tour continues to Sausalito, a charming town across the bay full of waterfront dining, shopping and art galleries. To enjoy more time in Sausalito, you can opt to return to the city by ferry for an additional cost. Reviewers say the tour bus is comfortable (though some note recent issues with the air conditioning) and describe the driver as engaging and knowledgeable. Many recommend this tour if you do not want to navigate the traffic and parking headaches at Muir Woods.

Ticket prices start at $96 for adults and $75 for children ages 5 to 11 and include admission to Muir Woods National Monument. Gray Line offers a variety of day trips from San Francisco, including trips to Sonoma , Napa Valley and Monterey .

View & Book Tickets: Option 1  | Option 2

Bay City Bike Rentals and Tours – Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito

Price: Adults from $65; kids from $45 Duration: 2 to 3 hours

See San Francisco by bike on this tour that guides you from Fisherman's Wharf to Sausalito. The trip takes two to three hours and covers 8 miles. After making your way along the waterfront, you'll pedal across the Golden Gate Bridge, stopping for photo-ops along the way. At the conclusion of the tour, you can either bike your way back to the city or opt to take the ferry from Sausalito to San Francisco for an additional fee. Tourgoers say guides are friendly and informative and the sights are beautiful.

Tours are open to all ages. Ticket prices start at $65 for adults and $45 for children 11 and younger. From March through October, tours are available daily at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.; tours are available daily at 10 a.m. the rest of the year. The company also offers a Streets of San Francisco Electric Bike Tour, among other options.

Courtesy of San Francisco Whale Tours

See magnificent whales and the classic Golden Gate Bridge as you tour the San Francisco Bay with San Francisco Whale Tours.

San Francisco Whale Tours – Golden Gate Whale Watch

Price: From $120 Duration: 2.5 hours

Head into San Francisco Bay to catch sight of some of the many whales that pass through its waters with San Francisco Whale Tours. On the 2 1/2-hour cruise, riders may see humpback or gray whales, harbor seals, dolphins, porpoises and seabirds. You'll also get a view of the Golden Gate Bridge. The tour does not include food, though you can bring your own, and you should bring warm clothes, including jackets, hats and gloves. Many tourists report seeing both gray and humpback whales and describe the crew as very friendly.

Tickets start at $120 per person. The company offers its Golden Gate Whale Watch once or twice daily from spring through early fall.

View & Book Tickets: San Francisco Whale Tours

Extranomical Tours – Yosemite National Park and Giant Sequoias Tour

Price: Adults from $209; kids from $187 Duration: 15 hours

Once you've gotten your fill of the city, trek to California's incomparable natural wonders with a day trip to Yosemite National Park . On the approximately 15-hour tour, you'll stop at Tuolumne Meadows to see the 2,000-year-old giant sequoia trees, then hit top stops like El Capitan , Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall . Buses, which pick up from most hotels , are equipped with tour guides who provide commentary along the way. Tourgoers appreciate the information provided by the guides and rave about the scenery.

The trip departs every day of the year. Tickets start at $209 for adults and $187 for children 11 and younger if purchased online. Tickets do not include meals, but do cover the park entrance fee. Extranomical Tours offers a variety of city tours, as well as excursions to wine country and Monterey.

San Francisco Movie Tours – San Francisco Movie Sets & Locations Tour

Price: Adults from $67; kids from $44 Duration: 3 hours

Many movies and TV shows have been filmed in San Francisco, and this tour highlights all the top filming locations. Knowledgeable guides lead the interactive tour, which takes you to filming locations for productions such as "The Princess Diaries," "Mrs. Doubtfire" and "Ant-Man." Throughout the three-hour trip, you'll see clips on big screens with surround sound of each movie or show as you arrive. Tourgoers describe it as a fun way to see the city and say guides are entertaining.

Tickets begin at $67 for adults, $44 for children ages 5 to 17 and $57 for seniors. Tours are generally offered daily at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., though availability may vary by month. San Francisco Movie Tours also leads a "Dirty Harry" tour, among others.

View & Book Tickets: Viator

The Haunt Ghost Tours – San Francisco Ghost Tour

Price: From $49 Duration: 90 minutes

According to reviewers, The Haunt Ghost Tours' outing is full of intriguing and spooky information told by engaging guides. The nighttime walking tour, which lasts up to 90 minutes, unveils the darker side of San Francisco history, including stories about Chinatown's history, while you hunt for spirits along the way with EMF meters – devices used to measure electromagnetic fields.

Tours meet nightly (exact times depend on the season) in the Jackson Square Historic District. Trips traverse less than a mile of downtown. Tickets start at $49 per person; if you want to use one of the company's EMF meters, you'll pay a bit more. Though the tour covers topics like hauntings and ghosts, the company says it is family-friendly and kids 4 and older require a ticket. The company also operates ghost tours in Los Angeles and Temecula.

Dylan's Famous Tour includes time in Muir Woods.

Dylan's Tours – Dylan's Famous Tour with Muir Woods

Price: Adults from $99; kids from $79 Duration: 5 hours

If you're hoping to see the best of the Bay Area in one day, consider this approximately five-hour excursion. You'll travel by minibus to some of San Francisco's most iconic neighborhoods and landmarks, including Chinatown, the Palace of Fine Arts and Billionaire's Row. From there, you'll spend more than an hour in Muir Woods before visiting Sausalito for lunch. The tour ends exploring more of San Francisco. (Note: The afternoon tour does not stop in Sausalito). The tour starts and ends at Fisherman's Wharf and includes multiple photo stops. Reviewers describe tour guides as insightful and funny, and say the bus is very clean.

The tour departs daily at 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tickets start at $99 for adults and $79 for children 12 and younger. Know that if you choose the 8 a.m. departure, you'll have a slightly higher fee because of the extra stop in Sausalito.

View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2 | Option 3

Adventure Cat Sailing Charters – San Francisco Bay Sail

Price: Adults from $60; kids from $30 Duration: 90 minutes

To feel a bay breeze and see San Francisco from a new perspective, climb aboard Adventure Cat's sailing catamaran. The 90-minute cruise allows you to see the sights from inside the protected cabin or outside on a netted deck trampoline where you can feel the waves crashing beneath your feet. While you can't bring drinks on board, soda, beer and wine are available for purchase in the cabin bar. The company also provides an audio tour, which offers listeners information about key attractions as they sail by. Reviewers describe the cruise as fantastic, with many lauding the tour as their top experience in San Francisco. Others appreciate the excellent service provided by the crew.

Prices start at $60 for adults and $30 for kids ages 6 to 12; kids 5 and younger ride for free. Know that Thursday to Sunday sails have a slightly higher fee per person. Sails operate daily, but times vary by the season. The company also offers sunset sails and Alcatraz combo tickets.

GoCar San Francisco

Price: From $286 Duration: 7 hours

Explore the city at your own pace with this GPS-guided car that provides directions and historical and cultural commentary as you follow the designated sightseeing route or branch off on detours, stopping for photo-ops or breaks as you please. The full-day option takes you to the Painted Ladies, Legion of Honor, the Marina District and more. A maximum of two people can fit inside the three-wheeled car and you must be at least 21 years old to drive it. Reviewers describe riding in the car as lots of fun and a great way to see the city.

The seven-hour rental starts at $286 and there are multiple pickup times each day. A variety of routes and rental times are available.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best San Francisco Bus Tours
• The Best San Francisco Walking Tours
• The Best San Francisco Boat Tours
• The Best San Francisco Wine Tours
• The Best Hotels in San Francisco

Tags: Tours , Travel , San Francisco , Vacations , California Vacations , US Vacations , U.S. West Vacations

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THE 10 BEST San Francisco Tours & Excursions

Tours in san francisco.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Small Group Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco

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

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

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

5. Muir Woods, Golden Gate Bridge + Sausalito with Optional Alcatraz

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

7. Official Alcatraz Island Prison Tour and San Francisco Bay Cruise

8. San Francisco Love Tour

9. Straight to the Gate Access: Golden Gate Bay Cruise

10. San Francisco: Yosemite National Park and Giant Sequoia Day Tour

11. San Francisco Private City Tour (Walking, Private Bus, Shuttle)

12. Small-Group Wine Country Tour from San Francisco with Tastings

13. Chinatown and North Beach Walking Tour

14. Straight to the Gate Access: San Francisco Bay Sunset Cruise

15. San Francisco Bay Sunset Catamaran Cruise

16. San Francisco Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

17. Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF

18. Muir Woods and Sausalito Small-Group Tour

19. Small Group: The Ultimate Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour

20. Muir Woods with Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour

21. Alcatraz Island Tour Packages

22. Painted Ladies San Francisco City Tour

23. Private Self Guided Tour and Bar Crawl in Chinatown San Francisco

24. San Francisco Super Saver: Muir Woods & Wine Country w/ optional Gourmet Lunch

25. 1-Day San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Open Top Bus Tour

26. Skip The Bus: San Francisco By Luxury Van Tour

27. Little Italy and North Beach Walking Tour in San Francisco

28. Inside Alcatraz and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Cruise

29. Full-Day San Francisco Tour by Cable Car & Foot

30. Small-Group Yosemite Day Tour from San Francisco

What travellers are saying.

• Small Group Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco
• Small Group Tour: SF, Muir Woods, Sausalito w/ Optional Alcatraz
• Straight to the Gate Access: Golden Gate Bay Cruise
• Muir Woods & Sausalito Half-Day Tour (Return by Bus or Ferry from Sausalito)
• Napa and Sonoma Wine Country Full-Day Tour from San Francisco
• San Francisco City Guides
• SF Excursions
• Electric Tour Company Segway Tours
• San Francisco Movie Tours
• Painted Ladies Tour Company
• Vantigo Tours
• Dandyhorse San Francisco Bike Tours
• L'Esprit San Francisco
• Best Bay Area Tours
• Local Tastes of the City Tours
• San Francisco Native Tours
• San Francisco Love Tours
• San Francisco Segway Tours
• White Wolf Private Tours
• San Francisco Sailing Company
• San Francisco Fire Engine Tours & Adventures
• Segway SF Bay

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.

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The 24 Best Things to Do in San Francisco

By Kimberley Lovato and Carey Jones

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.

Harrison Pierce

Alex Erdekian

Charlie Hobbs

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.

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27 Top Tourist Attractions in San Francisco

By Jamie Gambetta · Last updated on April 4, 2024

Famous for its summer fogs and cable cars, San Francisco has long been a popular place to visit in California. Perched on a peninsula between the sparkling San Francisco Bay and Pacific Ocean, its many hills are home to delightfully diverse neighborhoods and stunning streetscapes.

Once a Spanish and Mexican mission, the fate of San Francisco changed once conquered by the United States. It was followed by a mad rush, a gold rush, that saw a virtual army of citizens and foreigners descend upon the west coast city in the hopes of striking it rich.

Today, San Francisco is a cosmopolitan metropolis at first, thanks to the hope of gold, the railroads and more recently, the rise of technology. Visitors will quickly fall in love with (and be frustrated by) the city’s steep streets, littered with historic cable cars that lead to equally celebrated waterfronts and wharves.

Alcatraz Island and Golden Gate Bridge, are the two most well known tourist attractions in San Francisco, but it also has an array of museums, fascinating Victorian architecture and wonderful waterfront areas to explore.

