Looking for the best things to do in San Francisco?? Here’s the list with all the travel information you need to plan a family tour.
Things to Do in San Francisco
1. Things to Do in San Francisco: Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge spans the Golden Gate Strait, a mile-wide strait that connects San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean.
If you haven’t seen this landmark, you must. It is one of the most recognizable structures in the entire world.
It is an excellent example of how the architecture of a country can make it stand out from others.
The Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco is a popular tourist destination and is the perfect way to enjoy the city and nature.
If you’re cycling or walking, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the beautiful view from the bridge. There are plenty of bike paths and picnic areas that you can use for the ride.
If you’re taking a stroll, there are many views of the bridge. You’ll have plenty of time to take in the scenery and snap some photos.
The bridge is a modern wonder that links San Francisco Bay to North Bay. It was completed in 1933 and opened for traffic on May 31, 1937. This iconic structure is one of the seven modern wonders of the world.
There are vista points on both ends of the bridge, which is a great opportunity to take selfies. There are also tours available that will take you over the entire span, which will give you a different perspective of the Golden Gate.
So, start your tour from here.
Address: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, CA, United States Phone: +1 415-921-5858
Recommended Hotel near Golden Gate Bridge: The Fairmont Heritage Place Ghirardelli Square
2. Things to Do in San Francisco: The Walt Disney Family Museum
The Walt Disney Family Museum celebrates the life and legacy of the man who made the magic of Disney possible.
Located in San Francisco’s Presidio, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, the museum celebrates the man’s work and the magic of his creations.
Those who visit this museum will be able to gain a deeper understanding of Walt Disney’s legacy and the man behind the legend. The family’s legacy is also celebrated in the permanent exhibitions.
There are five galleries to explore in the Walt Disney Family Museum. These cover Walt’s early life, his move to Hollywood, his marriage, and the birth of Mickey Mouse.
There are also galleries about his visionary experiments and his first revolutionary animated projects, such as Snow White.
You can also learn about the evolution of Walt Disney’s business into features with a tour of the new Walt Disney Studios. And if you’re a Disney fan, you’ll love the exhibits on the history of the Mouseketeers.
The museum is an excellent place to educate children about the history of the Disney Company. Throughout the museum, you’ll see early films and cartoons, and even hear the voices of animators who created some of Disney’s characters.
In addition, the Disney Museum has special exhibitions of artists, musicians, and even celebrities who inspired the creation of the Disney characters. It’s a great way to spend a day in the city.
Address: 104 Montgomery St, San Francisco, CA 94129, United States Phone: +1 415-345-6800
3. Things to Do in San Francisco: Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco
On the northern waterfront, Fishermans Wharf is a lively tourist area. Here, you can sample clam chowder served in bread bowls, snap some pictures, and enjoy postcard-worthy views of the bay.
For a sweet treat, you can visit Ghirardelli Square, the former chocolate factory. The square is the city’s main shopping district, and there are souvenir shops and restaurants galore.
While a walk down the waterfront is the perfect way to enjoy the sights and sounds of the city, you’ll also find many things to do on the wharf.
Those with children will love the aquarium, while adults will love the Maritime Museum’s art deco architecture. While you’re in the area, you’ll also find murals depicting the modern art world and the wild marine life.
The best way to experience Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco is to take a walk on Pier 39. You can watch sea lions swimming around and enjoy the scenery from a safe distance.
There’s also a great view of the bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. For those who like pier diving, you can also check out Pier 39, where you can watch the seals.
In addition to the seals, you can enjoy some of the most popular attractions and restaurants at the Wharf, including the Aquarium of the Bay and the Wharf Ferry Building.
If you’re interested in history, you’ll find plenty of interesting places to explore on this walk. The Aquarium of the Bay is free to enter and costs only a few quarters to play.
You can also visit Treasure Island, the world’s oldest vintage jail. You should book tours here in the peak season, as there’s a line for the tours.
Address: 47 Pier, Suite 2, San Francisco, CA 94133-1035, United States Phone: (415) 674-7503
Recommended Hotel near Fishermans Wharf: Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf
4. Tenderloin Museum
You can get a glimpse of the area’s history by visiting the Tenderloin Museum in San Francisco.
This place was established in 1888 by immigrants, iconoclasts, and artists. It was a place of inspiration for artists who sought a place to share their ideas.
