Virtual Tourist

Things to do in San Francisco

Not Just Any Hotel – Only the Best Things to do in San Francisco, Selected for You!

Jul 07, 2025 - Jul 08, 2025
2 adults, 1 room
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Good (12033)

Presidio of San Francisco
6:00 AM–9:00 PM
Park
San Francisco
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The Presidio of San Francisco is a 1,500-acre national park, once a military post, offering trails, beaches, and historical landmarks.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Good (8965)

Japanese Tea Garden
9:00 AM–5:30 PM
Garden
Golden Gate Park Golden Gate Park
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Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco showcases traditional Japanese architecture and manicured gardens across four acres, making it a serene escape in Golden Gate Park.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Good (1959)

Mission Dolores Park
6:00 AM–10:00 PM
Park
3321 16th St Mission District
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Mission Dolores Park in San Francisco is a lively space featuring picnic areas, playgrounds, and historical architecture, providing panoramic skyline views and cultural events.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some events may require paid tickets.

Good (35917)

Lombard Street
24/7
Monument
San Francisco
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Lombard Street, located in San Francisco, features a steep, one-block stretch known for its eight hairpin turns and attracts millions of tourists annually.

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

Free. No admission cost to visit the thoroughfare.

Good (3671)

San Francisco Botanical Garden
7:30 AM–7:00 PM
Park
1199 9th Ave (at Martin Luther King Dr)
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San Francisco Botanical Garden spans 55 acres in Golden Gate Park, featuring over 8,500 plant species globally, including a notable magnolia collection.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Good (1632)

San Francisco City Hall
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Architectural Building
1 Carlton B Goodlett Pl (btwn Grove & McAllister St)
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San Francisco City Hall, built in 1915, features a grand Beaux-Arts dome and serves as the city's government building, offering tours and a rich historical context.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Special events may require a ticket.

Good (9923)

Coit Tower
Apr-Oct Mo-Su 10:00-06:00; Nov-Mar Mo-Su 10:00-05:00; Dec Th[4] off; Dec 25 off; Jan 1 off
Monument
1 Telegraph Hill Blvd
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Coit Tower, a 210-ft monument in San Francisco, features 1930s WPA murals and offers 360-degree views of the city and a unique resident parrot flock.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free entry. Guided mural tours are available for $8 (all murals) or $5 (hidden stairwell murals).

Good (1434)

Conservatory of Flowers
Tu-Su 10:00-16:30
Museum
100 J F Kennedy Dr (at Conservatory Dr W)
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Conservatory of Flowers in San Francisco features 2,000+ plant species within a historic Victorian greenhouse in Golden Gate Park. A living museum of biodiversity.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Paid. General admission is $10 for adults, $7 for seniors and students, $2 for children ages 5-11, and free for children under 5.

Good (7129)

San Francisco Zoo
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Zoo
Sloat Boulevard at 45th Avenue
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San Francisco Zoo features over 1,000 exotic animals and diverse gardens. It offers family-friendly attractions like a kids' zoo, steam train, and carousel.

Duration: 3 to 4 hours.

Adults: $25, Children (4-14): $15, Children under 4: Free. Additional charges for rides and interactive features.

Good (12256)

Painted Ladies
Open all day
Sights
Alamo Square
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The Painted Ladies are a row of colorful Victorian houses in San Francisco, famous for their appearances in various media and as a historical landmark.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Viewing from the park is free; no entrance fee for the houses.

Good (110)

San Francisco Railway Museum
Tu-Sa 12:00-17:00
Museum
77 Steuart St (at Don Chee Way)
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San Francisco Railway Museum highlights antique streetcars and historic cable cars that shaped the city's transport network, located near Ferry Building.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Some special exhibits may require a paid ticket.

Good (8363)

California Academy of Sciences
Mo-Sa 09:30-17:00; Su 11:00-17:00
Museum
55 Music Concourse Dr (at Martin Luther King Jr Dr)
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California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco features an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and science exhibits under a green building, attracting tourists and families alike.

Duration: At least 3 hours.

General Admission: $39.95 adult, $29.95 child; discounts available for seniors and students.

Good (133)

Old Cathedral of Saint Mary
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Church
660 California St (at Grant Ave)
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St. Mary's Cathedral in San Francisco, established in 1853, is a modern cathedral with both traditional and contemporary architectural styles, located in the heart of the city.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Suggested donation of $5 for special concerts.

Good (2969)

Aquarium of the Bay
Mo-Su 09:00-20:00
Museum
Embarcadero & Beach St Pier 39
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Aquarium of the Bay, located at PIER 39 in San Francisco, showcases over 20,000 marine animals, including sharks, rays, and river otters from local waters.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Adults: $29.95, Children (4-12): $19.95, Children under 4: Free. Some events may require additional fees.

