Discover San Francisco's Top Attractions

San Francisco, set against the Pacific Ocean and rolling hills, is a picturesque city with the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. It's rich in history, with vibrant neighborhoods, parks, and beaches.

Notable landmarks include Alcatraz Island and Fisherman's Wharf. The city's Chinatown is the largest in North America and a must-see. For a unique view of the city, take a ride on the historic cable cars.

Learn more about the city's attractions at the top tourist attractions in San Francisco.

See also: Where to Stay in San Francisco

1. Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge is a celebrated California landmark. It's the most photographed site in San Francisco, known for its striking orange color. The bridge connects San Francisco to Marin County and was once the longest suspension bridge in the world. Pedestrians and cyclists can enjoy walkways on both sides, offering stunning views.

2. Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island, once a notorious federal prison, is now a fascinating tourist destination. Visitors can take a ferry to the island and explore the prison with an audio tour narrated by former inmates and guards. The island also serves as a sanctuary for seabirds.

Guided tours in San Francisco

3. Fisherman's Wharf

Fisherman's Wharf is a bustling area known for its waterfront setting, shops, and eateries. Attractions include Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, Musée Mécanique, and Ghirardelli Square. Visitors can also see sea lions at Pier 39.

4. Ride the Cable Cars

Cable cars are a historic mode of transportation in San Francisco, offering scenic routes and access to major attractions. The Powell-Mason and Powell-Hyde lines are particularly picturesque.

Official site: http://www.sfcablecar.com/

5. Golden Gate Park

Golden Gate Park is a lush oasis with gardens, museums, and trails. Highlights include the de Young Museum, California Academy of Sciences, Japanese Tea Garden, and San Francisco Botanical Garden.

Official site: https://goldengatepark.com/

6. Chinatown

San Francisco's Chinatown is the largest outside of Asia and the oldest in North America. It's a vibrant community with temples, shops, and restaurants. Grant Avenue is the main tourist street, featuring the Chinatown Gateway.

7. Legion of Honor

The California Palace of the Legion of Honor is a fine arts museum with a collection of European art and antiquities. It's located in Lincoln Park, which offers stunning views and hiking trails.

Official site: https://legionofhonor.famsf.org

8. Palace of Fine Arts

The Palace of Fine Arts is a remnant of the 1915 Panama Pacific Exposition and a beautiful example of classical architecture. It hosts art exhibitions and performances.

Official site: http://palaceoffinearts.org/

9. California Academy of Sciences

This "green" museum in Golden Gate Park features a natural history museum, planetarium, aquarium, and rainforest. The Steinhart Aquarium and Osher Rainforest are visitor favorites.

Official site: http://www.calacademy.org/

10. San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

SFMOMA showcases 20th-century art across 10 floors. The collection includes 33,000 pieces, with changing exhibits and a focus on innovation.

Official site: https://www.sfmoma.org/

11. de Young Fine Arts Museum of San Francisco

Located in Golden Gate Park, the de Young Museum features art from various periods and regions. Admission includes access to the Legion of Honor.

Official site: http://deyoung.famsf.org/

12. Twin Peaks

Twin Peaks offers panoramic views of San Francisco and the bay. These hills provide excellent hiking opportunities and remain undeveloped.

13. Asian Art Museum

The Asian Art Museum holds a vast collection of Asian art spanning 6,000 years. It's one of the city's most important cultural institutions.

Official site: http://www.asianart.org/

14. Exploratorium

The Exploratorium is a science museum with interactive exhibits for all ages. It's a place of learning and fun for families and curious minds.

Official site: http://www.exploratorium.edu/

15. Golden Gate National Recreation Area

This vast park offers trails, beaches, and historic sites like Fort Baker. It's a natural haven for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/goga/index.htm

16. Oracle Park

Oracle Park is the home of the San Francisco Giants. Fans can enjoy baseball games with ocean views or take a behind-the-scenes tour of the ballpark.

Official site: https://www.mlb.com/giants/ballpark

17. Day Trip to Napa Valley

Napa Valley, less than 1.5 hours from San Francisco, is a premier wine region with picturesque vineyards and wineries.

18. Hike and Picnic on Angel Island State Park

Angel Island offers hiking, biking, picnicking, and stunning bay views. It's a peaceful retreat from the city hustle.

Official site: http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=468

19. Ghirardelli Square

Ghirardelli Square, in Fisherman's Wharf, is a hub for shopping and dining in a historic factory setting.

20. High Tea at a Historic Hotel

Experience high tea at San Francisco's historic hotels like The Fairmont, The Ritz-Carlton, and the Palace Hotel for a taste of Victorian elegance.

21. Walt Disney Family Museum

This museum celebrates the life and legacy of Walt Disney, showcasing his innovations and achievements.

Official site: https://www.waltdisney.org/

22. Gaze Up at the Giant Redwoods at Muir Woods National Monument

Muir Woods is home to ancient redwood trees and offers serene walking paths just 45 minutes from the city.

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/muwo/index.htm

23. Coit Tower

Coit Tower offers panoramic city views and features Depression-era murals inside.

Official site: https://sfrecpark.org/facilities/facility/details/Coit-Tower-290

Where to Stay in San Francisco for Sightseeing

For sightseeing, Union Square is a central location with easy access to public transportation. Fisherman's Wharf is also popular, especially for families.

Luxury Hotels: Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at Embarcadero, The Ritz-Carlton, and The St Regis offer upscale accommodations.

Mid-Range Hotels: Chancellor Hotel on Union Square, Cornell Hotel de France, and Courtyard by Marriott Fisherman's Wharf provide great value and location.

Budget Hotels: Herbert Hotel and Castle Inn offer affordable stays near Union Square and Fisherman's Wharf, respectively.

Tips and Tours: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to San Francisco

For an easy and comprehensive city tour, consider the Big Bus San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Tour. For a unique experience, try the San Francisco Waterfront Segway Tour.