10 Things to Do in San Francisco Beyond the Typical Tourist Spots
San Francisco is a city full of interesting places and activities that attract visitors from all over. Whether you enjoy nature, history, or food, there is something here for you to explore.
If you want to make the most of your time in San Francisco, knowing the top things to do can help you plan a better trip. I’ve put together a list of ten activities that highlight the best this city has to offer.
1) Alcatraz Island
I took a ferry ride to Alcatraz Island, which used to be a military prison and later a federal penitentiary. Walking through the old cells, I could feel the history and stories of the prisoners, including famous names like Al Capone. The audio tour helped me understand the daily life and strict rules inside the prison.
The island also has a deeper story. In 1969, Native American activists stayed there for 19 months to demand civil rights. This made me think about the island as more than just a prison—it showed me a piece of American history about justice and freedom.
Besides the history, the views of San Francisco and the bay from the island are stunning. You get to see the city skyline clearly, and the island itself has some quiet, natural areas to explore. Visiting felt like stepping back in time with a chance to learn a lot in a few hours.
Rating: 4.7 (42,152 reviews)
Location: San Francisco, CA 94133
Contact: (415) 561-4900
Website: Visit Website
2) Golden Gate Park
I spent a few hours walking through Golden Gate Park and found it to be a peaceful spot right inside the busy city. The park is very large, with lots of green space, gardens, and quiet paths. I saw people biking, jogging, and just relaxing on the grass.
There are also museums and gardens to explore. I enjoyed the variety of things to see, from art exhibits to beautiful flowers. The park feels well cared for and offers a nice mix of nature and culture.
It’s clear the park is important to the city because it is easy to access from many neighborhoods. The park’s wide open spaces make it perfect for people of all ages to spend time outside. I also noticed many families playing and others enjoying picnics.
If you want a break from the city noise, this is a good place to come. It gives you a chance to enjoy outdoor activities while still being close to downtown San Francisco.
Rating: 4.7 (42,886 reviews)
Location: San Francisco, CA
Contact: (415) 831-2700
Website: Visit Website
3) PIER 39
When I visited PIER 39, I was struck by how lively the area was. There are shops and restaurants all around, making it easy to spend hours exploring. The views of the bay are great, and I even saw sea lions lounging nearby, which really added to the experience.
The pier has a mix of fast food and full-service places. I stopped by a few eateries with outdoor seating to enjoy the breeze while eating. Most shops and attractions open around 10 AM and stay open until the evening, so there’s plenty of time to visit.
There’s also a parking garage directly across the street that’s open 24/7. This made it simple for me to get in and out without much trouble. I noticed some special events and new places like a brewery opening recently, which shows the pier keeps changing and adding things for visitors to enjoy.
Rating: 4.6 (129,906 reviews)
Location: The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94133
Contact: (415) 705-5500
Website: Visit Website
4) Muir Woods National Monument
When I visited Muir Woods, I was struck by the towering redwood trees. Walking along the trails felt peaceful and refreshing. The forest is dense, with sunlight filtering through the giant trees, making it a unique experience close to the city.
The paths are well-marked and vary in length, so you can choose a short walk or a longer hike. I also enjoyed visiting the visitor center, which offered helpful information about the history and nature of the park. It’s a great place to learn while exploring.
Muir Woods feels like a quiet escape from busy city life. The air is cool and fresh, and the sounds of the forest helped me relax. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to see beautiful trees and spend time in nature not far from San Francisco.
Rating: 4.8 (18,938 reviews)
Location: Mill Valley, CA 94941
Contact: (415) 561-2850
Website: Visit Website
5) Exploratorium
When I walked into the Exploratorium, I was impressed by the number of hands-on exhibits. It’s a place where you can touch, see, and experiment with science, making it easy to understand how things work.
The museum is located on the waterfront, which offers a nice view while exploring. Each exhibit taught me something new, from light and sound to physics and biology.
It’s great for all ages, but especially fun if you like to learn by doing rather than just reading. The atmosphere was lively, and I found myself spending hours there without getting bored.
The staff were helpful, and the space was clean and well-organized, making it easy to move from one exhibit to the next.
Rating: 4.7 (8220 reviews)
Location: Pier 15 Embarcadero at, Green St, San Francisco, CA 94111
Contact: (415) 528-4444
Website: Visit Website
6) San Francisco Botanical Garden
I recently visited the San Francisco Botanical Garden and was impressed by how peaceful the entire place felt. The gardens cover 55 acres and feature over 8,000 different kinds of plants from all around the world. Walking through the various sections, I saw many unique plants I hadn’t seen before, including a special magnolia collection.
The garden is well laid out with clear paths and open spaces, making it easy to explore. I enjoyed spending time in different areas, each showcasing plants from different climates and regions. It was a quiet break from the city noise and a perfect spot for nature lovers.
The garden is open from early morning until early evening, which gave me plenty of time to wander and take pictures. They also offer a tool called Garden Explorer that lets you learn more about the plants while you visit. This helped me understand what I was seeing and made the visit more interesting.
Rating: 4.8 (7489 reviews)
Location: San Francisco Botanical Garden
Contact: (415) 661-1316
Website: Visit Website
7) Coit Tower
I visited Coit Tower on Telegraph Hill, a simple white column that stands out in San Francisco’s skyline. The tower was built in 1933 thanks to Lillie Hitchcock Coit, who left money to help beautify the city. From the tower’s observation deck, I saw clear 360-degree views of the city and bay, including the Golden Gate and Bay bridges.
Inside the tower’s base, there are murals painted in 1934 during the Great Depression. These frescoes show life in California at that time and were created by local artists working for a government art project. It was interesting to learn some panels sparked controversy and were hidden for a while because of their strong messages.
