Whether it’s your first time in SF or you’re looking to explore the city with fresh eyes, this list of local-approved things to do in San Francisco covers the iconic, the quirky, and everything in between. We’ve included the best places to visit, hidden gems, and insider tips — plus affiliate links to tours and gear we recommend.
1. Walk or Bike Across the Golden Gate Bridge
No SF trip is complete without experiencing this world-famous icon.
- Walk from Crissy Field to the bridge entrance for epic skyline views.
- Or rent a bike and ride to Sausalito, then ferry back!
👉 Book a Golden Gate Bridge Bike Tour
👉 Shop comfortable walking shoes on Amazon
2. Explore the Mission District’s Murals
Wander through Balmy Alley and Clarion Alley to see San Francisco’s most vibrant public art.
- Book a mural tour to get the stories behind the paint.
- Grab tacos or a Mission burrito afterward.
👉 Book a Mission mural walking tour
👉 Shop compact travel daypacks
3. Visit Alcatraz Island
The infamous prison island is haunting, beautiful, and full of history.
- The ferry ride alone is worth it.
- Audio tours are included and incredibly well done.
👉 Book your Alcatraz tour here
👉 Bring a windproof jacket — it gets chilly on the water!
4. Get Lost in Golden Gate Park
It’s larger than NYC’s Central Park and packed with gems.
- Visit the Japanese Tea Garden, Stow Lake, or rent a bike.
- Locals love it for long, peaceful walks.
👉 Book a Golden Gate Park tour
👉 Shop picnic blankets + backpacks
5. Ride a Historic Cable Car
Yes, it’s touristy — but locals still do it (especially for views).
- Hop on at Powell & Market
- Ride all the way to Fisherman’s Wharf\
👉 Book a San Francisco cable car tour
👉 Shop portable phone chargers
6. Chill in Dolores Park
Grab a drink, sit on the slope, and people-watch with city skyline views.
- Best on a sunny Saturday afternoon
- Pick up snacks from Bi-Rite Market nearby
👉 Shop reusable water bottles
👉 Bring a waterproof picnic blanket
7. Visit the Exploratorium
This hands-on science museum is wildly fun for adults too.
- Located on the Embarcadero waterfront
- Great for foggy days or families
👉 Book Exploratorium tickets
8. Watch the Sunset from Twin Peaks
360° views of the entire city.
- Drive or hike to the top
- Best at golden hour or just after
👉 Shop lightweight windbreakers
👉 Bring binoculars for extra skyline detail
9. Eat Your Way Through Chinatown
Dim sum, mooncakes, and herbal shops galore.
- Explore Grant Ave and Waverly Place
- Take a food tour to taste the best hidden spots
👉 Book a Chinatown food tour
👉 Browse Asian cookbooks
10. Discover Hidden Gems in North Beach
North Beach blends history, Italian food, and literary legend.
- Visit City Lights Bookstore, Coit Tower, and grab dinner at Tony’s Pizza
- Don’t skip Washington Square Park
👉 Book a North Beach walking tour
👉 Shop street photography books
🧭 Final Thoughts
San Francisco is more than a postcard — it’s a city of layered experiences, local color, and unexpected moments. Whether you’re biking the bridge or eating your way through Chinatown, these 10 experiences capture the real SF.
👉 Book your top San Francisco tours on Viator
👉 Pack your gear with Amazon travel essentials
Go where the locals go. ❤️
