More about: 79 Fun Things To Do in San Francisco
San Francisco is the most famous city on the west coast. Its famous bay is full of interesting places to visit: Sausalito, Carmel, Monterey, Pier 39... And of course, its authentic neighborhoods and parks in the center. I'm going to guide you through the best areas to see and how to do it: on foot, by bike, tram, or boat.
In this guide, I not only suggest the most urban activities such as gastronomic experiences, shopping, and museums, but also visits to the surrounding nature: giant redwoods, the impressive Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, and the relaxing landscapes of vineyards. Pack your bags, you're going to San Francisco!
1. Visit downtown on a hippie bus
In the 1960s, a large hippie movement began in San Francisco, reaching its peak in 1967 during the so-called Summer of Love. Today, the city still maintains its hippie spirit and colorful streets. This is especially evident in the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood. Don't miss the psychedelic murals, record stores, vintage clothing, and lots of cool shops.
If you want to immerse yourself in the best hippie vibes, I recommend taking this tour aboard a beautiful, flower-covered hippie bus that will take you through Haight-Ashbury and other authentic neighborhoods and show you the homes of Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin.
2. Discover nature on a grand scale
Yosemite National Park is located in Sierra Nevada, California. In the United States, everything seems to be bigger, right? In this case, that's true, and here you'll find the largest redwood trees you've ever seen. It's a real sight to behold.
To visit them, I recommend this guided tour that will take you to Yosemite in a small group, so everything will flow very easily. On this tour, you'll see the famous Bridalveil Falls and Tunnel View, a viewpoint from which you can see the most spectacular views of the entire Yosemite Valley.
3. Stroll through the coastal town of Sausalito
Sausalito is a charming neighborhood located by the sea. From there, you can enjoy beautiful views of the city. Strolling through its streets, you'll see colorful houses and lots of interesting shops. Oh, and don't forget to get some ice cream at Lapperts!
On the coast, you'll see the famous houseboats and can continue your walk along the sea if you stroll along Bridgeway Promenade and Sausalito Boardwalk. Keep an eye out, you might see seals.
It's worth mentioning that very close to Sausalito is Muir Woods, a natural park with spectacular redwood trees, and of course, Alcatraz, the famous prison built on an island.
4. Take a trip to Monterey and Carmel
Did you know that the 17-mile drive is considered one of the most beautiful routes in the world? If you take it, among many other things, you will see Monterey, a coastal town with a very attractive historic center. Cannery Row stands out, a complex of old fish canning factories that now houses markets and hotels, preserving its traditional style with a very picturesque result.
Another city you shouldn't miss is Carmel. It's a coastal neighborhood that looks like something out of a fairy tale. The city retains the style in which it was originally built. Don't miss Ocean Avenue, its most picturesque street. Plus, Carmel is only a 15-minute drive from Monterey, so visiting both is a great idea.
5. Visit the must-see sights on the tourist bus
San Francisco has a lot to offer: its picturesque neighborhoods such as the fishing area of Fisherman's Wharf and the hippie neighborhood of Haight-Ashbury. But you can also experience a completely different atmosphere in Little Italy or Chinatown.
If you want to cover these areas and much more without getting tired, I recommend this bus, which you can hop on and off as many times as you like. Travel in comfort while taking photos and learning about the history and culture of San Francisco.
If you want to know more, check out this article on the best sightseeing buses in San Francisco.
6. Spend a day in Wine Country
Did you know that California is a major wine producer? There are some nearby valleys whose climate is perfect for it. The best-known vineyard areas are Napa and Sonoma. This area is known as Wine Country. Among others, Merlot and Pinot Noir are produced there.
This area, apart from its beauty, is also known for its cuisine, restaurants, and luxury hotels. A recommended visit if you want to have a gourmet experience as well as spend a quiet day in nature and try the most famous local wine.
If you want to know more, check out this article on... the best wine tastings in San Francisco
7. Photograph the sunset from the best spots
San Francisco is one of the most recognizable cities in photographs and postcards, especially those featuring the Golden Gate Bridge, its hills traversed by cable cars, or its colorful houses, known as the painted ladies.
