25 Iconic Things to Do in San Francisco

This post contains a list of 25 iconic things to do in San Francisco. This list includes popular attractions such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf, Haight-Ashbury, and This list contains paid for and free activities to do across town.  

I recently had the opportunity to explore the city of San Francisco and managed to pack in a lot of iconic things to do in just a few days. What an incredible city to get excited about!

My complete memories of San Francisco come from episodes of That’s So Raven, Charmed, Princess Diaries, and Dirty Harry. Naturally, I BELIEVED I got the vibe. Even though most of those weren’t really filmed in SF.

Nevertheless coming to San Fran was an awesome experience! From the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the bustling streets of Chinatown, San Francisco is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.

This list pretty much covers the main tourist sites and a few fun extras. So strap your walking shoes on and take in as much of Frisco city as you can with this list of 25 iconic things to do.

Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge

Enjoy a scenic stroll across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, taking in breathtaking views of the city and the bay. The walk takes about 30 mins one way.

Walking across the Golden Gate Bridge is a popular activity for visitors to San Francisco. The bridge spans the Golden Gate Strait, connecting the city to Sausalito.

Walking across the bridge allows you to enjoy breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay, the city skyline, and the Pacific Ocean.

It’s a great way to experience the iconic bridge up close and take memorable photos. If you stop walking to take some pictures or take in the view, you can definitely feel the bridge swaying and bouncing a bit.

Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island

Explore the infamous former prison, now managed under the National Park Service, Alcatraz Island, and learn about its intriguing history on a guided audio tour.

The tickets are about $53.25 USD per adult and the audio tour is included. The tour helps you explore the prison cells, learn about the infamous inmates and their escape attempts, and the island’s fascinating history.

You can spend an entire day on the island if you want, you just have to hop back on a ferry. The ferries run every 30 minutes from the island. It’s only about a 10-15 minute boat ride.

If you’re looking to snap a good picture, grab a seat on the top deck near the front of the boat or on the lower deck at the front (beware of splashback if on the lower deck). If you’re looking for a rest, there are more seats and tables on the lower deck inside the cabin. There’s also a food stand inside if you’re in need of a snack (the pretzels were pretty good!).

Check out the Alcatraz Island website to buy tickets in advance here.

Alcatraz Island is a historic site that once housed a federal prison and is now a popular tourist destination. To reach the island, you can take a ferry from Pier 33. The ferry ride provides scenic views of the city skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Explore Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39

Fisherman’s Wharf is a lively waterfront district in San Francisco known for its seafood restaurants, street performers, souvenir shops, and sea lion colony. It’s the ultimate tourist spot in SF but it’s classic.

Pier 39 is a popular attraction within Fisherman’s Wharf, offering a variety of entertainment options, including an aquarium, a carousel, and stunning views of the Bay. You can also catch a glimpse of the resident sea lions lounging on the docks.

The sea lions are super cute!

Visit Ghirardelli Square

Ghirardelli Square is a historic chocolate factory turned shopping and dining complex located further along the Embarcadero past Fisherman’s Wharf. It’s known for its iconic Ghirardelli chocolate and offers a range of shops and eateries where you can indulge in delicious treats.

Don’t miss the opportunity to savour a decadent chocolate sundae or purchase some delectable chocolates to take home.

The square looks beautiful at night and is magnificently lit up! Grab some ice cream and take a seat in the square or at the waterfront directly opposite.

Chill in the park by the Palace of Fine Arts

The Palace of Fine Arts is a stunning architectural masterpiece located in the Presidio by Golden Gate Bridge and in the Marina District past Ghirardelli Square.

It’s a bit of a hidden treasure!

The surrounding park offers a tranquil retreat where you can relax, have a picnic, or take a leisurely stroll. The picturesque setting, complete with a beautiful lagoon and lush greenery, makes it an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy the scenery.

Visit the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

Immerse yourself in contemporary art at the renowned San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA), featuring an impressive collection of modern and contemporary works.

