San Francisco Tourist Spots: Top Landmarks & Gems

Looking for an unforgettable trip? These San Francisco tourist spots offer something for everyone, from iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods to scenic waterfront views. Whether for family outings, romantic escapes, or solo adventures, they promise memories that will last long after you leave the Bay Area.

Discover the Best of San Francisco’s Iconic Attractions

1. Golden Gate Bridge

Walk, bike, or drive across the Golden Gate Bridge, one of the top San Francisco tourist spots, for unforgettable views. Stop at Crissy Field, Fort Point, or Battery Spencer for panoramic sights of the bridge, bay, and city skyline, capturing the essence and spirit of San Francisco.

• Ticket: Free (bridge crossing)
• Location: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, CA
• Website: https://www.goldengate.org/bridge/visiting-the-bridge/

2. Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry from Pier 33 to explore the infamous former federal prison, where an immersive audio tour of inmate and guard stories brings history to life, especially during the eerie night tours.

• Ticket: Starting $25 (ferry required)
• Location: Pier 33, San Francisco, CA 94133
• Website: https://www.cityexperiences.com/san-francisco/city-cruises/alcatraz/tour-options/

3. Fisherman’s Wharf & Pier 39

Bustling with seafood eateries, shops, and the famous sea lions basking on docks.
Street performers and family attractions make it lively all day.
Great for casual strolls and oceanfront fun.

• Ticket: Free (activities vary)
• Location: Pier 39, San Francisco, CA 94133
• Website: https://pier39.com/

4. Golden Gate Park

Spanning over 1,000 acres, Golden Gate Park is a lush urban oasis filled with gardens, trails, lakes, and beloved attractions like the Japanese Tea Garden. It’s the perfect place for picnics, biking, or simply relaxing on the open meadows surrounded by greenery. Families will especially enjoy spotting the park’s resident bison at the paddock, adding a fun and unexpected twist to a peaceful day outdoors.

• Ticket: Free (gardens/museums priced separately)
• Location: 501 Stanyan Street, San Francisco, CA 94117
• Website: https://sfrecpark.org/770/Golden-Gate-Park

5. Chinatown

San Francisco is home to the largest Chinatown outside of Asia, a bustling neighborhood filled with temples, shops, and vibrant markets. Wander through its colorful alleys and sample authentic dim sum for a true taste of the culture. Be sure not to miss the iconic Dragon Gate entrance on Grant Avenue, a striking landmark that welcomes visitors into this lively and historic community.

• Ticket: Free
• Location: Chinatown, San Francisco, CA
• Website: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinatown,_San_Francisco

6. Lombard Street

Lombard Street, famously known as “the crookedest street in the world,” features eight sharp turns in just one block. Its beautifully landscaped gardens along the curves make it a must-see spot for photos, capturing the charm of San Francisco’s unique streetscape. From the top or bottom of the street, visitors can also enjoy stunning views of Coit Tower and the sparkling Bay, adding to the experience.

• Ticket: Free
• Location: Lombard Street, between Hyde & Leavenworth, San Francisco
• Website: https://www.visitcalifornia.com/experience/san-franciscos-lombard-street/

7. Palace of Fine Arts

The Palace of Fine Arts is a stunning Greco-Roman style structure originally built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition. Its serene reflecting lagoon and elegant colonnades create a peaceful setting, perfect for leisurely walks and memorable photos. The site is also a popular backdrop for wedding shoots and hosts various cultural events, making it a cherished landmark in San Francisco.

• Ticket: Free
• Location: 3601 Lyon St, San Francisco, CA 94123
• Website: https://palaceoffinearts.com/

8. Exploratorium

The Exploratorium is a hands-on science museum featuring over 600 interactive exhibits that engage visitors of all ages. It’s the perfect destination for families, sparking curiosity and creativity in both kids and adults. On a foggy San Francisco day, it offers a fun and educational way to explore science indoors while enjoying a memorable and immersive experience.

• Ticket: $30–$40 (children discounted)
• Location: Pier 15, The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA
• Website: https://www.exploratorium.edu/

9. Crissy Field & Beach

Crissy Field is a family-friendly beach offering wide stretches of sand and stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s an ideal spot for kite-flying, picnics, or a leisurely walk along the bay. With shallow waters perfect for little ones to safely splash around, it’s a relaxed and scenic destination for visitors of all ages.

• Ticket: Free
• Location: Presidio of San Francisco, CA 94129
• Website: https://presidio.gov/explore/attractions/crissy-field-east-beach

10. Lands End Lookout & Coastal Trail

Lands End offers cliffside trails with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and the Golden Gate Bridge, making it a favorite spot for nature lovers and photographers. Along the way, visitors can explore the historic Sutro Baths ruins and breathe in the fresh coastal air. The trails are perfect for light hiking, offering both scenic beauty and a touch of San Francisco history.

• Ticket: Free
• Location: 680 Point Lobos Ave, San Francisco, CA 94121
• Website: https://www.parksconservancy.org/projects/lands-end-lookout

Here are Pro Tips for visiting:

• Exploratorium & Lands End: Best on foggy days or at sunset, bring layers.
• Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street, Crissy Field: Visit early for fewer crowds and great photos.
• Alcatraz Island: Book ahead; night tours are quieter and atmospheric.
• Golden Gate Park & Palace of Fine Arts: Plan your route and save time to relax.
• Chinatown & Fisherman’s Wharf: Take the cable car there, walk back for hidden gems.

San Francisco is packed with iconic landmarks and hidden gems, from the Golden Gate Bridge and Lombard Street to Chinatown and Lands End. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or family-friendly fun, these San Francisco tourist spots offer something for everyone and promise unforgettable memories in the City by the Bay.