Add in its unique culture, panoramic vistas, and fabulous food scene and it is no wonder that San Francisco is one of the most visited cities in the USA. Just don’t forget to bring warm clothing. The famous quote “The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco” isn’t from Mark Twain but it is a pretty accurate statement of San Francisco’s weather.

Map of San Francisco

27. Ferry Building Marketplace

As San Francisco is such a ‘foodie’ city, no visit can be complete without stopping by the lively Ferry Building Marketplace on the Embarcadero. Inside its Beaux Arts building are around fifty food vendors, local farmers , and small restaurants that offer tasty treats and delicious dishes.

Since opening in 2003, the market has been a firm favorite with locals and tourists due to its wide variety of coffee shops, snack stands, and grocery stores selling artisan products from around the world.

It also hosts a fantastic farmers market three times a week which sells fresh produce and street food.

26. Angel Island State Park

From Pier 41 visitors can hop on a ferry and find themselves immersed in the stunning scenery and nature of Angel Island State Park in no time at all. On the half-hour boat ride you can enjoy divine views over the bay, and hiking, biking or rollerblading around the island.

Now protected as a park, the bay’s second-largest island has been used as everything, from a military base and missile site to immigration station and internment camp. As such, there are some interesting old forts and bunkers to explore with picnic areas and viewpoints.

25. Exploratorium

Also located alongside the Embarcadero is the Exploratorium, which offers a fun and fascinating look at how the world works. Popular with adults and children alike, the unique museum has over 600 interactive installations and hands-on exhibits that can keep you entertained for days.

Founded in 1969, it has expanded considerably and now has huge galleries dedicated to everything from light and sound to biology, engineering, and psychology. Thanks to all its activities, laboratories, and workshops, guests can engage with the fields of science and technology. In addition, the Exploratorium regularly hosts talks and cultural events.

24. Presidio

Another massive military base that was turned into a scenic park is the Presidio which occupies the northern tip of the San Francisco Peninsula. Part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, it boasts attractive architecture, excellent outdoor activities, and epic views.

Once out-of-bounds to the public, it now has pockets of woods, rolling hills, and coastal bluffs that offer phenomenal views over Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific Ocean. Visitor centres house interesting exhibits on its history and ecosystems, and you can also check out the old fort, batteries, and art projects.

23. Musee Mecanique

One of the most unique and unusual tourist attractions on the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf is the Musee Mecanique. Here you’ll find a huge collection of coin-operated arcade games—remarkably there are over 300 mechanical machines for you to play on.

Wandering around the museum is a nostalgic affair as you see antique slot machines and music boxes, alongside fortune tellers, peep shows and pinball machines. As well as testing your strength and having your fortune told, you can also watch historic moving dioramas, and try your luck at some classic carnival games.

22. Japanese Tea Garden

The gorgeous Japanese Tea Garden can be found within Golden Gate Park. Lovingly landscaped, its grounds are home to pretty ponds, a traditional tea house, and a towering pagoda.

The first Japanese garden established in the States, since 1894 it has delighted countless generations with its serene scenery, fantastic flowers, and soothing water features. While strolling its winding paths you’ll come across stone lanterns and sculptures with charming koi ponds, cherry blossoms, and a lovely Zen garden.

21. de Young Museum

Also located in Golden Gate Park is the marvelous de Young Museum with an incredible collection of artworks from all around the world. Its innumerable paintings, sculptures and photos are a treat to peruse, but the building itself is just as impressive due to its distinctive design and large observation tower.

Founded in 1895, the fine arts museum encompasses over 27,000 anthropological artifacts and art pieces from Africa, Asia, and Oceania. While some of its galleries display colorful textiles and costumes, others focus on European paintings or American decorative art objects. The museum also regularly hosts temporary exhibits and concerts.

20. Legion of Honor Museum

Nestled in the northwest of the peninsula is the magnificent Legion of Honor Museum, which lies amidst the nature of Lincoln Park. Housed within its beautiful neo-classical building is an eclectic collection of artworks that spans over 6,000 years of art history.

While strolling about its grand galleries you’ll come across everything, from influential comics and soundscapes to masterpieces by Rembrandt, Rodin, and Monet among others. Founded in 1924, it contains more than 90,000 works, with the museum offering spectacular views over the city’s skyline, and the Golden Gate Bridge from its grounds.

19. San Francisco Botanical Garden

Lying alongside both the Japanese Tea Garden and de Young Museum is the San Francisco Botanical Garden. Boasting a collection of colorful flowers, plants and trees, its tranquil paths are a delight to walk along and have different areas and ecosystems for you to explore.

Since opening in 1940, the garden’s grounds have expanded considerably and now contain nearly 9,000 kinds of plants from all around the world. As such, you can be strolling amidst savanna and succulents one minute, and then suddenly find yourself surrounded by tropical trees and cloud rainforest the next.

The superb San Francisco Museum of Modern Art occupies a striking modern building, not far from Union Square. While its unique architecture makes for a stunning sight, its interior is equally rewarding with impressive exhibits and artworks wherever you look.

In total, the SFMOMA displays over 33,000 art pieces across seven floors with its main focus being modern and contemporary art. As well as paintings and photos, its galleries contain digital art, industrial designs, and interactive media installations. Artists such as Andy Warhol, Jackson Pollock, and Henri Matisse count among its biggest names.

17. Lands End

Occupying the northwest corner of the peninsula are the windswept coastal cliffs of Lands End. Aside from its outstanding views over Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific Ocean, the park also has numerous hiking trails and historic sights.

Dotted about its bleak shores you can spy the sites of various shipwrecks and the ruins of the Sutro Baths. The Hidden Labyrinth art installation is also well worth stopping by. After exploring its delightful beaches, coves, and cliffs, visitors can enjoy a coffee at its cafe while watching the sun set spectacularly over the ocean.

16. Coit Tower

Another attraction in San Francisco that boasts some of the best views in town is the incredible Coit Tower, which is perched atop Telegraph Hill. From the top of the slender white tower you can enjoy breathtaking panoramas over the bay, city, and sites such as Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Built in 1933, it boasts exquisite Art Deco architecture with colorful frescoes in the American Social Realism style coating its interior. Located in Pioneer Park, the 210 foot-high tower is now a National Historic Landmark and iconic part of the city’s skyline, having been depicted in countless films and TV shows.

15. Cable Car Museum

One of San Francisco’s most famous features is its charming old cable cars that lend the city such a distinctive look and feel. Aside from simply riding up and down its steep streets in one, visitors can learn all about the history and technology behind the streetcar system at this magnificent museum.

In addition to interesting exhibits, old photos and mechanical displays, the Cable Car Museum also showcases vintage streetcars that date to the 1870s. As it offers such a fascinating look into the inner workings of the transport system, the museum has long been a popular tourist drawcard and can be found in the affluent Nob Hill neighborhood.

14. Walt Disney Family Museum

Yet another of the Presidio’s many enticing attractions is the delightful Walt Disney Family Museum that delves into the life and legacy of the famous filmmaker. Here you’ll learn about Disney’s achievements and genre-defining animations with amazing memorabilia, film clips, and even awards, on show.

Opened in 2009, the museum and its large collection of early drawings and designs, music clips, and models sprawls over three historic buildings in the center of the park. As it looks at everything, from his early childhood and career to his iconic creations and the construction of Disneyland, it is a must-visit for any Disney aficionado.

13. California Academy of Sciences

One of the biggest and best museums in the States, the California Academy of Sciences contains a staggering 46 million specimens with incredible artifacts, animals and exhibits. Located in Golden Gate Park, the massive natural history museum boasts an aquarium and planetarium, as well as its own indoor rainforest.

Established in 1853, the academy’s captivating collection now resides within a majestic modern building that even has its own living green roof. Inside is a treat to explore as you wander past shark lagoons and coral reefs, before emerging in galleries full of fossils and minerals. One of its main highlights is the enormous rainforest exhibit which houses over 1,600 live animals, plants, and amphibians.

12. Twin Peaks

If you’re after yet more awe-inspiring views over San Francisco then it is well worth heading to the two towering Twin Peaks that lie near the geographic center of the city. The bare and uninhabited hills offer breathtaking panoramas with sunset a particularly special time of day to visit.

Reaching around 925 feet in height, the Twin Peaks are protected as part of a park with lovely nature and wildlife coating their slopes. While you can just simply drive to their summit, there are also some nice hiking trails to wander along that again offer some epic views.

11. Oracle Park

Home to Major League Baseball’s San Francisco Giants, the atmospheric Oracle Park can be found in the city’s South Beach neighborhood. While watching a game is an exciting and unforgettable affair, the ballpark is also widely considered to be one of the most beautiful in the States due to its picture-perfect setting.

Opened in 2000, the stadium exhibits some fine architecture with most seats offering divine views out over the bay. Discover famous features, such as the giant glove sculpture and coca-cola bottle slide, while there is also a wall of fame, cafe, and gift shop to stop by. Thanks to its exhilarating atmosphere and great games, visiting Oracle Park is one of the most popular things to do in San Francisco.

10. Palace of Fine Arts

In 1915, San Francisco played host to the Panama Pacific Exposition. At the time, the city built several structures to welcome almost 19 million visitors. The last of these buildings is the spectacular Palace of Fine Arts.


A palace indeed, this art gallery is now a member of the National Register of Historic Places. It stands on the edge of a shimmering lake, where ducks and snow white swans roam and old-growth trees dot the shoreline.


You could spend hours admiring the elegant neoclassical facade of the Beaux arts palace along with the surrounding archways and columns. Time your visit to coincide with an arts event to bring your experience to the next level.

9. Chinatown

Outside of New York, no American city has a larger and more vibrant Chinatown than San Francisco. At the center of this is the biggest Chinese New Year Parade outside of Asia.


The experience starts at Dragon’s Gate where the atmosphere changes at the drop of a hat. Immediately, a thoroughfare of vibrant pagoda-topped buildings welcomes you with open arms.


Visitors can take their picks between mouthwatering eateries, temples, and historic squares. At the forefront is Waverly Place, lined with flowing flags, ornate temples, and local haunts.

Extending off Waverly Place are backstreets and narrow alleys where the smell of dim sum floats through and the unexpected should be, well, expected.

8. Alamo Square

San Francisco offers travelers some gorgeous architecture to go along with its iconic steep, rolling hills. Both of those qualities combine to make Alamo Square a worthy destination.


Pack your picnic basket full of goodies, a blanket, and some yard games for the restless souls and enjoy the green expanse of Alamo Square. This isn’t your average picnic spot, however. 
 With your prize patch of grass secured, kick back and enjoy beautiful skyline views. At the forefront of this view are the famous Painted Ladies. These are a collection of Victorian and Edwardian homes that have each been painted in three or more colors.

7. Transamerica Pyramid

At 853 feet tall, the Transamerica Pyramid is the second tallest building in San Francisco behind onto the Salesforce Tower. Yet, it turns more heads that any other skyscraper in the city.


The Transamerica Pyramid is just that, a four-sided obelisk rising to a sharp point, like an Egyptian Pyramid stretched towards the sky. It’s a captivating site that draws together San Fran’s Financial District. The best place to admire the unique design is from yet another skyscraper, the Coit Tower.


However, unlike other major towers, there is no observation deck. Visitors can instead explore the lobby’s visitor center, which offers a live video feed from the tippy top.

6. Lombard Street

No place in San Francisco illustrates the city’s unique geography better than Lombard Street. The famous thoroughfare winds like a snake down yet another steep hill. On either side are millionaire mansions that hark back to the Victorian era and curved gardens landscaped to the hilt.


