
The Best Things to Do in San Francisco
- 1. Explore the Muir Woods National Monument ...
- 2. Get Inspired at a Creative Hotel in a Creative Neighborhood ...
- 3. Visit One of America’s Most Iconic Prisons ...
- 4. Tour the Napa and Sonoma Wine Country ...
- 5. Embark on a Relaxing Cruise of the Bay ...
- 6. Enjoy a Fun Family Day at the Bay Area Discovery Museum ...
- Glen Canyon Park. Hill Station, Park. View. ...
- Corona Heights. Museum, Park, Dog Park. ...
- Mount Sutro Forest (Interior Greenbelt) Forest, Park. ...
- Chain of Lakes (Golden Gate Park) Park, Natural Feature. ...
- Stern Grove. Park, Forest. ...
- Fort Funston. Bridge, Park. ...
- Lands End. Bridge, Park, Forest.
What are the best things to do in San Francisco?
In the middle of Golden Gate Park, Stow Lake offers a respite from the fast paced atmosphere that is San Francisco. 24. Steinhart Aquarium Great exhibits, very well set up. 25. China Beach Instead, in NorCal, it's all about the dramatic views and rocky coastline. And this little beach is the best in the... 26. Aquatic Park
What can you see at San Francisco Botanical Gardens?
Horticulture fans will have plenty to see at the San Francisco Botanical Garden and the Conservatory of Flowers, two important landmarks protecting rare tropical plants and flowers from around the world. Continue to 9 of 20 below.
What is it like to live in San Francisco?
San Francisco is a much smaller city than its reputation might indicate. For a place that’s just 49 square miles (less than 1/10 the size of Los Angeles to the south), it's filled with character, culture, distinct neighborhoods, and interesting things to do.
What are some of the best places to walk around San Francisco?
Marshall’s Beach the beach at Marshall's Beach is a little hard to get to - about a mile of descent via sloping paths and staircases. 18. San Francisco Zoo Its a wonderful place to walk, learn gaze at the beauty of the animals. 19. Hidden Garden Steps It’s only 2 blocks away from the famous 16 ST tile steps by the Grand view Park. 20.

What are the natural features of San Francisco?
The city's biodiversity resides in iconic park lands like the Presidio, Twin Peaks, Glen Canyon, Lake Merced and Golden Gate Park. These places harbor a remarkable diversity of ecological communities of native habitats, plants and animals.
Does San Francisco have nature?
San Francisco is surrounded by natural wonders and destinations of scientific interest for visitors of all ages. Just across the Golden Gate Bridge is the Marin Headlands — coastal bluffs, rugged hiking trails, vast wetlands, protected valleys, historic landmarks.
What should I not miss in San Francisco?
11 Best Things Not to Miss in San FranciscoKarl the Fog. You can't go to the city without seeing Karl. ... Golden Gate Bride. The Golden Gate Bridge is the most iconic sight of San Francisco, making it an absolute must see. ... Alcatraz & Angel Island. ... Castro. ... Chinatown. ... Cable Car. ... Lombard Street. ... Painted Ladies.More items...•
What is the most famous thing about San Francisco?
The iconic 746-foot-tall orange towers of the Golden Gate Bridge have stood sentinel over the San Francisco Bay since 1937. Even when shrouded in fog, the bridge never fails to impress.
Is San Francisco a beautiful place?
Set along the ocean, with rolling hills and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco is one of the most beautiful cities in the United States and the jewel of Northern California. The city is full of history, great neighborhoods, parks, beaches, museums, and a whole host of entertainment options and things to do.
What is the most famous park in San Francisco?
Golden Gate Park1. Golden Gate Park. Golden Gate Park encompasses 1,017 acres, which makes it San Francisco's largest park. Landscape designer William Hammond Hall and gardener John McLauren transformed the area during the Victorian period, from 1870 to 1871.
Why is SF so beautiful?
Locals appreciate nature, sustainable food, and art. The weather is about as perfect as weather can get — never too hot nor too cold.” From its signature Victorians and iconic landmarks such as cable cars and crooked streets, fog-strewn San Francisco is nothing if not photogenic.
Is SF the most beautiful city in the world?
As the most beautiful city in the world, it's no surprise that Paris is called “the city of love.” Two U.S. cities – New York and San Francisco – made the top ten most beautiful cities....Most Beautiful Cities in the World.RankingCityCountry7Cape TownSouth Africa8San FranciscoUnited States9SydneyAustralia10RomeItaly46 more rows
Is 3 days in San Francisco enough?
