31 San Francisco Things to Do in 2026

Whether you’re planning a California vacation, or you’re just looking for the best San Francisco Things to Do this weekend, here’s everything you need to know BEFORE you go!

Then… finish planning your California adventure with these must-try San Diego Travel Tips!

San Francisco Things to Do

A salty breeze, the smell of fresh baked sourdough bread, the clatter of a street car, and a gorgeous golden gate view… quintessential San Francisco provides such a lovely sensory experience!

So are you planning a trip to San Francisco… Home to the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and amazing Seafood?? 😉

I’ve put together a list of the Best Things to do in San Francisco Bay Area to help you plan your trip!

From things to do with your family, for a romantic getaway, or the best things to do inside on a rainy day… I’ve got you covered!

As a former Northern California resident, I’ve visited San Francisco many, many times.  And every visit I discover even more hidden gems!

Nothing beats a sunny day down by the bay, or a seafood inspired lunch at one of the many iconic piers.

So sit back, relax, and have some fun reading about all of the fun things to do in San Francisco.

After all, it’s never too early to start planning or dreaming about your next adventure…

Best Things to do in San Francisco California…

Related: How to Travel for Free or Cheap (21 Best Budget Travel Hacks)

Let’s start off with my top picks for the Best Things to do in San Francisco!

So here are my top picks for how to spend a day (or a few days) in this beautiful city…

Walk Across the Golden Gate Bridge

Driving across the Golden Gate Bridge is always a fun experience, but did you know you can walk across it, too?

Just keep in mind that parking is limited by the bridge, so you may want to consider taking an Uber or Lyft and getting dropped off at one end.

Then get more great views of the bridge later from the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Fort Point and Torpedo Wharf.

Walk Around the Fort Point National Historic Site

You won’t want to miss Fort Point.  It’s a National Historic Site built in 1853, and is so fun to walk around and explore.

Plus, you’ll get stellar views of the Golden Gate Bridge, too.

Fort Point is practically located under the Golden Gate Bridge!

Drive the Crookedest Street in the World

No trip to San Francisco is complete without driving crooked Lombard Street hairpin turns.

If it’s not raining, roll your windows down, drive slow, and enjoy the insanity of it all!

Thank goodness for power steering!

You can even walk up the street if you’d prefer a good leg workout! 🙂

Ride a Trolley Street Car

Whether you want to give your tired feet a break from all that walking, or you just want to experience San Francisco to the fullest, a ride on a Trolley car is always a fun experience!

Faylinn writes: “Every time I visit San Francisco, I always take a trolley street car.”

You can even catch a vintage version along the north waterfront.

At Christmas time, you’ll even find trolley cars decorated with festive wreaths to add to the charm of it all!

Visit The Painted Ladies

This iconic row of historical homes are a must see… and the cityscape back drop is stunning!

So just what are the Painted Ladies?

Well, they’re a row of stunning homes with exquisite Queen Anne architectural design!

You might recognize them from several movies, or even the Full House tv show!

For the best view and photos, visit Alamo Square Park during golden hour (the hour after sunrise or the hour before sunset).

Go For a Walk at the Palace of Fine Arts

Located at 3601 Lyon Street, in the Marina district, you’ll find the regal Palace of Fine Arts.

I first learned about this gorgeous gem from a Mike Myers comedy back in the 90’s.  You know the one… “So I Married…” 🙂  It was a stunning filming location in the movie, and is just as amazing in person!

So what is the palace of fine arts?

Well, it’s an iconic San Francisco landmark, surrounded by a peaceful lagoon, and the perfect place for a relaxing walk.

Built in 1915, the breathtaking architecture shows off intricate beauty around every corner!

Watch the Sea Lions Relax at Pier 39

Want to experience those cute barking ‘dogs of the sea’?

Make sure to swing by pier 39 to watch the silly, slippery, barking sea lions put on a free show!

Depending on the day, you may see a few… or you may see a few hundred!

They may be barking, or often just sunbathing?

Check out the infamous Alcatraz Island

You’ve probably heard of Alcatraz island already.  Even though you can catch some views from across the water, you can also get closer by boat, or even tour it if you’re interested.

Tammy writes: “Alcatraz is a must!”

Jessica writes: “Book tickets for Alcatraz at least 2-4 weeks prior. They sell out!”

If you can’t get a reservation for Alcatraz, try a harbor cruise instead.

Nothing beats getting out on the water!

Tour the USS Pampanito Submarine (FREE with National Park Pass)

Looking for something to do inside?  How about an old Navy ship submarine tour?

