San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)

Designed by Swiss architect Mario Botta, SFMOMA captivates visitors with its geometric aesthetics, featuring squares and circles reminiscent of ancient architecture. This museum aligns perfectly with the evolving artistic landscape of the South of Market neighborhood.

Address: 151 3rd Street, San Francisco, CA

International Terminal San Francisco Airport (SFO)

The International Terminal at SFO, completed in 2000 by Skidmore, Owings, & Merrill, features a striking wing-shaped design, recognized as the largest base-isolated structure globally.

However, to explore its public areas, visitors must possess a ticket for a flight. The ticketing area alongside museum-quality displays is accessible, and using BART is an excellent option for access.

Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge, renowned for its elegant design and striking color, stands as an iconic suspension bridge. Its scenic location adds to its exceptional aesthetic appeal.

Consequently, visitors can partake in guided tours available through San Francisco City Guides, or choose to explore independently, although pedestrians are restricted to daylight hours.

Ahwahnee Hotel, Yosemite National Park

The Ahwahnee, a magnificent national park lodge, is open to the public and features stunning common spaces. Visitors can experience the grandeur by exploring the lobby and grand hall.

San Francisco City Hall

Constructed in Beaux-Arts style by architect Arthur Brown, Jr., San Francisco City Hall features the fifth-largest dome worldwide. Following renovations and seismic upgrades completed in 1999, it has become a stunning architectural highlight.

Moreover, the building opens its doors to guided tours once a week.

Address: 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place (Van Ness at Grove), San Francisco, CA

Transamerica Building

The distinctive design of the Transamerica Pyramid serves a functional purpose by allowing more natural light to reach the streets below. Since its opening in 1972, it has established itself as an iconic feature of the San Francisco skyline.

Unfortunately, it lacks an observation deck; however, its stunning view can be appreciated from numerous vantage points throughout the city.

Address: 600 Montgomery Street, San Francisco, CA

Fairmont Hotel

The Fairmont Hotel, which was still under construction when the 1906 earthquake struck, symbolizes San Francisco’s resilience and rebirth, opening its doors in 1907. Designed by Julia Morgan, a pioneer female architect, the hotel remains a significant architectural gem.

Oracle Park

Oracle Park, home to San Francisco’s baseball team, offers breathtaking views and features designs honoring historic baseball fields. It exists as a vibrant hub for sports enthusiasts.

Visitors can enjoy a game or join a behind-the-scenes guided tour available daily, except during day games.

Address: 24 Willie Mays Plaza (King at Third Street), San Francisco, CA

Xanadu Gallery (formerly the V.C. Morris Gift Shop)

Designed by the iconic Frank Lloyd Wright before his work on the Guggenheim Museum, this gallery showcases elegant, minimalist architecture with a spiral ramp and distinctive brickwork.

Visitors are welcome to explore the art gallery that occupies the space, respecting the serene environment.

Address: 140 Maiden Lane, San Francisco, CA

Hyatt Regency San Francisco

The Hyatt Regency’s soaring atrium is 170 feet high and features 17-story hanging gardens alongside a rotating restaurant on the top floor. This concrete structure, designed by architect John Portman, has attracted attention in numerous films.

The “Flintstone House”

Often referred to as the “Flintstone House,” this unique residence designed by William Nicholson in 1976 is recognizable for its unusual structure formed over inflated aeronautical balloons, reinforced with rebar and sprayed cement.

For an optimal view, it is best appreciated from the I-280 highway as you travel north near Crystal Springs Road.