Once you're there, you'll surely want to take the best photos of the city. If you want some help to get great results, there's a guided tour that takes you to exactly those spots where you'll be able to capture the city from the best possible angle. You'll end up with a spectacular album.
8. Discover the impressive Muir Woods
San Francisco is not only a beautiful city, but it also has the privilege of being surrounded by beautiful green areas. One of them is Muir Woods, a forest of impressive redwood trees. Walking among them is an otherworldly experience.
It's a very easy and beautiful excursion from San Francisco. A good idea is to spend the morning in Muir Woods and then go to Sausalito for lunch, as it's very close by. It's a beautiful coastal neighborhood that you'll love.
If you want to know more, check out this article on excursions to Sausalito and Muir Woods from San Francisco
9. Travel back in time with Emperor Norton
Emperor Norton was not an emperor by law; he gave himself the title and signed the many letters he wrote to the city's newspapers in which he complained and proposed improvements for San Francisco. Although others did not take him very seriously, he became a respected and famous figure in his time.
There are many anecdotes and curiosities about him, and today you can learn about him almost firsthand. This is possible thanks to this tour, in which a guide dressed as Norton will offer you a unique historical tour that you will love.
10. Admire the giant redwoods
Giant sequoias are a symbol of California, as they only grow there. Their imposing size is due to the fact that they live for thousands of years and grow much faster than other trees. Walking among them is a moving and impressive experience, don't miss it!
If you want to know more, check out this article on the best National Parks near San Francisco
11. Have fun on a bike tour
The areas around the Golden Gate Bridge offer excellent views. Once you've taken your photos, you can explore the beautiful neighborhoods and parks of San Francisco: Castro, Mission district, Haight-Ashbury...
Would you like to explore them by bike? Here's a suggestion: take a guided tour that will take you to all these places and more, stopping to take the best photos and learn the most interesting facts. The bike is electric, so you won't get tired!
If you want to know more, check out this article on the best bike tours in San Francisco.
12. Discover Alcatraz from the inside
2.4 km off the coast lies what was once the most escape-proof prison in the world. Nicknamed The Rock, it closed in 1963 but is now open to visitors. It was said to be impossible to escape by swimming due to the cold and the sharks.
To visit the prison where Al Capone was held, I recommend a guided tour. There are many interesting anecdotes and facts to learn. Don't miss it!
If you want to know more, check out this article on... how to visit Alcatraz
13. Visit Armstrong Redwoods State Park
There are spectacular green areas north of San Francisco. One of them is Armstrong Redwoods State Park, located in Sonoma County, which is an area that preserves giant redwood trees.
Sonoma is also a very beautiful area with vineyards and wineries. To visit this area, I recommend a tour that combines Armstrong Redwoods State Park with a visit to the vineyards and wineries in a small group, so you can enjoy a quality excursion.
14. Take a night bus tour
San Francisco is a very colorful city during the day with its blue sea, red bridge, and picturesque streets. At night, these colors are replaced by lights, offering a very beautiful view.
Would you like to take a night tour to see the city in a different way? I recommend this one aboard a bus that will take you through the most beautiful areas. You'll love it!
If you want to know more, check out this article on what to see and do in San Francisco at night
15. Enjoy a private tour of Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is a huge lake located between California and Nevada, with crystal clear waters and a beautiful horizon of pine trees and mountains. Due to its imposing appearance, it has been the setting for films such as The Godfather II, Top Gun: Maverick, The Bodyguard, City of Angels, and dozens more.
At any time of year, you can enjoy sports on or near the lake or stroll along its beautiful shore. Don't miss it! If you want to visit, I recommend this private day tour in a luxury vehicle, tailored to what you want to see or do.
16. Be amazed by Jay Alexander's magic show
Jay Alexander is a very famous mentalist in the United States. His performances include magic, comedy, mentalism, and amazing tricks. His show, at the Marrakech Magic Theater, a speakeasy-style venue with Arabic aesthetics, is highly regarded.
