THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN SAN FRANCISCO
San Francisco, often hailed as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, is a whirlwind adventure waiting to be explored. Nestled along the Pacific Ocean, this vibrant city is home to diverse neighborhoods, each offering something unique. From the iconic Painted Ladies near Alamo Square to the panoramic views from Twin Peaks, San Francisco offers some of the best spots to experience a combination of natural beauty and urban charm. The heart of San Francisco beats through its iconic Market Street, where street performers, wonderful restaurants, and small shops fill the air with excitement. Whether you’re indulging in world-class museums or enjoying a Bay cruise with the whole family, San Francisco is known for offering unforgettable experiences.
During the holiday season, Union Square transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with ice skating and holiday markets. San Franciscans enjoy the city’s many beautiful outdoor spaces like Dolores Park and the Sutro Baths, making it the best time to visit for those seeking sunny days and picturesque settings. The city’s dynamic arts festivals, live music performances, and free seasonal art activities further reflect San Francisco’s brand as a cultural hub, attracting visitors from all over the globe. Whether it’s relaxing at a cocktail lounge, catching a show by Bay Area’s top comedians, or visiting the Ferry Building for a taste of local cuisine, San Francisco offers something for everyone, from art lovers to foodies and families.
A Perfect Trip to San Francisco
San Francisco is an awesome city with a privileged location in North/Central California on the bay. The weather is a bit strange in that it’s actually cooler during the summer with frequent fog. My favorite time to visit San Francisco is in the Fall, especially October as it’s the shoulder season and prices are a bit more affordable. If you are going to California for vacation, I highly recommend a visit to San Francisco. This blog post is all about what to do in San Francisco, where to stay in San Francisco, and where to eat amazing vegan food in San Francisco.
My Thoughts about San Francisco
One thing that I really, really like about San Francisco besides their sustainability initiatives, is their fantastic public transportation! Seriously – every city in the US needs to visit San Francisco and take their various modes of public transportation to understand how awesome it is not to have to rely on a vehicle. I also love it when public transportation reaches the airport, like in SF, so you don’t have to pay astronomical prices to get from the airport to the city.
WHAT TO DO IN SAN FRANCISCO
Rent a bicycle and tour around the city. Last time, Fernando and I went to San Francisco by ourselves for 4 glorious days. This was one of our favorite experiences in the city. However, we had to get off the bikes and walk them up a couple of the steepest hills as our bodies weren’t fit enough for that!
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED PASS: EXPLORER CITY PASS
Go to the waterfront/Fisherman’s Wharf. It’s so much fun walking along the waterfront and seeing the lovely restaurants, shops, food trucks, and gorgeous bayfront apartments. If you want to really be a tourist, go to the famous Fisherman’s Wharf and Ghiradelli Square.
Recommended tour: San Francisco City and Cruise tour
Golden Gate Park. This is a very popular place on the weekends for families. We loved it so much and regretted that our kids weren’t with us while enjoying the park, boardwalk, and lovely views of the bridge. You can also dip your feet in the frigid water here at Ocean Beach.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED CRUISE: CATAMARAN SUNSET BAY CRUISE
Ride the famous trolley (aka cable car). This is a must! You cannot go to San Francisco and NOT ride the famous trolley, at least once. It’s entertaining to see how it works as it’s a manual system. When we rode it, I thought about all the people in the past who rode the trolley and how it could have been their main mode of transportation around the city.
Union Square. This high-end area houses many luxurious shops along with delicious eateries. Many live events take place here so check the calendar to see what fun event is happening while you’re in town.
must see famous street in san francisco
Go to Lombard Street. The zig zag street! When I was a kid, my parents bravely drove down this street and I have lovely memories of being a little scared, but also being enthralled by the views and logistics of the street. If you don’t have a car (which I don’t recommend in the city with such awesome public transportation), then you can walk along the side on the stairs. This is really a sight to see and experience!
Chinatown. I think that San Francisco probably has the BEST Chinatown in the United States. The largest Chinatown outside of Asia is on Grant Avenue. The food smells along with the unique items in the shops give this area a sense of novelty. I love to check out the herbal shops and learn about what herbs alleviate certain medical ailments.
Top tourist activities in San Francisco
Golden Gate Bridge. The Golden Gate Bridge opened in 1937 and at the time, it was the world’s longest suspension bridge. It’s truly an engineering masterpiece. If you are in San Francisco, this is a MUST. Seriously – you cannot miss it. It’s a memorable experience! You can even walk all the way to the other side (if you aren’t afraid of heights) or even ride a bike to the other side and then enjoy Sausalito. Once you are on the other side, you can take a ferry back to San Francisco so you don’t have to cross the bridge again.
