10 Must-Do Experiences in San Francisco

10 Must-Do Experiences in San Francisco

As far as bucket list cities are concerned, San Francisco is certainly one of them. Packed with a multicultural feel, iconic buildings and natural sites, you’ll certainly leave your heart in San Fran!

Located in Northern California, San Francisco is only second after New York in terms of how busy it is. With its famous golden Gate Bridge, the eeriness of Alcatraz, and the sea lions which call the coast home, San Francisco is a city you will never become bored of. If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to planning your visit, let’s check out 10 must do experiences in San Francisco.

Probably the most iconic bridge on the planet, The Golden Gate Bridge is often shrouded in strange and mysterious mist, but the bright red colour against the blue of the ocean is so striking, you’ll fall instantly in love with it. The bridge itself travels between Marin County on the other side, and San Francisco Bay on the city side. Dating back to 1937, the bridge travels a huge 1.7 miles, and has 6 different lanes of traffic to travel in. This is a must do, in fact it should be your number one.Photo Credit: Marc van der Chijs, License

The waterfront area of Fisherman’s Wharf is a foodie’s dream, and if you love seafood, you’re in for a real, fresh treat. You’ll find various stands lining the streets, selling catch which has literally just come in, or you can venture to a top restaurant inside, and be wined and dined in sophisticated surroundings. If you want to head out onto the water yourself, you can also catch a boat trip from here.

Photo Credit: Anthony G. Reyes, License

We’ve talked about The Golden Gate Bridge, but Golden Gate Park is probably one of the mots visited areas in the entire city. With green open spaces, lakes, playgrounds, gardens, and some of the most stunning views around, this is certainly somewhere to put on your list. Check online ahead of your visit as there are often music events, plays, and other shows taking place throughout the year.

World famous, Alcatraz Island is a must visit when you are in the San Francisco area. Located off the shore, there are countless trips which will take you to the former prison every single day. Once there, there is a true feeling of eeriness and history all around you – this is one place where the hairs on your arms will be standing to attention! Alcatraz was originally built as a military fortress, before becoming a prison from 1933 to 1963. Some of the world’s most renowned criminals were held here, including Al Capone.Photo Credit: Prayitno, License

The perfect place to sit and watch the world go by, Union Square is the ideal people-watching spot, but you can also do a good amount of shopping here too! One of the best nightlife spots in San Fran, Union Square is home to restaurants, cafes, bars, shops, boutiques, hotels, and clubs. You’ll also see a lot of street entertainment, and if you check online beforehand, you might be able to catch a special event taking place.

Probably the best place outside of China for Chinese food, Chinatown on Grand Avenue is a must visit. This is the oldest Chinatown in America and if you visit during the Chinese New Year, you can enjoy the festivities, feeling like you’re in Shanghai itself! Of course, the cuisine here is delightful, and with a colourful and cultural vibe, you’ll visit here more than once. San Fran actually has four Chinatown districts, but Grand Avenue is the one to head to first.If you know anything about San Francisco, you’ll know it has hills, lots of them, and they’re quite steep. The cable cars around the city will ferry you from A to B, and they’re quite historic too, as they opened in 1873! Not only are you riding history, but you’re also enjoying the scenery as you pass, whilst saving your legs, so it’s win-win all-round!If you can get tickets, head to AT&T Park and catch the San Francisco Giants. The feel inside the stadium is fantastic, but even if you can’t get tickets, you’ll notice the entire city having a fun time whenever the team play. Head to the stadium’s Box Office for tickets, or a reputable online site.If you want to snap away at some more views of the city, head to the Twin Peaks, or Los Pechos de la Choca. The two peaks stand next to each other and rise to a huge 922 feet, which means you can get some amazing photos from the top. As you hike up, you’ll see many different species of animals, flowers, and plants. Despite how busy this area can get, it always feels quite peaceful.

At the top of Telegraph Hill you will find Coit Tower, dating back to 1933. Head to the top of the tower for a viewing platform which will give you the best panoramic views of the city, bar none. Don’t worry, there is an elevator that takes you to the top, so no need to walk up the stairs!

San Francisco is certainly one of the most amazing cities on the planet, and a visit should certainly be on your list.