The Tenderloin Museum is a great place to explore San Francisco’s past. The space is free and features a ceiling map light installation that shows each building.
Visitors can purchase T-shirts featuring the street’s history. Some exhibits are more popular than others, so make sure to check them out. In addition to the exhibits, the Tenderloin Museum has a history section that explains what happened in the neighborhood.
The Tenderloin Museum is a great place to learn about the neighborhood’s history. You won’t find many artifacts here, but you can learn about the neighborhood’s rich history.
Raphael Villet, a Bay Area artist, spent nine months recording the voices of residents of the Tenderloin Museum. While the neighborhood may look edgy, this is a community that takes care of its own. The area is home to many nonprofits and advocates for equality.
Address: 398 Eddy St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States Phone: +1 415-351-1912
Looking for more fun things to do in California?? Check this link.
5. Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park is the largest urban park in San Francisco. It is composed of more than 1,017 acres of public grounds.
The park is maintained by the San Francisco Recreation & parks department, which was created in 1871 to manage and oversee the development of the city’s public parks.
There are many reasons to visit the park. Ex: (A) The beautiful views from the top of the hill; (B) The park is the city’s premier recreation destination.
For those who would prefer to spend a day indoors, there are many attractions and museums. There’s the Conservatory of Flowers, an elaborate Victorian greenhouse that houses rare and exotic plants.
The museum also has several exhibits on earth science, space, and art. There’s a Tidepool, where you can touch sea creatures and observe the history of the city.
If you aren’t in the mood for a stroll through the park, visit the Museum of Modern Art or the California Academy of Sciences.
A visit to the Hamon Observation Tower is one of the most popular ways to experience the views from the park. It’s free to enter and also offers epic views of the city and the Pacific Ocean.
This landmark building is the first formal building in the park. Visitors can enjoy 5 different galleries, each of which showcases a different ecosystem. So, the Hamon Observation Tower is the perfect place to start your visit to the park.
Address: San Francisco, CA, United States Phone:+1 415-831-2700
Recommended Hotel near Golden Gate Park: Hotel Drisco
6. Go to a Giants Game
A baseball game in San Francisco is always a fun activity for all ages. Not only do you get to watch the Giants play, but you can also catch a movie or go to the museums in the area.
There are many great places to see live entertainment and enjoy a day full of fun. The Metreon and the Westfield Mall are both within walking distance of the ballpark. In the evening, you can visit the SFMoMA, Cartoon Art Museum, and Museum of Craft and Folk Art.
You don’t need tickets to watch a Giants game in San Francisco. You can watch the game from the outfield plaza, the waterfront, or even your car. Though the park was made famous by Barry Bonds, you can still find clueless fans there.
Regardless of whether you have a ticket or not, you won’t have any trouble finding a spot to watch the game. There are plenty of public transportation options for getting to the game. Take the bus or walk, and be sure to leave plenty of time.
The Giants Stadium features an 80-foot Coca-Cola bottle, playground slides, and a replica of a classic 1927 four-fingered baseball mitt.
The mitt is 32 feet long, 12-feet wide, and twelve feet deep. The ballpark also features a miniature 50-by-50 foot stadium. The SF Giants also have a World Series trophy permanently displayed in the Promenade Level behind home plate.
Address: 24 Willie Mays Plaza, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States Phone: (415) 972-2000
7. Aquarium of the Bay
Located near Pier 39 in San Francisco, the Aquarium of the Bay is a public aquarium that is open to the public year-round.
It focuses on local aquatic animals, including sharks, otters, and more. The California location is also near neighboring watersheds and the Sierra Mountains, so the experience is even more special.
The Aquarium of the Bay offers a $4 discount to active-duty military, veterans, and retirees. This discount does not apply to dependents or reserve service members.
Retired residents of San Francisco Bay-area counties can also get a discount, although they must provide proof of residency. Regardless of the age, you’ll save up to 17 percent on an adult ticket, or up to 27 percent on a child or senior ticket.
Another exhibit that’s popular is Under the Bay. Here, you’ll be able to see thousands of marine creatures in their natural habitats, including California’s state marine fish.
You’ll also see anemones, leopard sharks, anchovies, and anchovies from a variety of angles. And don’t forget to take your kids for a visit. There’s always something for everyone at the Aquarium of the Bay.
