Fun Things to Do, Interesting Things to See in San Francisco, CA
Did you know that the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, CA, was once called “the bridge that couldn’t be built?” No one thought it was possible, but constructors proved everyone wrong. It’s now one of the Seven Wonders of the World, where you can drive or walk across and admire the underlying bay and ocean. San Francisco blends historic attractions and new experiences. Indulge in handmade chocolate desserts at Ghirardelli Square, learn about notorious inmates and haunted history on Alcatraz Island, or navigate the crooked curves of Lombard Street. Don’t forget to ride a famous cable car up and down San Francisco’s notoriously steep street hills! It’s a postcard-worthy city where urban energy meets old-world tradition.
Golden Gate Bridge
Spanning a mile, the Golden Gate Bridge suspends over San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Hundreds of thousands of travelers cross the bridge daily, but it’s best known for its brassy red architecture that looks golden in the light of famous San Francisco sunsets. Dubbed a sensory beauty, the bridge is said to be one of the most beautiful in the world. You can walk, bike, ride, or drive across the bridge. Walking? Expect to reach the other side in 35 to 40 minutes.
- Address: Golden Gate Bridge San Francisco, CA 94129
- Phone: (415) 921-5858
- Website link: www.goldengate.org
Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz Island, a place steeped in history, has served as a fort, a military prison, and a maximum security federal prison. Its imposing structure, located on an island known as The Rock, has housed some of the most infamous criminals in history, including George “Machine Gun” Kelly, Al Capone, and Robert “Birdman” Stroud. The island’s eerie reputation as a haunted site adds to its allure, with many visitors hoping to capture ghostly images on camera.
- Address: Alcatraz Island, GGNRA, Fort Mason, B201 San Francisco, CA 94123
- Phone: (415) 561-4922
- Website link: www.nps.gov
Fisherman’s Wharf
Restaurants and endless entertainment sprawl across Fisherman’s Wharf, a family-friendly neighborhood that’s become a world-famous attraction in San Francisco. Admire views of the Pacific Ocean from seaside piers, gorge on some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever have, or find an old-school arcade to relive your glory days. Interested in learning more about the history of Fisherman’s Wharf? Join a mile-long walking tour for fantastic info on this San Fran classic.
- Address: 2801 Leavenworth St San Francisco, CA
- Phone: (415) 673-3530
- Website link: www.fishermanswharf.org
Chinatown
The hustle and bustle of Chinatown creates a labyrinth of bakeries, souvenir shops, and bars. The streets are a maze of goodies, and you could spend hours getting lost sampling the wares of local vendors. Look up—authentic Chinese lanterns light your way with beautiful reds and golds. Try the dim sum! It’s supposed to be the best food in Chinatown!
- Address: 53 Waverly Pl San Francisco, CA 94108
- Phone: (888) 212-3203
- Website link: www.california.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-chinatown-san-francisco
Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park is your opportunity if you’ve ever wanted to stroll in gardens of thousands of flowers. Home to unique gardens like the Shakespeare Garden, Japanese Tea Garden, and Rose Garden, the park weaves with sidewalks and waterside benches. You could spend the whole day trekking through trees to find hidden waterfalls or watch the koi fish in one of the many ponds on the property. Feeling romantic? Plan a picnic for your sweetheart. There are plenty of grassy knolls to choose from. Pets are allowed, so bring Fido for some exercise, too!
- Address: Stow Lake Dr San Francisco, CA 94118
- Phone: (415) 831-2700
- Website link: www.sftravel.com/article/visitors-guide-to-golden-gate-park
