Things to Do in San Francisco

The iconic Golden Gate Bridge is an engineering marvel and San Francisco's most recognizable landmark. Walk or bike across the 1.7-mile span for breathtaking views of the Bay, Alcatraz, and the city skyline. The orange-vermilion towers rise 746 feet above the water, creating unforgettable photo opportunities. Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light and fewer crowds. Dress warmly as the bridge can be foggy and windy.

The notorious former federal prison on Alcatraz Island offers a fascinating glimpse into American history. The award-winning audio tour, narrated by former inmates and guards, brings the stories of Al Capone, the Birdman, and daring escape attempts to life. Book tickets well in advance as tours sell out weeks ahead. The ferry ride provides stunning city views. Night tours offer a particularly eerie and memorable experience.

San Francisco's bustling waterfront district offers fresh seafood, historic ships, and lively sea lions at Pier 39. Sample clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl, visit the Musée Mécanique's antique arcade games, and watch the famous sea lion colony lounging on the docks. While touristy, it remains a quintessential San Francisco experience. The area also serves as the departure point for bay cruises and Alcatraz ferries.

This 1,017-acre urban oasis is larger than Central Park and home to world-class museums, botanical gardens, and hidden trails. Explore the California Academy of Sciences, the de Young Museum, the Japanese Tea Garden, and the stunning Conservatory of Flowers. Rent a bike to cover more ground, or join the locals for weekend picnics in the meadows. The park transforms every Sunday when JFK Drive closes to cars.

The oldest and one of the largest Chinatowns outside Asia offers an immersive cultural experience. Enter through the ornate Dragon Gate and explore narrow alleys filled with traditional herbal shops, dim sum restaurants, and historic temples. Grant Avenue is the main tourist thoroughfare, but the real treasures are found in the side streets. Don't miss the fortune cookie factory and the traditional tea houses.

This innovative museum combines an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum under one living roof. Watch penguins dive, observe a four-story rainforest dome, and experience the Steinhart Aquarium's remarkable marine exhibits. The Morrison Planetarium shows daily programs about the universe. NightLife events on Thursday evenings transform the museum into an adult-only experience with cocktails and music.

This historic 1898 ferry terminal has been transformed into a food lover's paradise featuring artisan food stalls, acclaimed restaurants, and the famous Saturday farmers market where top chefs shop. Sample Blue Bottle Coffee, Hog Island Oysters, and Cowgirl Creamery cheeses. The building's stunning architecture and waterfront location make it perfect for a leisurely meal or coffee with bay views.

These twin 922-foot summits offer the best 360-degree panoramic views of San Francisco and the Bay Area. On clear days, you can see from the Golden Gate to the Bay Bridge and beyond to the East Bay hills. Popular for sunrise and sunset viewing, though often foggy in summer. The steep drive or hike rewards with unparalleled photo opportunities. Dress warmly as it's always windier at the top.