If you want the opportunity to see him in an intimate show, I recommend booking your tickets in advance, as it is a highly rated event. Buy them here and enjoy an hour of close-up magic before the show, plus you can try the venue's Arabic specialties.
17. Enjoy a gourmet dinner on a cruise
Hundreds of boats pass under the most recognizable bridge and one of the 7 wonders of the world every day. Seeing the bay from the sea is a luxury you can't miss.
If, in addition to sailing, you are looking for a gourmet experience, I recommend this dinner with local ingredients on board a cruise ship while watching the sunset. If you have an anniversary or birthday to celebrate or simply want to treat yourself, this is the one for you!
18. Solve the clues in the Escape Room
During the gold rush, between 1848 and 1855, you had to hurry to get to the mountains of California and try to get as much as possible. Word spread quickly, and people from other cities in the United States and other countries rushed to get there.
Would you like to know how you would have fared during this era? You can find out in this themed Escape Room. You can play at solving clues to find gold, escape from prison, and other missions. Show what you know!
19. Delve into Yosemite National Park
Yosemite Valley is a national park east of San Francisco known for Mounts El Capitan and Half Dome, which are very recognizable on the horizon. There, nature is wild and grand. Highlights include Bridalveil Fall and, above all, the enormous, centuries-old redwood trees.
Get your camera out and get ready to take it all in from Tunnel View, the best vantage point for seeing Yosemite in all its glory. If you want to explore it in depth, I recommend this full-day tour that will take you to the most beautiful spots. It's well worth it!
If you want to know more, check out this article on 4 Best Day Trips to Yosemite from San Francisco
20. Open a fortune cookie in Chinatown
San Francisco's Chinatown is a neighborhood that has been established for many years and has great character and personality. Are you craving Chinese food? Stroll through its streets, where you'll find the best Asian cuisine in its restaurants and shops.
You'll quickly recognize it by the Dragon Gate, which marks the beginning of the neighborhood and is one of the places where you can't miss taking a photo. If you want to learn all the ins and outs of the neighborhood, I recommend this guided tour. You'll be surprised.
If you want to know more, check out this article about 14 Best Things to Do In Chinatown, San Francisco
21. Hop on a Segway and explore the city
As you tour San Francisco Bay, you'll pass by the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman's Wharf, a charming fishing neighborhood, among other interesting spots. There you can try their famous clam chowder served in a bread bowl.
There are many other interesting things to see along the bay. To find out everything and not get tired, I recommend this guided Segway tour. You'll have fun touring the bay and stopping at recommended places.
22. Take a luxury catamaran tour
Sailing under the Golden Gate Bridge is a highly recommended experience, as you'll have the most beautiful views of the city, you can relax to the sound of the sea, and see the sea lions. If you'd like to venture into these cold but calm waters, I recommend doing so by catamaran. You'll have a wonderful experience.
23. Enjoy the best views by helicopter
The sheer size and color of the Golden Gate Bridge make it one of the great icons of the city of San Francisco. Together with its beautiful bay and colorful buildings, they make this city a highly recognizable postcard image.
Can you imagine having the opportunity to fly and see it from above? It's actually very feasible to do so, and I suggest this helicopter tour. You'll enjoy unique views and it will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience.
24. Embark on an LGBT tour in Castro
Harvey Milk was the first person in political office to speak openly about his homosexuality and fight for LGBT rights in the 1970s. Since then, San Francisco, which was already a very open city, has been a strong champion of this movement.
The Castro neighborhood is a great example of sexual diversity. If you want to learn more about the process of achieving equality, its obstacles, and achievements, I recommend this tour, where you will learn and have fun. You will also get to know the beautiful streets of the Castro neighborhood.
25. Fly over San Francisco in an immersive experience
The Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, San Francisco Bay... These are all iconic landmarks of the city that can be seen from different viewpoints around the city, as they are best enjoyed from above.
Would you like to see them all in a different way? I suggest The Flyer, an immersive experience in which you will fly over the city without leaving your seat. An activity recommended for all ages, in which you will enjoy a very special ride.
26. Enjoy contemporary art at the de Young Museum
The de Young Museum is an art museum located within the impressive Golden Gate Park. This museum is well known among contemporary art lovers and houses pieces from America, Africa, and Oceania.