In total, there are eight switchbacks that meander down Lombard Street. From the summit of the iconic street, you’ll be afforded with picture-perfect views down towards the Northern Waterfront and Coit Tower.


Visitors have the choice to walk up and down Lombard Street, a journey that is sure to put a bead of sweat on your forehead and lead in your legs. But it gives you time to smell to roses and enjoy the gardens. Otherwise, try your hand at one of the most popular things to do in San Francisco and drive down the switchbacks.

5. Golden Gate Park

If you’re looking to take in some patented California sunshine while in San Fran, Golden Gate Park is the place to go. Once a collection of rolling dunes, the lush landscape and cultural creations leave few reminders of its humble beginnings.


Golden Gate Park harbors a collection of winding walking paths, glorious lawns, over 5,000 unique plants and several museums. Whether you’re looking for a cute date or gathering with family, the wide open lawns are great for a picnic. Meanwhile, the de Young Museum, Steinhart Aquarium, and the California Academy of Sciences promise to invigorate the senses.


To explore, bring your walking shoes or sign up for a bike rental and set out upon the 6.3 mile Golden Gate Park Loop.

4. Cable Cars

There’s perhaps nothing as timeless in San Francisco as the cable car. These rickety vehicles have withstood the test of time, transporting locals around the city since the second half of the 19th century.


Back then, without seat belts, San Franciscans would grip tight as the cable cars made their way down the city’s notoriously steep hills. Today, cars may reign supreme, but this old-fashioned mode of transport is the best way to see the city.


Take your pick between the Powell-Hyde and the Powell-Mason routes to discover some of the best attractions in San Francisco, the way locals have for 150 years. The destinations include Fisherman’s Wharf, the exciting Lombard Street, Nob Hill, and the Ferry Building.

3. Alcatraz

Often referred to as The Rock, the small island of Alcatraz served as a lighthouse, a military fortification, and as a prison. It was home to some of the most notorious criminals of the time including Al Capone and Machine Gun Kelly. Surrounded by the freezing water of San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz was believed to be inescapable.

The most famous attempt was carried out by Frank Morris, and brothers John and Clarence Anglin using an inflatable raft made from several stolen raincoats. In 1963, it was closed by JFK. Before that fateful day, it housed over 1,500 prisoners, each living in tight 10×4 feet cells.

Today, the island is a popular San Francisco tourist attraction and a historic site. It is operated by the National Park Service and is open to tours.

2. Fisherman’s Wharf

One of the most popular attractions in San Francisco, Fisherman’s Wharf runs all the way from Pier 39 through to Municipal Pier at the end of Aquatic Park. For over a century its historic waterfront was the hub of San Francisco’s fishing fleet and is still famous for having some of the best seafood restaurants in the city.

Other tourist attractions at the wharf include museums, souvenir stores, historical buildings, scenic vistas over the Bay and the famous sea lions at Pier 39.

Abuzz with activity from dawn to dusk, San Fran’s Fisherman’s Wharf combines culture, cuisine, and atmosphere into one. If you’re feeling peckish while in Frisco, Fisherman’s Wharf will leave you satisfied and smiling thanks to its range of mouthwatering foods, from fresh fish and crab to international treats.

1. Golden Gate Bridge

There is no sight more iconic in San Francisco than the Golden Gate Bridge. Stretching across the Golden Strait, the majestic bridge, at 1.7 miles long, is a captivating sight.


Whether you’re admiring it from the Presidio of San Francisco or from the Marin Headlands, the stunning piece of architecture promises to be a highlight of your local experience. The bridge is eternally busy, whether that be car, bike, or foot traffic. But crossing the strait, which combines the waters of San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean, is a must-do.


From the bridge, not only to you have a closeup of the spectacular construction but also gorgeous downtown views. Come at sunrise or sunset, to see the golden bridge shimmer under the sun’s low light.

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The 20 Best Things to Do in San Francisco

San Francisco packs an incredible variety of must-see attractions and cultural landmarks into its 49 square miles. Each district has a distinct character and many things to do, whether it’s restaurants, museums, art, music, and pretty much everything in between. Best of all, the small size of the “City by the Bay” allows visitors to catch many different sights on a single trip, even if it’s just a couple of days. Nearby natural parks also offer a chance to plan some enticing day trips around Northern California.

Visit the Palace of Fine Arts

Robert Mackinlay / Getty Images

A shining gem of the city's Marina District, the Palace of Fine Arts was initially built in 1915 to exhibit artworks for the World's Fair. Today, it is one of the most picturesque places in San Francisco and a perfect destination for taking photos or attending a performance in the theatre. The most striking building is the open dome on an artificial lake decorated with 26 large sculptures. Initially designed by Bernard Maybeck, the rotunda has appeared in many films, including Alfred Hitchcock's "Vertigo." Its design takes its inspiration from classical European architecture.

Take a Day Trip to Muir Woods

If it's your first time in Northern California, a short day trip to a nearby Redwood grove is a must-have experience. Redwoods are the tallest trees on the planet, and from San Francisco, it's an hour's drive to Muir Woods National Monument, a part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area . The park has 6 miles of hiking trails, and the Main Trail, which starts at the visitor center, is wheelchair accessible for one mile. The park can get particularly crowded on the weekends, so a weekday visit would be best.

Cruise the Bay

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One of the easiest ways to see the city from every angle is to hop aboard a sightseeing cruise. You can take many different types of cruises, from Hornblower's dinner cruises to standard sightseeing cruises and excursions to Angel Island , which is home to the city's historic Immigration Station and a few picturesque campsites and hiking trails. For the best views and photographs, try to time your cruise for sunset. Don't forget your jacket and motion sickness medication, as this famously foggy city can produce some rough and cold conditions on bad weather days.

Catch a Game at Oracle Park

TripSavvy / Melissa Zink

Home of the San Francisco Giants, Oracle Park is a beloved baseball stadium. Many design aspects of the stadium pay tribute to the team's history, such as the 24-foot high right-field wall, which pays homage to the number of Willie Mays, the most famous Giants player, and outside the park statues are dedicated to some of the team's best players. The stadium sometimes hosts football and soccer games if baseball isn't your thing.

Cross the Golden Gate Bridge

Katrin Engel / EyeEm / Getty Images

One of the most recognizable bridges in the United States—and arguably the rest of the world—the Golden Gate Bridge stretched for nearly 2 miles over the Golden Gate Strait connecting the Pacific Ocean to San Francisco. While most people get their first impressions of this stunning bridge while driving across to enter the city, the Golden Gate is something you’ll want to experience without any distractions. There’s a pedestrian walkway available to cross the bridge by foot, a bike path , or you can head to one of the bridge’s popular vista points to get some incredible views of the famous bay.

Take a Tour of Alcatraz

Caroline Purser / Getty Images

A former federal prison placed on a rocky island about 1.5 miles offshore from the city, Alcatraz has remained one of San Francisco’s top tourist highlights since it opened to the public in the early 1970s. Currently, visitors can reach the island through the ferry from Pier 33 (the trip takes less than 15 minutes) and tour the prison and surrounding grounds. Along with the infamous prison that housed notorious names like Al Capone in its heyday, Alcatraz was also the site of an 18-month long protest that helped spark the Native American civil rights movement.

Explore Chinatown

 TripSavvy / Melissa Zink

Established around 1848 during the California Gold Rush era, San Francisco’s Chinatown is older than any other Chinese community in North America. Take your very own self-guided walking tour starting at the much-photographed Dragon Gate at the intersection of Bush Street and Grant Avenue, and explore the vibrant neighborhood as it takes you past unique souvenirs, local temples, Chinese herbal shops and authentic dim sum restaurants.

Stroll Through Golden Gate Park

Brimming with lush gardens, museums, lakes, and meadows, Golden Gate Park is on the northwest end of San Francisco. It was initially built in 1871, converting a vast stretch of unincorporated dunes known as Outside Lands (a name that later inspired the music and arts festival held annually within the park's boundaries). Horticulture fans will have plenty to see at the San Francisco Botanical Garden and the Conservatory of Flowers, two important landmarks protecting rare tropical plants and flowers from around the world.

Buy Local at the Ferry Building

Some of Northern California’s best culinary delights, such as cheese from Cowgirl Creamery, coffee from Blue Bottle, and oysters from Hog Island Oyster Company, can be found at the edge of the water in the city’s historic Ferry Building. It isn’t just food, but also crafts and souvenirs ranging from books and clothing to candles and ceramics, so one can easily spend several hours perusing the shops and enjoying lunch. Each Saturday, the restored structure opens up to local vendors for the Ferry Plaza farmers market and tons of seasonal, fresh produce.

Visit One of the City’s Many Museums

There’s truly something for everyone when it comes to San Francisco’s great museums. The California Academy of Sciences celebrates the world of natural science. The Exploratorium offers hands-on learning for children and adults alike. The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art holds one of the largest collections of modern art in the United States. The city also provides opportunities to learn about San Francisco’s rich history at the San Francisco Railway Museum and the Cable Car Museum , and individual cultures at the Museum of African Diaspora and the Contemporary Jewish Museum .

Walk Along Pier 39

Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf are tourist hotspots for a reason. The area is famous for shopping and souvenir hunting, along with the population of local sea lions who’ve been hanging out on the K dock next to the pier since the 1990s. Take a walk along Pier 39, and you’ll likely find yourself staring at various street performers, a vintage carousel, and a whole host of specialty shops selling unique souvenirs and gag gifts—all surrounded by gorgeous views of the San Francisco Bay.

Ride a Cable Car

San Francisco’s cable cars were built in the late 19th century to respond to the city’s notoriously steep hills, and they’re still transporting people today as the only working system of cable cars left in the world. Three separate cable car lines run through the city streets: the Powell-Mason Line, the Powell-Hyde Line, and the California Line. Both Powell lines take off from the same hub at Union Square and continue to the Fisherman’s Wharf area, while the California line starts at California and Market and climbs up to Van Ness Avenue.

Take in the View at Twin Peaks

Alexander Spatari / Getty Images

Named for the pair of towering peaks located near the city's center less than 4 miles from downtown San Francisco, Twin Peaks boasts a stunning 360-degree view of the Bay Area. On clear days, it's even possible to spot the Santa Clara Valley to the south and Mount Diablo to the east. Most visitors drive the winding road to the top and choose from the selection of natural trails to access the best viewpoints from there.

Celebrate the LGBTQ+ Community in the Castro

JasonDoiy / Getty Images

San Francisco’s Castro district isn’t just the heart of the city’s LGBTQ+ community—it is also a thriving neighborhood full of colorful nightlife, restaurants, shops, museums, and landmarks. The Castro Theatre, built in 1922, is one of the only theaters left in the country with an authentic pipe organ player, while the Anchor Oyster Bar has some of the best seafood in the city. The former home of Harvey Milk, internationally recognized human rights leader and the first openly gay elected official in California’s history, the Castro is an invaluable piece of San Francisco’s character and the perfect place to explore the history of the LGBTQ+ movement.

Eat Pasta in North Beach

Gerald French / Getty Images

The city’s own “Little Italy,” North Beach is nestled near Washington Square and Columbus and Grant Avenues. The district is known for its classic Italian restaurants, bakeries, delis, and European-style cafes. Still, it’s also a great neighborhood for simply walking around to people-watch and window shop. Don’t leave without browsing the aisles at City Lights Books, and consider making the trek to Coit Tower on Telegraph Hill for a fantastic view of the Golden Gate and Bay Bridges.