Good (237)

Cartoon Art Museum
Th-Tu 11:00-17:00
Museum
781 Beach Street Next to Ghirardelli Square
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The Cartoon Art Museum in San Francisco showcases a diverse range of cartoon artistry, including comic strips, graphic novels, and political cartoons.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

General Admission: $10; Students/Seniors: $5; Free for children under 12.

Good (18)

Sigmund Stern Recreation Grove
6:00 AM–10:00 PM
Park
Sloat Boulevard
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Sigmund Stern Recreation Grove is a park located in San Francisco's Sunset District, offering green spaces and recreational activities for residents and visitors alike.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free.

Good (11)

San Francisco State University
8:00 AM–5:00 PM
University
1600 Holloway Ave (at 19th Ave.)
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San Francisco State University, established in 1899, offers diverse programs and a vibrant campus located near Golden Gate Park, promoting academic excellence and cultural engagement.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may have fees.

Good (977)

War Memorial Opera House
10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Theater
301 Van Ness Ave (at Grove St)
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War Memorial Opera House in San Francisco has been the home of the San Francisco Opera since 1932, hosting exceptional performances and historical events.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Varies by performance. General range: $20-$300.

Good (61)

Metreon
10:00 AM–10:00 PM
Mall
135 4th St (at Mission St)
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Metreon is a shopping mall in San Francisco offering diverse retail options, dining experiences, and entertainment venues, making it a vibrant location for visitors.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Some special events and movie screenings require a paid ticket.

Good (6308)

Mechanical Museum
10:00-20:00
Museum
Sausalito - San Francisco Pier 41
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Musée Mécanique in San Francisco features over 200 antique coin-operated mechanical instruments and vintage arcade games, all in working condition.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Golden Gate Theater
12:00 PM–10:00 PM
Theater
1 Taylor St (at Golden Gate Ave.)
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Golden Gate Theater in San Francisco offers a rich history as a theater and former movie house, featuring notable architecture and vibrant performances.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the show.

Variable pricing based on the performance. Typically ranges from $30 to $150.

American Conservatory Theater
12:00 PM–6:00 PM
Theater
405 Geary St (at Mason St)
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The American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco features classical and contemporary productions, alongside an acting school, crucial for theater arts in the region.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Paid. Prices vary by performance and seating.

Good (102)

Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf
10:00 AM–7:00 PM
Museum
145 Jefferson St
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The Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf features over 270 lifelike figures across 50 scenes, showcasing diverse aspects of life in an engaging environment.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Paid. Adult: $20, Child: $15, discounts for seniors and groups available.

Good (11)

University of San Francisco
8:00 AM–10:00 PM
University
2130 Fulton St (at Parker Ave)
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The University of San Francisco, a private Jesuit university, spans 55 acres between the Golden Gate Bridge and Park, showcasing significant historical and cultural connections.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Campus tours and specific events may require a paid ticket.

Good (3437)

Asian Art Museum
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
200 Larkin St (at McAllister St)
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The Asian Art Museum in San Francisco showcases over 18,000 artifacts, spanning 6,000 years of Asian art and culture, housed in a renovated library building.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

General Admission: $15, Seniors: $10, Students: $10, Free for children 12 and under.

Good (634)

Yerba Buena Center for the Arts
12:00 PM–8:00 PM
Museum
701 Mission St (at 3rd St)
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Yerba Buena Center For The Arts, located in San Francisco, showcases contemporary art, film, dance, and performances, drawing diverse audiences to its vibrant cultural events.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Good (6318)

Cable Car Museum
Tu-Th 10:00-16:00; Fr-Su 10:00-17:00; Mo 00:00-24:00
Museum
1201 Mason St
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The Cable Car Museum in San Francisco houses antique cable cars and exhibits the mechanics of the city's iconic cable car system, showcasing its historical significance since 1873.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Good (3947)

Legion of Honor
Tu-Su 9:30-17:15
Museum
100 34th Ave Lincoln Park
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The Legion of Honor in San Francisco features 4,000 years of European art in a beaux arts building, overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a separate ticket.

Good (1151)

Crocker-Amazon
6:00 AM–10:00 PM
Park
799 Moscow St (at Italy Ave)
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Crocker Amazon Playground in Oceanview, San Francisco features baseball, softball, tennis, basketball, bocce, a climbing apparatus, and a dog zone.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No entry fee required.

Good (4290)

Crissy Field
Open 24 hours
Park
1199 East Beach
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Crissy Field is a San Francisco park featuring scenic views, jogging trails, and a restored marsh, once a military airstrip, now a nature preserve.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. No admission fees apply for park access.

Bill Graham Civic Auditorium
Variable based on events.
Stadium
99 Grove St (btwn Larkin & Polk St)
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Bill Graham Civic Auditorium in San Francisco is a multi-purpose arena named after promoter Bill Graham, accommodating up to 8,500 attendees.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the event.

Tickets vary by event; check specific event pages for pricing.

Good (5406)

de Young Museum
9:30 AM–5:15 PM
Museum
50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr (at John F Kennedy Dr)
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Located in Golden Gate Park, De Young Museum is the fifth most visited art museum in the U.S. featuring American art and international textile arts from various cultures.