In addition to enjoying its three floors of exhibitions, you can go up to the observatory and enjoy a 360-degree view of San Francisco. Get your tickets in advance, which also include admission to the Legion of Honor fine arts museum.
If you want to know more, check out this article about the de Young Museum: tickets, guided tours, prices, etc.
27. Sail aboard a cruise ship
There are many beautiful and interesting sights to see in the bay, both on foot and from the water. From the pier, you can take a ferry, pass under the Golden Gate Bridge, and reach Alcatraz while seeing the beautiful neighborhoods along the coast.
Keep your eyes peeled because you may see whales, pelicans, and sea lions. Are you going to miss it?
If you want to know more, check out this article on boat trips in San Francisco
28. Try the menu at Hard Rock Café
If you walk along the harbor, you'll find several fish and seafood stalls, and at Pier 39, you'll come across the Hard Rock Café restaurant. It has been open in this idyllic location since 1984.
Not only is the collection of musical memorabilia worth a visit, but the food is also delicious. Whether you're someone who collects visits to the Hard Rock in every city you go to or not, you can't miss the one in San Francisco. Reserve your menu in advance and enjoy the world's most famous music café.
29. Be amazed by a nighttime visit to the Academy of Sciences
The California Academy of Sciences is a world-renowned natural history museum. Among its many attractions are the planetarium, the aquarium, and a large tropical dome.
This visit is interesting for all types of people and ages. I also suggest a different kind of plan: a nighttime visit where you can enjoy special activities and screenings. It's sure to be a unique night out on the town!
If you want to know more, check out this article on tickets to the California Academy of Sciences.
30. Take a complete tour of the bay
One of San Francisco's great attractions is its bay. There are many interesting areas to see along it. For example, Sausalito, a colorful and welcoming coastal town known for its houseboats. On the other hand, there is the fishing district of Fisherman's Wharf and, very close by, Muir Woods, an impressive national park.
In short, the bay is one of those iconic places that is definitely worth visiting, as there are many interesting sights and stories to discover. To do so, I recommend this comprehensive tour that will take you to the places I have mentioned and more. You'll love it!
31. Try the ghost tour
In the city of San Francisco, there are, of course, famous ghosts, unsolved mysteries, and legends. Museums, hotels, and alleys are the main settings for these stories.
Would you like to explore this other side of the city? The best way to do so is with an expert guide who will tell you chilling (and some funny) stories and take you to the places where they happened. It will also help you learn more about the city's history.
32. Drive a GoCar around the city
San Francisco's steep streets are well known. They look beautiful in photos, but going up and down them while trying to visit the city is another matter.
An alternative way to see the city on wheels without getting tired is to rent a GoCar. It's a mini car for one or two people with GPS that will guide you to the city's landmarks while telling you interesting facts as you drive around. A very practical and super fun activity.
If you want to know more, check out this article from... Go Car Tours in San Francisco
33. Stop by the Mission District
The Mission neighborhood is very picturesque. If you walk around, you'll be struck by its murals and shops. Stop by Valencia Street, a street well known for its quirky shops, and Dolores Park, a park with incredible views of the city.
In addition, due to its large Spanish-speaking population, the Latin character is evident in its restaurants. In fact, that's where the famous Mission Burrito comes from. If you consider yourself a food lover, I recommend this tour where you can enjoy the most Latin flavors of the Mission and, of course, its burrito.
34. Enjoy the great Legion of Honor art museum
The Legion of Honor Museum in San Francisco has been an important and renowned fine arts museum since 1924. It is housed in an imposing building with beautiful views that was built as a tribute to American soldiers who died in World War I.
The museum houses European paintings by artists such as Monet and Gauguin, as well as sculptures, prints, and books from all periods. If you want to visit, you can buy your ticket in advance and also get access to the de Young Museum.
35. Enjoy a wine tasting in nature
Sonoma County is part of the San Francisco Bay Area. It has a valley and a plain with lots of vineyards and wineries. It's a beautiful, peaceful countryside surrounded by mountains that's well worth a visit.