Address: PIER 39 The Embarcadero &, Beach St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States Phone: +1 415-623-5300
Recommended Hotel near Aquarium of the Bay: Fairmont San Francisco
8. Dandelion Chocolate, San Francisco
A few years ago, I visited a small bean-to-bar chocolate maker in San Francisco called Dandelion Chocolate.
There was a 500-veteran waitlist and the factory was due to open in 2015, but there was a lot of permitting involved. Dandelion opened its first store in Japan.
The owners wanted to expand their business quickly, and they decided to open a research and development facility in a nearby warehouse. This facility would allow Dandelion to test equipment and work out systems for a new factory.
In addition to testing their new chocolate, the company also converted it into production space. This helped the company to grow rapidly, but it was no match for the original factory space.
While Dandelion’s products are expensive, they are worth the price and are available in stores and online.
The Dandelion Chocolate Factory has a chocolate bar at the front, and the factory offers classes and workshops to teach guests how to make the confections.
It also has a pop-up shop in Santana Row, San Jose. The chocolates are sold at various locations around the city, including the Ferry Building and in a new mall in SoMa.
Ultimately, the factory is looking to expand to other locations and become a major attraction in San Francisco. So, try it with our kids.
Address: 2600 16th St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States Phone: +1 415-349-0942
9. San Francisco Cable Car System
If you’re visiting San Francisco, it’s hard to resist taking a ride on the iconic San Francisco cable car system.
The world’s last manually operated cable car system is a San Fransisco icon. While it’s not as convenient as a subway system, the cable cars still make a beautiful and scenic journey.
The historic, redesigned cars have more than 30 years of service. There are four different lines, so you can ride one of them at your leisure.
The cable cars on the Powell and California Street lines have 28 single-ended cars each. The older cars are periodically replaced and restored, but the old ones are kept in storage for future restoration.
In addition, there are two Sacramento-Clay cable cars that were used on the Hyde, Jones, and O’Farrell Street lines. While the cable car system may seem like a complicated way to get around, it’s actually quite simple.
The cable cars must be on schedule and coordinate with other lines in order to run efficiently. Many commuters will get on and off at turnaround points along the way, including Powell & Market and Hyde & Beach.
The system has an online version of the San Francisco cable car museum. This museum also includes several cable cars, including the original, which is the oldest in the world. You can also see the working mechanism of the cable cars on display.
10. San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is a nonprofit organization that houses a world-renowned collection of modern art.
It was one of the first museums on the West Coast to focus solely on 20th-century art. The museum was founded in 1946.
Its collections have been exhibited in galleries across the country. The museum is open to the public Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm, with a limited hours policy.
Buses stop right outside the museum on Market Street. The 91, 8, and 30 bus stops are within 2 blocks.
You can walk to the museum from Union Square, but you must plan ahead. It is possible to find parking close to the museum, but parking is limited.
It is advisable to purchase tickets for the museum well in advance to ensure that you’ll be able to get in and out of the museum.
The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art has a large collection of modern art. The permanent collection of the museum includes famous works by Henri Matisse, Frida Kahlo, and Jackson Pollock.
In addition, the SFMOMA has an extensive and comprehensive library of postwar and contemporary art. It features more than 2,500 editions in 35 languages. You can spend hours here without seeing everything in person.
Address: 151 3rd St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States Phone: +1 415-357-4000
Recommended Hotel near San Francisco Museum of Modern Art: Palace Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Francisco
11. Things to Do in San Francisco: Chinatown
One of the oldest Chinatowns in the U.S., the Chinatown in San Francisco is a colorful and vibrant neighborhood known for its dim sum joints and traditional restaurants.
The district is also home to herbalists, bakeries, souvenir shops, and dark cocktail lounges.
You can also find ornate temples and the Chinese Historical Society of America Museum. There are also several places to buy art from local artists, such as pho wu, a popular Chinese-style restaurant in the area.
Chinese New Year is the best time to visit Chinatown. In January, the street is filled with colorful costumes and fireworks, and the parade draws thousands of people.
In September, Chinatown hosts its own festival, the Autumn Moon Festival, which celebrates the full moon in early October. It is celebrated on the fifteenth day of the eighth lunar calendar.