Suggested tour: Awesome Muir Woods + Sausalito Tour
Alcatraz. Alcatraz Island was built as a military fortification, then a military prison, and ultimately, a federal prison. It’s absolutely enthralling. The history, location, and stories about Alcatraz definitely make it a must-do while in the city.
favorite nature spots in san francisco
Go across the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito and explore the Muir Woods. If you haven’t been to the Redwoods Forest or have time to drive to Northern California to see the Redwoods, then you should check out Muir Woods, which houses 240 acres of Redwood trees. You will get a sense of how humongous the trees are and how fortunate that this area is so close to San Francisco. It’s the perfect place for forest bathing! The smells, sights, and fresh air will leave you completely at peace.
MUIR WOODS TOUR – This is the tour that I plan on doing next time I go to San Francisco!
Unique things to do in San Francisco
Exploratorium. This is probably one of the best things to do with kids while in San Francisco. It’s a highly entertaining and interactive museum of science, technology, and arts. It’s characterized as “a mad scientist’s penny arcade, a scientific funhouse, and an experimental laboratory all rolled into one.”
Coit Tower sits upon Telegraph Hill and has spectacular 360-degree views from the viewing deck of the city. Coit Tower is named after the unique, eccentric Lillie Hitchcock Coit. After her death, she donated ⅓ of her fortune to her beloved city of San Francisco to beautify the city and thus, the Coit Tower was built in her memory. The nearby area is called North Beach and is considered the Little Italy of San Francisco. As such, the narrow, vibrant streets are enjoyable to explore.
Beautiful public gardens in San Francisco
Palace of Fine Arts – this building and the garden are marvelous! I could spend all day wandering the verdant grounds and looking at the waterfowl in the ponds. The best part about this lovely attraction in the Marina District is that it’s completely free of charge!
Japanese Tea Garden – Built in 1894 for the World’s Fair, this tea garden endures as one of the most popular attractions in San Francisco, featuring classic elements such as an arched drum bridge, pagodas, stone lanterns, stepping stone paths, native Japanese plants, serene koi ponds, and a zen garden. Cherry blossom trees bloom throughout the garden in March and April.
Yerba Buena Gardens – This is a city park in the heart of downtown San Francisco and is one of my favorite areas to walk around and explore. There are many events throughout the year so definitely check the schedule to see what’s happening during your visit.
favorite neighborhoods in San Francisco
Mission Street neighborhood – this is probably the most “real” San Francisco neighborhood that is mostly Latino. You’ll find delicious vegan eateries (my favorite is Gracias Madre) here as well as colorful street art. The BEST art is at Balmy Alley, Clarion Alley, the Women’s Building, and the Castro neighborhood.
Haight-Ashbury is an eclectic, counter-culture type of neighborhood. Historically, it was where a lot of counter-movement happened, but now, it seems more like a trendy, hipster area. They have the best thrift stores here!
Nob Hill – This is a luxurious destination and interesting to see how the richest people live. It’s ultra-swanky and the views are stupendous. Enjoy libations at Top of the Mark for an incredible view of San Francisco.
Other fun things to do in San Francisco:
California Academy of Sciences
The California Academy of Sciences is a renowned natural history museum and research institution. Located in Golden Gate Park, it houses a diverse range of exhibits, including a living roof, an aquarium, a planetarium, and a rainforest dome. Visitors can explore the wonders of biodiversity, the cosmos, and the Earth’s ecosystems, with interactive displays and educational programs that engage all ages. It’s a must-visit destination for science enthusiasts and families alike, offering an immersive experience that combines learning with fun.
De Young Museum
The de Young Museum is a prominent art museum located in Golden Gate Park. Known for its impressive collection of American art from the 17th through the 21st centuries, it also features diverse international works, including pieces from Africa, Oceania, and the Americas. The museum’s striking architecture, designed by Herzog & de Meuron, complements its dynamic exhibitions and programs. With rotating displays, public art installations, and a stunning observation tower offering panoramic views of the city, the de Young is a cultural landmark for art lovers and visitors alike.
Conservatory of Flowers
The Conservatory of Flowers is a historic botanical garden located in Golden Gate Park. This Victorian-era glass greenhouse is home to a vast collection of rare and exotic plants from around the world, including tropical flowers, orchids, and aquatic plants. The conservatory’s beautifully designed structure, with its iconic white glass dome, offers a serene and immersive experience, showcasing the wonders of plant life in a lush, climate-controlled environment. It’s a peaceful escape for nature lovers and a perfect spot for photography and relaxation.
Speakeasy Comedy Show
The Speakeasy Comedy Show offers a unique and intimate comedy experience, set in a hidden, prohibition-era-inspired venue. Guests enter through a secret door and are transported to a bygone era, where they enjoy a mix of stand-up comedy, improv, and live entertainment. The show features a rotating lineup of talented local comedians, creating an exciting and unpredictable night of laughter. With its cozy atmosphere and vintage flair, the Speakeasy Comedy Show delivers a fun, memorable night out in one of the city’s most intriguing venues.
Washington Square
Washington Square is a charming public park located in the heart of the North Beach neighborhood. Surrounded by historic buildings, the park offers a relaxing green space with a beautiful fountain and plenty of benches, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors. It’s often bustling with activity, from picnics and dog walkers to impromptu performances. The park also provides stunning views of the iconic Sts. Peter and Paul Church, adding to its appeal as a peaceful yet vibrant gathering place in the city.
