Discover the Best Places to Visit in San Francisco

Introduction

San Francisco is one of those internationally renowned cities that attract travelers from all over the world to admire its neighborhoods and must-see places. I loved my visit to the city, with its iconic Golden Gate Bridge that we have all seen at least once on a postcard, or the unusual Alcatraz prison. The tours of the area promise you an unforgettable journey with its cultural mix and dream location by the bay.

Visiting San Francisco can be done in a thousand and one ways, whether alone, by booking one of the many sightseeing tours, or even by planning a bus tour in San Francisco. In any case, you will discover a lot of incredible places to explore. To simplify your organization, I have grouped together in this article all the must-see places to visit in San Francisco so that your experience there can be as enriching as possible. Between breathtaking views and cultural treasures, I invite you to follow me to discover why a visit to the area should be on your list of future destinations.

Visit to San Francisco

1. The Must-See Sights in San Francisco

Golden Gate Bridge

When you think of San Francisco, the first image that probably comes to mind is that of the Golden Gate Bridge. It is a true architectural marvel, especially for its time of construction, with its inauguration in 1937, and it is today one of the most beautiful sites in the metropolis. That year, it was the longest and tallest suspension bridge in the world. Its iconic "international orange" color and design make it one of the most famous bridges worldwide.

The bridge is accessible to cars, but also to pedestrians and cyclists. I loved walking along the bridge; it is an extraordinary photo spot with its panoramic view of the San Francisco Bay, especially if you choose the most opportune moments of the day like sunrise. However, if you want to enjoy the sunset, I recommend choosing a different viewpoint than the bridge, such as Battery Spencer or Fort Point, which offer spectacular panoramic views of the bay and the bridge.

For those who are curious and want to learn more about the history or engineering behind this monument, the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center is the ideal place. It is there that you will find exhibitions detailing the construction of the bridge, and the center also offers maps and guides to explore the surrounding trails and viewpoints.

Your visit to San Francisco would not be complete if you missed visiting this monument. It is one of the must-see experiences during your sightseeing tour.

Visit the San Francisco Bay with Alcatraz Island

I then suggest continuing your discovery tour in another place to visit near San Francisco, almost as famous as the Golden Gate: the well-known Alcatraz prison. This historic site, which was long a federal prison, is built on an island in the heart of the estuary; it is actually this island that gave its name to the prison. Now closed, it is famous for many reasons, including its daring escape attempts, but especially for its notorious criminals like Al Capone or "Machine Gun" Kelly.

I think the best way to visit the island is through guided tours. I learned a lot from the audio tour. It immerses you in the stories of former guards and inmates of the prison while you wander through the cell block areas. It feels very much like a history museum, except that the immersion is more like a journey back in time than just a simple sightseeing stroll.

If you are considering visiting the place, I strongly advise you to book your tickets in advance. Like all major tourist sites, there is high demand, and during the tourist season, ferries to Alcatraz fill up quickly.

The trip to Alcatraz is not just a stop on your itinerary; it is a dive into one of the most famous chapters of American history. It definitely deserves its place alongside other sites like the Golden Gate Bridge and Coit Tower during your visit to San Francisco.

Coit Tower

The tour of the surroundings continues, and this time I will take you to discover a must-see place in San Francisco, the Coit Tower. It is located at the top of Telegraph Hill. Rising to a height of 210 feet (64m), it offers unforgettable views of the city.

At the top of the tower, there is an observation terrace from which you can enjoy panoramic views of the most beautiful sites in the area and almost the entire metropolis.

Visit the Coit Tower in San Francisco

The Art and History Inside the Tower

Visiting the inside of the tower is also part of the journey. It is a true treasure of history with its walls adorned with colorful frescoes that represent life in California during the Great Depression. The frescoes were painted in the 1930s as part of the New Deal program that aimed to provide work and showcase local artists.

Similar to what can be found in temples or medieval monuments, the frescoes highlight events from the past. It is an ideal opportunity to immerse oneself in a moment of art and culture from the past.

How to get there

Visiting the Coit Tower is relatively simple. Here are a few options to get there:

1. By car: this is undoubtedly the most comfortable option, but you should know that parking can be limited.
2. On foot: for the more athletic ones and if you are tempted to stroll along Filbert Street, this is also an option. This street is part of San Francisco's heritage for me.
3. By public transport: if you want to admire the surroundings without effort, I invite you to take line 30 or 45 to Washington Square, which is located at the corner of Union and Columbus streets. Then take bus 39 to Coit Tower.

Once you arrive at your destination, there is an elevator that takes you all the way to the top of the tower. It depends on the time of your visit, but there can sometimes be a wait.