The festival started after the Earthquake of 1989 and is now one of the most popular events in the neighborhood.
You can tour Chinatown by taking a tour of the city’s best attractions. A San Francisco in One Day tour will include a stop in Chinatown, along with other parts of the city.
You can take a food tour of the neighborhood or opt to enjoy dim sum in a restaurant. You can also visit a temple, see the beautiful architecture of a historic building, and try local dishes that will appeal to your palate.
Recommended Hotel near Chinatown: Orchard Garden Hotel
12. California Academy of Sciences
The California Academy of Sciences is an educational and research institute, as well as a natural history museum.
The museum has more than 46 million specimens. The collection includes many rare specimens from around the world, including eels.
The museum also hosts a large collection of rare books and periodicals. It’s a wonderful place to spend the day or to study your favorite topics.
In addition to its scientific research, the academy is also an excellent place to see live science demonstrations and exhibits.
The Academy’s collections are housed in a futuristic building designed by Renzo Piano. The building is one of the greenest museums in the world, featuring a living roof that is covered with 1.7 million California native plants.
The living roof absorbs rainwater, reduces runoff, and provides natural insulation. Visitors can see the different parts of the Earth from the comfort of their seats in the museum’s café.
And because the museum is so diverse and reflects the state’s diverse landscape, the building is accessible to all.
The Kimball Natural History Museum is one of the highlights of the museum and features dinosaur skeletons and over 400 geologic specimens.
The Foucault pendulum is one of the museum’s most famous displays, weighing 235 pounds and hanging from a 30-foot steel cable. It proves that the earth is rotating and is full of life.
It is not just a place to view fossils; it’s also a great place to learn about evolution and planetary science.
Address: 55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118, United States Phone: +1 415-379-8000
Recommended Hotel near California Academy of Sciences: San Francisco Proper Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels
13. Exploratorium
The Exploratorium is a wonderful museum that will delight your sense of adventure. With an assortment of interactive exhibits and experiments, the Exploratorium enthralls visitors of all ages.
The museum has been compared to a mad scientist’s laboratory, funhouse, or penny arcade.
If you love science, you will be delighted to explore its fascinating collections. For a truly memorable experience, visit the Exploratorium in San Francisco.
The Exploratorium is an excellent choice for a day trip to San Francisco, and it is a great way to get the entire family involved. Membership is free for children under five and includes admission on Thursday nights, specialty films, and demonstrations.
Members also receive a 10% discount at the Exploratorium Store. If you’re visiting with a group, consider joining as a member to enjoy the discounts and other perks associated with membership.
In addition to the permanent exhibits, the Exploratorium also hosts special events and classes.
For example, every Thursday evening, the Exploratorium presents an After Dark Event with live performances from a renowned science group.
There are several restaurants that feature food as a medium for science presentations. For the entire family, the cafe at the Exploratorium features interactive exhibits.
Address: Pier 15 Embarcadero at, Green St, San Francisco, CA 94111, United States Phone: +1 415-528-4444
Recommended Hotel near the Exploratorium: Hotel Kabuki, part of JdV by Hyatt
14. Alcatraz Island
If you’re in San Francisco, you might want to visit Alcatraz Island, an island situated one and a half miles out in San Francisco Bay.
This small island was once home to a military prison, lighthouse, and fortification that was developed in the mid-nineteenth century.
Now, the island is a popular tourist destination. While visiting the island, you can explore the prison and learn about its history.
If you’re planning to visit Alcatraz, be sure to dress appropriately. The temperature is constantly changing, so you should be prepared for all possible weather conditions. It can be cool in the morning, but it can also be cold and windy in the afternoon.
You can also bring a heavy sweater or windbreaker as the temperature on the island can drop below zero. The National Park Service recommends wearing comfortable shoes and wearing a heavy sweater or windbreaker for the walk.
If you’re looking for souvenirs, you can check out the gift shop, but be sure to bring something with you. Remember that only water is permitted on the island, so you should avoid drinking or consuming any alcohol.
The last boat from Alcatraz Island departs at 5:50 pm in the summer and 4:25 pm in the winter. If you’re considering a visit to the island, make sure to allow at least a couple of hours for the trip.
