Things to do in San Francisco: Based on NeemTime research from most popular to just popular.
PIER 39, San Francisco
Overview: PIER 39 is a bustling waterfront complex in San Francisco featuring restaurants, shops, street performances, and views of sea lions and the bay.
History: Originally a cargo pier, it was transformed into a tourist and entertainment destination in 1978 to revitalize the waterfront area.
Since When: Opened as a commercial and entertainment hub in October 1978.
Review: Visitors love the lively atmosphere, diverse dining options, and the iconic sea lions lounging on the docks.
When to Go: Best visited in the late morning to early evening, especially during spring and summer for pleasant weather and activity.
How to Go: Easily accessible by public transportation, cable car, or on foot from Fisherman’s Wharf or downtown San Francisco.
What to Do: Dine, shop, watch sea lions, take bay cruises, visit the Aquarium of the Bay, and enjoy street entertainment.
Free or Paid: Entry to PIER 39 is free, but attractions and dining are paid.
Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco
Overview: The Golden Gate Bridge is an iconic suspension bridge spanning the Golden Gate Strait, symbolizing San Francisco and American engineering.
History: Completed in 1937 during the Great Depression, it was once the longest suspension bridge in the world and remains a marvel of modern architecture.
Since When: Opened to vehicular and pedestrian traffic on May 27, 1937.
Review: Widely praised for its breathtaking views and photogenic red-orange structure, it’s a must-see for all San Francisco visitors.
When to Go: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light and minimal fog, especially between September and November.
How to Go: Reachable by car, bicycle, bus, or on foot from San Francisco or Marin County.
What to Do: Walk or bike across, take photos from viewpoints, and visit the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center.
Free or Paid: Walking or biking is free; there is a toll for southbound vehicles.
Alcatraz Island, San Francisco
Overview: Alcatraz Island is a historic site in San Francisco Bay, once home to the infamous federal prison and now a popular tourist attraction.
History: Used as a military fortress and federal prison from 1850 until 1963, it housed notorious criminals like Al Capone and was later opened for tours.
Since When: Open to the public as part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area since 1973.
Review: Visitors find the self-guided audio tours fascinating, with dramatic stories of escape attempts and life behind bars.
When to Go: Best visited in spring or fall for fewer crowds and clearer skies.
How to Go: Accessible only by ferry from Pier 33 via Alcatraz City Cruises.
What to Do: Explore the prison, listen to the audio tour, visit historic exhibits, and enjoy views of the city and bay.
Free or Paid: Entry is included with the ferry ticket, which is paid and must be reserved in advance.
Golden Gate Park, San Francisco
Overview: Golden Gate Park is a sprawling urban park offering gardens, museums, trails, and lakes, making it San Francisco’s largest green space.
History: Designed in the 1870s to rival New York’s Central Park, it transformed sand dunes into a lush recreational area for public use.
Since When: Officially opened in 1871 and has since grown to include over 1,000 acres of attractions and natural beauty.
Review: Visitors love its peaceful atmosphere, diverse attractions like the Conservatory of Flowers and de Young Museum, and free outdoor activities.
When to Go: Ideal year-round, especially in spring and fall when the weather is mild and the park is vibrant.
How to Go: Reachable by Muni buses, biking, or driving with multiple entrances throughout San Francisco.
What to Do: Visit museums, enjoy botanical gardens, rent pedal boats, picnic, bike, or attend open-air concerts.
Free or Paid: General entry is free; some museums and attractions have separate admission fees.
Union Square, San Francisco
Overview: Union Square is San Francisco’s premier shopping, hotel, and theater district, known for its bustling energy and central location.
History: Named for pro-Union rallies during the Civil War, it has evolved into a vibrant urban hub for commerce and tourism.
Since When: Established in the 1850s and continuously developed into a major commercial center over the 20th century.
Review: Visitors enjoy its high-end shops, art galleries, holiday events, and easy access to nearby attractions and transit.
When to Go: Best visited during the daytime for shopping or in the evening during festive seasons like Christmas or summer events.
How to Go: Centrally located, it’s accessible by BART, Muni, cable cars, or walking from downtown hotels.
What to Do: Shop at luxury retailers, dine at cafes, see a show, admire public art, or relax by the plaza’s central monument.