The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is one of the largest modern and contemporary art museums in the United States. It houses an impressive collection of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, and media arts.

The museum features works by renowned artists such as Frida Kahlo, Jackson Pollock, Andy Warhol, and many local artists from SF and Oakland.

SFMOMA offers a diverse range of exhibitions, educational programs, and interactive installations that provide visitors with a comprehensive experience of modern and contemporary art.

The 2nd level is free to visitors, and take a load off on SFMOMA’s collection of bean bag chairs in the lobby (they are super comfy).

Check out Coit Tower on Telegraph Hill

Climb up or take a ride to Telegraph Hill and visit Coit Tower for panoramic views of the city skyline, the bay, and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Coit Tower is a historic landmark located offering panoramic views of San Francisco. Fun fact! It was actually created by a rich heiress to make SF more beautiful.

Inside the tower, you can also admire the murals that depict various scenes of San Francisco’s history.

If you’re planning to walk to Telegraph Hill, make sure you bring some water for the hike!

Check out the Transamerica Pyramid

The Transamerica Pyramid is an iconic skyscraper that stands tall in the heart of San Francisco’s Financial District.

The apex of the pyramid is adorned with a red beacon, which serves as a navigation aid for aircraft in the area. The beacon is visible at night and adds to the building’s distinctiveness.

The pyramid has appeared in various films, TV shows, and other forms of media. It is often used as a symbol of San Francisco and is instantly recognizable to many around the world.

While access to the building’s interior is limited, you can admire its unique architecture from the street and appreciate its contribution to San Francisco’s skyline.

Ride a cable car

San Francisco’s cable cars are an iconic symbol of the city. The cable cars operate on three lines, and you can hop on at various locations throughout the city. It’s a great way to explore the hilly streets of San Francisco while enjoying the unique charm of these historic vehicles.

You can buy tickets from the Muni App, which you can find under the Transit system section in Apple Wallets. You can also buy tickets at the kiosks at Bay and Taylor, Hyde and Beach, and Presidio at Geary Boulevard.

The cable cars get busy during the weekends, and summer months. Try boarding at one of the stops further along the route to catch a car if it’s a busy day. The transit operators will be yelling and limiting people in the cars.

It was a slower ride than I expected, especially up the hills! But still super fun and wicked. If you’re looking for an alternative try riding the vintage streetcar down the Embarcadero.

Take a walk through Chinatown

You can take a cable car to the next item on this list Chinatown! San Francisco’s Chinatown is the largest Chinatown outside of Asia and a vibrant neighbourhood full of history and culture.

Exploring its bustling streets, colourful storefronts, and aromatic food markets is a delightful experience.

You can visit traditional Chinese temples, browse through shops selling unique items, and savour delicious Chinese cuisine in authentic restaurants. Chinatown is practically on a hill so remember to use your glutes as you make your way through the neighbourhood.

Visit the WWII Museum in Chinatown

The Chinese Historical Society of America Museum, located in San Francisco’s Chinatown, houses an exhibition dedicated to World War II and its impact on Chinese Americans.

The museum offers a unique perspective on the experiences of Chinese Americans during the war, showcasing artifacts, photographs, and personal stories. It provides valuable insights into the contributions and struggles of this community.

Explore the Ferry Building

The Ferry Building is a historic landmark situated on the Embarcadero waterfront. It houses a bustling marketplace with a wide variety of local food vendors, specialty shops, and restaurants.

You can sample artisanal teas, freshly baked bread, ice cream and locally sourced produce while enjoying beautiful views of the bay.

The market is great inside! Lots of food options, and shops, and there are washrooms and seating.

Buy fruit from a street vendor

Throughout San Francisco, you’ll find street vendors selling fresh fruit, especially in busy areas like downtown or popular tourist spots. It’s a refreshing and healthy snack option to enjoy while exploring the city.