I climbed the tower after a short wait for the elevator, which can sometimes be out of service. The walk up the stairs was steep but worth it to see the views and the parrots that live around the hill. Nearby, the Coit Tower Café has snacks and drinks, but food isn’t allowed inside the tower.
Rating: 4.5 (14611 reviews)
Location: 1 Telegraph Hill Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94133
Contact: (415) 831-2700
Website: Visit Website
8) Golden Gate Bridge
I walked across the Golden Gate Bridge and was impressed by its huge size and bright orange color. The towers reach 746 feet high, and the cables stretch wide, making it a very strong and beautiful structure. It feels like part history and part art.
The bridge is open to cars, bikes, and people on foot. At night, sometimes cyclists are asked to use the west sidewalk because of maintenance on the east side. I liked the fresh air and the views of the bay while crossing.
This place is more than just a bridge. It welcomes over 10 million visitors each year who come to enjoy the view and feel the atmosphere. The design is simple yet striking, with art deco style details that add character without being flashy.
Toll prices will increase starting July 1, 2025, so it’s good to check the latest rates if you plan to drive. Still, the experience of seeing and crossing the Golden Gate Bridge is worth the trip.
Rating: 4.8 (81438 reviews)
Location: Golden Gate Bridge
Contact: (415) 921-5858
Website: Visit Website
Tips for Planning Your San Francisco Experience
Knowing when to visit and how to get around will help you make the most of your time in the city. San Francisco’s weather changes quickly, and traffic or public transit options affect how you explore popular spots.
Best Times to Visit
San Francisco has mild weather year-round, but the best months to visit are from September to November. During this time, the fog clears up, and temperatures are warmer, usually between 65°F and 75°F. Spring is also nice but can be cool and foggy, especially near the coast.
Avoid major holidays like July 4th and Thanksgiving if you want fewer crowds. Weekdays tend to be less busy at popular attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge or Chinatown. Bring layers because even in summer, the mornings and evenings can be cool.
Transportation in the City
Getting around San Francisco is easiest by public transit or on foot. I usually use the Muni buses and streetcars, which cover most tourist areas. The iconic cable cars are fun but mainly serve busy routes and can be crowded.
If you plan to explore beyond the city center, consider renting a bike or using ride-share services like Uber or Lyft. Parking can be expensive and hard to find downtown. Walking lets you see hidden neighborhoods and take breaks in parks like Dolores or Alamo Square.
For trip details or tips, check this San Francisco travel guide.
Enhancing Your Visit
To get the most out of your trip, it helps to know what foods to try and how to act around locals. These details make your experience smoother and richer while you explore San Francisco.
Recommended Local Foods
San Francisco is known for fresh seafood, especially around Fisherman’s Wharf. I always recommend trying clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl. It’s a local favorite and a true taste of the city.
Another staple is the Mission-style burrito. It’s bigger and filled with rice, beans, meat, and other toppings. You can find excellent burritos in the Mission District.
For something sweet, don’t miss Ghirardelli chocolate. Visiting the Ghirardelli Square shop is a good way to sample this classic treat.
If you enjoy coffee, the city’s cafes serve high-quality, locally roasted beans. I suggest visiting the Ferry Building Marketplace for a mix of local foods in one place.
Cultural Etiquette and Local Insights
San Franciscans are generally friendly but value personal space. When using public transit or walking busy streets, avoid loud talking or blocking sidewalks.
Tipping is important here. I usually leave 15-20% in restaurants, cafes, and for taxi rides.
The city is diverse. Respect for different cultures and lifestyles is expected. I always try to be open-minded and polite in neighborhoods like Chinatown or the Mission.
Finally, the weather can change quickly. I always dress in layers to stay comfortable no matter where I go.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve gathered answers to common questions about what to see and do in San Francisco. These cover top sites, family-friendly activities, unique experiences, and ways to enjoy the city on a budget or a short trip.
What are the top attractions for first-time visitors in San Francisco?
I recommend starting with the Golden Gate Bridge. Walking or biking across offers great views of the bay. Visiting Alcatraz Island is also a must for its history and setting. Pier 39 is popular for shopping and sea lions. The Exploratorium offers hands-on science fun.
Which activities in San Francisco are best suited for families with children?
Families often enjoy Golden Gate Park, where kids can explore gardens, playgrounds, and the California Academy of Sciences. Pier 39 entertains with its aquarium and street performers. The Exploratorium is great for curious minds of all ages. Muir Woods offers easy hikes among giant redwoods.
What unique experiences can only be had in San Francisco?
Visiting Alcatraz Island is a unique historical tour unlike any other. Riding the historic cable cars gives you a taste of San Francisco’s past. Walking down Lombard Street, known for its steep turns, is another special city moment. Exploring Muir Woods lets you see ancient redwoods close up.
How can one spend a leisurely three-day itinerary in San Francisco?
Day one could be exploring Golden Gate Park and nearby neighborhoods. Day two should include Alcatraz Island and a walk or bike ride across the Golden Gate Bridge. On day three, I suggest visiting Pier 39 and the Exploratorium for a mix of shopping and science.
Are there any notable free activities to enjoy in San Francisco?
Walking across the Golden Gate Bridge costs nothing and offers fantastic views. Strolling through Golden Gate Park and its gardens is free. You can explore Pier 39 without spending unless you shop or eat. Watching sea lions at the pier is also a popular free activity.
What are the most beautiful spots to visit in San Francisco?
The views from the Golden Gate Bridge are iconic and beautiful. Muir Woods’ towering redwoods provide majestic natural beauty. Golden Gate Park has scenic lakes and flower gardens. Alcatraz Island offers a unique mix of history and bay views.