While San Francisco in 3 days might not be enough to see EVERYTHING, it will give you a chance to see the best bits of our city. Keep in mind that this city is only 7×7 square miles (that's 121 square kilometers)—roughly ⅔ the size of Brooklyn in NYC! But don't underestimate this small city.
How do I spend a day in San Francisco?
One Day in San Francisco: 10 Fun Things to Do on a Short 24 Hour VisitVisit the Golden Gate Bridge. ... Explore Alcatraz Island. ... Stroll Around the California Academy of Sciences. ... Enjoy the Museum of Modern Art. ... Sample Some of Our Amazing Cuisines. ... Admire Our Street Art & Murals. ... Cruise the SF Bay. ... Take a City Tour.More items...•
What is the best month to go to San Francisco?
The best time to visit San Francisco is from September to November. Believe it or not, fall offers some of the city's warmest temperatures year-round, not to mention fewer crowds than summer. Spring is another good time to visit thanks to its mild temperatures and lack of rain (compared to other parts of California).
How can I spend 3 days in San Francisco?
Things To Do - 3 Days In San FranciscoGolden Gate Bridge.Baker Beach & Marshall Beach.Ride A Cable Car.Fishermans Wharf.Palace of Fine Arts.Lands End, Sutro Bath, & Ocean Beach.Golden Gate Park.Chinatown.More items...
What food is SF famous for?
San Francisco is as famous for its restaurants and food trends as it is for its Golden Gate Bridge and cable cars. Among the unique or regionally typical foods to be sampled in San Francisco are abalone, Dungeness crab, sand dabs, bay shrimp and crusty sourdough French bread. Many local restaurants serve Joe's Special.
What attracts people to San Francisco?
Top 20 Attractions in San FranciscoGolden Gate Bridge. Once called "the bridge that couldn't be built," today it is one the seven wonders of the modern world. ... Golden Gate Park. ... The Presidio. ... Lombard Street. ... Alcatraz Island. ... California Academy of Sciences. ... The de Young Museum. ... San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)More items...•
Is SF worth visiting?
San Francisco is great to visit. Its steep hills are iconic, there's the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf, Alcatraz and its historic (and huge) Chinatown. However, there are some places in the city that are best avoided, as well as some other things to be aware of – even though it is a relatively safe place.
Is San Francisco or LA better to visit?
For glitz and glamour and some cutting-edge culture in the SoCal sunshine, it's got to be LA. But for a smaller-town feel with big-name sights, you're best off in San Francisco. Better still, rent a car, drive the spectacular coastal highway that connects the two, and take in both cities on one trip.
Why is San Francisco worth visiting?
It is home to people of all background and cultures which greatly influence its art, food, fitness, fashion and museums. The city is known for its great shopping districts. From Union Square with big names to outlets from boutiques to vintage clothes and markets, there is literally something for everyone.
What is the prettiest park in the Bay Area?
These Are The Most Beautiful Parks In The Bay AreaLakeside Park - Oakland. Open 7:30 A.M. - dusk.Redwood Regional Park - Oakland. ... Tilden Regional Park - Oakland. ... Heather Farm Park - Walnut Creek. ... Coyote Point Recreation Area - San Mateo. ... Rincon Park - San Francisco. ... Golden Gate Park - San Francsico.
What is the most beautiful street in San Francisco?
A steep and curvy street with spectacular views Lombard Street is a famous landmark in San Francisco.
What is the hippy area in San Francisco?
Haight-AshburyHaight-Ashbury, district within the city of San Francisco, California, U.S., adjacent to Golden Gate Park. The district became famous as a bohemian enclave in the 1950s and '60s and was the centre of a large African American population.
Does San Francisco have a forest?
The most popular redwood forest near San Francisco is the ancient grove of 2,000-year-old redwood trees in Muir Woods National Monument.
What is the environment like in San Francisco?
San Francisco has a Mediterranean climate, with wet winters and dry summers. The water that surrounds San Francisco regulates its climate, meaning that the temperature does not change that much between seasons.
Why is San Francisco the greenest city?
Since 2009, San Francisco has had the first large-scale urban food waste and composting program in the country. As a result, greenhouse gas emissions have decreased by 12% from 1990 levels. And to continue the food cycle, local farmers use the city's nutrient-rich compost to produce food.
Does San Francisco have a countryside?