If you want to visit the area and go wine tasting, I recommend this tour. It lasts all day and includes transportation, a guided tour, tasting, a visit to the wineries, and a stop in the historic center of Sonoma.
36. Cheer on the Oakland Athletics at a baseball game
The Oakland Athletics are a baseball team, that great American sport. They started in 1901 and play at the Ring Central Coliseum. The stadium is located in Oakland, which can be reached by crossing the Oakland Bay Bridge, better known as the Bay Bridge.
Are you up for this trip to see them play? Book your tickets in advance. You're guaranteed an exciting atmosphere, you'll see!
37. Take a food tour in Little Italy
Little Italy is located north of San Francisco in North Beach. This neighborhood was formed with the arrival of Italian immigrants and has maintained the character of their country. You'll notice this in the architecture and, above all, in the restaurants.
It's a charming neighborhood with delicious cuisine. If you love trying new foods wherever you go, this is the place for you. Book a guided tour that will take you to sample the best Italian specialties, both savory and sweet.
38. See movie locations
San Francisco has been the setting for many films and series, including Mrs. Doubtfire, Vertigo, Star Trek IV, and Full House. Its steep streets, the Golden Gate Bridge, the bay, and other historic sites are ideal backdrops for storytelling.
If you want to know everything about the films that have been shot in San Francisco, I recommend this tour, which will take you to the places where scenes were filmed and also tell you interesting facts about the recordings.
39. Visit the painted houses
San Francisco is a very colorful city. Here are a few examples: the Hayes Valley neighborhood with its beautiful shops and cafes, the famous row of painted ladies, the lights of Chinatown **...**The city is a kaleidoscope!
To visit these beautiful areas, as well as other highly recommended ones, I suggest taking this tour aboard a vintage bus to the rhythm of songs from the 60s and 70s, where, traffic permitting, you will also drive down Lombard Street, the most winding street in the world.
40. Cheer on the 49ers from the stands
The San Francisco 49ers are the American football team that plays at Levi's Stadium. Their name refers to those who came to seek gold during the gold rush in 1849. The team was founded exactly 100 years later, so they decided on this name as a tribute.
Watching a game is always exciting, but even more so in the United States. Bigger and more spectacular, it is an adrenaline-filled and fun experience. It's easy to make it happen, just book your tickets for the 49ers here.
41. Immerse yourself in the city's aquarium
Pier 39 is home to the San Francisco Aquarium. It mainly showcases local fish, and you can also see the seabed through a system of tunnels. You'll also have the chance to see cute otters and an impressive display of luminescent jellyfish.
If you want to know more, check out this article on the San Francisco Aquarium: tickets, prices, guided tours, etc.
42. Explore the neighborhoods in a retro van
San Francisco has many neighborhoods worth exploring, each with its own character. There is a wide variety of styles: the financial district, the fishing district, the hippie district, Chinatown, Little Italy... You have to see them all to understand San Francisco!
To explore these neighborhoods and more, I recommend a guided tour aboard a retro Volkswagen van that will take you through no less than 14 districts. The perfect complement to complete your experience of the city!
43. Attend a basketball game with the Golden State Warriors
The Golden State Warriors are San Francisco's basketball team, playing at the Chase Center, and one of the strongest teams in the world! Seeing them in San Francisco is guaranteed to be an exciting experience.
I recommend buying your tickets in advance so you can enjoy a real basketball game like the ones you've seen so many times in the movies. You'll love it!
44. Learn and enjoy at the Exploratorium
The Exploratorium is a museum that brings together many disciplines: technology, science, art... But above all, it is characterized by its educational and interactive nature. That is why it has become one of the most highly rated and recognized science museums in the world.
If you want to have fun and learn at this museum, you can book your tickets here. It is also an ideal plan if you are going with your family.
45. Enjoy brunch on a cruise under the Golden Gate Bridge
Every day, hundreds of boats pass under the Golden Gate Bridge for water sports and leisure. It's no wonder, as the views of the bay and the bridge from the water are unbeatable.