Free or Paid: Visiting the square is free; shopping and entertainment are paid.
Ferry Building, San Francisco
Overview: The Ferry Building is a historic terminal and gourmet marketplace along the Embarcadero, known for its artisan food vendors and scenic waterfront views.
History: Completed in 1898 as a key transportation hub for ferry commuters, it was revitalized in the early 2000s into a bustling food and shopping destination.
Since When: Functioned as a ferry terminal since 1898, and reopened as a marketplace in 2003 after major renovations.
Review: Visitors praise its vibrant atmosphere, fresh local products, and striking Beaux-Arts architecture.
When to Go: Best visited during the daytime, especially Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday for the farmers’ market.
How to Go: Easily reached by Muni, BART (Embarcadero Station), cable cars, or by walking along the waterfront.
What to Do: Explore gourmet shops, dine at eateries, attend farmers’ markets, and enjoy bay views.
Free or Paid: Entry is free; food and goods are paid.
Oracle Park, San Francisco
Overview: Oracle Park is the waterfront home of the San Francisco Giants, offering baseball games with panoramic views of the bay.
History: Opened in 2000 as Pacific Bell Park, it replaced the outdated Candlestick Park and became a beloved modern ballpark.
Since When: Officially opened on April 11, 2000, as the Giants’ new stadium.
Review: Visitors love the exciting atmosphere, ballpark snacks, and the unique experience of watching home runs land in McCovey Cove.
When to Go: Best during baseball season (April to October), especially on sunny day games.
How to Go: Easily accessible by Muni Metro (N or T lines), BART (with a short walk), or ferry on game days.
What to Do: Watch a baseball game, take a behind-the-scenes stadium tour, enjoy food stands, and admire the views.
Free or Paid: Paid admission for games and tours; views from outside are free.
The Painted Ladies, San Francisco
Overview: The Painted Ladies are a famous row of Victorian-style houses at Alamo Square, often photographed with the city skyline in the background.
History: Built between 1892 and 1896, these colorful homes survived urban change and gained fame in media and postcards.
Since When: Popularized globally since the 1980s, especially after appearing in TV shows like Full House.
Review: Visitors find the area charming and picturesque, ideal for relaxed sightseeing and photography.
When to Go: Best during late afternoon for ideal sunlight and fewer crowds.
How to Go: Reachable by Muni bus or a 15-minute taxi/ride-share ride from downtown San Francisco.
What to Do: Take photos, relax at Alamo Square Park, and admire the architecture.
Free or Paid: Completely free to view from the park; homes are private residences.
Cable Cars, San Francisco
Overview: San Francisco’s historic cable cars are a beloved mode of transportation and moving tourist attraction offering scenic rides through the city’s steep streets.
History: Introduced in 1873 by Andrew Hallidie, they revolutionized hill-climbing transportation and became a city icon.
Since When: In continuous (though modernized) operation since 1873, surviving major system cuts in the 20th century.
Review: Tourists rave about the nostalgic charm, panoramic views, and thrill of riding open-air up and down the city’s hills.
When to Go: Best early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid long lines, especially spring through fall.
How to Go: Board at major turnarounds like Powell & Market or Hyde Street, with tickets available at kiosks or online.
What to Do: Ride through scenic routes, snap photos, and visit the Cable Car Museum en route.
Free or Paid: Paid — one-way ride costs approximately $8 per person.
Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco
Overview: The Palace of Fine Arts is a grand Greco-Roman style structure surrounded by a peaceful lagoon, originally built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition.
History: Designed by Bernard Maybeck, it was the only structure from the 1915 World’s Fair kept intact and later fully rebuilt in the 1960s.
Since When: Originally constructed in 1915 and rebuilt in concrete in 1965 to preserve its iconic architecture.
Review: Visitors admire its serene setting, elegant design, and suitability for photography, weddings, and strolls.
When to Go: Ideal during the golden hour near sunset or in spring for the best light and ambiance.
How to Go: Easily reachable by car, bike, or bus from downtown San Francisco or the Marina District.
What to Do: Walk around the lagoon, take photos, have a picnic, or visit exhibitions and performances when available.
Free or Paid: Entry to the grounds is free; occasional performances inside the rotunda are paid.
Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco
Overview: Fisherman’s Wharf is a vibrant waterfront neighborhood in San Francisco known for its seafood restaurants, street performers, historic ships, and tourist attractions.
History: Developed in the late 1800s as a base for Italian immigrant fishermen, it transformed into a tourist hotspot during the mid-20th century.
Since When: Became a popular tourist destination starting in the 1950s, though fishing operations date back to the 1800s.
Review: Tourists enjoy its lively atmosphere, fresh seafood, and diverse attractions, though it can be crowded during peak times.
When to Go: Best visited in the late morning or early evening, especially on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.
How to Go: Easily accessible by cable car, Muni F-Line, rideshare, or by walking from nearby attractions like Pier 39.
What to Do: Visit Ghirardelli Square, explore historic ships, eat clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls, and watch sea lions.
Free or Paid: Entry to the area is free; individual attractions and food are paid.
Muir Woods National Monument, San Francisco
Overview: Muir Woods National Monument is a serene redwood forest located just north of San Francisco, offering peaceful hiking among ancient trees.
History: Protected in 1908 by President Theodore Roosevelt, it was named after naturalist John Muir and preserved for its old-growth redwoods.
Since When: Officially designated a national monument on January 9, 1908.
Review: Visitors are awestruck by the towering redwoods and appreciate the tranquil trails and cool shade.
When to Go: Ideal in spring or fall when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller.
How to Go: Reachable by car (with required parking reservation), guided tour, or shuttle service from Sausalito.
What to Do: Walk along shaded trails, observe wildlife, take guided ranger tours, and enjoy photography.
Free or Paid: Paid – entrance fee is approximately $15 per adult, plus parking or shuttle fees.
Lombard Street, San Francisco
Overview: Lombard Street is famously known as “the crookedest street in the world,” featuring eight sharp turns down a steep, beautifully landscaped hill.
History: The curvy section was created in 1922 to reduce the hill’s natural 27% grade, which was too steep for vehicles.
Since When: The switchback design has existed since 1922 and has since become a major city landmark.
Review: Tourists love the quirky design and picturesque views, though driving down it can be crowded and slow.
When to Go: Best seen early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and tour buses.
How to Go: Walk or drive to the top via Hyde Street or view from below on Leavenworth Street.
What to Do: Take photos, walk down the sidewalks beside the curves, and enjoy the cityscape from the top.
Free or Paid: Free to visit and drive or walk.
Golden Gate National Recreation Area, San Francisco
Overview: The Golden Gate National Recreation Area is one of the largest urban parks in the world, stretching across San Francisco and neighboring counties with diverse natural and historic sites.
History: Established in 1972 to preserve open space and historical landmarks, it includes beaches, forts, trails, and forests.
Since When: Officially established as a national recreation area on October 27, 1972.
Review: Visitors praise its scenic beauty, hiking opportunities, and cultural landmarks across a vast coastal expanse.
When to Go: Ideal year-round, though spring and fall offer the best weather and fewer crowds.
How to Go: Accessible by car, bike, or public transit, depending on which site you visit (e.g., Baker Beach, Marin Headlands).
What to Do: Hike, bike, visit historic military forts, explore beaches, and take in panoramic coastal views.
Free or Paid: Mostly free; some specific attractions may charge entrance or parking fees.
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA), San Francisco
Overview: SFMOMA is a leading modern and contemporary art museum featuring works by iconic artists like Warhol, Rothko, and Frida Kahlo.
History: Opened in 1935 as the first museum on the West Coast dedicated to modern art, it underwent a major expansion in 2016.
Since When: Originally opened in 1935, with the expanded building reopening in May 2016.
Review: Visitors are impressed by the extensive and thoughtfully curated exhibitions across seven floors of dynamic space.
When to Go: Weekdays or early mornings are best for avoiding crowds, especially on Thursdays when it’s open late.
How to Go: Centrally located downtown, it’s easily reachable by BART (Montgomery Station), Muni, or on foot.
What to Do: Explore rotating and permanent exhibits, join guided tours, and visit the rooftop sculpture garden.
Free or Paid: Paid – general admission is required, with free entry for visitors under 18.
Japanese Tea Garden, San Francisco
Overview: The Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park is a tranquil landscaped space with koi ponds, pagodas, cherry blossoms, and a historic tea house.