Relax at the Japanese Tea Garden

John Elk III / Getty Images

Located inside Golden Gate Park, the Japanese Tea Garden is North America’s oldest continuously operating public Japanese garden. With its perfectly manicured trees, soft water features, and classic Japanese structures, it’s difficult not to feel relaxed inside this three-acre garden in the middle of a bustling city. The tea house serves hot tea all year round, but the landscape is breathtaking in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom or the fall when the leaves change .

Have a Picnic at the Presidio

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Now a national park and historical site, the Presidio was once a thriving military base that officials converted into scenic grounds with a natural vibe in the 1990s. Today, the space spans nearly 1,500 acres, home to miles of hiking trails, restaurants, bars, and museums. Located along the main Presidio promenade is Crissy Field, a sprawling grass field popular for picnics, recreation, and lounging.

Go Thrifting at Haight and Ashbury

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The Haight-Ashbury district of San Francisco—named for the intersection of Haight and Ashbury streets—was the epicenter of the city’s hippie movement in the 1960s. Venture down upper Haight Street for an incredible selection of vintage clothing shops, bookstores, dive bars, and record shops. Don’t leave without visiting the music lover’s paradise at Amoeba Records , or just explore and marvel at the neighborhood’s Victorian homes, murals, and colorful sights.

Watch the Sunset at Baker Beach

Thomas Dunworth / EyeEm / Getty Images

One of the undisputed best beaches in San Francisco, Baker Beach is as stunning in the evenings as it is during the day. With views that combine a rocky shoreline with rolling hills and the famous Golden Gate Bridge, the beach here puts on an excellent display once the sun begins to set in the early evening, providing some genuinely breathtaking photo opportunities along the way. You'll find Baker Beach on the city's northwest side in the Presidio district.

Admire the Murals in the Mission

Come for the vibrant murals that line the streets of the Mission District, and stay for the trendy boutiques, eclectic stores, and incredible Mexican restaurants. This historic neighborhood is home to Dolores Park, a popular hillside hangout centered around a rich Latino heritage. A walk around Clarion and Balmy alleys will show off the bulk of the Mission’s murals, but there are also plenty of art galleries around the neighborhood to experience as well.

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The best things to do in San Francisco right now

From Mission burrito joints to laid-back wine bars, here are the best things to do in San Francisco right now.

San Francisco is a city like none other—its charming streets, famous landmarks, sweeping views,  world-class restaurants , boundless nature and vibrant culture make it one of the most beloved places to visit in the world. While the city's top tourist attractions, like the Golden Gate Bridge  and  Alcatraz  are worth seeing—if you want to experience the city like a local, we have you covered.

From eating burritos  in the Mission to rooftop bar hopping  to hanging out on a sunny day at Dolores Park , we have rounded up the best ways to truly get a taste of this wonderful city. So, grab a sweater to keep you cozy and some sneaks to get you up our iconic hills, and get ready to leave your heart in San Francisco. 

RECOMMENDED: The best museums in San Francisco

This guide was updated by San Francisco-based writer Clara Hogan . At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines . 

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Best things to do in San Francisco

1.  Presidio Tunnel Tops

What is it:  An expansive new park  opened in 2022  on  top of the Presidio Parkway highway tunnels,  connecting the Presidio to the Crissy Field waterfront—designed by the same people behind New York's High Line. 

Why go:   The 14-acre federal parkland offers tons of green space by the water and is now  one of the best spots to take in views of the  Golden Gate Bridge . If you have kids in tow, they'll love the Outpost, a natural-themed playground, and the Field Station, where they can draw butterflies, discover maps and get hands-on with science.

2.  Rooftop bar hopping

What is it?  Take in sweeping views of San Francisco and the bay with a craft cocktail in hand.

Why go? Rooftop bars  used to be hard to come by in the city—until recently. The past few years have brought a series of sky-high venues that are now some of the hottest places to drink in town. Personal favorites include the recently reopened Starlite , a nearly 100-year-old cocktail bar on the 21st floor of the Beacon Grand Hotel. Other hot spots include  Cavaña , a Latin American-inspired bar in Mission Bay, and Rise Over Run , a lush drinking destination on the top floor of the LINE Hotel.

3.  Golden Gate Bridge

• Things to do

What is it?  The world’s most photographed bridge (and for good reason). 

Why go?  The iconic 746-foot-tall orange towers of the Golden Gate Bridge have stood sentinel over the San Francisco Bay since 1937. Even when shrouded in fog, the bridge never fails to impress. The view is spectacular when passing over this span, with cityscapes on one side, nature on the other, and a beautiful shock of blue below. Come prepared wearing extra layers; Karl the Fog doesn’t mess around when it comes to the Golden Gate. 

4.  Ferry Building Marketplace

What is it?  San Francisco's largest farmers market and beloved permanent home for local artisan producers. 

Why go?  Waiting inside the historic Ferry Building are merchants like Dandelion Chocolate and Fort Point Beer Co., but for three days a week, the real action is found outdoors. On Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am until 2pm, and Saturdays from 8am until 2pm, regional farmers and ranchers converge to hock fresh veggies, flowers, meats, and other small-batch beauties. On market days, the food stalls give indoor brick-and-mortar restaurants a serious run for their money.

5.  North Beach

What is it? Dubbed San Francisco's "Little Italy," North Beach is one of San Francisco's oldest and most loved neighborhoods.

Why go?  With European-style cafe seating, iconic bookstore City Lights , and buzzy coffee shops, a day in North Beach is a day well spent. Dine at Italian-American classics like Original Joe's  (open for more than 100 years), Tony's Pizza Napoletana or  Café Zoetrope .

Don't miss:  Stop by for a glass of wine or two at  Waystone , a delightfully unpretentious wine bar that's quickly become a local favorite. 

6.  Alcatraz

• Walks and tours
• San Francisco

What is it? A former maximum-security prison in the middle of the San Francisco Bay. 

Why go? Converted from a lighthouse station to a military prison in the 1870s, Alcatraz  is a formidable fortress in the middle of San Francisco Bay that was home to the early 20th century’s most notorious criminals. Today, you’ll only make it to “The Rock” via ferry from Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing. Once there, the self-guided audio cell house tour narrated by former inmates and guards will fill you in on harrowing escape attempts, prison riots, and the 19-month-long occupation of the site by Native Americans demanding reparation for broken treaties in 1969. 

Don’t miss: To get a more creepy bang for your buck, try a night tour. Plan to spend about three hours round trip and bring a jacket to protect you from heavy year-round fog and the agonized spirits of the island’s former residents. 

7.  Have a spa day

What is it?  Unwind at one of the city's best day spas.

Why go?  San Francisco has a spa for everyone. Looking to splurge? Book a treatment at the Bamford Wellness Spa , followed by an outdoor bath soak on the rooftop terrace. Looking for more amenities? Head to the more approachable  Burke Williams Day Spa , which features a large selection of treatments in addition to a jacuzzi, steam room and sauna. Up for experiencing something new—with a side of nudity?  Archimedes Banya  is a massive co-ed bathhouse that blends wellness rituals from around the world. 

Don't miss:  A quick pop-in for a foot rub at one of the many Chinatown massage shops.

8.  Treat yourself to a fancy dinner

What is it?  After the Golden Gate Bridge and cable cars, San Francisco may be most famous for its incredible restaurant scene. 

Why go?  Book a reservation at one of San Francisco's many Michelin-starred restaurants  for a dining experience that's sure to blow you away—including the city's newest star earners,  Aphotic and Nari . If you're looking for a memorable prix fixe experience without shelling out a small fortune, try newcomer 7 Adams , which offers a five-course tasting menu for $87 from Michelin-starred chef David Fisher and partner Chef Serena Chow Fisher.

9.  Chinatown

What is it?  The oldest and most storied enclave of Chinese immigrants outside of Asia.

Why go?  After passing through the Dragon Gate at the corner of Bush Street and Grant Avenue, get revved to explore Chinatown 's historic buildings, pocket parks, and shops. Considered the birthplace of American Chinese food like chop suey and fortune cookies, as well as credited with introducing dim sum to the Western palate, you'd be remiss not to stop for a bite at an eatery like   Good Mong Kok Bakery .

Don’t miss:  The Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory  (56 Ross Alley) , where some 20,000 fortune cookies are made every day—folded by hand as they come off an ancient-looking cookie conveyor belt.

10.  PIER 39 + Fisherman's Wharf

• Fisherman's Wharf

What is it? Where you can   see a plethora of playful, barking California sea lions. 

Why go?  It wasn’t until after the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake that sea lions began “hauling out” on K dock at Pier 39 . Why they chose this location is a mystery, but the protected bay, teeming with the fish and squid pinnipeds prefer, has kept them coming back for 30 years. Watch the group, mostly made up of younger males, frolic all year long from the wooden walkway behind Pier 39.    

11.  Mission burritos

What is it?  SF’s quintessential dish. 

Why go?  It is common knowledge that burritos, as we know them today, are an American invention. And no burrito is more famous than SF’s Mission-style burrito formed in the '60s. There is still some debate as to who created the first Mission-style burrito.  Taqueria La Cumbre  is generally credited with the creation—they introduced the tortilla-wrapped combination of beans, rice, meat, and cheese in 1969. Their neighborhood competitor,  El Faro  (2399 Folsom St) , also claims to have originated the delicacy, serving it up to local firefighters as early as 1961. If you want the best, though, head to  La Taqueria (2989 Mission St), which consistently appears on top restaurant lists year after year thanks to its behemoth, rice-free foil-wrapped bombs.

12.  Golden Gate Park

• Golden Gate Park

What is it?  Twenty percent larger than New York’s Central Park and just as iconic, Golden Gate Park is 1,000-plus acres of rolling hills, groves of trees, gardens, and hidden treasures. 

Why go? Golden Gate Park  houses some of San Francisco’s most beloved institutions—the Victorian-era glass-ensconced Conservatory of Flowers, the de Young Fine Arts Museum, and the Academy of Sciences, among them—as well as less famous attractions such as the bison paddock, Shakespeare’s Garden and the north and south windmills. On Sundays, the main drive is closed to cars. Bicyclists, rollerskaters, and eager Lindy Hop aficionados take over the streets. 

Don’t miss:  Snacks can be found throughout the park, but for a meal, the  Beach Chalet  and  Park Chalet  on the park’s western edge offer lovely views and house-brewed beer.

13.  Lombard Street

What is it? One of the most famous sights in the city is  Lombard Street , also known as the "Crookedest Street in San Francisco."

Why go? The zig-zag road makes eight sharp turns across Russian Hill—start at the top for a great view and walk down the steps to take in the surrounding mansions and gaze upward. Or if you have a car, you can try the drive for yourself. Tip: The Hyde Street cable car will drop you off at the top of the street.

14.  The Painted Ladies

• Alamo Square

What is it?  Colorful Victorian and Edwardian houses, many of which feature three or more colors. 

Why go?  The most famous ones—there are hundreds of houses—can be found in NoPa, the Lower Haight, Haight-Ashbury, and Cole Valley neighborhoods. But there’s one row, in particular, so iconic that it’s simply referred to as “the Painted Ladies” (or sometimes “Postcard Row”): the houses of 710-720 Steiner Street at the corner of Hayes Street. These gals have appeared in an estimated 70 movies, ads, and TV shows, including, yes,  Full House . You can’t enter the Painted Ladies (real people live there), but you can get a great view and a photo of your own from the east-facing hillside of Alamo Square across the street. 