Duration: More than 3 hours.

Paid. $2 discount available with Muni, BART, or Caltrain ticket.

Good (10399)

Exploratorium
Tu-Su 10:00-17:00; Jun 19 - Sep 4 Mo-Su 10:00-17:00, Fr 10:00-21:00
Museum
Pier 15 (at The Embarcadero)
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The Exploratorium in San Francisco features over 650 interactive science exhibits, combining art and human perception for an engaging educational experience.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

General admission: $29.95 adults, $19.95 youth (ages 4-17), children under 4 free. Discounts for seniors and families available.

Good (3)

Warm Water Cove Park
Open 24 hours
Park
300 24th Street
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Warm Water Cove Park in San Francisco features scenic waterfront views, a relaxed atmosphere, and a welcoming space for picnics and recreational activities.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Good (26)

Duboce Park
Open 24 hours
Park
View map
Duboce Park is a public park in San Francisco, known for its green open spaces, playgrounds, and community events, set against a backdrop of historic architecture.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Events may have separate fees.

Good (3)

Diamond Heights Shopping Center
10:00 AM–7:00 PM
Mall
5214D Diamond Heights Boulevard
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Diamond Heights Shopping Center, set in San Francisco, offers a variety of shopping, dining, and scenic views, catering to both locals and tourists.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Shopping and dining costs vary by vendor.

Good (38406)

Golden Gate Park
5:00 AM–10:00 PM
Park
btwn Stanyan St & Great Hwy
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Golden Gate Park spans 1,000 acres in San Francisco, featuring gardens, trails, museums, and festivals that attract hikers, bikers, and art lovers.

Duration: More than 3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Good (1287)

Grace Cathedral
8:00 AM–6:00 PM
Church
1100 California St (at Taylor St.)
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Grace Cathedral in San Francisco epitomizes Episcopal tradition with stunning architecture, renowned art, and an inclusive environment for all faiths.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require tickets.

Good (27)

Lotta's Fountain
Open 24 hours
Fountain
Coner of Geary-Market and Kearny Streets
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Lotta's Fountain, a historic cast-metal fountain in San Francisco, was gifted by opera diva Lotta Crabtree in 1875 and served as a vital water source during the 1906 earthquake.

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

Free. No admission cost to visit the fountain.

Good (620)

Westfield San Francisco Centre
10:00 AM–9:00 PM
Mall
865 Market St (btwn 4th & 5th St)
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Westfield San Francisco Centre is a premier shopping destination featuring top retailers, restaurants, and entertainment in a vibrant urban setting in San Francisco.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Costs may apply for special events or certain services.

Good (3460)

Ghirardelli Square
11:00-21:00
Mall
900 N Point St (btwn Polk & Larkin St)
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Ghirardelli Square, San Francisco, features renovated factory buildings with shops, restaurants, galleries, and a historic chocolate factory.

Duration: Around 2 hours.

Free. Some events and activities may require a paid ticket.

Miralona Playground
Open 24 hours
Park
75 Omar (at Sequoia)
View map
Miralona Playground in San Francisco offers a vibrant recreational space for families, featuring play structures and landscaped areas for outdoor activities.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. No entrance fees are required.

Rolph Playground
7:00 AM–9:00 PM
Park
1400 Hampshire (at 26th St)
View map
Rolph Playground is a recreational park located in San Francisco, offering various amenities for children and families, including play structures and open spaces.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free entry for all visitors.

Herz Playground
7:00 AM–9:00 PM
Park
1737 Visitacion Ave
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Herz Playground in Daly City offers a range of facilities, including playgrounds, sports courts, and picnic areas, ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. No admission fees are required for access.

West Portal Playground
8:00 AM–sunset
Amusement Park
800 Ulloa St
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West Portal Playground is a community-focused park in San Francisco featuring play equipment for children, picnic areas, and open green spaces.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. No entry fees required.

Richmond Playground
6:00 AM–9:00 PM
Park
149 18th Ave (at California St)
View map
Richmond Playground in San Francisco features recreational spaces, playground equipment, and community gathering areas, ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. No admission fee is required.

Northpoint Centre Shopping Center
10:00 AM–9:00 PM
Mall
Powell St (at Bay St)
View map
Northpoint Centre Shopping Center in San Francisco offers a variety of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options across 400,000 square feet of shopping space.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. No entrance fees are required to visit the shopping center.

South Sunset Playground
Open 24 hours
Park
2601 40th Ave (at Vicente St)
View map
South Sunset Playground offers playgrounds, sports facilities, and open grassy spaces in San Francisco, California, perfect for families and outdoor activities.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free.

Douglas Playground
6:00 AM–10:00 PM
Park
1100 Douglass St (at 26th St)
View map
Douglas Playground in San Francisco is a community park featuring play structures, picnic areas, and landscaped gardens, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No paid ticket required for entry.