Is San Francisco Worth Visiting? Top 10 Attractions Worth the Visit
After completing college, I resided in the Bay Area for four years and experienced all of San Francisco’s top attractions. More recently, my husband and I enjoyed a weekend getaway here shortly before the onset of the Covid pandemic. We made sure to see as many of the top attractions here and there are so many, we had an incredible weekend! In this post, I will highlight the best attractions in San Francisco that make it worth visiting.
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Is San Francisco Worth Visiting?
The answer is Yes! San Francisco has so many attractions to explore, and I’d like to share some of my favorite spots. These recommendations are kid-friendly and popular tourist destinations that hold a special place in my heart.
1. Visit Fishermans Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf, located on the waterfront, is one of the city’s most bustling tourist districts. I would consider Fisherman’s Wharf the top attraction in San Francisco. Everywhere you look, you’ll find souvenir shops and vendors offering delectable crab and clam chowder served in sourdough bread bowls, along with stunning postcard-worthy vistas of the bay, Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz Island. Additionally, you can observe a lively colony of sea lions and explore historic ships. Meanwhile, Ghirardelli Square, housed within the renowned former chocolate factory, hosts a variety of boutiques and dining establishments.
One of my favorite places at Fisherman’s Wharf is Pier 39. While rather touristy, the seals lying on the Pier are a must-see and hear! They are so cute and make lots and lots of seal noises which is hugely entertaining for the kids.
2. Take a San Francisco Bay Cruise
From Fishermans Wharf, you can catch many different Bay Cruises which to me is one of my favorite things to do in San Francisco. Visit Alcatraz or take a boat under the Golden Gate Bridge. This is a must when visiting San Francisco.
The San Francisco Bay offers breathtaking views of the city, making it a truly spectacular experience and one of the top attractions. It’s advisable to dress appropriately as the bay can get quite windy and chilly. Below are some recommended tours so you can see the best of the San Francisco Bay!
Book a Sailing Cruise across the San Francisco Bay
Straight to the Gate Access: San Francisco Bay Cruise
3. Check Out the Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most striking pieces of architecture I’ve ever seen, there are many different vantage points within the city to view the bridge all providing a different perspective. Whether driving or strolling across it, the bridge offers an exhilarating adventure and is an absolute must-see in San Francisco. Just beyond the bridge lies the town of Sausalito, famous for its houseboat enclaves along Richardson Bay, originally constructed by artist squatters in the aftermath of World War II. There are fantastic tour options available to fully embrace this opportunity and witness the bridge in all its magnificent splendor.
Places to View the Golden Gate Bridge
There are many great viewing spots to see the Golden Gate Bridge located throughout the city. Below is a list of my favorites where you can get great views of the bridge.
Additionally, there are many great guided tours you can take to get up close to one of San Francisco’s top attractions.
Link to tours of the Golden Gate Bridge
4. Stroll through Golden Gate Park
While millions of visitors have explored the park over the years, only a select few are aware of all the hidden gems it holds. Golden Gate Park has so many treasures, including really cool architectural structures, picturesque meadows and lakes, significant monuments, renowned museums, and exquisite Japanese gardens.
There are plenty of imaginative ways to explore the park, from Segway tours to rollerblading and electric bike rentals.
Book a Golden Gate Park Bike Tour
5. Tour the California Academy of Sciences
Located in the heart of Golden Gate Park, the California Academy of Sciences is a worthwhile stop. Here, you can explore a variety of exhibits in the world’s only all-in-one venue featuring an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum.
Click here for tickets to the Academy of Sciences
6. Walk along Ocean Beach
Ocean Beach in San Francisco is a great place to escape the city and see the open ocean. Though it can be chilly and windy, there’s something about strolling along this beach that I absolutely love. My husband and I took a leisurely walk here, relishing the wildlife – we even witnessed a seagull feasting on a crab, quite an intriguing sight.
This spot has a lot of memories for me; my dad and I once ran a Turkey Trot 10K on this very beach! Plus, its proximity to the San Francisco Zoo adds an extra layer of convenience.
I recommend dining near Ocean Beach, The Beach Chalet Brewery, and Restaurant is a great choice. The view here is wonderful and one of my favorite spots.
7. Explore China Town
San Francisco Chinatown is the largest Chinatown outside of Asia and the oldest in North America and is a top tourist attraction in the city. I have a lot of fond memories of visiting this place during my childhood. Surprisingly, it’s a blast for kids too! With tons of fun shops and restaurants to explore, this street is truly worth a visit.
Click here for a list of things to do in Chinatown (besides shopping!)
8. Visit the Ferry Building
I adore the Ferry Building! Not only does it offer stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, but it also treats you to breathtaking sights of the Bay Bridge. Taking a stroll in and around the building provides one of the best views in San Francisco. Conveniently, it’s easily accessible from the BART transit system.
The Ferry Building, a city landmark, has been transformed into a gourmet food emporium and farmers market. As you step inside, you’re greeted by lots of gourmet food vendors and restaurants, making it a great place to stop, eat, drink, and get some great photos!
Click here for things to do around the Ferry Building
9. Walk Around the Presidio
The Presidio is a National Park that once served as a military outpost and offers breathtaking views. It’s a fantastic destination, especially for families with kids, providing ample space for running and playing.
Click here for things to do at The Presidio
10. Go on a Cable Car Ride
Only in San Francisco can you hop on unique cable cars that give you amazing views while taking you to awesome places. The city has three cable car lines, all in the northeast part of San Francisco. This is an inexpensive way to see some of the top sites in the city.
Click here for more information on Cable Cars in San Francisco
FAQ’s about San Francisco
Is San Francisco Safe?
San Francisco has sometimes been criticized for its crime, homelessness, and drug issues. I’ve visited many times without any trouble. However, it’s wise to avoid certain neighborhoods like Tenderloin, South of Market, and specific parts of Civic Center and the Mission District. Sticking to tourist areas ensures a safe and enjoyable experience.
What’s the Weather like in San Francisco?
San Francisco might surprise you with its cool temperatures even in the summer, so it’s a good idea to pack a sweatshirt. Summer offers extended hours of sunshine, making it the driest time of the year statistically. However, the city often experiences fog, originating from the cold Pacific Ocean, especially in spring and summer when sea temperatures are lowest. This fog can bring chilly weather during the summer, lasting throughout the day. While winter temperatures don’t drop drastically, visitors during this season should be ready for a higher chance of rain.
What is the best airport to fly into?
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is the closest airport to the city, but you have a few options to consider. San Jose International Airport (SJC) and Oakland International Airport (OAK) are also nearby. San Jose can be a more budget-friendly choice, and it provides convenient access to the southern part of the Bay Area, including its proximity to Santa Cruz. Oakland International Airport (OAK) is located 25 miles from downtown San Francisco, just across the bay. It is served by various major airlines, including budget carriers like Allegiant and Southwest, offering nonstop flights to 55 destinations. One notable advantage of OAK is its lower incidence of flight delays, partly due to its less foggy location and lower overall traffic compared to SFO.
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