From the 1848 gold rush to the hippie movement of the 1960s, San Francisco has witnessed a number of changes throughout its history. As a result, it is one of America’s most intriguing and alluring cities to visit. This is also thanks to an open-minded attitude, culturally diverse population, beautiful natural landscape, world-class restaurants, and a plethora of captivating attractions. What’s more, nearly all of San Francisco’s sights and sounds can be enjoyed and experienced on a single visit, as it is one of the USA’s great walking cities, which also boasts an iconic yet practical public transport system. Let’s get to San Francisco: Things to See and Do.

Image by Jeff Gunn, shared under a Creative Commons License

San Francisco: Things to See and Do

Golden Gate Bridge

Bound to be near the top of your to-do list, the Golden Gate Bridge is an acclaimed symbol of the city, which connects San Francisco to Marin County. The wire used for its two pivotal cables could wrap around the equator three times, demonstrating that this was no mean feat to construct.

For the best views, head to Fort Point in the Presidio and Vista Point. But if you want to walk across it, which will take around half an hour, remember to wrap up warm, as the wind can be quite ferocious.

If walking isn’t your thing, find a bike tour as they provide a great and faster way to all the sights.

The Sea Life of the Bay

Pier 39 is arguably the city’s biggest attraction, as it’s home to numerous sea lions sunbathing on the pontoons. But for a more up close and personal experience with some stunning seafaring creatures, head to the Aquarium of the Bay.

Make your way through 300 feet of crystal tunnels to discover over 20,000 marine animals from San Francisco Bay and its surrounding waters, suggests Smart Save. There are also touch pools filled with sharks, rays, and sea stars, which are bound to amaze and astonish in equal measure.

Alcatraz

From 1934 to 1963, this island in San Francisco Bay was home to the country’s most iconic federal prison and it remains a formidable sight today. Famous former inmates, such as Al Capone, could not escape the facility nicknamed “The Rock.”

Visitors to Alcatraz can learn about the prison’s incredible story with trail walks and audio tours narrated by former inmates and guards. However, it is recommended you book early to avoid disappointment.

Know before you go

• Buy a Muni ticket – San Francisco’s system of trains, buses, and streetcars are great for getting around, so purchase a seven-day Muni ticket for unlimited travel.
• Think twice about going in summer – The months of June, July, and August might seem like prime visiting time, but it can actually be quite chilly and misty during summer. Instead, go in September or October when the temperature will be much more pleasant.
• Don’t forget to visit the neighborhoods – For an authentic insight into what everyday life is like for San Francisco’s locals, be sure to visit the neighborhoods. From the affluent Nob Hill to mouth-watering Chinatown and the bohemian Haight Ashbury, there is a lot to uncover says SF Gate.

Lombard Street:

Lombard Street, famously known as the “Crookedest Street in the World,” is a must-see attraction in San Francisco, captivating visitors with its unique and winding charm. Nestled in the Russian Hill neighborhood, this one-block section of Lombard Street features eight hairpin turns and offers an iconic view of the city and the bay. The street’s serpentine design was initially conceived to address the steep incline, making it both functional and an architectural marvel.

Tourists flock to Lombard Street not only for its engineering ingenuity but also for the stunning gardens that line its curves. The beautifully landscaped flowers, shrubs, and greenery enhance the visual spectacle, creating a picturesque setting against the backdrop of the cityscape. The meticulous care put into the gardens adds to the overall allure of Lombard Street, making it a delightful and photogenic destination.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Lombard Street is deeply ingrained in San Francisco’s cultural identity, symbolizing the city’s commitment to innovation and creative problem-solving. The quirky and winding road serves as a testament to the city’s ability to blend functionality with beauty, making it a must-see landmark that encapsulates the spirit of San Francisco. Whether admired from the bottom or experienced firsthand by driving down its famous twists, Lombard Street promises a memorable and quintessentially San Franciscan experience.

Telegraph Hill and Coit Tower:

Perched atop Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower stands as a timeless emblem of San Francisco’s skyline and a must-see destination for visitors. Built in 1933, the tower was a tribute to the city’s firefighters, funded by a bequest from philanthropist Lillie Hitchcock Coit. The tower’s unique design, resembling a slender, white column with an art deco influence, makes it a distinctive and recognizable feature of the cityscape.

Beyond its architectural significance, Coit Tower offers panoramic views of San Francisco and the surrounding Bay Area. Visitors can ascend the tower and gaze upon the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the downtown skyline. The breathtaking 360-degree vistas make it a prime location for both locals and tourists seeking a comprehensive perspective of the city’s topography and landmarks.

Moreover, Coit Tower is adorned with vibrant murals inside, created during the Great Depression by a group of artists as part of a Public Works of Art Project. These murals depict scenes of everyday life in California and provide a fascinating glimpse into the historical and social context of the era. The combination of artistic expression, historical significance, and unparalleled views makes Coit Tower an integral part of San Francisco’s cultural landscape and a must-visit attraction for those seeking a deeper connection to the city’s rich heritage.

Cable Cars:

Experience San Francisco’s charm from a cable car: iconic rides, breathtaking views, and a journey through the city’s hilly history. 

San Francisco’s iconic cable cars are not just a mode of transportation; they’re a living testament to the city’s rich history and a must-see attraction for visitors. Dating back to the late 19th century, the cable car system is a unique and charming feature, recognized as a National Historic Landmark. The network consists of manually operated cars that grip onto an underground cable, allowing them to traverse the city’s famous hills with ease.

Riding a cable car in San Francisco is an immersive experience that provides a sense of nostalgia and a connection to the city’s past. The open-air design of the cars allows passengers to feel the brisk Bay Area breeze and take in panoramic views of the surrounding neighborhoods. The Powell-Hyde and Powell-Mason lines, in particular, offer picturesque routes, passing through iconic landmarks like Fisherman’s Wharf, Lombard Street, and Nob Hill.

Beyond its scenic charm, the cable car system is an integral part of San Francisco’s cultural identity. The distinctive clang of the cable car bell resonates with the spirit of the city, evoking a sense of timelessness. For tourists, the cable cars offer not only a practical way to navigate the city but also a memorable and quintessential San Francisco experience, immersing them in the charm, history, and unique topography of this vibrant metropolis.