15.  Dolores Park

What is it?  Once a Jewish cemetery, today Dolores Park is one of San Francisco’s favorite warm-weather destinations.

Why go?  It may be miles from the ocean, but sunny Mission Dolores Park might just be the most popular 'beach' in San Francisco. Any weekend above 60 degrees and every green inch of the park is guaranteed to be packed with barbecues, locals lounging on inflatable couches, hula-hoopers, and tightrope walkers. Recently expanded restrooms and an updated playground for little ones make the convergence a little more comfortable. The southwest slope offers the best views of the downtown skyline and a variety of manscaping on what is known as the 'Fruit Shelf'.   

16.  Palace of Fine Arts

• Event spaces
• Marina District

What is it? Local architect Bernard Maybeck's pièce de résistance, this Greco-Roman rotunda is one of the only surviving structures from the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition. Why go? You will feel like you have stepped onto a movie set watching the swans skim across the reflections of the Greco-Roman columns and rotunda of the Palace of Fine Arts . Originally constructed of wood and burlap for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exhibition, the structures were so beloved they were preserved and rebuilt in the 1960s. Bonus: The Palace is an easy, descending walk from the also-picturesque Lyon Street Steps.

17.  Daily Driver

What is it?  The city's first urban creamery, where you can see butter, cream cheese and cheese made fresh daily. 

Why go? A perfect first stop in your day's activities, Daily Driver offers wood-fired bagels, paired with its hand-batted organic butter and cream cheese, plus small batch coffee. Gobble down your bagel, and then watch the butter and cheese making in action. You can even take more to go. 

18.  City Lights Bookstore

• price 2 of 4

What is it?  For more than 60 years, City Lights bookstore has been a beacon of free speech and radical ideas. 

Why go?  Co-founded in 1953 by poet-artist Lawrence Ferlinghetti, City Lights is where Allen Ginsberg’s  Howl & Other Poems  was first published, putting the Beat Generation on the map. The creaky wooden shop and publishing house is still a center of progressive politics and indie-literary voices, which it stocks alongside a huge inventory of new and used fiction and nonfiction.

Don’t miss:  You’ll find the shop on the corner of Jack Kerouac Alley (so named after being renovated and reopened to the public in 2007) and across from  Vesuvio Cafe , the bar where Kerouac, Neal Cassady, and other Beat heavyweights once held court. 

19.  San Francisco Botanical Garden

What is it?  Seasonal blooms bring new life and color to this beautiful garden. 

Why go?  The 75-year-old San Francisco Botanical Garden sprawls across 55 acres in Golden Gate Park. While the native plants are plentiful, it's known for its assortment of flora from around the world, including the forests of Central America, South America, and Southeast Asia. The garden claims the fourth most significant collection of magnolias on the planet. Wander amid mosaic-paved trails and stone-laden paths, and you'll find the ancient plant garden, a quiet redwood grove, the rhododendron garden, and the dwarf conifer pond.

Don't miss:  One of the most popular areas is the Garden of Fragrance, where plaques encourage visitors to sniff sweet-smelling plants like cascading rosemary, rockrose, lemon verbena, chamomile, and lavender.   

20.  The Buena Vista

What is it?  The birthplace of the Irish Coffee. 

Why go?  Although the Buena Vista has been slinging drinks for seafaring folk since 1916, it wasn’t until 1952 that the cafe got its big break. That year Joe Sheridan, an Irish chef, invented the Irish Coffee. These days, the restaurant’s white-jacketed bartenders serve up to 2,000 of the froth and whiskey concoctions daily from behind the long, mahogany bar. 

Don’t miss:  Alongside their specialty, the Buena Vista has a menu featuring a variety of seafood options like clam chowder and Dungeness crab cocktail, befitting its Fisherman’s Wharf location. 

21.  Japanese Tea Garden

What is it?  The oldest public Japanese gardens in the country are at the heart of Golden Gate Park.

Why go?  The Japanese gardens burst with color and beauty in the early spring as maples flame and cherry blossoms bud. Walk stone paths through manicured terraces, through pagodas, and over the impossibly arched drum bridge, or meditate on the zen garden before heading to the picturesque Tea House for a cuppa.

Don’t miss:  For over a century, the Tea House has served fortune cookies, believed to be the first to be introduced to the United States. They are still on the menu, tucked into cookie plates and bowls of arare.  

22.  Urban hikes

What is it?  Unusually for a modern American metropolis, San Francisco is crisscrossed with dozens of hiking trails .

Why go?  Some treks like the Creek to Peaks trail at Glen Canyon Park traverse steep, rocky terrain. Others, such as the Presidio’s Bay Ridge Trail, are better suited for a leisurely wander. Whatever level of difficulty you choose, your path will expose you to the city’s natural landscape, which rivals the built one that made it famous in beauty. Still have energy? The trails at Mt. Davidson, Lands End, Bernal Heights Park, and Buena Vista Park are also very popular.

23.  San Francisco Whale Tours

What is it?  A short boat ride out of San Francisco Bay affords you a front-row seat to one of the most spectacular wildlife migrations when some 20,000 gray whales travel south in January and back north in the early spring months.  

Why go?  From April through November, humpbacks and blue whales—the largest animals to have ever lived—frequent these anchovy-rich waters.  San Francisco Whale Tours  and the  Oceanic Society  offer tours led by expert naturalists.  

Don’t miss:  For the more seaworthy, full-day expeditions circle the Farallon Islands, home to massive breeding colonies of sleek Common Murres and clownish Tufted Puffins. Round that out with seals and sea lions, dolphins, killer whales, and the peculiar ocean sunfish, and you’ll feel like David Attenborough for a day. 

24.  The Presidio

What is it?  A former military base boasting more than two square miles of swaying eucalyptus trees and gorgeous views. 

Why go?  From the oceanside Crissy Field with its immaculate views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz to the Disney Museum on the Main Post, and from the abandoned military forts on the shore to the Yoda monument, the Presidio  is full of surprises. Hike or bike around this park, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and larger than Golden Gate Park, or take the free  PresidiGo shuttle .

Don’t miss:  Check out the Presidio's buzzy new restaurant openings, Mediterranean restaurant Dalida  and casual Italian-inspired cafe, Il Parco . 

25.  Boudin Sourdough Bakery & Café

What is it?  At the flagship Boudin Bakery on Fisherman’s Wharf, tangy loaves are still made from a mother dough first cultivated here in 1849.

Why go?  Discovered by Gold Rush-era bakers, sourdough became so beloved so quickly that miners seeking their fortune in the nearby Sierra Nevadas snuggled up to their yeast starters (“mothers”) on cold nights to keep them alive. The bacteria responsible for the sour flavor,  lactobacillus sanfranciscensis,  has since even been named after the city—and this is  the  place to sample sourdough, period. 

Don’t miss:  Watching the bread-making process from the railing overlooking the showcase kitchen, sampling it at the café, and buying a few loaves to bring home with you. 

26.  Mission murals

What is it? The Mission District ’s alleys and buildings are decorated with over 200 distinct murals, many reflecting the neighborhood’s Latino heritage and themes of social justice. 

Why go? Thanks in large part to the efforts of artist Susan Cervantes and the Precita Eyes Mural Arts Center , you’ll find the most concentrated outdoor galleries at Caledonia Alley (at 15th Street), Clarion Alley (at Valencia Street), Balmy Alley (at 24th Street), Horace Alley (at 25th Street), Cypress and Lilac Alleys (at 26th Street) and Osage Alley (at 25th Street).  Keep an eye out for Mary Nash’s Las Milagrosas: Tribute to Women Artists  on Balmy Alley.

27.  Dispensaries

What is it?  A new "crop" of recreational cannabis dispensaries with lounges for on-site smoking.

Why go?  Since recreational marijuana use became legal in 2018, San Francisco’s weed dispensaries have slowly ramped up to offer not just ever-wider varieties of edible and smokable strains but full-on Amsterdam-inspired weed cafes. (Architectural Digest even named  Apothecarium  one of the best-designed dispensaries in the country). At the  Barbary Coast Dispensary , the brick-walled bud bar and damask wallpapered lounge channel Gold Rush-era San Francisco. Try the dabs on tap or purchase a pre-rolled joint to smoke in the high-backed leather booths. Volcano vaporizers laid out on tables at SoMa’s  Sparc  are available for quick sit-and-hit or longer stays. 

28.  Tartine Bakery

• Mission Dolores
• price 3 of 4

What is it?  A Mission bakery where you can munch on tried-and-true pie varieties baked to perfection, from the creamy pumpkin to the oat-walnut crumble-topped apple.

Why go? Tartine ’s master bakers, husband and wife team Chad Robertson and Liz Prueitt, have taken home numerous local and national awards for their rustic approach to pastry and bread. The line around the block of food lovers seeking heavenly Croque monsieurs, fresh fruit bread puddings, frangipane tarts, and their famous crusty country bread hasn’t budged since the bakery opened in 2002. And it is still worth the wait. 

Don’t miss:  Don't have time to queue? At Tartine Manufactory, you will find Robertson and Prueitt’s beloved baked goods along with some of the city’s best artisan ice cream, coffee, and more. 

29.  Angel Island

What is it? The Ellis Island of the West.  

Why go? Angel Island  is a hidden gem that serves a perfect mix of history and nature for an easy day trip from the city. Tour the U.S. Immigration Station, where over a million Chinese immigrants were processed from 1910 to 1940 and sometimes detained for years. (Chinese poetry can still be seen carved into the walls of the barracks.) Afterward, hike to the summit of Mt. Livermore, bike the 5-mile Perimeter Trail, or take a break at several picnic sites.   

30.  Divisadero Street

What is it?  What Valencia Street was to the Mission 10 years ago, Divisadero Street is to the Alamo Square/NoPa—a corridor filled with some of the city's best eateries and bars with more on the way.

Why go?  There are so many fantastic restaurants and bars packed into these six blocks of Divisadero Street you'll have trouble choosing your favorites. For brunch or a light snack, try  Brenda's Meat and Three , which serves some of the city's best soul food, or  The Mill  for freshly baked toast and  Four Barrell coffee . At dinner, head to Italian favorite  Che Fico  or the original neighborhood dining powerhouse,  NoPa . For drinks, try cocktail bar  Horsefeather  or  Club Waziema , an Ethiopian restaurant with a beloved dive bar up front.

31.  Breweries

• Potrero Hill

What is it?  The Bay Area has a bevy of intoxicating options for suds savants. 

Why go?  Sipping your way through SF's famed breweries might be the best (or at least buzziest) way to spend an afternoon. There's  Almanac Beer Co.  (known for its farm-to-barrel brewing techniques),  Anchor Brewing Company  (a pioneer dating back to 1896),  Fort Point Beer  (an expert in low-ABV brews), and many other great breweries that will keep any hops-head happy. 

32.  Dogpatch

• Ice cream parlors

What is it?  Once an industrial neighborhood, the Dogpatch is reinventing itself as a go-to for craft brewers, wine bars, and cocktail experimentation.

