I lived in San Francisco for about nine years before moving to Berkeley for college (stayed in the East Bay ever since). I have seen all the typical SF* attractions and checked off all the top things-to-do, but I didn’t learn to appreciate everything that SF has to offer until after I moved away. The city is rich with history, culturally diverse, and filled with good eats. It’s also close to wine country. 😉 I would encourage anyone to check out the city for themselves.
If you’re visiting SF for the first time, or are simply curious about my take on the city’s top attractions, I’ve put together a list of my reviews below. Now, I’m not going to tell you to not do something because it’s touristy – they’re all touristy. Instead, I want to give you reasons for why you should or shouldn’t go, coming from a local. Ultimately, if you still want to go to a spot that has one star, by all means, go for it. I totally get it. That feeling of checking off a destination is just too satisfying. 😌
Golden Gate Bridge
Enjoy the breathtaking views while biking or walking across the bridge, and be sure to check out the surrounding area too. Stop by Fort Point – a historic site and a free museum – and have a picnic at Crissy Field. FYI, it makes all the difference going on a sunny day.
Fisherman’s Wharf
I love going to Fisherman’s Wharf. Pier 39 is fun to walk around and there’s so much to see. Hang out at the Musée Mécanique and play some vintage arcade games. Stop by the Boudin Bakery to see how their famous sourdough is made and pick up a loaf for yourself – it’s actually good bread. Oh, and don’t forget to try the SF classic, Cioppino.
Lombard Street
Yes, SF is hilly and there’s a particularly well-known, steep street called Lombard that’s built with switchbacks. I mean, check it out if you’re in the area, but I wouldn’t go out of my way just to see this when every other block in SF is just like it.
Ferry Building
This is the best one-stop shop to experience many of the popular local favorites – Acme Bread, Blue Bottle Coffee, Cowgirl Creamery’s Cheese Shop, Humphry Slocombe, and Dandelion Chocolate. It’s a great place to grab a bite and drink. Better yet, get some food, head on out to the back, and enjoy it by the water with an amazing view. For the best experience, go when the farmers’ market is around!
Painted Ladies
This is just a small row of seven Victorian homes. Kind of underwhelming IMO. If you’re going to stop by, I recommend making the most out of your trip by having a picnic at Alamo Square across the street.
Union Square
There isn’t much to the plaza itself – just flat ground surrounded by department and designer stores. I’d walk a couple of blocks around it to check out some of the other shops and art galleries. If you go during the holiday season, you’ll see an ice skating rink and a giant Christmas tree on the plaza.
Chinatown
If you want the true Chinatown experience (coming from someone who used to go to Chinatown with her parents every weekend to buy groceries), then spend a little less time on Grant Avenue and more time on Stockton Street. Witness and partake in the chaos that’s part of grocery shopping there. Don’t forget to grab some dim sum, Asian snacks, and buns from the Asian bakeries before you leave.
Land’s End
Take a hike and indulge yourself in breathtaking views. Check out the Labyrinth that was created by the local artist Eduardo Aguilera. Wrap it up with a meal at the Cliff House – they give out popovers as their bread basket!
Golden Gate Park
Believe it or not, Golden Gate Park is actually bigger than Central Park in NYC! There’s so much to do at this park. Some notable stops: The Cal Academy of Sciences, Japanese Tea Garden, de Young Museum, and Conservatory of Flowers. If you just want to chill, go for a relaxing boat ride at the Stow Lake Boathouse.
*The only acceptable nicknames for San Francisco are SF and The City. No San Fran or Frisco. We will high key judge you.
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