History: Originally built for the 1894 California Midwinter International Exposition, it became a permanent fixture and one of the oldest public Japanese gardens in the U.S.
Since When: Officially opened in 1894 and continuously operated, evolving into a cultural symbol over the decades.
Review: Visitors love the peaceful ambiance, traditional Japanese design, and seasonal beauty, especially during cherry blossom bloom.
When to Go: Spring is best for cherry blossoms, but it’s beautiful and peaceful year-round in the morning hours.
How to Go: Located in Golden Gate Park, it can be reached by Muni bus, car, or bicycle with nearby parking available.
What to Do: Stroll through the garden, enjoy tea and snacks at the tea house, and photograph the arching drum bridge and pagodas.
Free or Paid: Paid – general admission is required, though San Francisco residents get discounted or free entry on certain days.
Mission Dolores Park, San Francisco
Overview: Mission Dolores Park is a lively, expansive green space in the Mission District known for its city views, diverse crowd, and relaxed community vibe.
History: Once a Jewish cemetery in the 1800s, it was transformed into a city park in the early 20th century and named after nearby Mission Dolores.
Since When: Officially opened as a park in 1905 and underwent major renovations in 2015.
Review: Locals and visitors praise it for its energy, sweeping views of downtown, and ideal picnic and people-watching atmosphere.
When to Go: Afternoons on sunny weekends are most popular, though weekdays offer a quieter experience.
How to Go: Easily accessible via Muni J-Church line or BART (16th Street Mission station) with a short walk.
What to Do: Sunbathe, picnic, play tennis or soccer, enjoy ice cream from vendors, and take in skyline views.
Free or Paid: Free and open to the public.
Coit Tower, San Francisco
Overview: Coit Tower is a 210-foot-tall Art Deco monument atop Telegraph Hill offering panoramic views and vibrant Depression-era murals.
History: Built in 1933 with funds from Lillie Hitchcock Coit’s bequest, the tower honors firefighters and features WPA-era interior artwork.
Since When: Open to the public since 1933 as both an observation deck and a cultural site.
Review: Visitors enjoy the sweeping views and appreciate the historic murals depicting life in 1930s California.
When to Go: Clear days, especially mornings, offer the best views and fewer crowds.
How to Go: Reachable by car, hike up Filbert Steps, or take the Muni 39 bus directly to the top.
What to Do: Tour the murals, take an elevator to the observation deck, and photograph the bay and skyline.
Free or Paid: Entry to the tower base and murals is free; observation deck access requires a paid ticket.
San Francisco Zoo, San Francisco
Overview: The San Francisco Zoo is a family-friendly wildlife facility featuring over 1,000 animals and engaging habitats near the Pacific coast.
History: Opened in 1929, it has evolved from basic cages to modern, conservation-focused exhibits.
Since When: Serving the public since 1929, with continual improvements in animal care and education.
Review: Families and animal lovers praise its spacious layout, variety of species, and focus on conservation and education.
When to Go: Weekday mornings are best to see active animals and avoid crowds, especially during warmer months.
How to Go: Located on the western edge of the city, it’s accessible by Muni L-Taraval line or car with ample parking.
What to Do: Visit the African Savanna, Penguin Island, petting zoo, and attend keeper talks or wildlife demonstrations.
Free or Paid: Paid – admission fees apply with discounts for children, seniors, and San Francisco residents.
Twin Peaks, San Francisco
Overview: Twin Peaks consists of two scenic hilltops offering 360-degree panoramic views of San Francisco and the Bay Area.
History: Originally inhabited by the Ohlone people, the area became a key viewpoint and preserved natural space as the city developed.
Since When: A popular viewpoint since the early 1900s and part of the city’s recreation and park system.
Review: Visitors consider it one of the best viewpoints in San Francisco, especially for sunset or night views.
When to Go: Clear days and evenings around sunset offer the most stunning and memorable views.
How to Go: Reachable by car, hike from nearby neighborhoods, or take a bus followed by a short walk.
What to Do: Enjoy the sweeping views, hike nearby trails, take photos, and appreciate the natural landscape.
Free or Paid: Free to access and explore.
