What You’ll Learn In This Blog
- Why San Francisco is worth more than a weekend visit
- Top attractions and activities for kids, couples, and young adults
- Family-friendly spots and intergenerational experiences
- Romantic date ideas and scenic sunset locations
- Hidden gems, street art, food festivals, and nightlife for young adults
- Best things to do after dark in San Francisco
- Popular Bay Area day trips worth adding to your itinerary
- Area-wise guide to where to stay, based on your travel style
- Essential local tips on transit, weather, and staying safe
- Insider insights to help you build a smooth, exciting itinerary
Introduction: Why SF Deserves More Than a Weekend
Planning a trip to San Francisco anytime soon? You’re definitely in for a swell time, considering how the city has diverse charms and attractions for you to explore. From walking tours to hidden places and fascinating travel experiences, there are plenty of things to do in San Francisco, as you’ll find.
The best part is that there are activities on offer for both kids and adults, while the city’s cultural attractions draw innumerable tourists throughout the year.
So, what are the best things to do in San Francisco on your next visit? It’s a multi-layered and diverse city as you’ll discover, encompassing the city itself and the wider Bay Area. From the stunning Golden Gate Bridge to Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, North Beach, and Alcatraz Island, you’ll find a lot of attractions to explore here. Book your stay in San Francisco early and visit all the attractions in comfort.
All the Things to Do in San Francisco: Here It Comes!
Get all the details you want below, right from vital data, accessibility, and local insider tips to the best attractions. On that note, let’s dive into all of these aspects and more.
Things to Do in San Francisco With Kids
There are innumerable places to visit in San Francisco with your kids. Of course, you can expect the little ones to have a lot of fun while in the city. Let’s look at some of these activities below.
1. Exploratorium
Your San Francisco what to see list should include the Exploratorium at Pier 15. You’ll all love this science museum with 650+ interactive exhibits and fabulous experiences for the whole family. You can get there with the F-Line streetcar that stops at Pier 15. Another option is to walk from the BART Embarcadero station (10-15 minutes).
Try visiting in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds, and if you’re feeling hungry, stop by the Ferry Building, which contains several cafes and restaurants. Entry is free at the museum for children under the age of three. Don’t miss the Tactile Dome for a unique visit and the After Dark program held every Thursday evening.
2. California Academy of Sciences
This is one of the top San Francisco attractions worth visiting, with its fabulous exhibits like the aquarium, rainforest, planetarium, and the natural history museum. Try visiting early in the morning on weekdays to bypass the crowds. You can also hop over to the Japanese Tea Garden, which offers a tranquil ambience and is walkable from here.
Don’t miss Claude, the albino alligator, and the all-digital experience offered by the Morrison Planetarium. The indoor rainforest has four storeys and is filled with butterflies, birds, and several exotic creatures.
3. Crissy Field + Warming Hut
When it comes to the top things to see in San Francisco, Crissy Field is a great place to take your kids, especially near the Warming Hut. You’ll love the fabulous Golden Gate Bridge views and picnic zone, along with the kite flying spots and beach.
Of course, it makes sense to arrive as early as you can, since the place fills up swiftly on the weekends. There’s free access here, and you will find delicious snacks at the Warming Hut along with a gift store and amazing beverages.
Family-Friendly Attractions for All Ages
There are tons of San Francisco Bay Area attractions that you will love exploring as a family. You’ll find amazing intergenerational experiences across most of these hotspots. For starters, you can check out the following:
- Golden Gate Park: You’ll have a ball exploring this massive park, with its Stow Lake row, playground, and the lovely Japanese Tea Garden.
- San Francisco Zoo: Families can expect a fun-filled day observing the diverse range of animal species and checking out the educational exhibits here.
- Ghirardelli Square & Cable Car: Nothing compares to the excitement of taking the famous cable car ride. Try taking it from California to avoid longer lines. At the same time, there’s the bonus of checking out the beautiful Ghirardelli Square, which is known for its tempting chocolate delights.
Best Things to Do in San Francisco for Couples
There are several places to visit in San Francisco for couples, including the following:
1. Sunset at Marshall’s Beach
This is a great place to get romantic with your better half! You’ll love the amazing views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the shimmering Pacific Ocean. Sunset is the ideal time to visit, considering the magical backdrop for lifetime photographs.
You can easily access the stretch by walking to Bluffs Trail along the Batteries or even from the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center. Capturing the bridge in the backdrop of the setting sun will give you a lifetime picture to treasure forever. Head past the rocks for the clearest view and the best photographic opportunities.
2. North Beach Dinner + Coit Tower Walk
Why not spend a relaxing evening at the North Beach? This is a famous Italian locality in San Francisco, where you can have a sumptuous dinner at Tony’s Pizza Napoletana or even Original Joe’s.
You can then enjoy a relaxing walk to Coit Tower with gorgeous views of the bay and city. The best time for the activity is around sunset or early evening. The tower offers gorgeous views, and you’ll also find it more practical to begin the walk from the North Beach center or Little Italy.
Go uphill to Coit Tower and pay the entrance fee before taking the stairs/elevator to the top. There are 40 steps in total, and you can descend and then return to North Beach for dinner. Seafood lovers should consider Fog Harbor Fish House and Betty Lou’s. For a fine dining experience, you can visit Bix or Hillstone, while casual offerings are available from joints like the Good Mong Kok Bakery.
