Top 20 tourists attractions to not miss in San Francisco
San Francisco is a city that offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages and interests. From iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island to cultural hotspots like Chinatown and Haight-Ashbury, there is something for everyone in this vibrant and diverse city.
Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in San Francisco, and one of the most photographed bridges in the world. Visitors can walk or bike across the bridge and take in stunning views of the city and the bay.
Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz Island is a former federal prison that housed some of the country’s most notorious criminals, including Al Capone and Robert Stroud, the “Birdman of Alcatraz.” Today, visitors can take a ferry to the island and tour the prison, learning about its history and famous inmates.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf is a bustling waterfront district that is known for its seafood restaurants, street performers, and souvenir shops. Visitors can also take a tour of the historic ships docked at the wharf or watch sea lions basking in the sun at Pier 39.
Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park is a massive urban park that spans over 1,000 acres and features gardens, lakes, museums, and more. Visitors can rent bikes or paddle boats, visit the de Young Museum or the California Academy of Sciences, or simply relax and enjoy the park’s natural beauty.
Chinatown
San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest and largest Chinatown in North America. Visitors can explore the narrow streets and alleys, visit the Chinese Historical Society Museum, or sample traditional Chinese cuisine at one of the many restaurants.
Union Square
Union Square is a bustling commercial district that is home to some of the city’s most upscale shops and restaurants. Visitors can also take in street performers or catch a show at one of the nearby theaters.
Haight-Ashbury
Haight-Ashbury is a neighborhood that is famous for its role in the 1960s counterculture movement. Today, visitors can explore vintage clothing shops, record stores, and street art, and learn about the neighborhood’s history at the Haight-Ashbury Museum.
Cable Cars
San Francisco’s cable cars are a unique form of transportation that have been in operation since the late 19th century. Visitors can ride the cable cars up and down the city’s steep hills and take in stunning views of the city and the bay.
Palace of Fine Arts
The Palace of Fine Arts is a stunning Beaux-Arts style building that was originally built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition. Today, visitors can admire the building’s intricate architecture and enjoy the surrounding park and lagoon.
Coit Tower
Coit Tower is a historic tower that offers panoramic views of the city and the bay. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the tower and enjoy the stunning views, or admire the tower’s murals, which were painted by local artists in the 1930s.
Lombard Street
Lombard Street is a steep, winding street that is known as the “crookedest street in the world.” Visitors can drive or walk down the street and take in the unique and picturesque scenery.
Exploratorium
The Exploratorium is a hands-on science museum that features over 650 interactive exhibits. Visitors can explore exhibits on everything from physics to biology, or attend a workshop or demonstration.
Muir Woods National Monument
Muir Woods National Monument is a protected forest that is home to some of the oldest and tallest trees in the world. Visitors can hike through the forest and admire the stunning redwood trees, or attend a ranger-led program to learn more about the area’s natural history.
Ghirardelli Square
Ghirardelli Square is a historic chocolate factory that has been transformed into a popular shopping and dining destination. Visitors can sample gourmet chocolates, shop at boutique stores, or dine at one of the many restaurants in the square.
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is a world-class museum that features a vast collection of modern and contemporary art. Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries, attend a lecture or performance, or dine at the on-site restaurant.
The Presidio
The Presidio is a former military base that has been transformed into a beautiful park and recreational area. Visitors can hike or bike through the park’s trails, visit the Walt Disney Family Museum, or explore the historic military buildings.
Painted Ladies
The Painted Ladies are a row of Victorian-era houses that are famous for their colorful facades and stunning architecture. Visitors can take a photo in front of the houses, or explore the surrounding neighborhood of Alamo Square.
California Palace of the Legion of Honor
The California Palace of the Legion of Honor is a museum that features a collection of European art, including works by Monet, Rembrandt, and Rodin. Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries, attend a lecture or concert, or enjoy the beautiful views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the bay.
AT&T Park
AT&T Park is the home of the San Francisco Giants baseball team, and a popular destination for sports fans. Visitors can watch a game, tour the stadium, or dine at one of the many restaurants and bars located within the park.
Ferry Building Marketplace
The Ferry Building Marketplace is a historic building that has been transformed into a food lover’s paradise. Visitors can sample gourmet cheeses, chocolates, and pastries, or dine at one of the many restaurants located within the building. The marketplace also features a farmer’s market on Saturdays, where visitors can purchase fresh produce and artisanal goods.