Would you like to sail under the most iconic bridge and take the best photos? Here's an idea: a 2-hour cruise where you can also enjoy a brunch buffet while taking in the views.
46. Discover the cuisine of North Beach
North Beach is home to the Italian neighborhood of Little Italy. It's a very picturesque area, perfect for strolling and ideal for sampling the local cuisine. Trattorias, cafes, pastry shops... As you can imagine, the streets smell incredible.
If you want to discover the best places to eat, I recommend this tasting tour, where you'll not only sample dishes and drinks, but also learn about the history of the neighborhood and the influence of Italian food on American cuisine.
47. Sign up to see a baseball game with the San Francisco Giants
Baseball as a sport began in the United States, hence the great enthusiasm for it. The San Francisco Giants are a San Francisco baseball team since 1883, playing at Oracle Park.
If you want to have a truly American experience, why not attend a San Francisco Giants game? If you don't understand baseball, don't worry, the rules are very easy and the atmosphere at the stadium will be enough to make it a great experience.
48. Get to know San Francisco through its food
The Latin influence is quite noticeable in several areas, one of which is the Mission District, a neighborhood with lots of color and personality. Here's an interesting fact: it has a microclimate and is usually sunnier and warmer than other neighborhoods in San Francisco.
Another feature is its wide range of bars and restaurants. If you want to try the food in the most chic places, I recommend this tour. You'll sample a special menu and hear stories about the neighborhood told by the chefs.
If you're a true foodie, check out this article on the best food tours in San Francisco.
49. Return to childhood at the Walt Disney Museum
Did you know that there is a Walt Disney museum in San Francisco? It is not a theme park. It is a large and select collection of objects, drawings, and projections that tell the story of the artist's evolution.
A very entertaining and magical visit for all ages. To visit, it is best to buy tickets in advance and avoid the lines.
If you want to know more, check out this article about the Walt Disney Museum in San Francisco: everything you need to know
50. Discover the vineyards of Napa
San Francisco has large vineyards and its wine is well known. These areas are mainly the Napa and Sonoma valleys. These vineyard landscapes are very beautiful and peaceful, perfect for changing pace, letting your gaze wander to the horizon, and relaxing with a good wine.
If you want a gourmet experience, I recommend a guided tour that takes you to these places. You will stroll among vineyards and taste the most highly rated wines.
If you want to know more, check out this article on Excursions to Napa from San Francisco
51. Cross the Golden Gate
The Golden Gate, this imposing 2.7 km long bridge, has become the symbol of the city. Did you know that it is one of the 7 wonders of the world? Once you are there, crossing it is a must, as it will give you beautiful views of the city.
There is a pedestrian and bike lane, so you can cross it on foot or rent a bike at Fisherman's Wharf.
52. Drive down the zigzag Lombard Street
Lombard Street is known as the most winding street in the United States. This is because a section of it, on Russian Hill, has an unusual number of curves. But of course, how else could such a steep hill be climbed?
From below, you can take the most beautiful photos and admire this curious zigzag, which has been the setting for films such as Vertigo. Drive or walk along the sidewalk to explore it.
53. Discover the city's oasis, Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park is a huge rectangular park full of surprises. Here you can find smaller themed gardens and even wild animals. When the weather is good, it's common to find music.
Come in and discover its hidden corners; you'll see that it has a lot to offer. Within the park itself are the California Academy of Sciences and the de Young Museum. The park is so large that there are minibuses to help you get around.
54. Enjoy contemporary art at the Museum of Modern Art
Many artists choose San Francisco as their home because it is a very stimulating city in this regard and is also home to many art museums and galleries. One of the most notable is the Museum of Modern Art.
Open since 1935, it hosts around twenty exhibitions and has interesting spaces that are not to be missed, such as its rooftop garden.
You can find out more at this link
55. Stroll among the magnolias in the Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden is located within Golden Gate Park. It is known for its large magnolia exhibition. Not only can you admire its collection of plants, but there are also activities such as concerts, meditation, yoga, and much more.
Check out the program here and attend an activity like a local.
56. See the city from Twin Peaks
Twin Peaks, as its name suggests, are two twin mountains located in the center of San Francisco. This makes it one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the city.