The name “Alcatraz” comes from the Spanish explorer Juan Manuel de Ayala, who traveled the Bay during the 1775 Gold Rush.
Address: San Francisco, CA 94133, United States Phone: +1 415-561-4900
Recommended Hotel near Alcatraz Island: Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco
15. The Ferry Building
The restored 1898 space now serves as a market for produce, cheese, coffee, candy, and prepared foods.
There are also street vendors selling a wide variety of wares. The Ferry Building also has a thriving food court where visitors can try different foods.
The Ferry Building’s historical buildings are a highlight of the city. If you want to experience San Francisco like a local, visit this historic spot!
For a casual dining experience, the Ferry Building has a variety of cafes and eateries. There are plenty of casual options available here, from casual cafes to more elegant eateries.
Whether you’re craving a meatloaf sub, a bento box, or a tamale, you’re sure to find a spot to suit your needs. There are also more upscale options, such as the Hog Island Oyster Co.
The historic Ferry Building is still an important transportation hub. In the 1920s, 50,000 commuters flooded the area. It was busy and chaotic, but today, it presents itself peacefully.
At the top of the structure, you can admire the beautiful bell tower, which was inspired by the Giralda bell tower in Seville. The tower has stood for more than a century, which is a remarkable feat in San Francisco.
Address: 1 Ferry Building, San Francisco, CA 94105, United States Phone: +1 415-983-8000
Recommended Hotel near the Ferry Building: Club Quarters Hotel Embarcadero, San Francisco
16. Twin Peaks
The Twin Peaks in San Francisco are 900 feet high and offer a view of the Bay Area and surrounding area.
From the top, you can see the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, downtown SF, and Angel Island. Parking is free and easy to find.
If you visit at night, you can get some good tips to enjoy the tour. There are several options available. Getting there is a great experience, and you will probably want to go back again.
The Twin Peaks are a popular attraction, and there are many things to do in the area. While you’re here, don’t forget to bring some money and some water!
It can be foggy and windy when you’re up there, so it’s a good idea to carry a bottle of water. You can also get to the summit by car, and take the muni lines or F-Market Streetcar.
To access the summit, follow the trail that cars and bicycles take. The trail goes up the hillside, and you’ll be able to see San Francisco from above.
The North Peak is 925 feet high, so you can see the bay and the local neighborhoods from the top. You’ll find yourself impressed by the panorama.
And remember: you’ll be glad you did. A visit to Twin Peaks is an excellent way to experience the beautiful bay views and panoramic views of the city.
Address: 501 Twin Peaks Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94114, United States Phone: +1 415-831-2700
Recommended Hotel near Twin Peaks: Courtyard by Marriott San Francisco Downtown/Van Ness Ave
17. Palace of Fine Arts
The Palace of Fine Arts is a stunning structure. It was originally built for the 1915 Panama–Pacific International Exposition and was rebuilt between 1964 and 1974.
The original building was destroyed during the exposition, and the new one is a much more beautiful structure.
The museum houses art from around the world, including works by famous artists. There are many free events and exhibits here throughout the year, and admission is free.
The parking area at the Palace of Fine Arts is extremely difficult to find, but there are several public parking lots nearby. The parking lot behind the building is convenient and has handicapped-accessible parking. You can also park in the park across the street to get to the museum.
If you plan on visiting the Palace of the Legion of Honor, make sure you plan enough time to visit the theater. It’s a must-see in San Francisco!
The museum is a great way to see some of the city’s most popular attractions. You’ll be able to stroll along the waterfront and visit the Presidio. While there, don’t forget to take a look inside the museum itself! It’s well worth a visit. You’ll be amazed by the beauty of this place and can even learn a few things from the staff there.
Address: 3601 Lyon St, San Francisco, CA 94123, United States Phone: +1 415-376-1704
Recommended Hotel near Palace of Fine Arts: Kimpton Buchanan Hotel, an IHG Hotel
18. Presidio of San Francisco
When visiting San Francisco, you should consider exploring the Presidio of San Francisco. This 1,500-acre park was once a military post and is home to many historic buildings.
The Presidio of San Francisco is a cultural landmark that covers approximately 1500 acres. The landscape is diverse and there are many places to eat and drink.
There are several museums and galleries within the park, and there are several events throughout the year. It is a great place to take the kids for a day out and to have a little fun exploring the beautiful surroundings.