A must-see in the San Francisco area

The Coit Tower should definitely be on your list of things to see in San Francisco. It is one of the most essential attractions near San Francisco. It combines beautiful and historical murals while offering you stunning views of the area.

Whether you decide to explore it on your own or choose the option of a guided tour, make sure to dedicate some time to this iconic tower.

2. The places to visit in San Francisco, cultural immersion

Mission District

The exploration of the surroundings continues with one of my favourite places during my visit to San Francisco: the Mission District. If you want to discover the artistic scene of San Francisco, this historic neighbourhood is where you need to go. It is a gathering place for locals and tourists who want to enjoy this centre of creativity in the city, with its street art. Almost all of these murals convey a message, whether political or a celebration of local culture. It's like walking through an open-air gallery.

It is also the ideal place for a gastronomic break, especially for lovers of Mexican cuisine. The local taquerías serve some of the best burritos in the city and believe me, your taste buds will thank you. You also have a wide variety of tacos, enchiladas, and tamales to choose from...

The neighbourhood is not only known for its art and food, but it is also the place where many community events and festivals take place. It is one of the liveliest neighbourhoods in the city. If you are looking to immerse yourself in the local culture and meet the residents of the area, this is the place to go.

Haight-Ashbury

The visit to the oldest neighbourhoods of San Francisco then takes us to Haight-Ashbury. If you have ever wondered where the heart of the counterculture movement of the 1960s beats in San Francisco, you will find the answer in this neighbourhood. It is an open-air living museum, and you will have the pleasure of strolling through streets once frequented by icons like Janis Joplin and The Grateful Dead. It is a place where history is not only remembered, it is alive.

As long as you are doing some sightseeing in this typical neighbourhood, there are two activities to do there that I am sure some of you will enjoy. The first is to do a bit of shopping in the surrounding streets; you will find plenty of vintage shops selling retro clothing or rare vinyl records. The second thing to do is to enjoy the cafés and cultural venues. Indeed, Haight-Ashbury is home to a large number of original cafés, each with its own style.

Haight-Ashbury District in San Francisco

3. Attractions near San Francisco

Exploratorium

If you're looking for even more things to do in San Francisco, I suggest we go explore the surroundings. And why not start with the Exploratorium? This interactive museum located at Pier 15 is the perfect place for both young and old. It's a large playground as long as you have a curious mind. With over 650 exhibits, most of which are interactive, you can explore many fields, from physics and biology to art and human perception.

In addition, the museum is located along the picturesque waterfront, so it offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Even if you don't want to go inside, it's a perfect stop on your itinerary to enjoy the Golden Gate during your visit to San Francisco. For families, it's obviously an ideal outing if you're passing through San Francisco. The museum is designed to engage even the youngest explorers with its exhibits; I really appreciated its accessibility. The museum also frequently organizes workshops and educational programs.

If you're looking for what activity to do with family in San Francisco or if it rains during your stay, don't hesitate to pay a visit. Normally, San Francisco is not a rainy city, but it can always happen. The best times to visit San Francisco are rather spring and autumn due to its mild climate; it will guarantee you maximum chances to enjoy indoor and outdoor attractions without worry. So, next time you're wondering what to see in San Francisco, don't miss this gem!

Golden Gate Park

Did you know that there is a larger natural park than Central Park in San Francisco? Golden Gate Park is a green oasis in the heart of the city. The park is slightly larger than Central Park, even though it receives almost twice as few visitors, but if you are looking for what to see in San Francisco, this park is a must-visit.

The park is not just a place for walking, it offers lush landscapes where you will find a multitude of attractions. You will find the Young Museum (an art museum), the California Academy of Sciences, and what I liked the most: the Japanese garden with its beautiful pagodas and koi ponds. It is therefore an ideal place to spend a family day, for example.

Outdoor activity enthusiasts will love the various offerings of the park, including:

• Picnic areas: Perfect for a relaxing afternoon with family, friends, or as a couple.
• Sports facilities: Play tennis, football, or simply enjoy a little jog in the midst of nature.

The park is also a cultural place in the city and hosts seasonal events such as music festivals. It is undoubtedly one of the main attractions near San Francisco for those looking for both relaxation and activities.

Sutro Baths

The history of the city is rich and it has several testimonies of this rich past that are now remarkable places to visit. The Sutro Baths were once a magnificent public swimming facility. It is the architectural style of the place that makes me want to talk about it, the ruins of the Victorian-style baths provide a fascinating glimpse into a not-so-distant past where the beauty of the places was worth a visit. Today, even though swimming there is no longer possible, the site invites exploration.

