Let’s say you didn’t quite leave your heart in San Francisco because it’s your first time, but hey, there’s plenty of time to fall in love and leave it behind. There’s so much to see and you could spend weeks exploring and still not see it all, but you’re on limited time and want to see some highlights.

This isn’t an exhaustive list, but it’s a start and hopefully a diverse enough one that you’ll find something that interests you on the list! Check them out and start planning your San Fran trip.

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#1. Alcatraz

Don’t forget to buy your tickets on the boat in advance — it’s rare that they sell out these days, but it does happen (and even happened to me). Alcatraz is rife with history, both for the prison and the fascinating stories you’ll hear about the men who were kept there, but also going back to its days as a fort. If you’re an avid bird-watcher, there’s plenty for you on the island too! Get your tickets here and start planning your visit!

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#2. Fisherman’s Wharf / Sea Lions / Aquarium

This one might be a little like cheating, but exploring the Wharf means you get a lot of bang for your buck. You have the Wharf itself to explore, Pier 39 and the sea lions (if they’re hanging about), and there’s also the fantastic Aquarium of the Bay. Most of the food options are chain restaurants now, but there’s still plenty of choices for you to enjoy on your walk on the Wharf.

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#3. Ferry Plaza

There’s a few reasons to go to the ferry plaza, the first being that you’re catching a boat to somewhere. There’s also plenty of amazing shops that line the ferry plaza halls, where you can buy artisinal anything. One of the best treats you can do is enjoying a scoop or two from Humphrey Slocombe while sitting on the benches and watching the ferries depart. You can also purchase plenty of take home souvenirs for friends and family — that is, if you’re willing to give them up and not use them for yourself.

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#4. Golden Gate Park / Museums / Japanese Gardens

Golden Gate Park has plenty to see and could probably eat up a day or two of your time. You can choose between the park itself, the Japanese Gardens, or one of the museum options. You could spend a whole day here, but it’s up to you what you want to spend your time doing. Do a little more reading at some of the sites below and pick where your interests lie!

Japanese Tea Garden
de Young Fine Arts Museum
California Academy of Sciences
San Francisco Botanical Garden

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#5. Presidio Park / Walt Disney Museum

Presidio Park was a surprise favourite when I went to San Francisco on my last visit. The park itself boasts fantastic views of the Golden Gate Bridge (fog permitting), is home to Lucasfilms offices (and the Yoda fountain), but also has the Walt Disney Family Museum, which is more impressive than you might imagine. The artifacts are incredible and even if you’re not a huge Disney fan, learning more about the history of the man and his family is fascinating. Plus, the museum itself is an incredibly designed building and worth the visit! There are also special exhibitions from time to time!

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#6. Ride the Cable Cars

Hot tip? Don’t go to the stop near the Wharf (Powell-Hyde), but venture a little into the city and go to the Powell-Mason stop. You’ll get to ride your cable car, but not have to wait in a huge line to do it (simply because the former is by the beach). Buy your tickets in advance (or if you get a Clipper card, you can charge to that!) and make a stop at the Cable Car Museum to learn a little more! (If you’re on the Powell-Mason line, it’s even one of the stops!)

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#7. Ghirardelli Square

Yes, you can get Ghirardelli basically anywhere now. The chocolates are available at shops and the branding is easy to spot, but there’s something truly unique about getting a sundae in Ghirardelli Square and enjoying it in San Francisco that isn’t like anywhere else in the world. Even if it is a touristy experience, you really can’t beat how delicious they are (my favourite being the salted caramel option!)

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#8. Coit Tower

It’s a landmark that’s easy to spot, but did you know you can also climb it? Did you also know that there are painted murals up to the second floor? There’s even a local bus that takes you right up to the tower, making it convenient and cheap to access. Plus, at the top, you’ll get fantastic views of the city (fog permitting).

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#9. Bay Cruise

Admittedly, your experience here is make or break depending on the fog, but even if San Francisco is living up to its reputation, there’s still something to experience — there’s nothing like the eerie experience of seeing the Golden Gate Bridge or Alcatraz suddenly appear out of nowhere in the fog.

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#10. City Hall

Easily accessible if you take a hop-on, hop-off bus, there’s a kinetic energy and fun at the City Hall building. The tree-lined avenue is great for pictures, and you might see dance classes happening, marriage licenses being signed, and so much more. If you’re hungry, you can stop by the highly rated Arsicault Bakery nearby, grab a bite, and then simply eat on the grounds.

Inspired? Hopefully you’ve found at least one or two sights you’d like to see. This is definitely not a complete list, but think of it as a starter’s guide if you’ve never been to San Francisco. Get out there, enjoy, and make some memories!

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