The tour usually takes about an hour, and as a bonus, if you already have a National Park Pass, admission will be free!

Visit the Walt Disney Family Museum

It is conveniently located at the San Francisco Presidio, just blocks from the waterfront and close to the Golden Gate Bridge.

Visit Mission San Francisco de Asís

Mission San Francisco is the oldest intact building in all of San Francisco and features a beautiful hand painted ceiling.

You can find Mission San Francisco in the heart of the Mission District.  It dates back to 1776 and was founded just 5 days before the Declaration of Independence was signed!

More San Francisco Things To Do

Then… be sure to also check out even more amazing things to do in San Francisco shared by your frugal friends…

Adriana writes: “Definitely take the Open Bus Top tour of the city! Then you’ll know what spots you really want to go back and see…. and you will at least see all spots briefly!”

Tammy writes: “Pier 39 is awesome – lots to do for adults and kids. There is a great water aquarium there that you can walk through, and sharks swim over and under you. Have fun!”

Carrie writes: “The Stinkin Rose Restaurant, Coit Tower, a Boat Tour, and a Trolley Tour.”

Andrea writes: “San Francisco Zoo, Steinhart Museum and Aquarium. Both are in Golden Gate Park.  Cross the Golden Gate Bridge and visit Sausalito.”

Janet writes: “The Shakespeare Garden in Golden Gate Park is also pretty cool. The Presidio and Steiner Street.  But a MUST is the Marin Headlands in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.”

Holly writes: “Visit the Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park. Fun!”

Jessica writes: “Chinatown.”

Lori writes: “Go up the trails around Stow Lake in Golden Gate Park, there are some little waterfalls and beautiful views.  Coit Tower, Lombard, Hollywood Cafe for breakfast, Marin Headlands, and Muir Woods.”

Where to Eat in San Francisco

From fresher than fresh seafood to sourdough straight out of the oven, and dreamy rich chocolate to the best California burgers, there are so many delicious ways to fill up and feast in San Francisco.

And don’t forget the coffee!  Pacific Northwest coffee culture is a whole vibe of its own!

Enjoy a San Francisco Clam Chowder Bread Bowl at Chowders

To say that I’m a clam chowder freak may be a bit of an understatement.

You see, I grew up just north of Seattle where seafood is just a way of life.  It seems like as soon as you start on solid foods, you find yourself dining on clam chowder!

That’s why I created this Easy Crock Pot Clam Chowder Recipe so you can indulge any day of the week!

But whenever I’m back in Seattle or San Francisco, a sourdough bread bowl filled with savory clam chowder tops my list!

Now there are LOT of restaurants with clam chowder to choose from, but my hubby and I found Chowders to be our favorite.  That’s why we went again… and again… oh and again!

Yep, it’s that good!

Visit a San Francisco Sourdough Bread Bakery

Now you know how obsessed I am with Sourdough Bread, right?

Well, in addition to fresh seafood, sourdough bread just happens to be one of the tastiest things you’ll find in San Francisco!

At the Boudin bakery, you can even see the magnificently skilled bread bakers forming loaves into all sorts of creative shapes!

Definitely give the sourdough bread at the Boudin Bakery at Fishermans Wharf a try… you won’t be disappointed!

Fill Up on Seafood at Fishermans Wharf & Pier 39

We loved getting our fill of fresh seafood at Pier 39!  From fresh lobster rolls on the street to sit down restaurants with fish sandwiches, there’s something fun for everyone.

You might even catch a nice view of Alcatraz while enjoying your meal!

Sarah writes: “Getting Shrimp Louis on the Fisherman’s Wharf is delicious.”

Tammy writes: “Stop and have lunch at one of the Pier 39 restaurants that overlooks the seals sunning themselves.”

If you won’t be heading to Ghirardelli Square for dessert, try the beignets at Frankies!

Sharien writes: “Get some wonderful clam chowder in a bread bowl by the wharf.  Just thinking about it makes me want to go back, it’s so beautiful there.”

Treat Yourself to Dessert at Ghiradelli Square

Now San Francisco isn’t only famous for it’s seafood and sourdough bread.  It also just happens to be known for some of the BEST chocolate around!

How’s that for the perfect day of feasting?

To treat yourself to a chocolate lover’s dream, you’ll definitely want to swing by Ghiradelli Square and indulge in a dreamy dessert.

Tosha writes: “Ghirardelli Square is a MUST. They have the most amazing chocolate!”