Chinatown San Francisco, San Francisco
Overview: Chinatown in San Francisco is the oldest and one of the largest Chinese communities outside Asia, offering vibrant culture, authentic cuisine, and traditional architecture.
History: Established in 1848, it became a central hub for Chinese immigrants during the Gold Rush and rebuilt itself with traditional Chinese style after the 1906 earthquake.
Since When: Officially recognized as a district since 1848 and continuously developed as a cultural and commercial center.
Review: Visitors love the colorful streets, historical landmarks, and unique blend of culture, though it can get very crowded.
When to Go: Best visited during weekday mornings or during Chinese New Year celebrations for a cultural experience.
How to Go: Easily accessible by foot from Union Square, Muni bus, or the California Street cable car line.
What to Do: Explore herbal shops, temples, markets, eat dim sum, and visit the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory.
Free or Paid: Free to explore; individual attractions or meals are paid.
de Young Museum, San Francisco
Overview: The de Young Museum is a fine arts museum in Golden Gate Park showcasing American art, textiles, and international artifacts in a striking modern building.
History: Originally opened in 1895, it was rebuilt after the 1989 earthquake and reopened in 2005 with a bold architectural design.
Since When: Reopened in its current form in 2005, though it has existed since 1895.
Review: Art lovers praise the museum’s rich collection, architecture, and the free observation tower with panoramic park views.
When to Go: Weekday mornings are best for quiet viewing, with extended evening hours on Fridays.
How to Go: Located in Golden Gate Park and accessible via Muni N-Judah, 5 Fulton bus, or by car.
What to Do: View rotating exhibits, permanent collections, attend lectures, and enjoy views from the Hamon Tower.
Free or Paid: Paid – admission required, but the tower and some outdoor areas are free.
Exploratorium, San Francisco
Overview: The Exploratorium is a hands-on science and art museum offering interactive exhibits that engage visitors of all ages.
History: Founded in 1969 by physicist Frank Oppenheimer, it redefined how science could be taught through play and exploration.
Since When: Operating since 1969 and moved to its current waterfront location at Pier 15 in 2013.
Review: Families and educators love its engaging, innovative approach to science education and interactive exhibits.
When to Go: Ideal to visit on weekday mornings or late afternoons to avoid school groups and weekend crowds.
How to Go: Located at Pier 15 and accessible by F-Line streetcar, Muni, or walking from Embarcadero BART station.
What to Do: Experiment with over 600 interactive exhibits, attend workshops, and enjoy views of the Bay.
Free or Paid: Paid – general admission applies, with special discounts available.
Pier 33, San Francisco
Overview: Pier 33 is the main departure point for ferries to Alcatraz Island and includes a visitor center and ticketing facilities.
History: Once a working pier for maritime activities, it was converted into a transportation and visitor hub for Alcatraz tours.
Since When: Used as the official departure site for Alcatraz Cruises since the early 2000s.
Review: Tourists find it well-organized and efficient, with helpful staff and clear signage for Alcatraz visits.
When to Go: Mornings are best for less crowded ferry departures and better Alcatraz touring conditions.
How to Go: Easily reached via F-Line streetcar, Muni buses, or a walk along the Embarcadero.
What to Do: Buy tickets, explore the visitor center, and board the ferry to Alcatraz Island.
Free or Paid: Entry to Pier 33 is free, but ferry rides to Alcatraz are paid.
Lands End Lookout, San Francisco
Overview: Lands End Lookout is a visitor center and scenic coastal area offering hiking trails, ocean views, and access to historic ruins and cliffs.
History: Part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, it highlights the natural and cultural history of San Francisco’s rugged northwest coast.
Since When: The modern lookout visitor center opened in 2012 as part of a revitalization effort.
Review: Visitors love the dramatic ocean vistas, peaceful trails, and historical ambiance of the Sutro Baths ruins.
When to Go: Best visited during clear afternoons for views and sunsets, or mornings for a quiet hike.
How to Go: Accessible by car with on-site parking or Muni bus lines 38/38R to the end of Geary Boulevard.
What to Do: Hike the Coastal Trail, explore Sutro Baths, visit the visitor center, and enjoy ocean photography.
Free or Paid: Free – all trails, views, and the visitor center have no entrance fee.
