Vacation season is in full swing, with an estimated 117 million people taking time to travel during the first quarter of 2020. And if you’re one of them, you’re likely scouting new places to go.
Looking to head west to soak up some sun? San Francisco is the perfect community to get your feet wet in. With a plethora of budget-friendly accommodation options (found by looking up “cheap hotel san francisco” or a similar phrase on the Web), easy-to-access public transportation, and mouth-watering local cuisines, this place is sure to blow your mind.
But what is there to do in SF when you only have a few days or a week to play around? We’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the best things to do in San Francisco when you’re there on vacation. Read below to know the 10 best San Francisco activities!
1. Discover the Golden Gate Bridge
San Francisco is a city with a lot to offer tourists. One of the best ways to see the city is from the Golden Gate Bridge. You can walk or bike across the bridge, or take a ferry ride to get a different perspective of the cityscape.
A visit to the Golden Gate Bridge should be atop any traveler’s list of things to do in San Francisco. Be sure to stop at Vista Point for sweeping views of the city and the bay.
2. Stroll Through Chinatown
For good reason, Chinatown is one of San Francisco’s most popular tourist destinations.
This historic neighborhood is home to some of the best Chinese food in the city, as well as several interesting shops and temples. A stroll through Chinatown is the perfect way to experience some of the city’s best Culture.
3. Ride a Cable Car
The experience is like no other, and it’s a great way to see the city. There are three main cable car lines in San Francisco:
The Powell-Hyde Line
This runs from Powell Street to Fisherman’s Wharf.
The Powell-Mason Line
This runs from Powell Street to Chinatown.
The California Line
This runs from California Street to Van Ness Avenue.
While all three lines offer a great experience, the Powell-Hyde line is arguably the most popular, as it takes riders on a journey through some of San Francisco’s most iconic sights, including Lombard Street, Ghirardelli Square, and Union Square.
In any case there will be accidents encountered on your trip, don’t worry, there are a number of good Golden State Accident Lawyers in the area.
4. Visit Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz Island is one of the best San Francisco activities for your vacation. The island is home to a former federal prison that operated from 1934 to 1963. Today, the island is a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public for tours.
Visitors can learn about the history of the prison, as well as see the cells and the island’s beautiful views. A visit to Alcatraz Island is a must-do while in San Francisco.
5. Explore the Muir Woods
If you find yourself in San Francisco on vacation, be sure to check out the Muir Woods.
The Muir Woods are a protected natural area that is home to old-growth redwood trees. The Muir Woods are a great place to take a hike, go birdwatching, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.
6. Exploring the City by Foot
There’s no better way to explore San Francisco than on foot. Start your adventure in the Financial District and Union Square, then walk to Chinatown and North Beach.
Head to Twin Peaks or walk across the Golden Gate Bridge for great views. From the Mission District to Haight-Ashbury, there’s so much to see and do in this wonderful city.
7. Checking Out the Local Art Scene
The best part about vacationing in San Francisco is that there’s something for everyone to enjoy. For starters, be sure to check out the Museum of Modern Art.
With over 33,000 works of art on display, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye.
If you’re looking for something more interactive, head to the Museum of Legacies in Chinatown. Here, you can learn about the rich history and culture of the area while also viewing some incredible works of art.
No matter what your interests are, there are sure to be a lot of San Francisco activities that are perfect for you.
8. Indulging in Some Delicious Eats
The best thing to do in San Francisco is to explore all of the different food options!
There are so many great places to eat, no matter what you’re in the mood for. If you want something classic, head to Fisherman’s Wharf and get some seafood. Try one of the city’s many Vietnamese restaurants for something more unique.
Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, head to the mission district for some delicious Mexican food. No matter what you’re craving, you’ll find it in San Francisco!
9. Have a Picnic in The Park
Golden Gate Park is one of the most popular picnic places in San Francisco. It is a large urban park with many different activities and attractions.
Some of the most popular things in Golden Gate Park are having a picnic, going for a walk or jogging, visiting museums, and seeing the animals at the San Francisco Zoo.
There are also often events and concerts happening in the park. Golden Gate Park is a great place to spend a day if you are visiting San Francisco.
10. Watch the Sea Lions
One of the best things to do in San Francisco is to watch the sea lions. These amazing animals can be found at the pier near Fisherman’s Wharf. It is an experience you will never forget!
If you’re looking for a fun activity in San Francisco, never miss the sea lions at Pier 39. It’s a great way to learn about these animals and their habitat, and it’s also a lot of fun to watch them play and interact with each other.
Be Sure to Try One of These San Francisco Activities
San Francisco is a bustling city with a variety of activities to keep you busy on your vacation. From exploring the Golden Gate Bridge to riding a cable car, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your San Francisco activities today!
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