Why go?  Where should we start? Breweries? Sure, the Dogpatch has those. Cocktails are on order at the drinks-and-jerky bar  Third Rail  and the lounge  School Night  atop event space The Pearl. You can also  take a deep dive into the classic Victorian stylings of  The Sea Star . 

Don’t miss:  Ungrafted , an industrial-cool, family-friendly wine bar with a menu of grown-up comfort food.

33.  Colorful stairways

What is it?  Nearly 400 different stairways , some of them built more than a century ago, connecting San Francisco’s 42 hills.

Why go?  These steep passageways not only get you off the grid but offer some of the city’s best views, from the 290-step Lyon Street stairway (between Green Street and Broadway) to the delightful, garden-accented Pemberton Steps (starting at Corbett and Clay Streets). On Moraga Street in the Inner Sunset 163 mosaic tiled steps connect 15th and 16th Avenues. Macondray Lane (off Leavenworth St between Union and Green Sts) inspired Armistead Maupin’s secretive, leafy green Barbary Lane in his  Tales of the City  series. 

Don’t miss:  The Filbert Street Steps, arguably the most spectacular of them all, climb through tropical gardens from the bottom of Sansome Street to Coit Tower in North Beach.

34.  Tony’s Pizza Napoletana

• North Beach

What is it?  Tony Gemignani, the first American to win the World Champion Pizza Maker title in Naples, has made his namesake pizzeria one of North Beach’s top destination dining spots.  

Why go?  Don't come to Tony's Pizza Napoletana  looking for New York-style pizza. This is Gemignani's paean to Napoli, complete with ten different kinds of pizza baked in seven different ovens, ranging in temperature from 550 to 1,000 degrees. Crowds line up sometimes hours to sample one of these perfectly blistered creations. And there are no reservations, so put in your name and be prepared to wait. 

Don’t miss:  Heavenly Tomato Pie, with hand-crushed tomato sauce and cooked in a coal-fired oven, and the Margherita, with San Felice-flour dough and San Marzano tomatoes. 

35.  San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

• Art and design
• Yerba Buena

What is it? SFMOMA  is the stylish go-to for top-notch modern art. 

Why go?  Reopened to much fanfare in May 2016, this new-and-improved institution features a ten-story 170,000-square-foot addition that nearly triples the space of its original Mario Botta-designed building. On display alongside favorites from the museum’s permanent collection are sixteen special exhibition galleries, works specially commissioned for the new museum, and 45,000 square feet of ground-floor exhibits.

36.  San Francisco Cable Cars

What is it?  A chance to take in Nob Hill, Fisherman’s Wharf, Russian Hill, and the bay while hanging off the running boards Doris-Day-style. 

Why go?  In the late 1800s, San Francisco’s cable cars ran 23 routes to move people around the city’s 49 square miles. Today, though most locals have switched to more efficient modes of public transportation to get around, a ride on one of the three remaining cable car lines is still a classic San Francisco treat. Hop aboard one of these and a National Historic Landmark and shoot back to simpler times.  

Don’t miss:  Make a stop at the  Cable Car Museum  at Mason and Washington Streets to learn more about the history of the cars and get a glimpse of the giant wheels turning the underground cables that power 'em.   

37.  Exploratorium

• Science and technology

What is it?  A massive museum for the child in everyone.

Why go?  At its home on the Embarcadero waterfront, the Exploratorium  uses play and experimentation to introduce visitors to scientific principles. From the storage lockers that play tones when you touch them to the outdoor fog bridge by artist Fujiko Nakaya, everything in the museum is hands-on. New exhibits appear regularly, but even the museum’s most beloved mainstays—the Sweeper's Clock, a fascinating movie loop in which two street sweepers keep time by pushing around piles of trash; the toothpick diorama of San Francisco; and the Tactile Dome, a sensory-deprivation crawl-through maze—are worth returning for again and again. 

Don’t miss:  Upstairs on the second floor, the glass and steel Bay Observatory and the sustainable seafood restaurant Seaglass , which offers stunning views of the Bay.

38.  Stern Grove Festival

• Music venues

What is it?  The longest-running non-profit music festival in the country, these   free weekly concerts in the summer at Stern Grove take place in the middle of a eucalyptus forest.

Why go?  A summer of free shows at this idyllic outdoor amphitheater in Golden Gate Park featuring major names from across the music industry. Keep an eye out for the lineup; it is guaranteed to be stellar.  

39.  Oracle Park

• Sports and fitness
• South Beach

What is it?  Overlooking the bay, Oracle Park is home to the San Francisco Giants.

Why go?  With over 700 Wi-Fi access points, the park is one of the largest public wireless hotspots in the world. It was the first Major League ballpark to receive LEED Silver Certification. It was ranked the Most Vegetarian-Friendly Ballpark by PETA in 2014, 2011, 2006, and 2005. And it is where Kanye West proposed to Kim Kardashian in 2014. Sure, things eventually turned sour, but they'll always have Oracle Park. 

Don't miss:  Grab a perfectly greasy slice of Tony's Pizza, a North Beach classic joint. 

40.  California Academy of Sciences

What is it?  An incredible showcase of all things science. 

Why go?  The Cal Academy  offers a bit of everything for science-loving folks. Budding marine biologists should make a beeline for the Steinhart Aquarium, which takes up the entire lower floor and has exhibits like the world’s deepest living coral reef. Are you into ecology? Check out a four-story living rainforest that boasts butterflies, birds, and a variety of tropical plants. The living roof is home to 1.7 million native plant species.

Don't miss:  The Morrison Planetarium is state-of-the-art and great for aspiring astronomers. 

41.  San Francisco Symphony

• Civic Center
• price 4 of 4

What is it?  Whether you’re a classical music connoisseur or can’t tell Bach from Beethoven, you’ll find something to love about the San Francisco Symphony’s film nights . 

Why go? Watching a Hollywood movie on the big screen while a full orchestra performs the score is the ultimate surround sound and a glimpse of movie magic. It’s also a high-wire act for the musicians who have to stay in perfect sync scene to scene while channeling adrenaline and shmaltz.

42.  Coit Tower

What is it?  Added to the San Francisco skyline in 1933, this monumental love letter to the city remains an iconic welcome for travelers westbound across the Bay Bridge. 

Why go?  Named for Lillie Hitchcock Coit, a wealthy eccentric whose $118,000 bequest to the city resulted in Coit Tower 's construction, the tapered, fluted tower stands 180 feet tall at the crest of Telegraph Hill. At the top is the tower’s observation deck with 360-degree views of San Francisco and the Bay. 

Don’t miss:  A rotunda at its base, covered in Depression-era WPA murals depicting socialist images painted by more than two dozen artists, some of whom studied under Diego Rivera.  

43.  TreasureFest

What is it?  A festival held on Treasure Island on the last weekend of each mont with live music, food vendors and amazing views.   Why go? The rebrand to TreasureFest from Treasure Island Flea is a fitting upgrade for this kid- and dog-friendly outdoor extravaganza. Expect handcrafted jewelry and ceramics, vintage clothing, antique art, and furnishings. Sip a sangria, show off your pooch, and hunt for that perfect pair of vintage Levi’s. Bring cash for extra haggling power.

44.  Castro Theatre

• Movie theaters
• Independent

Note: The theater is currently closed as it undergoes renovations.

What is it?  The chance to dress up and catch a show at a historic LGBTQ+ community landmark.

Why go?  The Castro Theatre  always has a full entertainment line-up, so check the calendar. Catch an indie flick, attend a podcast pop-up or see a comedy show—no matter what you book tickets for, you'll be in awe of the beauty of this architectural gem. 

Don't miss:  What started out as an excuse for Castro District denizens to don dirndl dresses and do their best Julie Andrews impressions has blossomed into regular sing-along sessions to some of the biggest live-action and Disney musicals of the last 100 years, including  Grease ,  The Little Mermaid ,  West Side Story , and  Frozen . 

45.  Tonga Room and Hurricane Bar

What is it?  A kitschy, island-themed Tiki Bar born in the Bay Area.

Why go?  The tiki kitsch is at its best at the historic Tonga Room and Hurricane Bar , where the walls drip with tropical storms and a band plays on a floating island in the middle of what was once the pool of the Fairmont Hotel.

Don't miss:  Local band the Island Groove, who plays nightly at 7pm ($15 cover)

46.  El Rio LGBTQ bar

• Bernal Heights
• price 1 of 4

What is it?  The chance to take in San Fran's rich LGBTQ culture (and a few drinks). 

Why go?  San Francisco—home of the country's first openly gay elected official (Harvey Milk), the birthplace of the rainbow flag, and the first city in the United States to legalize gay marriage—remains a major LGBTQ epicenter. While the Castro serves as the community’s beloved home with plenty of gay-friendly bars, for great live music, try Bernal Heights’ Latin-themed former Brazilian leather-cum-lesbian bar, El Rio .

Don't miss: Daily happy hour from 4-7pm with $1 off well drinks and draft beers

47.  Church of 8 Wheels

• Lower Haight

What is it?  An old church where you can roller skate to funky beats. 

Why go?  Each weekend at the Church of 8 Wheels  Godfather of skate, D. Miles, Jr., holds the 'rolliest' of services at the Church of 8 Wheels. Strap on some skates (available for rent for $5) and join the Holy Rollers, the groovy costume-wearing regulars, beneath the twinkling mirror ball. It is the most spiritual of skating experiences.

Don’t miss:  Want to take the party outside? On Fridays, the Rollers host an alfresco 12-mile skate. It all kicks off at Ferry Plaza. 

48.  Musée Mécanique

• Special interest

What is it?  An homage to turn-of-the-century mechanization, with more than 200 coin-operated games.

Why go?  A museum in name only, everything at the Musée Mécanique can, and should, be played with. Many of these amusements were salvaged from San Francisco’s now-defunct seaside amusement park, Playland at the Beach. Gypsy fortune tellers, giant moving dioramas, can-can-girl stereoscopes, carnival strength testers, player pianos, and a looming Laughing Sal (the cackling Playland greeter) are just as amusing for adults as they are for kids. 

Don’t miss:  When you’ve had your fill of fun, check out the earthquake memorabilia and early photos of San Francisco along the walls of the arcade.

49.  Audium Theater of Sound

What is it?  A one-of-a-kind theater for blowing your sonic mind. 

Why go? Inside the Audium , t hroughout a two-hour performance, theater-goers are left in darkness to be bathed in “sound sculptures” from the 176 speakers surrounding the circular 49-seat theater. The sound calls attention to its speed and movement, but any more than that is hard to explain; you’ll just have to experience it yourself.

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9 Best Things to Do in Portland May 2024

9 best things to do in philadelphia may 2024, 9 best things to do in pigeon forge may 2024.

7 Top Tourist Attractions in San Francisco 2024

San Francisco, a vibrant city nestled on the northern coast of California, has a rich tapestry woven from its maritime history, cultural diversity, and technological innovation. From the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the bustling neighborhoods of Chinatown and Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco offers a wealth of attractions for discerning travelers seeking an unforgettable experience.

Top Tourist Attractions in San Francisco 2024

1. golden gate bridge.

The Golden Gate Bridge, an iconic masterpiece of engineering, is a must-visit attraction in San Francisco. Spanning the entrance to San Francisco Bay, its massive steel cables and vibrant orange hue are a sight to behold. Take a stroll or bike ride across the bridge, reveling in the breathtaking views of the bay, Alcatraz Island, and the Marin Headlands.