It is easily accessible on foot, by car, or by public transportation. Don't miss the experience of sitting on a bench with the city at your feet and taking the best photos.
57. Have fun at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom
Six Flags Discovery Kingdom is located in Vallejo, California, about a 30-minute drive from San Francisco. This park has it all, with animals on one side and attractions on the other. Among them is the Batman roller coaster.
In addition, depending on the season, there are special events, recommended for both children and adults. Fun is guaranteed!
Get your tickets and check out the event schedule at this link.
58. Discover the spectacular Grace Cathedral
is an imposing cathedral both inside and out. Its French neo-Gothic architecture will remind you of European cathedrals. Don't miss its interior, illuminated by colored light from its large stained-glass windows. There's also a surprise inside: a mystical maze. I can't tell you any more, you'll have to see it for yourself.
59. Have fun at the San Francisco Zoo
The San Francisco Zoo is located in the southwest of the city. You can get there on foot or by public transport. It is not a large zoo, but it is very well maintained.
Each species is in a habitat similar to its original one. Penguin Island, the tropical zone, food stalls, and the surrounding gardens are some of the attractions that will make for a very entertaining day.
60. Go up and down the hills by tram
Another of San Francisco's icons is its cable cars. They are essential for going up and down the hills that characterize the city. They are also very attractive! There is no postcard without them.
There is one in particular that has a route through the most emblematic places. It is line F, and the route starts at Union Square. Hop on the cable car to travel like a true San Francisco citizen.
61. Be amazed at the 3D Museum of Illusions
In a city as exciting as San Francisco , a 3D Museum of Illusions is a must . These illusions will play with your senses and trick your perception. Have fun and take photos in impossible settings. It's next to the beautiful Fisherman's Wharf neighborhood, so stop by and enjoy yourself.
62. Listen to the sound of the sea at Wave Organ
Since the sea has such an important presence in San Francisco, some artists took advantage of this to build an instrument-sculpture called the Wave Organ.
It is based on the structure of an organ and serves to capture and transform the sound of the sea (you will hear it better at high tide). From there you will also have good views of Alcatraz and San Francisco. A curious and relaxing activity.
63. Travel back in time at the Musee Mecanique
Located at Pier 45 in Fisherman's Wharf, the Mechanical Museum is a real fantasy to see. It was founded in 1933 and since then has exhibited machines and artifacts from all eras. A very interesting and entertaining visit for all ages.
64. Meet the famous at Madame Tussauds
One of the most important wax museums in the world is Madame Tussauds. There is not just one museum; it now has branches in major cities around the world. In addition to hundreds of figures of famous people, it also includes recreations of movie scenes.
The San Francisco museum is located at Fisherman's Wharf. It's a visit you won't want to miss. You'll have a great time and be able to take lots of movie-like photos.
65. Walk along Land's End Lookout by the sea
Lands End Lookout is a nature park located in a very quiet area by the sea . There is a visitor center with information and a path to walk along the sea and the rocks.
It has two big advantages: it is not as busy as other parks in the city and it offers beautiful views. On the same visit, you can include Sutro Baths, which were indoor public swimming pools built in 1896, the largest of their time.
66. Walk along its beaches
Don't just look at them, in San Francisco there are several beaches where you can sunbathe, picnic, or stroll. One of them is Baker Beach, which offers a privileged view of the Golden Gate Bridge.
You also have these beaches that are easily accessible from the city: Ocean Beach, China Beach, and Marshall's Beach. Don't be fooled by the heat, the water is usually cold!
67. Spend a magical day at Fairyland
Are you traveling with children? You're in luck. San Francisco is a city with many attractions for children, and they will generally be very happy as there are interesting attractions throughout the city, parks, and gardens.
One of the best attractions is undoubtedly Fairyland. It's in Oakland, which you can easily reach by car or public transportation. As you might imagine, it's full of attractions, events, activities, and animals. The little ones won't want to go home!
68. Have a picnic in Mission Dolores Park
One of the favorite parks of San Francisco residents is Mission Dolores Park, located next to Castro, where they often go to play sports, relax, or have a picnic.
