Despite the hills, San Francisco is a very walkable city, and there’s so much to see and do! Start your trip to the fog city right with our San Francisco bucket list.
Known for its eclectic culture and steep hills, San Francisco is one of the most popular west-coast destination cities. With so much to see, it can be hard to know where to start. We’ll share our eco-friendly San Francisco bucket list to help you get some inspiration.
1. Palace of Fine Arts
Located at the edge of the Presidio of San Francisco, the Palace of Fine Arts is a beautiful Greek-Roman-inspired monument. It’s no wonder the landmark is used for weddings and trade fairs. The structure is almost entirely surrounded by a small lagoon, complete with lush greenery and flowers. The walkways make it easily accessible, so you can have a nice walk around the park, or enjoy a picnic in the sun with the view of the palace.
2. Alamo Square Park
Another famed green spot in the heart of the city, Alamo Square Park offers picturesque skyline views. Alamo Square is known for the Painted Ladies, a row of colorful houses featured in the popular 90’s TV show Full House. But you don’t have to be a fan to have a good time here. This spot is popular for picnics, dog walking, sports, and more. There are even tennis courts and a coffee cart at the top of the hill.
3. San Francisco Bucket List: Ferry Plaza Farmers Market
The Ferry Plaza Farmers Market is open Tuesday and Thursday from 10AM to 2PM, and Saturdays from 8AM to 2PM. The market is right on the water and is home to an array of booths selling fresh produce, eggs, ice cream, pastries, jewelry, clothing, and more. Whether you want to shop for groceries or just small snacks and souvenirs, the farmer’s market is the place to go.
4. San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Not too far from Union Square is the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. This non-profit museum displays contemporary paintings, sculptures, photography, architecture, design, and media art forms. The collection is always changing, so you can go again and again.
5. Golden Gate Park
If you enjoy the outdoors, the Golden Gate Park definitely belongs on your San Francisco bucket list. This beautiful green space spans over a thousand acres, making it even larger than New York City’s famous Central Park. The park includes botanical gardens, picnic areas, fountains, small lagoons, and even the de Young Museum of art.
6. San Francisco Bucket List: Gracias Madre Vegan Restaurant
Gracias Madre is a vegan Mexican restaurant located in the Mission District. The menu includes enchiladas, flautas, tamales, tacos and even vegan pozole. Their menu changes seasonally as they try to stick to fresh, local ingredients. Most dishes are almost completely organic as well. Their dishes also often feature delicious vegan cheeses and milks made from nuts.
7. Dolores Park
Head to the Mission and visit Dolores Park to take in gorgeous city views from the soft grass fields. This park has tennis and basketball courts, and even a children’s playground. Dolores Park is a must on any San Francisco bucket list. It’s a local treasure for picnics, dog walks, picnics, and coffee breaks.
8. Haight-Ashbury
The Haight-Ashbury neighborhood is known for its alternative counter-culture. Home to hippies, anarchists, and protestors, this area is full of life. Walk around Haight-Ashbury for beautiful 19th-century architecture, public art, cafes, record stores, and vintage shops. Our favorite thrift stores are Relic Vintage and Retro City Fashions.
9. San Francisco Bucket List: Baker Beach
Baker Beach is a must-do on any visit to Fog City. No trip to San Francisco would be complete without seeing the Golden Gate Bridge, and this beach offers up-close views. It’s a beautiful spot to dip your toes in the water, collect shells, build sandcastles and spend time with your loved ones.
10. Lands End
Lands End is a large San Francisco park within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. If you’re a hiker, you’ll definitely want to include this spot on your San Francisco bucket list. The popular Coastal Trail follows the rocky cliffs past the Sutro Baths and up to Mile Rock Beach. It’s only a twenty minute walk from the parking lot to the main lookout. Lands End Lookout offers beautiful views of the Golden Gate Bridge. From there, you can continue to follow the Lands End Trail, or head back down to the main road.
Read more
- The 10 Most Walkable Cities in the US in 2022
- Sustainable Travel: The 8 Best State Parks in California
- 10 Best Hikes Near NYC You Can Reach by Train
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