2. Alcatraz Island

Delve into the infamous history of Alcatraz Island, once home to the infamous federal prison. Embark on a guided tour of the cell blocks, the mess hall, and the exercise yard, where notorious criminals such as Al Capone and Robert Stroud were once incarcerated. Learn about their stories and the island’s role in the American prison system.

3. Fisherman’s Wharf

Step into the lively atmosphere of Fisherman’s Wharf, a waterfront district brimming with charm. Admire the bobbing boats, visit the bustling Pier 39, where you can witness the playful antics of the famed sea lions. Indulge in delectable seafood dishes at the many restaurants or embark on a thrilling bay cruise.

4. Lombard Street

Prepare to be amazed by the winding curves of Lombard Street, often hailed as the “most crooked street in the world.” As you navigate its eight tight turns, soak in the charm of the Victorian houses lining the street. Capture unforgettable photographs of this unique and beloved San Francisco landmark.

5. Chinatown

Explore the vibrant heart of San Francisco’s Chinatown, the largest Chinatown in North America. Immerse yourself in a world of authentic Chinese cuisine, traditional shops, and cultural landmarks. Visit the intricately decorated temples, shop for trinkets and souvenirs, and savor the flavors of Chinese delicacies.

Experience the magic of Pier 39, a lively waterfront destination teeming with entertainment and attractions. Watch the antics of the playful sea lions, explore the interactive Aquarium of the Bay, and marvel at the stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Indulge in shopping, dining, and family-friendly activities that will create lasting memories.

7. Presidio National Park

Escape the urban landscape within the serene embrace of Presidio National Park. This former military base boasts breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the San Francisco Bay. Immerse yourself in nature with hiking trails, historic landmarks, and cultural exhibits that tell the story of San Francisco’s past and present.

Culture, Food, and Hotels

Beyond its iconic landmarks, San Francisco is renowned for its vibrant culture, culinary delights, and exceptional hotel accommodations. Immerse yourself in the city’s diverse arts scene, with renowned museums showcasing world-class exhibitions. Indulge in the eclectic dining options, from Michelin-starred restaurants to casual eateries serving every cuisine imaginable. For discerning travelers, San Francisco offers an array of luxurious hotels that cater to every taste and budget, ensuring a memorable and comfortable stay.

Best Months to Visit

Plan your San Francisco adventure during the best months to visit, which fall between April and May or September and October. During these times, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, allowing for optimal exploration.

Getting Around

San Francisco offers convenient transportation options, including the iconic cable cars, buses, and a robust public transit system. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available.

Local Cuisine

Savor the flavors of San Francisco’s culinary scene, renowned for its diversity and freshness. Delight in sourdough bread from local bakeries, indulge in fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, and explore the vibrant food trucks offering an array of cuisines.

A trip to San Francisco in 2024 promises an unforgettable adventure, where history, modernity, and culture seamlessly intertwine. Discover the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, delve into the past at Alcatraz Island, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Fisherman’s Wharf. The city’s rich culinary scene, exceptional hotel accommodations, and convenient transportation options ensure a remarkable experience for discerning travelers seeking the perfect urban getaway.

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Top Tours in San Francisco, CA

San francisco tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Small Group Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco

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

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

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

5. Muir Woods, Golden Gate Bridge + Sausalito with Optional Alcatraz

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

7. Official Alcatraz Island Prison Tour and San Francisco Bay Cruise

8. San Francisco Chinatown and North Beach Highlights Walking Tour

9. San Francisco Love Tour

10. Straight to the Gate Access: Golden Gate Bay Cruise

11. San Francisco: Yosemite National Park and Giant Sequoia Day Tour

12. Small-Group Wine Country Tour from San Francisco with Tastings

13. Chinatown and North Beach Walking Tour

14. Straight to the Gate Access: San Francisco Bay Sunset Cruise

15. San Francisco Bay Sunset Catamaran Cruise

16. San Francisco Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

17. Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF

18. Muir Woods and Sausalito Small-Group Tour

19. Small Group: The Ultimate Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour

20. Private Self Guided Tour and Bar Crawl in Chinatown San Francisco

21. Muir Woods with Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour

22. Alcatraz Island Tour Packages

23. Painted Ladies San Francisco City Tour

24. San Francisco Super Saver: Muir Woods & Wine Country w/ optional Gourmet Lunch

25. 1-Day San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Open Top Bus Tour

26. Skip The Bus: San Francisco By Luxury Van Tour

27. Little Italy and North Beach Walking Tour in San Francisco

28. Inside Alcatraz and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Cruise

29. Full-Day San Francisco Tour by Cable Car & Foot

30. Small-Group Yosemite Day Tour from San Francisco

What travellers are saying.

• Small Group Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco
• Small Group Tour: SF, Muir Woods, Sausalito w/ Optional Alcatraz
• Straight to the Gate Access: Golden Gate Bay Cruise
• Muir Woods & Sausalito Half-Day Tour (Return by Bus or Ferry from Sausalito)
• Napa and Sonoma Wine Country Full-Day Tour from San Francisco
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• San Francisco Movie Tours
• Painted Ladies Tour Company
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Cheap Must-See Tourist Attractions in Each State

Posted: April 13, 2024 | Last updated: April 13, 2024

A Virtual Cross-Country Tour

Whether you're in the midst of planning a road trip or looking at a map for the first time to decide where to go, you can count on finding plenty of free or cheap attractions across the country. We've taken an in-depth look at tourist destinations and found one site in every state — and Washington, D.C. — that's sure to delight travelers on a budget.

The search factored in ways to reduce out-of-pocket expenses, whether in rural or urban settings. We did not set a specific price ceiling for the attractions, but where fees are imposed, they're generally less than $25 for adults and cheaper for children, seniors, military members, and sometimes for students; stated price ranges reflect these discounts or different tour options. 

Alabama: Civil Rights History

Birmingham is home to many inexpensive museums and historical sites. The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute costs $15 for adults, but is free or discounted for seniors, college students, and youth. Across the street, the 16th Street Baptist Church offers tours for $10 a person for adults; entrance to the church is by donation.   

Alaska: Denali National Park and Dog Sledding

Dog-sled teams are a symbol of the region and an important part of the area's history, and still used in Alaska. You can learn about the sled dogs at the Denali Kennels during the summer or winter. The kennels are located within the Denali National Park , which charges a $15 entrance fee for visitors 16 and older.

Arizona: The Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is a destination for travelers from around the world, and it's worth fighting the summertime crowds in the South Rim area. The visit can be as inexpensive as you make it; camping and grocery stores are friends to anyone on a budget. Take the time for a short hike, along the South Kaibab Trail to Cedar Ridge (1.5 miles) or Skeleton Point (3 miles), for example, and enjoy stunning views of the canyon from a different perspective.

Related:   19 Money-Saving Tips for Visiting National Parks

Arkansas: Little Rock Landmarks

The capital of Arkansas is filled with historic sites, shopping options, restaurants, and more. Visitors can see a lot by taking the Downtown Little Rock One-Day Walking Tour . The tour includes the Old State House Museum, the River Market District, the Clinton Library, and more.

California: San Francisco

Although the cost of living in San Francisco may be high, there are some surprisingly cheap and fun attractions to experience in the city. Watch a Giants' game for free from the waterfront promenade; tour the Mission District's street murals; walk across the Golden Gate Bridge; make faces at the sea lions at Pier 39; or take in a view of the city by riding up the glass elevator the Westin St. Francis hotel in Union Square. The rest of the Golden State is also packed with budget attractions . 

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Colorado: Mesa Verde Cliff Dwellings

Mesa Verde National Park in Montezuma County is a must-see if you're in southwest Colorado. Entrance to the park costs $30 a vehicle from May through September ($15 otherwise) and is valid for seven days; guided tours for the Cliff Palace, Balcony House, and Long House cost $8 a person. This extra fee gives you access to the largest archeological preserve in the country, with structures that are at least 700 years old.

Connecticut: Gillette Castle

The Gillette Castle State Park in East Haddam boasts a 24-room mansion that looks like a medieval castle. Completed in 1919, the state of Connecticut bought the grounds and castle from the estate of William Hooker Gillette (a distinguished thespian of the time) in 1943. The site is fun, interesting, and enjoyable for all ages, according to TripAdvisor reviews. Parking and entrance to the park are free, but there's a $6 fee for ages 13 and up and $2 for ages 6 to 12 to enter the castle. 

The One Absolutely-Can't-Miss, Must-Do Thing in Every State

Delaware: Hagley Museum and Library

The Hagley Museum and Library in Wilmington has something for everyone. History buffs can learn about the evolution of the DuPont Co. while nature lovers will enjoy a tour of the estate. Entrance for children aged 6 to 14 is $10, adults pay $20, and students and seniors pay $16.

District of Columbia: The Smithsonian Museums

When you're in the nation's capital, the range of free and cheap things to do is almost endless. The Smithsonian museums are mandatory, and each of the constituent parts offers something different (e.g., air and space, natural history, American art).

Florida: The Everglades

Everglades National Park , the largest tropical wilderness in the United States, is just an hour west of Miami. The entry fee is $30 per car and it's good for seven days, leaving plenty of time to explore the park's fantastically diverse environment, which includes mangrove swamps, freshwater sloughs, and cypress forests. The park is home to a dazzling array of wildlife, ranging from crocodiles, manatees, and panthers to more than 350 species of birds and 300 species of fresh and saltwater fish.

Georgia: Historic Savannah

One of Savannah's biggest attractions — a stroll through the city's downtown historic district — costs absolutely nothing. With cobblestone streets, beautiful churches, and many places to stop and grab a beer or coffee, this is a lovely way to spend an afternoon. If strolling isn't your thing, hop aboard downtown's free shuttle, which will ferry you around the historic district.

Hawaii: Volcanoes National Park

Lying on the beach, hiking, and snorkeling are all favorite pastimes in Hawaii, and none cost much. Visitors to the Big Island should stop by Hawaii Volcanoes National Park for a chance to get up close to an active volcano. Enter with a vehicle for $30 (good for seven days) and drive to the lookout points. There also are hikes for any fitness level or desired duration.

Idaho: Peregrine Fund World Center for Birds of Prey

Near Boise, the Peregrine Fund's center is an 850-acre site with breeding facilities, offices, a research library, and educational facilities. Visitors enjoy getting a close look at, and learning about, birds of prey from around the world. Entrance is $7 to $12 a person.

Illinois: Lincoln Park Zoo

The Lincoln Park Zoo in northern Chicago is free. New residents include three African lion cubs born this year: Pesho, Sidai, and Lomelok. Parking at the zoo can be costly, but four city buses stop near or at the entrance and the Brown or Purple rapid transit lines can drop you off at Armitage station, about 1 mile away.

Indiana: Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Racing enthusiasts shouldn't miss their chance to visit the home of the Indianapolis 500 and the Auto Racing Hall of Fame. "Kiss the Bricks" tours take visitors on a 30-minute narrated trip around the 2.5 mile track; $25 for adults, $24 for seniors, $15 for kids 6-15. Admission to the speedway's museum is $15 for adults, $14 for seniors, and $8 for kids 6-15.  

Iowa: The High Trestle Trail

The High Trestle Trail just north of Des Moines is 25 miles long, but you can skip to the main attraction — a 13-story bridge over the Des Moines River between the towns of Madrid and Woodward. The trail is free to explore, and the half-mile-long bridge is a work of art, with intentionally placed steel cribbing and blue LEDs that light up the structure at night.