Columbus Avenue
Columbus Avenue is a lively and iconic street that runs through the North Beach neighborhood, known for its vibrant mix of cafes, restaurants, shops, and bars. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists, offering a blend of Italian heritage, modern eateries, and cultural landmarks. Columbus Avenue is also close to notable attractions like Washington Square and Coit Tower, making it a bustling thoroughfare that reflects the city’s unique character and charm. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or an exciting night out, Columbus Avenue has something for everyone.
WHERE TO STAY in San Francisco
- Music City Hotel – unique + amazing location
- Charming + spacious apartment in prime location
- Beautiful Mission District + trendy hotel
- The Metro Hotel – super fun location in Haight-Ashbury
- Super expensive, but unique experience on Ghiradelli Square
FUN PAID EXPERIENCES IN SF
- Hop on/hop off San Francisco Bus Tour
- San Francisco Bay Cruise
- Muir Woods + Sausalito half-day trip
- San Francisco Wine County Tour
- Alcatraz Tour + Cruise
WHERE TO EAT VEGAN FOOD IN SAN FRANCISCO
- Gracias Madre – their food is top-notch! I still salivate when I think about the food that I’ve eaten at Gracias Madre!
- Peña Pachamama – fantastic Peruvian/Bolivian food with delicious food and a cozy atmosphere
- Shizen Vegan Sushi Bar – omg -their food is FANTASTIC! I mean, who doesn’t want vegan sushi and ramen?! Yes please!
- The Happy Vegan – comfort food to go. They have the most delicious breakfast sandwiches!
- Wildseed – California fusion with a fantastic brunch menu
- Nourish Cafe – healthy + delicious in the swanky Nob Hill neighborhood
- Vida Cantina – scrumptious Mexican food with a lovely ambiance
- Golden Era – delicious Asian food with affordable prices
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THE 5 ITEMS WE WERE SO HAPPY TO HAVE FOR ALL OF OUR TRIPS:
- Merrell women’s light hiking shoes – these are amazing because they are lightweight, but are extra grippy and helpful! I also have this pair that I always get compliments on: Merrell Rainbow shoes. Fernando loves his Asics trail runners which are also grippy and perfect for walking on cobblestone streets.
- Thermoflask water bottle – like a Hydroflask, but more affordable! We don’t go anywhere without these water bottles full of purified water.
- North Face Aphrodite 2.0 capris – Seriously, I wear these pants every.single.day! I couldn’t live without these ultra-comfy, lightweight pants that dry so quickly. They are 100% worth the money!
- Osprey Day Pack – this is an awesome lightweight backpack! We easily put the belongings we need at hand for traveling around the city and on public transportation.
- Travel-friendly chewable toothpaste tablets – these are so fantastic for keeping your teeth clean on the go!
OUR FAVORITE US and EUROPEAN SERVICES:
- DISCOVER CARS – If you want to rent a car while you’re in LA, our favorite car rental aggregator is Discover Cars. We frequently rent cars and they always have the best prices and great quality vehicles.
- iTalki – if you want to learn another language before traveling to LA or while you’re there, we love iTalki. We highly recommend their language services.
- NORD VPN – perfect to use your technology in other countries!
- Airalo E-Sim – this let’s you use your phone anywhere in the world without having to get a physical sim! We use this all the time when we travel outside Europe!
- Big Bus Tours – the perfect way to see the city when you first arrive!
- Get Transfer – transfers between all of the airports and cities
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Final Thoughts on San Francisco
This is your ultimate local’s travel guide to San Francisco for anyone looking to explore a city that effortlessly blends natural beauty, rich history, and modern vibrancy. The city offers easy access to the entire Bay Area, including popular activities like bay cruises that provide incredible views of the middle of San Francisco Bay, and visits to local treasures like the botanical gardens. Union Street is a great place to stroll and shop, while the Financial District is the heart of the city’s hustle and bustle, offering a mix of historical landmarks and modern architecture. The city’s diverse backgrounds and rich cultural fabric make it a great place to explore interesting things, from the best seats at a live music venue to discovering the many small shops with amazing deals. Whether it’s enjoying the ultimate game day experience or attending one of the city’s many special events, San Francisco is always full of life.
For those who love a sunny day in the most beautiful city, San Francisco offers a variety of outdoor spaces perfect for relaxing and taking in the views. Union Square’s winter walk is a favorite during the holiday season, while places like Sunset Mercantile’s weekly outdoor market and Victorian London-inspired streets provide ample opportunities for exploration. Known for its good food and unique local organizations, San Francisco also hosts vibrant music festivals, bringing together locals and visitors to celebrate the arts. With its charm, cultural offerings, and picturesque landscapes, San Francisco truly remains a favorite city for travelers and locals.
Have you been to San Francisco? Do you agree with my recommendation? If you’d like to add a suggestion, feel free to comment on this post!
This blog post was all about what to do in San Francisco, where to stay, and where to eat amazing vegan food in San Francisco.
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