Once you’ve explored the Presidio, be sure to spend some time at Fort Point, where you can get a look at the Civil War era.
There are miles of trails, scenic overlooks, a golf course, and grassy Crissy Field. Other sites of interest include the Civil War-era Fort Point, sandy Baker Beach, and Walt Disney Family Museum.
There are also homes, eateries, and businesses like Lucasfilm located here.
If you’re visiting the Presidio of San Francisco, you may want to take a ride on the shuttle. The free PresidiGO bus will pick you up and drop you off at several locations.
The stop in the Financial District is convenient for the station. The park’s MUNI #28 bus is ideal for getting over the bridge. The MUNI line offers an easy ride, and you can even get on a MUNI train and catch it at Baker Beach.
Recommended Hotel near Presidio of San Francisco: Yotel San Francisco
19. Lands End, San Francisco
Lands End in San Francisco is a small park with a rocky shoreline that is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
It is located between Lincoln Park and Sutro Districts. Founded in 1906, the park contains a memorial to the USS S.F., and you can take a leisurely stroll along its scenic shores. During the day, you can visit the USS San Fran museum to see a replica of the ship.
The area is home to a large military installation, the Lands End Labyrinth. This earthbound maze was designed by artist Eduardo Aguilera and opened in 2004.
You can even walk the paths through the labyrinth and get a close-up view of the Golden Gate Bridge. After a long walk, you can take a short break and relax in the sun with a drink from a local bar.
To explore the coast, you can take a bike ride along the Landsend Trail. The trail is handicapped accessible up until Mile Rock Overlook.
Once you reach Eagles Point, you can continue hiking on the Landsend Trail to Mile Rock Point, Mile Beach, and the Sutro Baths. There are many views of shipwrecks and a small beach with tide pools.
Afterward, you can spend some time at the famous Cliff House and soak in the spa at the nearby Legion of Honor.
Address: 680 Point Lobos Ave, San Francisco, CA 94121, United States Phone: +1 415-426-5240
Recommended Hotel near Lands End: Stanyan Park Hotel
20. The Asian Art Museum
The Asian Art Museum of San Francisco specializes in Chinese, Korean, and Japanese art and is a great place to learn about the history of these countries.
The Museum is located in the Chong-Moon Lee Center for Asian Arts and Culture. The Museum was founded in the 1960s and is dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of Asian art.
You’ll find works as ancient as 6,000 years old in this collection, which is the oldest in the U.S.
To get to the museum, take BART to Civic Center and walk a few blocks. If you’re coming from the Civic Center, take Caltrain to Market Street and then hop on the Muni bus. Bus 47 heads towards Fisherman’s Wharf. The trip takes around 20 minutes. Alternatively, take the F Streetcar to Larkin Street and ride two blocks to the Museum.
It’s easy to reach the SF Asian Art Museum on public transportation. The cable car will also take you right to the museum.
The museum has a cafeteria and gift shop. The cafe has an array of Asian foods, from ramen to sushi. It has a selection of pre-packaged items for sale, and there are lots of hand sanitizer stations throughout the museum.
Parking in this neighborhood is not easy, so consider using the performing arts garage. In addition, there are plenty of street parking options in the neighborhood.
If you’re a history buff and love Asian art, you’ll want to visit the Japanese American National Museum, which is located in Los Angeles.
Address: 200 Larkin St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States Phone: +1 415-581-3500
21. Yerba Buena Gardens
Yerba Buena Gardens is the name of two blocks of public parks located in downtown San Francisco.
The two blocks of parks opened on October 11, 1993. The first flower show was held at the park on October 13, and since then, the YBG has become a must-see destination for those visiting the city.
Yerba Buena Gardens features more than twenty different species of plants, plus fountains and sculptures.
So, these gardens are a wonderful destination for a family outing. There are many things to do in the area, including the Children’s Creativity Museum and the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts.
In addition to the gardens themselves, you can also find ice skating rinks and bowling alleys, as well as the LeRoy King Carousel, a 1906 Carousel built by Charles I. D. Looff.
If you’re looking for a tasty place to eat, B Restaurant is a great place to visit, and Joyride Pizza is a popular eatery on the North Block terrace.
