Summary of Top Activities in San Francisco
San Francisco offers an incredible experience to explore, from its rich history to beautiful parks and delicious cuisine. However, choosing from a myriad of iconic destinations and free attractions can be overwhelming.
This is exactly why I wanted to provide several suggestions for what to do in San Francisco when you visit the city.
Honestly, San Francisco is one of my favourite places to visit in California and a must-see if you want to explore one of the most fun cities in the USA. It’s simply fabulous.
Anyway, enough rambling. Let’s explore what to do in San Francisco when you visit. It truly is an epic destination.
What to Do in San Francisco
There are so many places that every visitor must see in San Francisco, from the iconic Golden Gate Bridge—definitely walk across (and maybe Uber back, as many do)—to the infamous Alcatraz Island, a perception of history that you can visit without the constraints of the past!
Like Ellis Island in New York City, Angel Island became a significant entry point for many East Asian immigrants migrating to the United States.
This mix of cultures has led to the establishment of one of the largest Chinatowns globally. If you’re seeking what to do in San Francisco while hungry, exploring this vibrant neighbourhood is a must.
This area serves as a fantastic place to enjoy traditional cuisine as well as fusion dishes made with locally sourced Californian ingredients.
Yum! 😋
If you’re looking to work off some of those calories from your delicious Asian food, consider taking a stroll through Golden Gate Park towards the culturally diverse Haight Street or along Lands End by the ocean.
This captivating area of the city allows you to delve into the multiculturalism, diversity, and charm that San Francisco has to offer, especially in remarkable neighbourhoods like Castro, each with its unique character.
Putting aside an afternoon to explore the neighbourhoods is absolutely worthwhile, as they are rich in history.
Additionally, don’t forget to check out Harvey Milk’s camera shop—it’s quite a special spot.
It’s a truly unique area—don’t forget to stop by Twin Peaks, which offers breathtaking views of San Francisco. If you’re trying to decide what to do in San Francisco on a sunny day, this is definitely the place to be. While we drove there, opting for an Uber is a convenient choice too.
Also, make sure to visit Lombard Street and its charming painted houses. You can fit multiple attractions into about 4 hours, and they are absolutely stunning.
Finally, if you’re considering a trip to Alcatraz, ensure that you obtain your tickets beforehand, as weekends tend to be the busiest and tickets sell out quickly. If you’re up for an adventure away from the city, Muir Woods is nearby and easy to visit.
What to Do in San Francisco: Eat and Drink
One of my favourite spots in the city is The Mission, which is heavily influenced by Mexican culture.
Cool bars, exceptional restaurants, and mouthwatering street food make this area a treasure for food lovers. As the weekend begins, the city becomes more relaxed, embracing its laid-back environment.
On sunny Saturdays, sample the city’s artisan beers, such as BigDaddy IPAs from Speakeasy, or the irresistibly refreshing Hell or High Watermelon beer from 21st Amendment Brewery—who knew you could make beer with watermelon?
No trip to The Mission is complete without indulging in a massive burrito from Pancho Villa Taqueria, allowing you to test your spicy tolerance followed by a stroll through Dolores Park. Just be ready for a little sweat!
If you’re crossing Broadway in San Francisco (not New York City), make sure to drop by Sam’s (618 Broadway).
Bring a big appetite for one of the world’s best burgers! What stood out to me at Sam’s was the extraordinary variety available; you can create your perfect burger combo.
During my visit, I had the incredible chance to stay with one of my closest friends in Richmond. He made the ambitious move from Denver, Colorado to pursue his dream career in fine dining, landing a fantastic role at the two Michelin Star restaurant, Quince in downtown San Francisco.
While in Richmond, be certain to sample local favorites like Hot Sauce and Panko (1545 Clement Street), Halu (312 8th Avenue), and Burma Superstar (309 Clement Street). All are delightful and budget-friendly eateries that will leave you satisfied for days.
And don’t miss the chance to taste some delicious clam chowder from the waterfront. Plus, be sure to visit notable seafood spots like Hog Island Oyster and Anchor Oyster Bar & Seafood Market. Both are highly recommended.
I’m in Love with San Francisco
My affection for San Francisco flourished immensely, and it was thrilling to view so much of the city through a local’s lens. Experiencing the city like a local makes it easier to uncover what to do in San Francisco.
As you can likely surmise, my biggest joys involve eating and exploring.
Combining both makes for a delightful experience! Dining out, dining in… just enjoying good food, and San Francisco provides countless options to tantalize your taste buds.
15 Best Things To Do In San Francisco
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