3. Bay Sunset Cruise
If you’re a couple, don’t miss the opportunity to take a fabulous sunset cruise on the bay. Book in advance to avoid the last-minute rush and take eminently Instagrammable photographs of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the city skyline. You can depart from Fisherman’s Wharf or even Pier 39 with both outdoor and indoor seating options and scenic views to enjoy. Make sure you dress in layers, including closed-toed footwear, since it can get chilly while you’re out on the water.
Young Adult Must-Dos: Art, Food, and Culture
Now that you’ve got an idea of the family and child-friendly sides to San Francisco, let’s look at some of the top activities that young adults can indulge in.
- Mission Murals/Clarion Alley: You’ll love the colorful and vibrant art circuit in the Mission District, with the Clarion Alley, in particular, showcasing some spectacular murals. If you’re an art lover, this is where you should head!
- Thrifting in Haight, Ashbury: Do you love a good bargain? Discover fabulous vintage treasures and soak in the 1960s counterculture movement vibe at this place.
- Off the Grid Food Truck Festival: Have a blast with your loved ones every Friday at Fort Mason. You can feast on diverse treats and culinary delights from multiple food trucks here.
- Enjoying Live Music at the Chapel: Catch live performances happening at this iconic venue, which is famous for its wide range of acts.
- Hitting the City’s Top Bars: San Francisco is home to numerous popular bars that offer vibrant experiences for young adults. For starters, you can enjoy the stunning views of the city on the rooftop with amazing cocktails at El Techo. On the flipside, The Beehive is a mid-century cocktail bar that offers a classy and sophisticated experience.
What to Do in San Francisco at Night
Wondering what to do in San Francisco at night? Here are some of the most exciting things worth considering.
- Alcatraz Night Tour: Go on a thrilling tour of the infamous ex-prison, with evening programs, audio tours, and a lot more. Make sure you book tickets in advance and dress for cold weather on the island. Wear comfortable and durable shoes due to the uneven surfaces.
- Twin Peaks Lookout: You’ll fall in love with the panoramic city views from this point, along with the Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. You’ll find this an immensely photogenic spot to enjoy the beauty of the city at night.
- The Interval at Long Now: Feast on fabulous cocktails at this innovative museum cum bar, which focuses on technology, design, and science. Check out the amazing exhibits and have your share of nightly fun too!
Of course, while you’re out and about during the night, be alert of your surroundings, avoid areas like the Civic Center, and stick to populated and well-lit areas. It’s safer to take taxis or ride-sharing services.
San Francisco Bay Area Day Trips & Attractions
When it comes to San Francisco Bay Area attractions and trips, here are some choices that will bowl you over.
- Muir Woods: You can use the shuttle service to get here without parking hassles or even a taxi. Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid the crowds and enjoy the massive redwood trees. You’ll love the natural beauty on offer here.
- Sausalito: Take the ferry from San Francisco for a lovely ride over the bay. The fall and spring are the best times to visit. Go on a relaxing walk along the waterfront, check out the art galleries, have a delicious lunch with a stunning view, and explore the Bay Model.
- Half Moon Bay: Simply drive or take a taxi southward along the coast (Highway 1) and visit during the summer for whale watching and lovely weather. Have a ball on the beach and feast on sumptuous local seafood here.
- Point Reyes: It’s a great place to enjoy the coastline and its wonders. Check out the lighthouse and enjoy signature cheese tasting sessions at the famous Cowgirl Creamery. You can visit in the fall or spring for fewer crowds and better weather, driving north along Highway 1 and taking the Sir Francis Drake Boulevard.
Where to Stay in San Francisco (By Traveler Type)
Here are some of the top places to stay in San Francisco for different types of travellers.
- Families: Fisherman’s Wharf is an ideal option with its landmarks like the Aquarium of the Bay, Pier 39, and more. Marina is also a good place with its residential vibe, lovely Golden Gate Bridge views, and family-friendly atmosphere.
- Couples: Nob Hill is an excellent location worth considering, with its charming alleys and famous hotels, along with the popular restaurants all around. North Beach is another ideal option for couples due to its vibrant lifestyle, Italian flavors, and amazing cafes and eateries.
- Young Adults: The Mission District offers a colorful ambience with lovely murals, bars, eateries, and nightlife joints. Hayes Valley is also an option with its boutiques, galleries, and multiple dining choices.
- Budget: Japantown suits every budget with its affordable accommodation choices and access to fabulous Japanese delicacies. Union Square is a central hub with several places to stay at more affordable rates, along with shops and restaurants.
Essential Local Tips: Weather, Transit, Safety
When it comes to planning your San Francisco trip, here are some local tips worth noting.
- San Francisco sees microclimates, so be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and foggy weather. Carry a light jacket at all times.
- Get a Clipper card for public transportation access and avoid car rentals as much as you can to bypass the heavy traffic. The Clipper card will help you access BART, cable cars, and Muni easily.
- The rush hour is between 4-7 PM, and you should avoid it as much as possible.
- Don’t leave valuables behind in your car, even in the boot, and be cautious while walking in the dark.
Conclusion
So, as you can see, San Francisco has something to offer to every type of traveller. From families and children to young adults, the city has activities and attractions to attract everyone. Plan your trip and create a custom itinerary while booking your serviced apartments in advance for your stay. Love what San Francisco has to offer? Bookmark this article right away and share it with your network!
