These are all my recommendations for what to see when visiting San Francisco - see SF like a local :)
Start at the Golden Gate Overlook in the Presidio, check out the Welcome Center, check out Battery Spencer (north side), and if you can drive across the bridge to Hawk Hill
Golden Gate Bridge
Located in the Marina District, take a walk around the beautiful grounds and then enjoy the surrounding neighborhood
Palace of Fine Arts
Famous zigzag street with sharp turns in Russian Hill
Lombard Street
Famous park known for the Painted Ladies houses from Full House
Alamo Square Park
You could spend a whole day in Golden Gate Park. There's so much to do and see here. Some highlights:
- Walk along JFK and see the Conservatory of Flowers - if you visit during July and August be sure to check out the Dahlia Garden next to the conservatory - The De Young Museum - The Academy of Sciences - Japanese Tea Garden - Stow Lake Boathouse - The bison lawn - yes there are bison in Golden Gate Park - The San Francisco Botanical Garden (free for SF residents only)
Golden Gate Park
Famous park in the Mission District overlooking the city
Mission Dolores Park
Indoor market with lots of restaurants, shops, cafes, and you can take the ferry across the bay to Oakland, Alameda, Vallejo, Sausalito, Tiburon, and more spots
Ferry Building
Famous lookout and hiking trail location in the Sunset District
Lands End Lookout and Sutro Baths
Famous vista point overlooking the entire city - best to drive up
Twin Peaks
Famous vista point in North Beach District
Coit Tower
If you love chocolate and ice cream this is your spot. There are also other restaurants and shops here to explore. Located in the Marina District in front of Aquatic Park.
Ghirardelli Square
Very touristy spot, you won't find locals here but if you want to see sea lions and immerse yourself in a famous tourist attraction it's worth a visit - I'd recommend seeing the sea lions, eating at Boudins, and grabbing donuts at Trish's Mini Donuts
PIER 39
If you've never been on a cable car I'd highly recommend. It's one of those things that's pretty cool and you can ride it all the way from the Marina to Downtown SF, or vice versa.
Cable Car End
If you're into history and exploring unique attractions, experiencing an Alcatraz tour is a must- they offer day and night tours.
Alcatraz Island
Iconic beach in San Francisco with stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge
Baker Beach
Another famous San Francisco beach. This beach is huge and spans across the Sunset District. Be sure to check out Sunset Dunes which is a park that used to be a highway, alongside the entirety of the beach.
Ocean Beach
Unique stairway in San Francisco in the Marina District
Lyon Street Steps
The largest chinatown outside of Asia
Chinatown San Francisco
Peace Plaza and Japantown Center are worth checking out if you have extra time and especially if you are a fan of Japanese food and treats
Japantown
Beautiful beach area and trail area that's underrated - if you know, you know!
