San Francisco is a beautiful city by the bay with lots to see and do. If you are visiting San Francisco for the first time, you will want to make sure to visit some of the top attractions. Here is a guide to the best things to do and see in San Francisco to help you plan your trip.
Visit the Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in San Francisco. You can walk or bike across the 1.7 mile long bridge to take in views of the bay, Alcatraz Island, and the city skyline. It only takes about 30 minutes to walk across. Be sure to bring a jacket - the winds can be strong! Stop to take photos and admire the vibrant orange color of the bridge.
Explore Fisherman's Wharf
Fisherman's Wharf is one of the busiest and most popular areas of San Francisco. When you go, you'll find lots of delicious seafood restaurants, shops, street vendors, and entertainment. Make sure to sample some clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl while you are there. You can also visit Pier 39 to see the colony of playful sea lions that took over the docks. Don't forget to check out the wax museum, Ripley's Believe it or Not Museum, and the antique arcade while at Fisherman's Wharf.
Take a Cable Car Ride
A fun way to explore San Francisco is to ride the cable cars that wind through different neighborhoods. These historic trolleys have been running since the 1870s and offer unique views of the city. You can ride a cable car all the way from Fisherman's Wharf to Union Square downtown. Some popular cable car routes are Powell-Hyde and Powell-Mason. Be sure to try to secure a spot on the outside running boards for the full experience. Hold on tight going up and down the steep hills!
Wander through Chinatown
Chinatown in San Francisco is the oldest Chinatown in North America. It's like stepping into another world as you browse the shops filled with herbs, produce, souvenirs, and Chinese artwork. Walking through the heart of Chinatown, you'll find colorful murals, markets packed with fresh fish and fruits, Chinese bakeries, and historic temples. Be sure to stop for a dim sum lunch or some boba milk tea as you explore Chinatown. It's very lively and vibrant - great for people watching!
Admire the Sea Lions at Pier 39
Pier 39 is a busy waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. However, the main attraction is the colony of sea lions that took over the floating docks. You can watch around 300 of these big marine mammals lounging, barking, and jostling for the best spot on the docks. It's common to see the sea lions napping in piles or playfully swimming around the bay. Observing them in their natural habitat is tons of fun for kids and adults alike.
Tour Alcatraz Island
For a unique history lesson, you can tour the infamous former prison of Alcatraz Island. Located in the middle of San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz once held some of America's most notorious criminals. Now you can visit the abandoned cell house for an audio tour narrated by former guards and prisoners. Wander by cells that once held Al Capone, view the recreation yard, and learn about the prison's notorious escape attempts. The ferry ride out to Alcatraz Island also provides amazing bay views. Just be sure to book your Alcatraz tour tickets well in advance since spots fill up.
Stroll through Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park offers lush gardens, trails, lakes, and attractions spread out over 1,000 acres. You can easily spend a whole day exploring the park. Stroll through the Japanese Tea Garden, one of the oldest public Japanese gardens in the US, and see pagodas, ponds, bonsai trees, and more. Or walk through the Conservatory of Flowers to see rare tropical plants. Other top things to do in Golden Gate Park include visiting the California Academy of Sciences natural history museum, seeing the herd of bison, and admiring the Dutch Windmills.
Check out the Sea Life at Aquarium of the Bay
Located at Pier 39, the Aquarium of the Bay is a great way to get up close with the marine life of San Francisco Bay. As you walk through the crystal clear tunnels, you will be surrounded by sharks, rays, jellyfish, and schools of fish swimming overhead. Be sure to check feeding times and try to catch the otters at play. Seeing the aquatic creatures native to the local bay waters diving and swimming around you is an unforgettable experience.
Take in the Views from Twin Peaks
For amazing views overlooking all of San Francisco, head to the top of Twin Peaks. This pair of 922 foot tall hills offers some of the best vantage points in the city. You can spot landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridge, Alcatraz, and downtown. The winding drive up and steep hike to the summit of Twin Peaks is well worth it for the breathtaking panoramas. Come at sunset for the most stunning views.
Explore the SFMOMA and Other Museums
If you appreciate art and culture, make sure to spend some time visiting San Francisco's fantastic museums. The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) has an impressive collection of modern and contemporary artworks. The de Young Museum in Golden Gate Park houses artwork covering different cultures and time periods. Other great museum options are the Legion of Honor, the Contemporary Jewish Museum, the Walt Disney Family Museum, and the Asian Art Museum.
Sample Local Foods at Ferry Building Marketplace
The Ferry Building Marketplace is a top place to sample an abundance of delicious local foods. Inside this converted ferry terminal, you'll find shops and stalls selling organic produce, artisanal cheeses, freshly baked breads, chocolates, and more. There are also many tasty eateries and restaurants featuring the best of Northern California cuisine. Pick up some picnic items or grab a bite while taking in the bay views. The Ferry Building offers an awesome taste of San Francisco flavors.
Relax at Dolores Park
Dolores Park is a popular recreational spot in the Mission District. This 21-acre urban park has lots of green space, tennis courts, a playground, and photo-worthy views of the city. It's the perfect place to spread out a blanket, relax in the sunshine, or toss around a frisbee. You'll often find locals picnicking and hanging out at Dolores Park on weekends. There's usually live music and a lively, welcoming vibe.
Conclusion
With its iconic landmarks, beautiful scenery, diverse neighborhoods, fantastic museums, and delicious cuisine, San Francisco has so much for visitors to see and do. Use this list to help you experience some of the top attractions and best things to do in San Francisco. Taking a cable car, admiring the Golden Gate Bridge, wandering through Chinatown, exploring Alcatraz, and relaxing at Dolores Park are just some of the many ways to enjoy this amazing city. Have the best time exploring the sights and sounds of San Francisco!