San Francisco, California

Filbert Street Steps

These impressive steps offer excellent views of the bay, lush gardens and the opportunity to see the wild parrots of Telegraph Hill. The base of the stairway can be found at the intersection of Filbert and Sansome, and the top of the stairs reach Coit Tower. Many suggest trekking up the stairs, but you can just as easily start at the top and make your way down.

Telegraph Hill & Pioneer Park

With stunning views of the city and the chance to see Coit Tower up close, a visit to Pioneer Park on Telegraph Hill is worthwhile. You have to pay to go up the tower, but a visit to the lobby is free and features beautiful murals to see.

Cable Car Museum

After all, San Francisco is famous for its cable cars, so it’s no surprise that the Cable Car Museum is a great free attraction to visit. The railway museum is also free to visit.

City Hall

For those who enjoy history, politics or architecture, San Francisco’s City Hall is a great place to visit. Enjoy an afternoon stroll to see the impressive exterior and the beautiful rooms with ornate ceilings and decor.

Walking Tour of the City

A wonderful group of volunteers runs San Francisco City Guides, an organization that provides free walking tours of the city. This is an ideal way to get oriented with San Francisco and hear from locals who truly love the town.

Golden Gate Bridge

You can’t visit San Francisco without discovering more about the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Whether you’re walking, biking or driving across it, you’ll be amazed by the expansive structure.

Fort Point National Historic Site

This Civil War-era fort offers incredible views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Completely free of charge, Fort Point also offers exhibits and demonstrations about guarding the bay, loading canons, Buffalo Soldiers and more!

Pier 39

From the first week of the year through mid-July, sea lions congregate at Pier 39. Tourists and locals alike stop by to see the wildlife, take photos and listen to their barking sounds.

49-Mile Scenic Drive

The 49-Mile Scenic Drive of the San Francisco Bay Area offers an ideal way to see the city. You’ll pass more than a hundred notable attractions and landmarks along the way, from downtown hotspots to overlooks like Twin Peaks.

See the City from Twin Peaks

If you don’t have time to enjoy the entire 49-Mile Scenic Drive, at least take a trip up to North Twin Peak, which feature amazing views of San Francisco from above. Active visitors can also hike the peaks along a network of maintained trails.

Lands End Lookout

For another view the Golden Gate Bridge, we recommend visiting the Lands End Lookout. This interesting area also features a coastal hiking trail and the ruins of the old Sutro Baths.

Wave Organ

For a truly unique experience, check out the Wave Organ, a sculpture along the San Francisco Bay which uses the waves to produce music. This attraction is best experienced at high tide.

Lombard Street

Another iconic San Francisco landmark is Lombard Street, which tightly winds its way down Russian Hill. This famous street is beautifully lined with flowers, but we recommend you keep your eyes on the hairpin turns.