Wine, wine, and a bit more wine. That's at least three reasons why we love the countryside around San Francisco. Throw in rolling green hills, towering Redwoods and a handful of awe-inspiring national parks and it's not hard to see why thousands of people flock to San Francisco each year.
Which experiences are best for nature & wildlife areas in San Francisco?
These experiences are best for nature & wildlife areas in San Francisco:Muir Woods & Sausalito Half-Day Tour (Return by Bus or Ferry from Sausalito...
What are the best places for nature & wildlife areas in San Francisco?
These places are best for nature & wildlife areas in San Francisco:San Francisco Botanical GardenConservatory of FlowersSea Lion CenterFort Funston...
Which places provide the best nature & wildlife areas in San Francisco for kids and families?
These are the best places for kid-friendly nature & wildlife areas in San Francisco:San Francisco Botanical GardenSea Lion CenterConservatory of Fl...
Which places provide the best nature & wildlife areas in San Francisco for couples?
These are the best places for couples seeking nature & wildlife areas in San Francisco:San Francisco Botanical GardenSea Lion CenterConservatory of...
Which places provide the best nature & wildlife areas in San Francisco for groups?
These are the best places for groups seeking nature & wildlife areas in San Francisco:San Francisco Botanical GardenSea Lion CenterStrawberry HillS...
Which places provide the best nature & wildlife areas in San Francisco for travelers on a budget?
These are the best places for budget-friendly nature & wildlife areas in San Francisco:San Francisco Botanical GardenSea Lion CenterConservatory of...
What to do in San Francisco?
San Francisco may only stretch across 7 miles, but it's packed with an assortment of activities that's sure to please outdoorsy types, foodies and curious wanderers of all ages . The Golden Gate Bridge is a must-see, while a visit to Alcatraz Island to tour the infamous and now closed federal prison should also be high on your list. Instead of spending all your time around the touristy Fisherman's Wharf, you can discover a more authentic side of San Francisco by grabbing a bite at the Ferry Building Marketplace or with a walking tour through the vibrant Castro. And whether it's climbing to the top of Twin Peaks or sauntering through Golden Gate Park, active types and nature lovers will find plenty to love about San Francisco. You'll likely hit these top spots and more on a guided tour of the city.
How to see Twin Peaks in San Francisco?
If you want the best views of San Francisco, take a hike to Twin Peaks. These famous grassy pounds rise 922 feet from the ground, making them the second highest point in the city (after Mount Davidson). From the top, travelers can view multiple San Francisco landmarks, including the Bay Bridge and the downtown skyscrapers. Whether you decide to go during the day or night (some say you should do both), numerous visitors agree that the views are stunning and worth the trek. But make sure to bring a jacket: many recent visitors said it can get windier (and subsequently chillier) up top than at sea level.
Why is Alcatraz so famous?
This is because Alcatraz is rich with history. Sitting on a small, rocky island in the middle of San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz is most known as being a former federal prison that housed some of society's biggest offenders, the most famous of which was Prohibition-era mob boss Al Capone. Before that, it was a military prison that housed prisoners from the Spanish-American War and Civil War, as well as the site of the West Coast's first operating lighthouse. The prison closed down both times due to high operating costs and was handed over to the National Park Service in 1972 after the island experienced a short occupation from Native American activists. Today, the attraction sees about one million visitors per year.
Where to take a picture of the Golden Gate Bridge?
But if you want a truly postcard-worthy shot, head to the Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point, situated high on a hill overlooking San Francisco. If you have extra time, make sure to explore the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The actual span of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area encompasses multiple places in San Mateo (south of San Francisco), San Francisco and Marin Counties ( Alcatraz and Muir Woods included), but notable parts of this recreation area can be found just a stroll away from the Golden Gate. From the bridge, travelers will find some scenic, bayside trails, some of which lead to secluded beaches, including Kirby Cove and Black Sands Beach. If you really want a trek, journey to the Point Bonita Lighthouse for sweeping views of the bay, found at the very tip of the Golden Gate Strait.
Where is Baker Beach in San Francisco?
Located in the northwestern area of San Francisco in the Presidio, Baker Beach is primarily known for its sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the neighboring Marin Headlands. The mile-long beach offers travelers plenty of room to spread their legs and features picnic areas and access to nearby Presidio trails.
What are the Yerba Buena Gardens?
