Things to do in San Francisco for First Time Visitors: Activities Everyone Will Enjoy
Growing up in South Bay Area, my parents, my sister and I would constantly visit the main area of San Francisco city for a family weekend-get-away and we would always go to Pier 39 and walk around the Fisherman’s Wharf. Below are a few of activities that San Francisco first-timer visitors will enjoy. The recommendation below are a mix of booking tours, activities and free-attractions to visit.
1. Walk the Golden Gate Bridge or Bike Ride
Seeing the Golden Gate Bridge is a must when visiting San Francisco as this is the iconic landmark of the city. There are plenty of ways to see the bridge:
Drive through the bridge (there is a $8 toll fee)
Park & walk the bridge
Rent a bike
If you have plenty of time to spare, I suggest riding the bike for a unique experience! There is a designated area for bikers so don’t fret.
2. Visit the Fisherman’s Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf is the lively hub of San Francisco’s historic waterfront district, promising an experience as rich as the clam chowder it’s famous for. It can be very crowded here but the scent of fresh seafood fills the air will have you craving different types of sea food. Don’t miss the chance to savor a bowl of clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl, this is an iconic San Francisco treat! My parents and sister always get this!
3. Pier 39
Just a short stroll from Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39 presents different types of entertainment, shopping, and dining options, all with an unbeatable view of the Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. There are a lot of playful sea lions, mesmerizing street performers, and the enchanting Aquarium of the Bay. It’s a place where laughter fills the air as much as the scent of sweet treats and ocean breezes.
4. Cruise Around Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz Island, is an island in the middle of San Francisco Bay, which offers a compelling journey through history. This was once a site of the infamous federal prison, and it now beckons travelers with stories of notorious inmates and daring escapes. This island is accessible by a scenic ferry ride, or you can book a cruise sail around it!
5. Visit the Botanical Garden
Located within Golden Gate Park, the San Francisco Botanical Garden is a lush oasis of tranquility and beauty. Spanning over 55 acres, this garden paradise showcases over 8,000 different kinds of plants from around the world, creating a tapestry of flora that blooms in enchanting harmony. Why visit? It’s a serene retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle, offering a peaceful haven for nature lovers and taking a break from the busy city life.
6. San Francisco Chinatown
Explore the vibrant streets of San Francisco’s Chinatown. As the oldest Chinatown in North America, this neighborhood offers an authentic dive into Chinese culture, cuisine, and architecture. From the iconic Dragon Gate to the busy markets and temples, visitors can experience a rich tapestry of history and tradition.
7. Palace of Fine Arts
The Palace of Fine Arts is a stunning Greco-Roman architecture and serene lagoon, it stands as a testament to the city’s artistic spirit. Originally built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition, and this architectural wonder is a photographer’s dream where it is quite often used as a designated area for special occasions photoshoot.
Once in a while, I come here with a picnic blanket and layout to enjoy the sun set.
8. Crissy Field
Crissy field is a linear driving distance from Palace of Fine Arts. It was once a military airfield, this scenic beachfront area offers a wide array of recreational opportunities, from jogging and picnicking to birdwatching, to biking, to flying a kite. With stunning vistas of the Golden Gate Bridge and access to pristine beaches, Crissy Field is one of my favorite place to visit with a nice view of the Golden Gate bridge.
9. Union Square Shopping
Union Square is the heart of San Francisco’s shopping district. Surrounded by historic landmarks, world-class hotels, and theaters, Union Square is the premier destination for high-end shopping, dining, and entertainment. Once a year, this place gets lit up with a Christmas tree for a festive holiday decor and an ice skating rink right next to it!
10. Ferry Building Marketplace
The Ferry Building marketplace is a culinary haven for foodies, this historic waterfront building houses some of the city’s most acclaimed artisanal food and beverage vendors. From gourmet cheeses to local wines, the marketplace offers a taste of Northern California’s rich culinary heritage. It’s an absolute must-visit for those looking to indulge in the best local and organic produce.
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