San Francisco is one of those cities that offers dozens of things to do. If you began exploring today, it might feel like it would take an eternity to see it all and enjoy it the way you want to.
Still, there’s only so much a single day can hold.
If you’re wondering what to do in San Francisco today, you’re at the right blog post. Here, I’m going to recommend some activities that you must try to have a great experience of the fog city.
Let’s start.
Have Brunch in Chinatown:
Chinatown is very popular for having amazing brunch spots. You can find both the usual American brunch and a lot of Asian dishes here. However, I’d recommend having something you’ve never tried before, especially if this is your first time visiting the bay.
It could be a warm steamed bun or a plate of dumplings you’ve only heard about. Whatever you think will give you a new experience, order it. Let the meal surprise you.
Ride a Cable Car:
If you’re in the mood to see the local streets of San Francisco, ride a cable car. These carriages have been an iconic transport method of the city for a very long time.
The routes are spread across the city in a way that lets you see a little bit of everything. You can pay a few bucks (around $9 for a one-way trip).
Don’t forget to keep your camera on hand. You never know when a perfect view will appear on the streets of San Francisco.
Ride a Bike on the Golden Gate Bridge:
One of the best ways to take in the view is by riding a bike. It’s a very unique and thrilling experience for people who visit the city for the first time. Instead of just glancing at the iconic monument from afar, riding a bike on it gives you the real feeling of crossing the 1.7-mile-long bridge with the wind in your face.
If you prefer, you can also take a walk on it. In both ways, the true scale and beauty of the bridge reveal themselves.
See the Sea Lions at Pier 39:
Pier 39 is famous for a bunch of different things, and Fisherman’s Wharf is one of them. Here, you can do a lot of things, but one of the most unique ones is seeing sea lions.
You’ll find a whole community of California sea lions who have created a residence at the docks. It’s a very lively and charming experience. At the same time, you can have fresh seafood at Boudin Bakery and visit the Aquarium of the Bay as well.
Have a Picnic at Dolores Park:
If you’re in the mood for a picnic, there’s probably no better place in San Francisco than Dolores Park. It’s a huge park providing around 16 acres of grass for lounging and relaxing. You can sunbathe, read a book, or play frisbee here.
The best thing about having a picnic here is that you can visit the Mission Dolores Basilica or stroll along Valencia Street right after it. If you prefer having a picnic at a more secluded place, the Golden Gate Park is another great option.
See the Illuminate SF Light Art:
Illuminate has been glowing in the Fog City with amazing lights for around 10 years now. These lights make the city feel like a new place after dark. The organization has installed more than 60 light‑art pieces throughout different neighborhoods of the city.
The best thing about this light art is that some of the installations are permanent. You can visit these locations any night and experience the magic of public art in motion.
Some other installations are temporary and appear only on special occasions or during the festival. If you get a chance to wander one of the light trails after dusk, it’s going to be a very memorable evening for you.
You can check Illuminate SF’s official website to keep up with upcoming installations and events.
Connect with Nature on a Walk in Muir Woods:
Muir Woods is a short drive from San Francisco and offers visitors a chance to walk among towering redwoods. The main trails are well-maintained and easy to follow, making them suitable for most visitors.
You can take a short loop to see some of the tallest trees in the park, or follow longer trails that wind deeper into the forest. The park is quiet, with only the sound of birds and rustling leaves.
Visitors often take photos, enjoy a packed lunch on one of the benches, or simply pause to soak in the calm atmosphere. Muir Woods is a place where you can experience a peaceful side of the Bay Area without leaving the city completely.
Visit the Presidio of San Francisco
The Presidio is a large park and former military base on the northern tip of the city, offering plenty of space to explore. You can walk or bike along trails with views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the bay, and the city skyline.
There are also historic sites to see, including old military buildings and the Walt Disney Family Museum. The park has picnic areas, scenic overlooks, and open lawns where visitors can relax.
Visit Famous Cinema Locations:
San Francisco has been the backdrop for countless movies, and you can visit some of the city’s most iconic film locations. From the steep streets featured in Vertigo and Mrs. Doubtfire to the painted alleys in San Francisco and The Pursuit of Happyness, there’s plenty to see.
Fans often stop by Lombard Street, the Palace of Fine Arts, or the Golden Gate Bridge to recognize familiar scenes. Walking these spots gives you a chance to experience the city through the lens of some classic and modern films.
Take a Street Art Tour in the Mission:
The Mission District is known for its colorful murals and street art that cover buildings, alleyways, and walls throughout the neighborhood. You can walk through the streets on your own or join a guided tour to learn more about the artists and the stories behind the work.
Highlights include Balmy Alley and Clarion Alley, where murals showcase local culture, history, and social messages. Street art in the Mission is always changing, so every visit offers something new to see.
Exploring the murals is a lively way to experience the neighborhood and get a sense of the creative energy that makes this part of San Francisco unique.
Conclusion:
San Francisco is a city full of things to see and do, from busy streets and historic sites to quiet parks and creative neighborhoods. In one day, you can try local food, visit famous spots, enjoy art and music, and even spend time in nature without leaving the city. Each activity gives a small, memorable taste of what makes San Francisco special. Whether it’s a walk among redwoods or an evening of lights, the city has something to enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Spring and fall are the nicest times to visit. The weather is mild, and the city is less crowded than in summer.
A full day lets you see some highlights, but two to three days is ideal to explore at a comfortable pace. You’ll have time for both city sights and nearby nature.
Not really. Public transit, rideshares, and walking cover most parts of the city, especially popular neighborhoods. A car is only helpful if you plan trips outside the city.
Layers are key. Mornings and evenings can be chilly, even in summer, so a light jacket is always useful.
San Francisco is easy to explore by cable car, bus, or on foot. Biking and rideshares are also convenient options for short distances.