Located slightly higher up, it offers beautiful views of the city. Be sure to visit for a very local experience and to enjoy its lively atmosphere.
69. Discover Asian art at the Asian Art Museum
In such a cosmopolitan city, there is no shortage of museums and attractions from other countries. One example is the Asian Art Museum, one of the most important museums of Asian art. It offers a wide-ranging collection of paintings, objects, sculptures, and much more to learn about Asian history, culture, and art. A highly recommended visit.
70. Discover the attractions of Pier 39
Pier 39 is a very special place. Located in Fisherman's Wharf, it has lots of interesting shops and restaurants serving local seafood. The aquarium and Hard Rock Café are also located there.
But there's a surprise: you can see the sea lions that live there swimming or lying around on the pier.
71. Treat yourself at the Ferry Building Marketplace
The Ferry Building Market is located by the sea and is known for its many stalls selling high-quality local and artisanal products. Did you know that the large clock tower that characterizes it is inspired by the Giralda in Seville?
It's a great place to stop for a drink and, as its name suggests, it's also the ferry terminal. While you're there, you can take a ferry to Sausalito.
72. Ghirardelli, only for chocolate lovers
In Ghirardelli Square, located in the north of the city, you'll find something truly delicious. Let me explain why: here you'll find Ghirardelli, a well-known chocolate shop.
As well as chocolate, it's also an ice cream shop. You'll be amazed by the flavors and combinations on offer. Apart from ice cream, there are many other chocolate products and sweets. It's well worth trying. If the weather is nice, go out to the plaza and enjoy it in the sun.
73. Take a photo of the colorful stairs
In a city with so many hills, it's to be expected that there will be several flights of stairs. It's no surprise that in a city with as many artists as San Francisco, they have been used as urban artworks.
The 16th Avenue staircase has 163 steps finished in brightly colored mosaics. In addition to this one, there are other decorated staircases throughout the city. Luckily, you don't have to climb them to admire their artistry; they photograph beautifully from below. Don't miss them!
74. Do crafts with your family at the Children's Creativity Museum
In a city as artsy as San Francisco, there's no shortage of inspiration. Did you know about this museum-workshop for children? It offers art and multimedia so they can create freely and express themselves. They'll have a blast doing crafts there.
Get your tickets for the Children's Creativity Museum
75. Lose yourself in the most psychedelic mirror maze
There's a really fun hidden attraction at Pier 39. It's the Magowan's Infinite Mirror Maze. It recreates a psychedelic experience that you can walk through freely.
Spread your arms and find your way to the exit while you marvel at the colors. The entire space is lit with neon lights, making it a super cool sensory experience. Recommended for all ages.
Get your tickets for the Children's Creativity Museum
76. Walk along the romantic eucalyptus path
San Francisco isn't just home to giant, centuries-old redwood trees. Less well known but just as beautiful is the Eucalyptus Path. It is the work of artist Andy Goldsworthy.
It is a winding path flanked entirely by these trees, giving it a mysterious and romantic feel.
Would you like to take a stroll along it? You can find more information at this link.
77. Visit the Japanese Garden
You can find many references to Eastern culture: Chinatown, the Asian Art Museum, and I'm also going to tell you about a hidden gem: the tea garden.
It is located in Golden Gate Park and has existed since 1894, when it was built as a Japanese tea house. Its ponds, pagodas, and bridges will transport you to Japan for a while. An ideal place to have tea and relax.
78. Go shopping at the pirate store
San Francisco has lots of unusual shops. One very curious shop is the pirate shop. It has all kinds of products for pirates, both old and modern. A surprising and very different collection for buying souvenirs and gifts.
79. Get your City Pass and access the city's attractions
If you're going to San Francisco, plan your itinerary well, as there's a lot to see. This city is home to some of the world's most important museums and attractions that you won't want to miss.
If you want to see several of them, I recommend you take a look at the city pass, as it guarantees you entry to several attractions in the city and will work out cheaper than individual tickets.
If you want to know more, check out this article on the San Francisco Pass and other passes