San Francisco Attractions

Boredom doesn't exist in San Francisco. Endless activities indoors, outdoors, and across both bridges can make it overwhelming when trying to choose the best things to do. While the weather in Northern California is mild compared to most of the country, summers are foggy and cool here in the city, so no matter what you decide to do, always bring an extra layer. You've been warned!

A trip to San Francisco wouldn't be complete without such outdoor adventures as walking or cycling the Golden Gate Bridge or dabbling in the many attractions of Golden Gate Park. The park is home to beautiful gardens like those hosted at the Strybing Arboretum or the Conservatory of Flowers. Take a stroll through the Japanese Tea Garden before heading indoors and viewing the incredible art on display at the de Young Museum or California Academy of Sciences. Sports fans will not want to miss a Giants game at AT&T Park, one of the best ballparks in the country.

If you're traveling with kids or just the young at heart, you will not want to miss the hands-on science experiments at the incomparable Exploratorium located by the Presidio and Fisherman's Wharf. It's worth the ferry trip over to Alcatraz; the self-guided audio tour will interest any cynic, the place is absolutely creepy! Shoppers will love the chintzy treasures stocked in the bright and colorful Chinatown shops. Those with big pocketbooks or a love of window shopping will enjoy high-end shopping in Union Square, just a few blocks away.

San Francisco is home to numerous world-class museums. The MOMA, de Young, Contemporary Jewish Museum, and the Academy of Sciences are all stellar and demanding of an afternoon. For a different take, visit the museums during the one night they stay open late. Some actually turn into mild parties with live music and booze.

The sweeping views from Coit Tower are sublime, take the Filbert Street steps for a possible glimpse of the famous parrots of Telegraph Hill. On the opposite side of town, Baker Beach is the prettiest city beach with a stunning view of the Marin Headlands, Golden Gate Bridge, and massive cargo ships entering and exiting the Bay. Dolphin-sightings possible. A stroll in the mural-filled, foodie-haven Mission district is a must to really experience the raw and true San Francisco.

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