When you’re there, you can even watch some creamy, dreamy chocolate making in action!

Have you ever seen such a drool-worthy sight?

We shared the Brownie Sundae… and it was ridiculously delicious!

Grab the BEST California Burger at In n Out

Now if you’re not blessed enough to have an In n Out nearby your home, you’ll definitely want to grab some burgers and fries for a quick lunch or delicious dinner after a long day of walking.

My love for In n Out is probably a little out of control, but what can I say… it was love at first bite!

Thankfully, I live a few minutes from an In n Out so I can satisfy those cravings regularly, but if you’ve never experienced it, or just don’t have access to one near your home… just trust me on this and go indulge!

You can even try some fun Secret Menu Items like…

• Animal Style Fries (topped with melted cheese, smothered in secret sauce, and garnished with grilled onions.
• Animal Style Burgers (patties fried in mustard, extra secret sauce, and raw onions swapped for grilled onions)
• Protein Style Burgers (lettuce wrapped without the bun, when you’re wanting a few less carbs because you’ve already had your fill of sourdough bread and Ghiradelli desserts)

More San Francisco Restaurants to Try…

Terrie writes: “Pinecrest Diner.  Sanraku has some great lunch specials, it has Japanese food, Sushi, and my favorite Sanraku Chicken.”

Tammy writes: “Get the Go Card – there are several wine tasting and winery tours which are fabulous!”

Jim writes: “Look on Diners Drive-ins & Dives map for great spots to eat!”

With all the time spent outside down by the waterfront and exploring all over town… you just might be needing a caffeine fix!

There are so many Starbucks locations all around the San Francisco and the Bay Area, so check this out…

Starbucks Money Saving Hacks

Save BIG when you use my frugal Eat Out Cheap Ideas.  Making a trip to your favorite restaurant is about to get a whole lot more fun!

Things to Do Near San Francisco California

If you want to escape the city crowds and continue your California adventure, consider these fun nearby attractions that can be a little day trip…

Hike through Muir Woods National Monument

If towering redwood trees and secluded paths are your thing, you’ll love spending a few hours out at the Muir Woods National Monument!  It’s always a nice change of pace from the busy crowds of the city.

Walk around the Floating Homes in Sausalito

The only thing better than a view of the water from your home… is having your home literally floating on the water.  How AMAZING would that be?

That’s why you’ll enjoy a little walk around the quirky and creative community of floating homes in Sausalito!

Take a Jelly Belly Factory Tour

If you’re a Jelly Belly fan, you can even take a tour of the northern California Jelly Belly Factory to see how those cute little candies are made!

How To Visit San Francisco On A Budget

So You’re Planning a Trip to San Francisco?  To keep your vacation budget-friendly, you’ll need to plan ahead.  One of the first things you’ll want to do is start stashing cash away for your  ‘San Francisco Trip Fund’.

Need to increase your travel fund stash?  One of the easiest ways is to make extra money on the side in your free time!  Here are my favorite tricks for ramping up the vacation budget…

27 Side Hustles Ideas

How to Get Cheap Flights To San Francisco and Northern California

35 Southwest Airlines Hacks (What To Know BEFORE You Fly)

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23 Delta Airlines Travel Hacks (Savvy Travel Hacking Ideas)

Where to Stay in and around San Francisco

Wondering how to plan the perfect hotel stay for your next vacation?  It’s so much easier than you think!

Don’t book your next hotel without knowing these secrets shared by Hotel Staff and Frequent Travelers…

75 Hotel Hacks Everyone Should Know

In addition to hotels, I also recommend staying at a VRBO when visiting San Francisco to save BIG on your trip.  VRBO has so many vacation rentals listed by owner, and they can be such a great way to find nice lodging that is way less expensive than the hotels.

I’ve personally stayed at multiple VRBO’s, and loved every one.

Not only were they often significantly cheaper than the nearby hotels, they also came fully stocked with convenient amenities that saved us SO much money!

Now do you want to know my favorite tips and tricks for saving BIG on a VRBO?  These little known hacks will save you SO much money!  Check this out…

How to Slash The Cost of Your Next Trip Using VRBO

More Budget San Francisco Vacation Tips

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How to Travel for Free or Cheap (21 Brilliant Budget Travel Hacks)

More Fun and Frugal California Vacation Ideas

Dreaming of more California vacations?

Have even more fun on your California vacation with these fun tips below…

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So… have YOU ever been to San Francisco before?

What are some of your favorite places to see, food to eat, and things to do, etc?

Leave a comment & share!