Things to do in San Francisco

With local artisanal produce on the table and wooded mountains on the doorstep, this San Francisco Bay county combines a laid-back lifestyle with natural splendor.

For three decades, desperate inmates dreamed of escaping this notorious prison; today’s fortunate visitors can come and go as they please!

Cool off beneath the canopy of ancient redwoods in this National Park on the outskirts of San Francisco.

Walk across one of the most photogenic bridges in the world for unrivalled views from both sides.

This former military base is given over to pleasure pursuits, with a golf course, cycle tracks, hiking trails and some great picnic spots.

This scenic beach in the shadow of the Golden Gate Bridge teems with wildlife – both human and animal – all year round.

Sea lions are the star attraction at one of the liveliest piers on San Francisco’s historic waterfront.

A photo opportunity with a difference awaits you at this landmark building with a fascinating past.

This tranquil spot tucked away in Golden Gate Park has been offering oriental-style refreshment to frazzled metropolitans for over a century.

This peaceful oasis in the heart of the city has been a favourite leisure haunt for locals and visitors alike since 1871.

Enjoy an upscale excursion to the country’s best-known and most luxurious wine-growing region.

The whole world is at your feet in one of the most venerable scientific institutions in the US.

Use all your senses as you explore science through dozens of interactive exhibits at San Francisco’s famous museum on Pier 15.

This much-loved museum houses a fascinating collection of American painting, African art and Asian textiles.

Step aboard century-old ships, watch boat builders at work, browse exhibits about U.S. maritime heritage and enjoy scenic picnics at this historic waterfront district.

Bring your camera to capture the iconic, colorfully painted, Victorian-style houses and the downtown cityscape from this well-known hilltop park.

Go up to the top of this lofty peak on a clear day for unparalleled aerial views of San Francisco’s most recognizable landmarks.

Built for the 1939 World’s Fair, this small artificial island offers paddleboarding, dining and wine-tasting opportunities along with superb views of San Francisco. 

Relax on the sand, spot seabirds, fly kites and enjoy other outdoor activities at this secluded San Francisco beach.

Browse high-end shops and see a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed building at this fashionable lane, which was once at the heart of San Francisco’s red-light district.

Soak up the atmosphere of bygone days on this historic wharf where the emphasis is still firmly on seafood.

This famous shopping area is a magnet for fashionistas as well as a historic landmark of old San Francisco.

From shipwrecks to the Sutro Baths, find adventure and plenty of photo opportunities around every corner in San Francisco’s stunning coastal park.

Enjoy sun, surf and stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge in this tiny secluded cove between Lands End and Baker Beach.

Discover the man behind Mickey Mouse at this interactive museum located in the heart of San Francisco’s Presidio neighborhood. 

Admire the incredible array of blooms on display, from insect-eating plants to elaborately shaped orchids, at this well-preserved Victorian-era conservatory.

Surround yourself with inspiring nature, learn about the San Francisco Bay Area and meet its wild inhabitants in San Mateo’s sprawling waterfront park.

Learn about the old-fashioned cable cars that have transported San Franciscans for generations as you tour around a historic powerhouse and working museum.

Drive, bike or walk across the state-of-the-art bridge that connects San Francisco to Oakland and the East Bay beyond.

Go boating on Golden Gate Park’s largest lake. The placid body of water is the home of turtles, ducks and during winter, Canadian geese.  

Walk through some of the most beautiful scenery in San Francisco along Lands End’s oceanfront trail from where you can see iconic sights such as the Golden Gate Bridge.