San Francisco, located in Northern California, is a vibrant city known for its iconic landmarks, stunning views, and rich cultural scene. From the famous Golden Gate Bridge to the diverse neighborhoods steeped in history, the city offers a captivating experience for both residents and visitors.
Whether you’re in search of homes for sale in San Francisco or looking for a house or apartment to rent in the area, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most unique things to do in San Francisco, CA.
1. Discover Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park is a beloved attraction for locals and tourists alike. Spanning over 1,000 acres, the park boasts museums, beautiful gardens, tranquil lakes, hiking trails, and various recreational facilities, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
“As wedding photographers and Bay Area natives, we love showcasing San Francisco’s stunning outdoor spaces to our couples—many of whom travel to our city for its breathtaking City Hall. We adore exploring the hidden redwood groves in Golden Gate Park,” says Helena and Laurent Photography. “Marveling at the rugged beauty of Sutro Baths, and celebrating with a bottle of champagne or savoring delicious Boba Tea from Boba Guys on the sand dunes near Ocean Beach at sunset.”
2. Wander the Lands End trail
San Francisco is renowned for its scenic hiking trails, and the Lands End Trail is a popular choice offering breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific Ocean. Situated in the northwest corner of the city, the trail features historic landmarks and picturesque overlooks.
“San Franciscans love to be outdoors, and our weather allows us to explore trails and parks nearly year-round. Of all the abundant protected natural spaces nearby, Lands End is my absolute favorite,” says lifestyle photographer Ashley Kaplan. “There is a 1.5 mile main trail that offers views wrapping around the coast from the Pacific Ocean to the San Francisco Bay with some vistas out toward the Golden Gate Bridge and the Marin Headlands. There are two secret beaches that can be explored via small side trails off of the main trail. Be sure to keep your eyes open for whales, seals, and dolphins which can all be spotted off the coast. The most beautiful flocks of pelicans soar overhead, especially around sunset.”
Photo courtesy of Ashley Kaplan Photography
3. Experience Tunnel Tops Park
Tunnel Tops Park is a unique attraction in San Francisco built on top of the city’s tunnels, offering a lush, elevated sanctuary with panoramic views of the Bay and Golden Gate Bridge. Visitors can enjoy expansive views, recreational areas, and scenic pathways.
“If you’re an outdoors enthusiast or architecture admirer, the newly-opened Presidio Tunnel Tops is a must-visit. This innovative park, built atop a freeway tunnel, seamlessly connects Golden Gate Beach and Crissy Field with the Presidio,” says local San Francisco architectural photographer, Rob Calderwood. “Perfect for an outing with loved ones, it offers everything from scenic bike rides to picnics on the Presidio’s parade lawn, where food trucks abound. The breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge are the cherry on top.”
According to San Francisco-based travel company, California Pacific Excursions, a visit to the park should be on your list of things to do in San Francisco. “At times during the day, The Tunnel Tops Park in the Presidio with views of the bay, islands, and Golden Gate Bridge is so rejuvenating.”
4. Explore the Farmer’s Market at the Ferry Building
San Francisco’s farmers markets offer fresh produce and artisanal goods. At the lively Ferry Plaza Farmers Market, visitors can find a variety of produce and gourmet products, while enjoying live music and events.
“Besides the natural beauty of San Francisco, the thing that stands out most for us is the amazing bounty surrounding us,” says The Morris restaurant. “Be it fruits, vegetables, wine, beer, spirits, or nature, the bay area has some of the greatest examples of each of those things in the world. We would suggest a visit to the Ferry Building Farmers Market on a Saturday. There are tons of delicious prepared foods, but also some of the world’s best fruits and vegetables.”
Chef Dontaye Ball from Gumbo Social also recommends the Ferry Building Farmers Market. “One of my favorite vendors at the market, SF ChickenBox, run by chef and owner Christian Ciscle, also has one of the only late-night food spots in the city at 464 Broadway. They do a great fried chicken sandwich at the farmers market, and at the restaurant, they do an off-the-hook fried chicken.”
“A trip to San Francisco wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market on Saturday mornings,” says Chef Mark Dommen from One Market Restaurant. “Immerse yourself in the bounty the bay area has to offer from local farmers and artisan food producers. Stop by some of the food booths like Mark ‘n Mikes to pick up breakfast, lunch, or a quick snack. They have the best pastrami in the bay area.”
5. Indulge in Napa Valley wines
While San Francisco isn’t a major wine-producing area, it serves as a gateway to California’s renowned wine region in Napa Valley. Many local establishments offer selections from these areas year-round, providing a sophisticated environment for enjoying fine wines.
San Francisco’s year-round seasonality and proximity to wine country make it a prime dining destination with unmatched local produce. Two upscale restaurants renowned for contemporary American cuisine, Frances in the Castro District, and Octavia in Pacific Heights offer a unique dining experience centered around the signature hyper-seasonal cooking style of the Bay Area.
If you’re living in San Francisco and looking for an escape from the city, consider taking a day trip to the picturesque vineyards of Napa Valley. Chef Deborah Mullin from the Culinary Institute of America’s The Grove at Copia, recommends starting your day with a coffee at Naysayer Coffee Roasters. “Then, take in the natural beauty of Skyline Wilderness Park, perfect for a scenic trek right within the city. For dinner, head to Oxbow Market, where you will find a variety of enticing food stalls to satisfy any craving. End your day with a nightcap at Cadet Wine and Beer Bar in the heart of downtown,” says Chef Deborah Mullin.
6. Discover Ghirardelli Square
Ghirardelli Square, a historic landmark in San Francisco, is a popular destination known for its charming shops and dining experiences. Visitors can enjoy local boutiques, unique restaurants, and picturesque views of the Bay.
The Cartoon Art Museum recommends visiting their museum and then exploring Ghirardelli Square. “From the famed chocolate shop to the historic Buena Vista Cafe, the beautiful view of the Bay, and the historic San Francisco Cable Cars. The perfect destination for anyone who wants to experience the best that San Francisco has to offer.”
7. Shop at the San Francisco Centre
The San Francisco Centre is a premier shopping destination in downtown San Francisco. The mall offers a mix of luxury and mainstream retail, diverse dining options, and a comprehensive shopping experience. Don’t miss the iconic 102-foot-wide skylit dome on the 4th floor, adding a touch of historic elegance to your shopping experience.
Photo courtesy of San Francisco Centre
8. Explore the Mission District’s Art Scene
The Mission District in San Francisco is a hub of artistic expression, with vibrant murals adorning the walls of buildings and alleyways.
“One of the most iconic experiences in San Francisco is exploring the vibrant murals of the Mission District,” says the team at the Naturalist Gallery of Contemporary Art. “A stroll down Balmy Alley or Clarion Alley is like walking through an open-air gallery, offering new residents a unique glimpse into the cultural heart of the city.”
The Mission District’s restaurant scene is also a must-visit for food lovers seeking traditional and innovative culinary experiences. Safara recommends dining at Penny Roma for Italian classics with a native NorCal twist. “With cozy indoor seating,