San Francisco, commonly known as SF, is a well-known finance and commercial hub found in California. As one of the most populated cities in the US, SF is a cultural hub that’s vibrant with life.
It features some of the best wonders nature has to offer. Besides that, this delightful city has prestigious modern art institutions, restaurants, monuments, and other attractions.
Basically, it has a little bit of everything sweet, classic, natural, and captivating. Whether you are a local or a first-time visitor, here are the 10 best things to do in San Francisco.
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1. Sample the Colorful Street Art in the Mission District
The mission district has one of the most significant numbers of street art in the world. This neighborhood is constantly being updated with modern murals from a political, economic, and social point of view.
There are also thousands of murals from the early 1970s which portray various themes. Overall, the Mission District is surrounded by colorful pieces of art. From Clarion Alley to Balmy Alley, you will find a unique collection of classic murals that will absolutely captivate your mind.
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2. Hop on the Iconic Historic Cable Car
The cable car system found here is the last to be operated manually in the world. The iconic historic cable car system is part of the intermodal-urban transport network in SF.
The red cars which have been traveling through the hilly streets of SF since the early 1870s offer tourists an enjoyable and classic experience. What makes the cable car rides interesting is the fact that they move with their bells ringing.
Apart from that, you can take a ride using the vintage streetcars, which also use similar tracks.
Furthermore, you have a chance to learn about the history of the SF railway museum, which is also nearby.
3. Take a Cruise Around SF Bay
This is indeed one of the top 10 best things to do in San Francisco. The Bay Area is a prime location that will make you appreciate nature and its beauty.
Additionally, the stunning bridges which can be viewed from different angles, as well as the beautiful skyline, will all capture your attention.
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It should be noted that there are various cruise options. If you want to get a glimpse of the beautiful sunset, enjoy a champagne brunch, or simply enjoy outdoor or indoor seating, then there are several cruises to cater to your needs.
For content creators, the SF Bay Area is the perfect venue for stunning photos featuring Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge.
Planning your trip already? Book a rental with A Greater Town!
4. Take a Walk in Yerba Buena Gardens
This is a pretty place where you can relax after a busy day of sightseeing other parts of SF. The gardens which come with 5 acres of stunning landscaped lawns consist of art, water, trees, and flowers.
Whether you are a local or visitor, Yerba Buena Gardens is one of the best places to wind down and just enjoy SF’s weather.
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5. Explore SF’s Chinatown
This is one of the oldest Chinatowns in America. The iconic SF Chinatown brims with alleys and streets in addition to traditional eateries and street joints. This place is known to host the biggest Asian community with Chinese immigrants flocking here annually.
SF’s Chinatown is a place where you can sample different menus as you interact with people from various backgrounds. If you are also keen about alternative medicine, this is one place where you will find renowned herbalists.
From karaoke bars to cocktail lounges to ornate temples, Chinatown is an entertaining place that’s always bubbling with life.
Planning your trip already? Book a rental with A Greater Town!
6. Take a Hike in Presidio Trails
If you are interested in exploring SF’s natural spaces, Presidio Trails is one of the top natural spaces in Bay Area that’s definitely worth a visit. Located on the southern side of the Golden Gate Bridge, this famous park has several scenic trails. The 24-mile hiking trail alongside a 25-mile bikeway features loops of intriguing overlooks.
Furthermore, there are captivating vantage points which offer incredible views throughout the trails. You can spend half a day here, engaging your mind and body as you go through various hiking or biking routes.
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7. Relax at Ocean Beach
Ocean Beach’s location in the West Coast makes it one of the locations that you should definitely visit in SF.
Separating the famous Golden Gate Park and the San Francisco Zoo, this recreation space which covers 3.5 miles of land is perfect for a refreshing morning or evening stroll.
It’s worth noting that the sandy Ocean Beach is among the most visited areas in SF. While you are here, you can get stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Besides that, you can ride a kite buggy, fly a kite, or build a bonfire.
8. Visit the Exploratorium
This is a unique museum that allows visitors to uniquely explore the world from human perception, art, and science.
Exploratorium is normally referred to as “the learning laboratory.” It features a massive collection of subject matter ranging from biology, geography, psychology, and engineering.
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With over 600 types of hand-on exhibits and six main galleries, The Exploratorium is an interactive museum where you can spend the whole day learning about various offerings.
9. Explore Haight-Ashbury
As the original birthplace of the counterculture movement which started in the 1960s, Haight-Ashbury is SF’s home of hippie counterculture. It brings out a vintage nostalgia as well as a historical vibe.
This is a vibrant place that will allow you to get in touch with the versatile SF culture. Haight-Ashbury features a diverse lively crowd. So, if you are up to fun, then this is a must-visit destination.
Haight-Ashbury allows you to confidently walk in the renowned footsteps of the Grateful Dead or Janis Joplin. The vibrant bars and restaurants, vintage apparel boutiques, and record shops all provide great shots for outdoor fun.
Planning your trip already? Book a rental with A Greater Town!
10. Head Down to Fisherman’s Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf is the most popular waterfront community in SF. It features numerous outdoor stands and the gourmet restaurants which sells some of the freshet and delicious fish.
Overall, Fisherman’s Wharf offers one of the best dining options in the world, thanks to the broad range of delicacies.
The busy and touristic area is also known as the location of Ghirardelli Square, Cannery Shopping Center, and Musee
Mecanique.
Conclusion
SF is packed with culture and adventure; it’s a beautiful place to experience great food and places to sight-see. If you are planning on a trip to SF, then our article can give you insights and information that you will need to find the perfect place to absorb the cultural ambiance and experience the artistic luxury that SF has to offer.