After a day of hasty sightseeing, the Yerba Buena Gardens provide travelers with an opportunity to wind down and enjoy San Francisco's weather and unique culture. The gardens proper include 5 acres of landscaped lawns complete with flowers, trees, water and art. The Cho-En Butterfly Garden attracts native San Francisco butterflies with plants (also native) that encourage butterfly growth from eggs to adults. Meanwhile, the Reflection Garden serves as a tribute to the Ohlone Indians as well as a performance area for various oral traditions. The Upper Terrace Garden and the Sister City Gardens, which include plants from San Francisco's 18 Sister Cities from around the world, are where visitors will find the area's cafes and most of its seating. Additionally, the East Garden houses a variety of sculptures and water features. Lastly, three of the Yerba Buena Gardens' lawns boast designs meant to appeal specifically to children.
Where is Lands End in San Francisco?
One of the more popular San Francisco treasures, Lands End provides a completely different experience with each visit. Located at the northwest corner of the city, this rugged landscape of Cypress forest is bordered by cliffs that descend 200 feet to the sea below. The historical remnants scattered throughout this area give you a true sense of urban development and the city’s success in enhancing outdoor recreational fun for the community. While winding through the coastal trails, take a break by enjoying the Sutro Baths, Shipwreck Remains, and the Labyrinth that make this nature spot so unique and rich with local culture.
What are the five lakes in Golden Gate Park?
The Chain of Lakes — North, Middle, and South — are among five of the remaining natural lakes preserved in Golden Gate Park. While the park itself is one of the most beautiful nature attractions in the city, these lakes offer a more immediate solitude from the cars and bikes that weave throughout Golden Gate Park. As roaming raccoons and chickens surround the perimeter of North Lake, the best birding opportunities can be found at Middle Lake. South Lake, the smallest of the three, is the least visited by people but is best characterized by its grassy slopes and blossoming trees in the springtime.
Is Fort Funston dog friendly?
Dog owners and lovers rejoice, because Fort Funston not only is an extremely dog friendly environment, but you’re guaranteed to make at least a handful of new canine friends during a stroll through the dunes. Located at the southernmost part of Ocean Beach, these succulent-covered sand dunes bring you and your pet up sandy trails to a 200-foot view of the water. One of the best spots for hang-gliding in the city, on a clear windy day, it’s not unusual to see little flying triangles gliding through the sky. This secluded beach spot is perfect for letting the dog run freely while enjoying a quieter side of the city.
What to do in San Francisco?
Each of the city’s districts offer its own distinct character and things to do, whether it’s restaurants, museums, art, music, and pretty much everything in between. Best of all, the condensed size of the “City by the Bay” allows visitors to catch many different sights on a single trip, even if it’s just a couple of days. Read on to discover 20 of the best things to do in San Francisco.
What is the best place to visit in San Francisco?
Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf are tourist-favorites for a reason. The area is popular for shopping and souvenir hunting, along with the population of local sea lions who’ve been hanging out on the K dock next to the pier since the 1990s. Take a walk along Pier 39, and you’ll likely find yourself staring at various street performers, a vintage carousel, and a whole host of specialty shops selling unique souvenirs and gag gifts—all surrounded by gorgeous views of the San Francisco Bay.
What are the cable cars in San Francisco?
There are three separate cable car lines running through the city streets: the Powell-Mason Line, the Powell-Hyde Line, and the California Line. Both Powell lines take off from the same hub at Union Square and continue to the Fisherman’s Wharf area, while the California line starts at California and Market and climbs up to Van Ness Avenue.
How to get to Angel Island?
The only way to get to Angel Island is by ferry, either from Pier 39 / 41 in San Francisco or from the town of Tiburon. To find out about transportation options, and discover things you can do on the island, use the Angel Island guide . Continue to 17 of 20 below. 17 of 20.
Where to go shopping in San Francisco?
If you’re in the mood for some more high end shopping, San Francisco’s Union Square is the place to be. As one of the country’s largest outdoor shopping areas, Union Square is full of upscale stores, malls, and hotels, so it can get especially busy on the weekends and around the holidays for serious shoppers. When (and if) you get tired of shopping, explore some of the area’s other attractions like the theaters and the restaurants as well.
Is Chinatown in San Francisco?
San Francisco's Chinatown is one of the largest Chinese communities outside the country of China. It's also one of San Francisco's unique sights. Most Chinatown visitors stroll along Grant Avenue, buy a few souvenirs, eat, gawk, and take photos.
Does San Francisco have hills?
You know that San Francisco has a lot of hills, but you might not realize that they are covered with fascinating steps, and stair streets can take you to places where vehicles can't go. These are a few of the best:
What is San Francisco known for?