You can choose from a variety of seasonal fruits, such as strawberries, watermelon, mango or pineapple. It’s topped with lime juice, and you can ask for Tajin seasoning if you like it spicy!

Ride a scooter, moped, or bike around town

Exploring San Francisco’s downtown area on a scooter, moped, or bike can be a thrilling way to navigate the city.

I suggest downloading Revel, Spin and Lime apps to access scooters, mopeds, and bikes, around town.

You can zip through the streets, visit different neighbourhoods, and discover hidden gems at your own pace. Helmets are included for mopeds and bikes, but not scooters.

Also, there are usually discount deals on the apps for certain trips, and you can get cash-back deals if you park in the green zones!

Check out the Painted Ladies

The Painted Ladies refer to a row of colourful Victorian and Edwardian houses located across from Alamo Square Park.

These beautifully restored houses are a quintessential San Francisco sight, often photographed with the city skyline as a backdrop.

You can admire their ornate architectural details and capture postcard-worthy photos of these iconic homes in the park. I had a picnic and took a bit of a nap in here, it was nice and relaxing.

If you keep moving west from Alamo Square, you’ll happen upon San Fran’s notorious Haigh-Ashbury neighbourhood.

Explore the historic Haight-Ashbury neighbourhood

Haight-Ashbury is renowned for its association with the 1960s counterculture movement, and it continues to embody a bohemian and eclectic atmosphere. The neighbourhood is filled with unique shops, vintage clothing stores, record shops, and funky boutiques.

You can browse through a wide array of retro clothing, psychedelic posters, vinyl records, and one-of-a-kind accessories while immersing yourself in the neighbourhood’s rich history. The Tibetan shops have very beautiful clothes, and there are a few vintage and artistic tye-dye stores along the street.

Haight-Ashbury was home to numerous influential musicians, artists, and writers during the 1960s, including Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, and Allen Ginsberg. The neighbourhood became a hub for creativity, political activism, and the exploration of new ideas.

The Grateful Dead, one of the most influential bands of the 1960s counterculture movement, had their headquarters at 710 Ashbury Street. The house, known as the “Grateful Dead House,” became a gathering place for musicians, artists, and fans.

The Summer of Love, which occurred in 1967, solidified Haight-Ashbury’s reputation as a center for counterculture and the hippie movement. It was a time of music, love, and experimentation, with thousands of young people converging on the neighbourhood to experience the communal lifestyle.

Keep walking along Haight Street to reach Golden Gate Park and Hippe Hill!

Take a stroll through Golden Gate Park

Escape the urban bustle and unwind in Golden Gate Park, a sprawling green oasis offering gardens, lakes, museums, and recreational activities.

You can take a leisurely stroll through its lush gardens, visit the Japanese Tea Garden, explore the California Academy of Sciences, or enjoy a picnic by one of the park’s many lakes.

The park also hosts various events, concerts, and festivals throughout the year, making it a lively and enjoyable destination for locals and visitors alike.

Smoke some weed on Hippie Hill

Hippie Hill, located in Golden Gate Park, has a long history as a gathering place for counterculture and free-spirited individuals. It’s known for hosting the annual 420 festival to celebrate the day as a community.

Cannabis consumption is unofficially tolerated in certain areas of the park. If you choose to partake, please be aware of local laws and regulations and respect the park and its visitors.

Cannabis is still illegal at the federal level in the United States, but several states, including California, have legalized its recreational use. However, it is essential to note that while recreational cannabis is legal in California, there are restrictions on where it can be consumed.

It is advisable to be cautious and mindful of your surroundings when engaging in any activity involving cannabis. Be respectful of others who may not partake and be aware that not everyone visiting the park will share the same views or be comfortable with the practice.

Take a walk along the Ocean Beach

If you make it to the end of Golden Gate Park, you can take a sunset walk along Ocean Beach. Ocean Beach is a scenic stretch of coastline along the western edge of San Francisco.