In addition to its architecture, the Sutro Baths are surrounded by panoramic views of the ocean. You will undoubtedly encounter many photographers in search of the perfect shot along the coast. The location also provides access to nearby hiking trails that wind through Lands End, a perfect way to discover the breathtaking beauty of the San Francisco coastline.

I took public transport to get to the baths, but the place is also accessible by car with nearby parking available for those who wish to drive.

Sutro Baths in San Francisco

4. Enjoy Breathtaking Panoramic Views

Twin Peaks

If you are looking for a viewpoint to see the silhouette of the city, head to Twin Peaks. Rising over 900 feet above sea level, this place offers incredible 360-degree views.

Of course, the experience becomes even more magical at sunset. The sky takes on warm hues as if the city has been painted in gold, a perfect moment for photographers or romantics among you. Keep in mind that you won't be the only ones wanting to enjoy sunset viewing experiences, so if it's a busy time, plan to arrive a little early.

Getting to Twin Peaks shouldn't be too complicated. I chose to use public transport via the MUNI bus which drops you off nearby (but there is a short hike to reach the destination). There is also the option of driving there and there is plenty of parking available on Christmas Tree Point Road.

Twin Peaks is one of the main attractions near San Francisco and should be at the top of your list of places to visit near San Francisco if you are looking for breathtaking panoramic views.

Presidio

The exploration continues nearby in the Presidio neighborhood. Located in the northwest corner of San Francisco, it used to be a military base, but today it is like a large national park with many opportunities for exploration.

1. Hiking Trails and Historical Sites

If you want to take a short walk, put on your hiking shoes and explore the picturesque trails of the park that pass by historical landmarks such as Fort Point and the Main Post. During this outing, you can admire the military history of the site while enjoying some relaxation in a green environment.

2. Walt Disney Family Museum

I couldn't talk about the Presidio without mentioning the Walt Disney Family Museum located there. For those interested in the life and legacy of Walt Disney, it is a must-visit stop. The museum offers interactive exhibits and rare artifacts that will allow you to learn more about his history.

5. Discover unique aspects of the charm of San Francisco

Cable Cars

I have already talked to you about many tourist attractions in San Francisco, but I couldn't finish this article without mentioning another typically San Franciscan aspect: the cable cars. They are icons of the city, and not just a nostalgic nod to the past; they continue to be both a popular tourist attraction and an essential mode of transportation.

1. Historical context

The city being geographically very steep (you will realize this during your visit), it needed a means of transport to move around easily. It was at the end of the 19th century that the tramway came into existence. Their ingenious design involves underground cables in addition to the traditional cabin in which you can ride.

2. Experience it

I highly recommend the experience of hanging onto the railings of the cabins to glide through the winding streets of the city. You will enjoy different views of the city and its neighborhoods in a moment of relaxation that will connect you to the soul of the city.

3. Tips to avoid long queues

Some stops can be very busy, especially during peak season. To avoid a long wait and make the most of your tramway adventure, try the less crowded stops, especially early in the morning or late in the evening. The Powell-Hyde line is undoubtedly the most famous (and therefore quite busy), but it offers remarkable views, making it a top choice for many visitors wanting to explore San Francisco by bus and tramway.

Discover San Francisco by bus and tramway

Even though for some it is just a means of transport, for me the trams of San Francisco are an invitation to step back in time and enjoy a moment of the vibrant soul of this dynamic city.

Ghirardelli Square

I will finish this list of things to see in San Francisco with a visit to Ghirardelli Square. If, like me, you love sweet treats and history, it will be an excellent way to end your visit to San Francisco. It used to be a chocolate factory, but today this historic site is home to much more than just chocolate: you will find a whole range of shops and restaurants there. Those with a sweet tooth can taste the famous Ghirardelli ice cream (a real treat!).

The Final Word

What to see in San Francisco? It's a question that calls for a thousand answers, but I hope to have given you an overview of the iconic monuments and attractions to prioritize adding to your list. A visit to the metropolis is full of surprises and promises you an unforgettable adventure, whether you choose to enjoy the majesty of the Golden Gate Bridge, dive into the history of Alcatraz Island, or admire the artistic flair of the Mission District. The city has something for everyone:

• For families: the interactive exhibits at the Exploratorium and the magnificent Golden Gate will leave you with unforgettable memories.
• For culture lovers: historic districts like Haight-Ashbury offer a nostalgic journey back in time.
• For nature lovers: breathtaking views from Twin Peaks and trails in the Presidio await you.

San Francisco is a vibrant city that has managed to preserve its historical soul and pulsates with the rhythm of its artists and residents; it deserves a place on your list of destinations.