The Yerba Buena Gardens are a popular destination in San Francisco and are ideal for families. The Yerba Buena Garden is two blocks in size and is home to a famous Museum of Modern Art and several sculptures.
In addition to public art displays, the Gardens also feature a variety of museums, cafes, and outdoor seating. If you’re looking for a unique experience, Yerba is a great place to start.
Address: 750 Howard St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States Phone: +1 415-651-3684
Recommended Hotel near Yerba Buena Gardens: Hotel Zeppelin San Francisco, a Viceroy Urban Retreat
22. Things to Do in San Francisco: Pier 39
If you are planning a trip to San Francisco, you should consider visiting Pier 39. This popular tourist spot is located on a pier in the city.
It features restaurants, shops, video arcades, street performers, and the Aquarium of the Bay. You can also take a virtual 3-D ride and enjoy views of California sea lions.
There are many activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. This is a great place for the whole family.
When visiting this pier, be sure to visit the famous Tree Lighting Celebrations. Each year, Pier 39 sets up a 60-foot Christmas tree to celebrate the holidays. This annual event has free live music and other festive activities.
The area is easy to reach from major public transportation stops and is also home to some of San Francisco’s most popular attractions. It is also a great place to enjoy the Fourth of July fireworks.
The Flyer is a popular ride for thrill-seekers and families. Guests can ride the thrilling coaster in motion seats and view 3D or computer-generated imagery of the city.
Those who aren’t afraid of heights can also try out the Flyer Thrill Zone & 7D Experience. This is an exciting 10-minute ride/game combination. The 7D DarkRide Experience is geared towards families with young children.
Magowan’s Infinite Mirror Maze is another activity for family fun.
Address: The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States Phone: +1 415-705-5500
23. Things to Do in San Francisco: Baker Beach
Baker Beach in San Francisco is a public beach located on the peninsula of the city on the Pacific Ocean. It is an excellent place to relax.
Visitors to Baker Beach can also enjoy the many activities that the city has to offer. The area is popular with families, but it is also a popular location for people of all ages. You will find plenty of restaurants, shops, and other places to spend the day.
One of the most famous San Francisco beaches, Baker Beach isn’t great for swimming because of its strong undertows and rip currents.
However, this beach is a popular destination for fishing and has a rocky shoreline. The area is also known for the annual Burning Man festival. This event attracts more than one million people every year and is the largest gathering of creative minds in the Bay Area.
Getting to Baker Beach is easy by public transportation. The 38-Geary bus stops at Geary and 25th Avenues. Alternatively, you can take the 29-Sunset bus, which stops on Market Street between 1st and 3rd Streets.
Another option is the Presidio shuttle, which runs from downtown to the Presidio seven days a week. A quick change and you’re in Baker Beach.
Address: Bowley Street, Gibson Road, San Francisco, CA 94129, United States Phone: (415) 561-4323
Recommended Hotel near Baker Beach: Cow Hollow Inn and Suites
24. Things to Do in San Francisco: Japanese Tea Garden
One of San Francisco’s most iconic attractions is the Japanese Tea Garden. Located in Golden Gate Park, the gazebo-style oasis has been a tourist favorite for years.
This stunning garden was part of the California Midwinter International Exposition in 1894, a World’s Fair that spanned a city block. The Japanese-inspired gardens were designed to reflect the natural beauty of Japan and the surrounding landscape.
Visitors should plan their trip to coincide with cherry blossom season, and check the weather first. Most museums in the Bay Area have free days once a month, but these are usually extremely crowded.
The Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco offers free admission on select weekdays and early mornings, so be sure to visit on these days.
If you want to experience the garden at the height of spring blooms, visit the garden in May, when the flowers are in full bloom.
A walk through the gardens will take you by the high arching drum bridge, which is lined with colorful wooden planks and popular with tourists.
You can even take pictures on the bridge, which is located in the center of the garden. Also, don’t miss the five-story pagoda, which was built for the Japanese Exhibit at the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition.
This structure was relocated to the Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco after the exposition. The garden was also home to the Dwarf Tree Collection, which had been privately owned for many years.
The Japanese Tea Garden in the city is open every day of the year, and you can enjoy the gardens year-round.
Address: 75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118, United States Phone: +1 415-752-1171
Recommended Hotel near Japanese Tea Garden: The Hotel Castro