It’s a great place to take a leisurely walk, enjoy the fresh ocean breeze, and take in the beauty of the Pacific Ocean.

You can stroll along the sandy beach, watch surfers catch waves, or simply relax and soak up the peaceful atmosphere.

However, swimming is not recommended due to strong currents and cold water temperatures.

Check out Lombard Street

Lombard Street is famous for being one of the most crooked streets in the world. With its steep, winding turns and meticulously landscaped gardens, it’s a fascinating sight to behold.

You can take a walk down the street and marvel at the picturesque scenery, or you can view it from the top or bottom for a stunning panoramic perspective.

You can also ride a guided tour bus down the street, or a rental car. If you have motion sickness, I’d advise against driving down the street.

It’s a busy tourist location because of its popularity from movies and TV, I’d suggest getting there early for a good picture or taking a drive.

Explore the colourful Mission District

The Mission District is a vibrant neighbourhood known for its diverse culture, colourful murals, LGTBQ+ community and thriving food scene. You can wander through the streets adorned with stunning street art, visit the trendy shops and galleries, and savour a wide range of cuisines, from authentic Mexican food to innovative fusion dishes.

The neighbourhood is known for its vibrant and diverse cultural scene. It has been a hub for various immigrant communities throughout its history, including Latino, Irish, German, and more recently, an influx of tech workers.

The Mission District is home to many music venues, theatres, and performance spaces. It has a vibrant arts and music scene, with venues like the Castro Theatre The Chapel, The Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts, and Brava Theatre Center hosting a diverse range of performances.

Don’t be surprised if you see a few naked activists walking around!

Eat at a vegan restaurant or cafe

San Francisco is known for its diverse culinary scene, and it offers numerous options for vegans and plant-based eaters.

You can find a large selection of vegan restaurants and cafes throughout the city, serving innovative and delicious plant-based dishes.

From vegan sushi to hearty vegan burgers, the city caters to various dietary preferences and offers a delightful array of vegan dining experiences.

If you want to know some really awesome spots check out this list to learn about more Delicious Vegan Food in San Francisco.

Take a day trip to Muir Woods

Venture north over the Golden Gate Bridge and explore the majestic redwood forest of Muir Woods National Monument.

Please remember the park does not have cell service or internet access so you will not be able to get a ride back if you have not prepped one in advance.

If you’re planning on driving yourself and you must reserve a parking reservation yourself. If you’re in a pinch, there are a few cabs that come by the park but expect to pay in cash.

The Muir Woods Shuttle brings visitors from off-site locations to the park and back. The shuttle serves Larkspur Landing on weekends and holidays and the Sausalito Ferry Terminal on select summer weekdays. The tickets are round-trip. Visitors booking shuttle reservations do not need a parking reservation. Shuttle tickets are $3.50 per adult, and children 15 and younger ride free. Read more here

The park is known for its towering coastal redwood trees, some of which are over 1,000 years old and reach heights of more than 250 feet (76 meters).

There is the main trail loop which is about 2 miles around, but there are a few trails and campsites within the park, so you can easily spend the day exploring.

Check out the Bay Bridge

Enjoy a leisurely stroll south along the Embarcadero waterfront, soak in stunning views of the Bay Bridge, and Oracle Park.

The Bay Bridge consists of two main sections: the Western Span, which connects San Francisco to Yerba Buena Island, and the Eastern Span, which connects Yerba Buena Island to Oakland.

Attend a baseball game at Oracle Park

San Francisco is home to the San Francisco Giants, a Major League Baseball team. Attending a baseball game at Oracle Park, the team’s stadium, is a popular pastime for sports enthusiasts.

Depending on where you are seated, tickets can run from 15$ to 300$ USD each.

You can immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, cheer for the home team, and indulge in classic American ballpark snacks like pretzels and peanuts.

Don’t forget your running shoes and windbreaker, before you head to the city. I hope this list is helpful in planning a wonderful and exciting trip to San Francisco!

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