Kansas: Botanica

Wichita's Botanica gardens are a favorite attraction for residents and tourists alike. Admission is $8 to $10, and there are 29 different gardens to explore, including one inspired by Shakespeare. Stroll across the meadows and through woodlands, or amble about the indoor greenhouse or butterfly house, the peony garden or the children's garden.

Kentucky: Maker’s Mark Whiskey Tour

A little more than an hour's drive south of Louisville, the Maker's Mark distillery offers a tour and tasting for $22. You'll learn about the history of bourbon and how it's made today. While visiting, you can buy a bottle of Maker's White, a 1-day-old white whiskey. Some say the unaged spirit is more novelty than anything else. 

Louisiana: New Orleans

With more than 9 million visitors a year, New Orleans is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations and it’s also full of free fun . Keep things cheap by enjoying the street music and take a free tour through Algiers Point, the Besthoff Sculpture Garden, and many cemeteries. The India House Hostel is just a few minutes from a streetcar stop and offers dorm or private rooms from $31 to $75 per night. 

Maine: Bowdoin College Museum of Art

Free to the public, the Bowdoin College Museum of Art features a mix of permanent and special exhibits. The painting and drawing collection dates back to 1811, but over the years, donations and acquisitions have added more than 20,000 pieces in a myriad of styles and media from around the world.

Maryland: Fort McHenry

If you're stopping in Baltimore , don't miss the chance to visit Fort McHenry . The inspiration behind "The Star-Spangled Banner," the fort is accessible by public transportation. Entrance is $15 for those 16 or older, and there are free daily ranger talks throughout the day.

Massachusetts: The Freedom Trail

Take a history-filled adventure and walking tour of Boston along the 2.5-mile Freedom Trail , which winds through the city's neighborhoods, with stops at more than 16 sites; many are free to enter. Purchased online, guided tours cost $8 for children, $17 for adults, and $15 for seniors or students, but you can enjoy a free self-guided tour by reading information at each site and using the official Freedom Trail Foundation app.

Michigan: Sleeping Bear Dunes

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park offers fun for children and parents alike. Climb, roll, and sled down the sandy embankments, then go for a dip in Lake Michigan. Entrance to the National Park is $25 a vehicle for a 7-day permit. Keep other costs in check with our money-saving tips for visiting national parks .

Minnesota: Mall of America

The Mall of America is filled with more than just retail stores — there's an aquarium, movie theater, house of comedy, Nickelodeon Universe theme park, mirror maze, and Lego store with a 34-foot Lego robot. Although walking around the mall is free, you're not likely to leave empty handed. Check the Mall of America's website for current promotions from retailers.

Mississippi: Vicksburg National Military Park

The Vicksburg National Military Park commemorates the battle of Vicksburg and the larger Vicksburg Campaign of the Civil War. Reviews on TripAdvisor give high marks to the audio tour and the historical artifacts, including a gun boat, cannon display, and fortifications. The visitor center offers a 20-minute orientation video. Entrance is $20 a vehicle, and a guided tour (in your car) costs another $60 for up to two hours.

Missouri: The Nelson-Atkins Art Museum

In the Missouri side of Kansas City, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is free for all visitors, which also offers free guided drop-in tours. There's an outdoor sculpture garden, visiting exhibits, and a permanent collection with works of art from around the world and throughout history. Reviews on TripAdvisor praise the museum for its variety of art and say that there's something for everyone.

Montana: Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks

In Montana, the outdoors draws more visitors than any museum. Between Yellowstone ($35 entrance fee, good for seven days) and Glacier National Park ($35 entrance fee, good for seven days), there's no way to choose a "best" destination, so go with the one that suits your itinerary and interests.

Nebraska: Gene Leahy Mall

Walk through Gene Leahy Mall in the central part of Omaha and enjoy the new gathering space and play space. Hear concerts at the amphitheater during the summer and marvel at the thousands of lights adorning the park in winter. One highlight not to be missed: two large slides that children and adults like to race down.  

Nevada: Las Vegas

Las Vegas is one of Nevada's most popular destinations, and for travelers with some self-control it's an inexpensive destination. Shows, drinks, and museums are free or cheap in Vegas . If you're not set on a specific hotel, even accommodations at the big names are relatively affordable.

New Hampshire: Portsmouth's Harbour Trail

Tour the historic sites in Portsmouth by following the Harbour Trail . Choose among the three sections — downtown and the waterfront, the commercial and residential South End, or State Street to Haymarket Square — or take it all in. 

New Jersey: The Atlantic City Boardwalk

Atlantic City lacks the glamour of Las Vegas, but boy, does it have history. The iconic boardwalk was a first in the United States; this is the birthplace of salt water taffy; and the city was known as "the world's playground" during the two decades before World War II. Sign up for the casinos' loyalty programs; even if you don't gamble, they offer benefits off the floor, such as discounted parking.

New Mexico: Carlsbad Caverns

The Carlsbad Caverns beneath the Guadalupe Mountains contain more than 117 limestone caves. Entrance to the park costs $15 for those 16 and older (free for younger visitors), which includes self-guided tours through the caves; ranger-led tours cost an extra $8 and up for adults and $4 and up for children, but only the King's Palace tour is currently offered. Time your visit to coincide with the bats' flight out of the caverns in the evening and you can catch the free Bat Flight talk by a park ranger.

New York: Big Apple Freebies

A well-known secret among New Yorkers who regularly show the sights to out-of-towners, the free Staten Island ferry floats right past the Statue of Liberty for a view of the iconic lady. Many of the city's top attractions, such as Central Park, Grand Central Terminal, and Rockefeller Center, are free to enter . Summer visitors can take advantage of the no-cost concerts and free movies presented in parks throughout the five boroughs.

North Carolina: The Blue Ridge Parkway

Drive the scenic 252-mile Blue Ridge Parkway for total immersion in the Blue Ridge Mountains and make pit stops along the way. Buy a treat at the Mast General Store (the oldest continuously operating general store in the country) in Valle Crucis, ride horseback through the woods on the Dutch Creek Trail in Sugar Grove, and take home a memento from the famous Folk Art Center in Asheville.

North Dakota: Heritage Center and Museum

Located next to the capitol building in Bismarck, the  Heritage Center and State Museum is one big, free history lesson. Looking back at prehistoric times through to the era of the Northern Plains Indians to the present and on to the future, you'll get an extensive education about the area you're visiting. This is a must-see attraction, according to reviews on TripAdvisor.

Ohio: Aviation Heritage Park

Dedicated to the Wright brothers and the poet Paul Laurence Dunbar, the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historic Park offers visitors free tours and entrance to several museums and historic buildings. See Dunbar's home, the Wright brothers' bicycle shop, a flight simulator, and a historic flying field.

Oklahoma: The Conoco Museum

In Ponca City in northern Oklahoma, the Conoco Museum will appeal to some travelers. Admission is free, and the museum gives an in-depth history of the oil and gas company ConocoPhillips, the state's oil industry, and the oil and gas industry in general.

Oregon: The Portland Rose Garden

The Portland International Rose Test Garden , a.k.a. the Portland Rose Garden, boasts more than 650 varieties of roses and more than 10,000 flowers when in full bloom (that would be June). Entrance is free, as are the daily tours at 1 p.m. from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.

Pennsylvania: Gettysburg Military Park

Visit the battlefield and learn about a fraught era in American history at the Gettysburg National Military Park . The park and museum are free to enter. Once inside, you can watch the film "A New Birth of Freedom" narrated by Morgan Freeman and see the Battle of Gettysburg Cyclorama painting, but there is a fee for the movie: $13.75 for children (ages 6-12) and $18.75 for adults.

Rhode Island: The Waterfire Bonfire Display

An outdoor art performance that's become a tradition in Providence, WaterFire features more than 80 bonfires that burn along the city's waterways mostly on Friday and Saturday evenings in the spring, summer, and fall. Walk along the river and enjoy the scene with the crowd, which can reach 100,000 people.

South Carolina: Historic Charleston

Charleston is a charming city filled with history — this is where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. It’s also a city filled with affordable fun. Take a name-your-own-price tour through Charleston with Free Tours by Foot , which offers several thematic tours, including ghost, architecture, food, and Civil War.

South Dakota: Mount Rushmore and the Badlands

Many of South Dakota's popular sites are clustered in the state's southwest. Wall Drug Store, the Badlands , Mount Rushmore ,  Custer State Park, and The Mammoth Site can all be visited over several days. The national and state parks aren't expensive, and if you camp out, the total cost of the trip will be fairly cheap.

Tennessee: Nashville

You can't visit Nashville without catching a few live shows. There are free summer concerts in Centennial Park; free bluegrass on Sundays at the Station Inn; and a wide variety of free performances at the Frist Center for the Visual Arts. To get around, hop aboard the Music City Circuit, the free downtown-area bus service.

Texas: The Alamo

Join the more than 2.5 million people who drop by the Alamo every year. Free to visit, the several remaining structures are fully supported by donations and proceeds from the gift shop. The historic site in San Antonio is conveniently located near the River Walk and is widely hailed a must-see in TripAdvisor reviews.

Utah: Zion and Bryce Canyon Parks

Tackle two top sites in one trip by visiting Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks . It's worth taking several days at each to get the full experience. Unfortunately, the parks' popularity comes at a cost: Accommodations can be limited and the entrance fee for each is $35 a vehicle (valid for seven days).

Vermont: Hildene

Hildene in Manchester, Vermont, was the summer home of President Lincoln's eldest son. The house remained in the Lincoln family until 1975, and was purchased soon after by the Friends of Hildene. Admission costs $23 for adults and $6 for youth and includes access to the house, farm, and gardens.

Virginia: Space Museum and Arlington Cemetery

Depending on your mood, there are two free sites to see in northern Virginia — Arlington National Cemetery and the Udvar-Hazy Center , part of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. Arlington National Cemetery is the resting place of hundreds of thousands American military members, with remains of soldiers from every conflict since the Revolutionary War. At Udvar-Hazy Center, you can see a wide range of aircrafts, including a Concorde, SR-71 Blackbird, and the space shuttle Discovery.

Washington: Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market in Seattle is free to enter, but you likely won't leave without buying a nosh. This is one of the oldest farmers' markets in the country and spans 9 acres. Watch fish fly at the Pike Place Fish Market, sip a cup of coffee at the original Starbucks or maybe a pint at Pike Brewing Co., or have a sweet bite at the Daily Dozen Doughnut Co.

West Virginia: Highland Scenic Highway

The Highland Scenic Highway traverses numerous changes in elevation measuring more than 2,000 feet. Scenic viewpoints of the state's rugged Allegheny Mountains abound along the route's 52 miles. The Cranberry Glades Botanical Area in Hillsboro showcases the diverse animal and plant life of the mountainous wetlands.

Wisconsin: The Basilica of St. Josaphat

Construction on the Basilica of St. Josaphat began more than 100 years ago and today the church stands as one of the top tourist attractions in Milwaukee. Admission is free, and the visitor center is open daily. Self-guided tours are always an option, but the visitor center is open Monday through Saturday.

Wyoming: Another Route to Yellowstone

A visit to Yellowstone shoots to the top of many bucket lists despite the $35 vehicle entrance fee, which is good for seven days. Even if you can't find a vacant campsite or cabin within the park, you can lodge nearby and spend all day sighing at the bounteous natural wonders.

This article was originally published on Cheapism

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