Your San Francisco Bucket List

Can’t decide on what to do when you visit San Francisco? With so much to do and see, it can be a bit overwhelming to cram it all in when you are on limited vacation. To help, we’ve created a San Francisco Bucket List for you to use when planning your trip.

RIDE A CABLE CAR

The San Francisco cable cars are one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Whether you use them for your mode of transportation or for a fun afternoon activity, they are an enjoyable way to get around the city.

Read here for more about the

VISIT THE ICE CREAM MUSEUM

Less than half a mile from the

WALK THE CYPRESS TREE TUNNEL

Visit the Point Reyes National Seashore and take a walk through the Cypress Tree Tunnel. It’s like something out of a fairytale.

VISIT A PARK HIGH IN THE SKY

Walk amongst green space and an urban oasis atop the Sales Force Transit Center. The 5.4-acre park features trees, gardens, and a walking path. There is also a gondola that will take visitors from street level to the rooftop garden.

WALK OR BIKE ACROSS THE GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE

EAT DIM SUM IN CHINATOWN

While a visit to Chinatown during your stay in San Francisco is a must, eating dim sum is one of the best ways to experience the culture and food of Chinatown. Check out the Dim Sum Bistro or Hang Ah Dim Sum Tea House to start your dim sum journey.

DRIVE THE CROOKED LOMBARD ST.

Named as the “crookedest street in the world,” Lombard Street is one of the most photographed streets in America and is an iconic San Francisco attraction. The street is famous for its steep, one-block section that challenges drivers with eight tight turns. The original design was intended to reduce the steep grade of the hill, which was originally too steep for most vehicles to drive.

VISIT THE PAINTED LADIES

Designated a historical landmark, the colorful homes of Alamo Square’s famous “postcard row” is a beautiful representation of Victorian homes from the Queen Anne era. Spend the afternoon relaxing in the square and admire the details of what makes these homes so unique.

VISIT THE SEA LIONS AT PIER 39

As part of

GRAB A DONUT AT BOB’S DONUTS

A San Francisco tradition, Bob’s Donuts is open 24 hours a day, every day, so grab a donut anytime.

BUY A BOOK AT CITY LIGHTS BOOKSELLERS & PUBLISHERS

For those rainy, foggy San Francisco days, curl up with a book at the quaint bookstore; City Lights Booksellers & Publishers.

STROLL THROUGH LOVER’S LANE

Visit the Presidio and enjoy an enchanting and relaxing walk through Lover’s Lane. As the oldest footpath through the Presidio, dating back to the 18th century, today it is filled with joggers, walkers, bird watchers, and those seeking a bit of peace and quiet away from the city.

SPOT A WINDMILL IN THE MIDDLE OF THE CITY

Golden Gate Park is home to two windmills within the park grounds. The 115-year-old Dutch windmill and the 15-year-old Murphy Windmill are located at the western end of the park.

TAKE A TOUR OF ALCATRAZ

The infamous Alcatraz prison is one San Francisco attraction that is best experienced with a tour. Take a ferry ride over to Angel Island and discover the secrets of this once maximum security prison. Find out more about tour information

WALK THE 16TH AVE. TILE STEPS

Get your exercise and view beautiful artwork all at the same time. The 16th Ave. steps are famous for their colorful tiled steps that make a stunning pattern of shapes and symbols. The Lincoln park stairs are another great option for a colorful walk.

VISIT THE TROPICS

No need to leave the city for a trip to the tropics. Stop in at the Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar for a Mai Tai or your favorite tropical drink, all while you enjoy the sounds of a rainstorm at the tiki bar.

WALK THE LABYRINTH AT LAND’S END

The Labyrinth is a beautiful display of rocks set in a maze-like pattern just off Mile Rock Beach. The walk is about a mile long and offers beautiful waterfront views.

SHOP AT SAN FRANCISCO UNION SQUARE

Spend the day shopping at your favorite stores at San Francisco’s

STAY AT THE GOLDEN GATE HOTEL

Complete your San Francisco bucket list with a stay at the Golden Gate Hotel. Located just a few blocks from Union Square, our boutique hotel is conveniently located to many San Francisco area attractions. Our 23 guest

A Guide to Shopping in San Francisco Union Square