The city is famous for it’s restaurants and some of the best chef’s in the country are lucky enough to call this home.With so much to do in this amazing city let us take a look at the best things to do in San Francisco.
What is the most visited neighborhood in San Francisco?
Union Square is the most visited neighborhood in San Francisco. Here you will find a large collection of high end retail outlets, fancy hotels, cafes, art galleries and a very active nightlife. The area has many live events to attend and there is always something happening to keep you entertained.
How many cable cars are there in San Francisco?
San Francisco is very proud of their cable car system. It is the last manually operated system in the world today. At its peak you would find 23 cable car lines in the city, but today we have just three left. Nearly all of the people that ride the cars today are tourists looking to try that something different when in town.
How many acres are there in Golden Gate Park?
Golden Gate Park. Each year 13 million visitors visit Golden Gate Park and explore one of San Francisco’s most amazing places. This picturesque space spans 1,017 acres and has many places to explore and relax. You can discover the lakes, picnic areas, monuments, playgrounds and gardens.
Where is the most famous waterfront in San Francisco?
San Francisco’s most famous waterfront community is at Fisherman’s Wharf. Here you can experience some fantastic food and enjoy some of the best dining the world has to offer.
Is the Presidio of San Francisco a military base?
The Presidio of San Francisco is a former military base that is now a park. The park is situated on the northern tip of the San Francisco Peninsular and falls under the Golden Gate Recreation Area. The ownership of the area initially was held by the Spanish, it then moved to the Mexicans before the United States took ownership in 1948.
Is San Francisco a city?
San Francisco is a hub of excitement, and the cultural, commercial and financial heart of Northern California. The city is the 13th most populated in the U.S. but has the second highest population density in the county, with only New York being busier. The city shot to fame in 1849 as the home of the Californian Gold Rush which at the time made it the largest city on the West Coast.
When do whales go to San Francisco?
Why go? From April through November, humpbacks and blue whales—the largest animals to have ever lived—frequent these anchovy-rich waters. San Francisco Whale Tours and the Oceanic Society both offer tours led by expert naturalists.
Why go to the park?
Why go? With over 700 Wi-Fi access points, the park is one of the largest public wireless hotspots in the world. It was the first Major League ballpark to receive LEED Silver Certification. It was ranked the Most Vegetarian-Friendly Ballpark by PETA in 2014, 2011, 2006 and 2005. And it is where Kanye West proposed to Kim Kardashian in 2014.
What animals are in the Farallon Islands?
Don’t miss: For the more seaworthy, full-day expeditions circle the Farallon Islands, home to massive breeding colonies of sleek Common Murres and clownish Tufted Puffins. Round that out with seals and sea lions, dolphins, killer whales, and the peculiar mola mola, and you’ll feel like David Attenborough for a day.
What plants are in the Garden of Fragrance?
Don't miss: One of the most popular areas is the Garden of Fragrance, where plaques encourage visitors to sniff sweet-smelling plants like cascading rosemary, rockrose, lemon verbena, chamomile and lavender.
Why go to Japanese gardens?
Why go? The Japanese gardens burst with color and beauty in the early spring as maples flame and cherry blossoms bud. Walk stone paths through manicured terraces, through pagodas and over the impossibly-arched drum bridge or meditate on the zen garden before heading to the picturesque Tea House for a cuppa.
Why go to the Musée Mécanique?
Why go? A museum in name only, everything at the Musée Mécanique can, and should, be played with. Many of of these amusements were salvaged from San Francisco’s now-defunct seaside amusement park, Playland at the Beach. Gypsy fortune tellers, giant moving dioramas, can-can girl stereoscopes, carnival strength testers, player pianos, and a looming Laughing Sal (the cackling Playland greeter) are just as amusing for adults as they are for kids.
When will the Marin Center open?
This event previously was held at Treasure Island and is set to open at its new location in September 2021.
How many square miles are there in San Francisco?
Outside San Francisco's 49 square miles lie things to do for the nature lover, foodie, music buff, and beachcomber. Here are 50 things to do beyond our bright lights and bridges.
What is Monterey Bay Aquarium known for?
Dedicated to marine research and conservation, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is known throughout the world for its interactive exhibits and ability to present marine life on a truly grand scale. It's been called "one of America's most captivating aquariums" by ForbesTraveler.com.
How tall is Yosemite Falls?
At 2,424 feet, Yosemite Falls is the tallest waterfall in North America (and sixth tallest in the world). At its peak in the summer, Yosemite Falls vigorously flows. In the winter, it slows down, but it is still a sight to see. Zip Above the Sierras.
