18 Unmissable Things to Do in San Francisco: Views, Landmarks & Local Tips
From foggy viewpoints to iconic streets and legendary landmarks, San Francisco is a city full of unforgettable moments. Whether it’s your first time or your fifteenth, this list of 18 must-see spots in SF has the perfect mix of classics, photo ops, and hidden gems—plus tips to help you experience the city like a local.
1. Battery Spencer Overlook: The Iconic Golden Gate View
Overview:
This is the postcard view you came for. Battery Spencer offers the most stunning view of the Golden Gate Bridge, especially at sunset or early morning.
Tips:
- Reach it easily via Uber/Lyft—it’s across the bridge in Marin
- Bring a windbreaker—it gets cold!
2. Cable Car: Ride From Powell & Hyde Cable Car Turntable to Union Square
Overview:
Hop on a classic San Francisco cable car starting in Russian Hill and cruise down to Union Square. It’s not just transit—it’s a ride through history.
Tips:
- Board early or late to avoid long lines
- Stand on the running board for the most fun (hold on tight!)
3. Palace of Fine Arts: SF’s Most Elegant Photo Spot
Overview:
This dreamy Greco-Roman palace surrounded by a peaceful lagoon is perfect for a slow walk or stunning Instagram shots.
Tips:
- Go early for soft morning light and fewer crowds
4. Powell & California Street Crossing: Cable Car + City Views
Overview:
This is one of the most photographed street views in SF, where two cable car lines intersect with perfect symmetry and skyline depth.
Tips:
- Best at golden hour or night for city lights
5. Alcatraz Island: Infamous Prison with a View
Overview:
A visit to Alcatraz is eerie, fascinating, and unforgettable. Audio tours bring prisoner stories to life.
Tips:
- Book tickets through City Experiences to pay the real price
- Ferries leave from Pier 33—arrive 30 min early
6. Union Square: Shop, Snap, and Stroll
Overview:
The heart of downtown San Francisco, Union Square is perfect for shopping and people-watching.
Tips:
- Great base to grab a coffee and start exploring
7. Chinatown & Golden Gate Fortune Cookies
Overview:
Wander through lantern-lined streets, temples, and herbal shops. Don’t miss the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory to see cookies made by hand.
Tips:
- Tiny alley—easy to miss, check maps
- Free samples inside!
8. Painted Ladies: The “Full House” Houses
Overview:
These iconic Victorian homes line up perfectly against the city skyline from Alamo Square Park.
Tips:
- Go at sunset for the golden light over the city
9. San Francisco City Hall: Grand & Glowing
Overview:
Don’t skip this Beaux-Arts masterpiece. It’s free to enter and stunning inside and out.
Tips:
- Go inside for marble staircases and Instagrammable domes
10. Hollywood Café: Iconic Breakfast Spot
Overview:
One of the most popular breakfast places near Fisherman’s Wharf, known for their fruit-topped pancakes and celebrity-themed menu.
Tips:
- Expect a line—go early!
11. Haight-Ashbury: Hippie Vibes + Vintage Finds
Overview:
The birthplace of the Summer of Love, filled with thrift shops, murals, and retro cafes.
Tips:
- Check out Amoeba Music for rare vinyls
12. Waymo Robotaxi Ride
Overview:
Experience the future with a driverless Waymo robotaxi ride around the city.
Tips:
- Requires an American phone number to sign up
- Only available in certain zones
13. Lombard Street: World’s Crookedest Street
Overview:
Eight sharp turns packed into one steep block make Lombard Street a wild (and scenic) walk.
Tips:
- Walk down instead of driving—it’s more fun
14. Pier 39 Sea Lions
Overview:
These barking, sunbathing sea lions have become a San Francisco institution at Pier 39.
Tips:
- Best seen early in the morning or near sunset
15. Pier 39: Shops, Eats & Views
Overview:
A touristy must-see with restaurants, souvenir shops, and views of Alcatraz.
Tips:
- Grab a sourdough bowl at Boudin Bakery
16. Fisherman’s Wharf: Classic SF
Overview:
Stroll this lively waterfront area filled with crab shacks, buskers, and shops.
Tips:
- Grab fresh crab or clam chowder by the bay
17. In-N-Out: A West Coast Classic
Overview:
Yes, it’s a chain. But grabbing an In-N-Out burger just steps from the water hits different in SF.
Tips:
- Order “Animal Style” from the secret menu
18. Mrs. Doubtfire House
Overview:
This beautiful house from the Robin Williams classic movie sits in a quiet SF neighborhood.
Tips:
- Located at 2640 Steiner Street—respect the neighbors!