San Francisco Attractions

Top Attractions in San Francisco

San Francisco is one of the most beautiful and bustling cities in America, and visitors and residents alike can find an endless amount to do there. If you're planning to visit the San Francisco Bay Area, get ready to encounter breathtaking sites and enriching culture destinations. Don't forget to pack your camera!


Must-see attractions in San Francisco

Alcatraz | Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island, located in San Francisco Bay, is home to one of the most famous, historic high-security prisons of all time. Hop on a ferry boat out to the island and take a tour of the old prison. You'll get to hear about all of the chilling stuff that happened there during its time as an operating prison -- as well as some stories about its famous inmates, like Machine Gun Kelly, Whitey Bulger and Al Capone.


The Golden Gate Bridge | Richmond District

If you've ever seen a picture of San Francisco, there's a good chance this iconic red bridge is in it. Take a walk across the Golden Gate Bridge to have stunning views of the city and the bay. You can cross by bike or by foot.


Cable Car | Union Square

Another iconic San Francisco attraction is the cable cars that run from Union Square through some of the city's most beautiful neighborhoods. Hop on the cable car to take in sights like Nob Hill, the Financial District and more.


City Lights Bookstore | North Beach

City Lights Bookstore is one of the most storied bookstores in the entire world. This beautiful literary outpost was founded by beat poets in 1953 and it was a haunt of famous Beat authors, like Allen Ginsberg and Jack Kerouac. Check out the history and the great selection of books when you visit the store.


Golden Gate Park | Outer Sunset

Think of Golden Gate Park in San Francisco like you do of Central Park in New York City. It's a stunning, sprawling public park, and within it are gardens, a carousel, museums, picnic grounds and so much more.


Lombard Street | Russian Hill

Lombard Street is another one of San Francisco's most recognizable sites. This twisting and turning, steep street is a unique drivable thoroughfare in the world. One of the best ways to take in Lombard Street is to go two blocks north of it, to Filbert Street, then peer down. You'll be able to see just how steep it is.



Chinatown | Chinatown

For the largest Chinatown outside of Asia, check out San Francisco's Chinatown. This bustling neighborhood has an endless amount of authentic restaurants, art shops, and food markets to check out. The smells and sights will wow you.


Exploratorium | Embarcadero

Have some hands-on fun at the Exploratorium, a museum focused on "science, art and human perception." This awesome museum is filled with hands-on exhibits that will bend your mind. You're certain to learn something new on every visit.


Fisherman’s Wharf | Embarcadero

Fisherman's Wharf is a waterfront destination that is historically a launching point for fisherman. Check out the myriad of restaurants and attractions there -- and take a gander at the crowd of sea lions who sunbathe themselves there all day long.


De Young Museum | Golden Gate Park/Outer Sunset

The De Young Museum is located inside of Golden Gate Park. Visit the museum to see a huge collection of art from a wide range of time periods from the 17th century to today.