What is the name of the mountain range in California that has granite cliffs?
Hike through Yosemite National Park. Named a World Heritage Site, this pristine stretch of Sierra Nevada mountain range is home to angular granite cliffs like famous El Captain, waterfalls, giant Sequoia trees and about one-fifth of all California's plant species.
Is there a shortage of beaches in the Bay Area?
The Bay Area has no shortage of beaches, but not all beaches are created equal. For that reason, we’ve scoped out six beaches that are cooler than everyone else’s beach.
What to do in San Francisco?
From illustrious museums to metropolitan ruins, invigorating hikes through the hills to strolls around classic landmarks, the options can be overwhelming. It can be even more so when you remember that also have to make time for some of the best restaurants and bars in the world. To aid in your planning, here's our guide to what you cannot miss during your time in by the Bay. These are the best things to do in San Francisco
What are the best things to do in Golden Gate Park?
There is a rainforest populated by plants, frogs, and free-flying birds and butterflies, with a flooded rainforest tunnel filled with Amazonian fish. Other live animal exhibits include a recreated swamp, where you can peer down at Claude, the resident albino alligator with ruby-red eyes, plus a colony of playful African penguins who share a tank with pyjama sharks and sea stars, where they swim and do flips . There's also the Steinhart Aquarium, with jellyfish and a living coral reef. The less “live” exhibits include Shake House, an immersive exhibit that allows visitors to (safely) experience the kinds of tremors that shook the Bay Area during the city’s two biggest quakes— the Loma Prieta Earthquake and the Great Earthquake of 1906.
How long is the California coastal trail?
The 1.7-mile path wends around corners and over hills, through wide-open spaces and cathedral-like groves of trees, tracing the path of a long-gone railway that once ferried pleasure seekers to Sutro Baths, Cliff House, and Ocean Beach. You’ll get there, too, but don’t hurry—this is a hike to be savored.
What to eat at the Ferry Plaza?
The Ferry Building becomes San Francisco’s prime food destination during the Saturday Ferry Plaza farmers’ market, which brings more than 80 farmers and purveyors to the plaza surrounding the building, selling everything from rare citrus to small-batch miso to Nepalese dumplings. There's much to eat at other times, too. The famed Cowgirl Creamery offers decadent grilled cheese sandwiches, as well as their famous Mt. Tam cheese. The ever-popular Hog Island Oyster Company has an outpost serving briny oysters pulled from its flagship location on Tomales Bay . Also in the building are sister restaurants Boulette’s Larder and Boulibar, known for seasonal cuisine and wood-fired flatbreads. Boulette’s is currently open for take-out, while Boulibar has a 56-seat dining pop-up outside. And Blue Bottle's location here brews some of San Francisco's favorite coffee. Over the summer of 2020, the Ferry Building debuted an expanded outdoor seating area, which can accommodate 228 guests, making the building one of the largest venues for Bay Area residents to dine outdoors.
Where is the Mission Street mural?
The spots you should make sure to hit if you’re touring around are Balmy Alley, just off Mission and 24th Streets, and Clarion Alley near the 16th Street BART station. If you have a bit more time, check out the neighborhood’s major mural corridors, 24th Street from Valencia to Portrero Avenue and Mission Street from the corner of 15th Street to Cesar Chavez. For a real deep dive, contact Precita Eyes Muralists, a nonprofit that runs street art tours of the neighborhood.
When were the San Francisco ruins burned down?
They are all that remains from a complex opened by Mayor Adolph Sutro in 1896, that burned down 70 years later. The spooky beauty makes this place stand out in a city with many outdoor spaces. Where else in San Francisco can you find sprawling ruins on the edge of the sea? It's practically like something out of the ancient world.
Where is the Presidio in San Francisco?
A National Park established in 1994 from a massive converted Army base, the Presidio is a sprawling, scenic, wild-feeling park in San Francisco proper. The grounds have plenty of attractions, but the real appeal is visual, with trails leading to scenic overlooks of the city skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge. It is perfect for folks who want a remote-feeling walk without wanting to invest time or energy in a full out-of-town hike. The Batteries to Bluffs (.7 miles), Bay Area Ridge (2.5 miles), and Lovers' Lane trails (.6 miles) are all tremendously scenic without being strenuous and, a new addition: Hikers on the Tennessee Hollow Trail can walk through a new section of restored wetlands habitat, which stretches from Thompson Reach all the way to Crissy Field.