Musée Mécanique, San Francisco
Overview: Musée Mécanique is a nostalgic arcade museum at Pier 45 featuring over 300 vintage mechanical games and coin-operated machines.
History: Founded by Ed Zelinsky, it started as a private collection in the 1930s and became a public museum in the early 2000s at Fisherman’s Wharf.
Since When: Publicly accessible at Pier 45 since 2002 after relocating from the Cliff House.
Review: Visitors enjoy the quirky charm, variety of vintage machines, and the opportunity to interact with historic amusements.
When to Go: Best visited in the morning or early afternoon to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
How to Go: Located at Fisherman’s Wharf, it’s easily accessible by F-Line streetcar, Muni buses, or on foot.
What to Do: Play vintage pinball, watch old fortune tellers and mechanical puppet shows, and take a walk down memory lane.
Free or Paid: Free entry, but the games operate with coins and tokens, which are paid.
San Francisco Botanical Garden, San Francisco
Overview: The San Francisco Botanical Garden is a 55-acre living museum within Golden Gate Park, home to over 8,000 plant species from around the world.
History: Established during the Great Depression with WPA funds, the garden aimed to showcase global plant biodiversity.
Since When: Open to the public since 1940, with ongoing expansion and plant conservation efforts.
Review: Nature lovers praise the peaceful atmosphere, global plant displays, and seasonal blooms like magnolias and redwoods.
When to Go: Spring and early summer are best for full bloom and guided tours, but it’s pleasant year-round.
How to Go: Located in Golden Gate Park, accessible via Muni N-Judah, 44-O’Shaughnessy, or by car with nearby parking.
What to Do: Walk through themed gardens, attend plant workshops, photograph exotic flowers, and enjoy quiet nature time.
Free or Paid: Paid – general admission required, though it’s free to San Francisco residents with ID.
Ferry Building Marketplace, San Francisco
Overview: The Ferry Building Marketplace is a historic terminal turned gourmet food hall featuring artisanal eateries, farmers markets, and Bay views.
History: Originally built in 1898 as a ferry terminal, it was repurposed into a public marketplace after a major restoration in 2003.
Since When: Reopened as the Ferry Building Marketplace in 2003 following extensive renovation.
Review: Foodies and shoppers love its vibrant mix of local vendors, fresh produce, and scenic waterfront ambiance.
When to Go: Best visited on Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday mornings for the popular farmers market.
How to Go: Located at the foot of Market Street, it’s easily accessible via BART (Embarcadero Station), Muni, or by foot.
What to Do: Sample gourmet food, shop artisanal products, explore the farmers market, and enjoy Bay Bridge views.
Free or Paid: Free to enter and browse; food and goods are for purchase.
Sea Lions, San Francisco
Overview: The sea lions at Pier 39 are a popular natural attraction, lounging and barking on floating docks in San Francisco’s waterfront.
History: They unexpectedly arrived after the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake and have since become a beloved fixture.
Since When: Regularly seen at Pier 39 since early 1990, with hundreds gathering seasonally.
Review: Visitors delight in watching their playful antics, noisy behavior, and up-close marine life experience.
When to Go: Best seen from late summer through winter, especially during midday when they’re most active.
How to Go: Located at Pier 39, easily reachable by foot, F-Line streetcar, or public transportation.
What to Do: Watch sea lions, take photos, learn from nearby interpretive signs, and explore the shops nearby.
Free or Paid: Free and accessible to all visitors.
San Francisco Bay, San Francisco
Overview: San Francisco Bay is a vast natural harbor surrounded by iconic landmarks like Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the city skyline.
History: Discovered by Europeans in 1769, the Bay has served as a crucial hub for trade, immigration, and naval operations throughout U.S. history.
Since When: Known to Native American communities for thousands of years, it became globally recognized following Spanish exploration in the 18th century.
Review: Locals and tourists admire its stunning beauty, ferry views, sailing opportunities, and rich history.
When to Go: Ideal in spring and fall for mild weather and fewer crowds, though year-round access is available.
How to Go: Can be experienced from the Embarcadero, ferry rides, waterfront parks, or boat tours from various city piers.
What to Do: Take ferry rides, photograph landmarks, sail, kayak, walk along the waterfront, or visit nearby islands.
Free or Paid: Free to view and walk along; paid for ferries, boat tours, or water activities.