Sarahritchie17 I’ll preface this by saying that one day is not truly enough time to get the full experience, but sometimes that’s all the time you have to explore and so you make the most of the time you have.
At the end of this blog, I’ll provide a list of more spots to check out in and around the city if you have a full weekend or longer to spend.
I’ve been to San Francisco three times in my life now which is only enough to know the touristy must-sees. But if you’re looking for a fun taster trip, this is the list for you!
1. The Golden Gate Bridge
Did you really go to San Francisco if you didn’t see the Golden Gate Bridge?
There are a few ways to do the Golden Gate—you can just drive over it (make sure you blast “the Full House song” while you do), you can visit the scenic overlook, or you can walk across it. I think I’ve done it wrong both of my recent trips, so you may want to do some research beyond this post for the best time to go to avoid fog. My friends and I went to the scenic overlook and pretty much just saw fog. Also, remember to pack layers because it is always windy and cold there! Even in the middle of August! It’s true what they say, “The coldest winter I’ve ever spent was summer in San Francisco,” and I did not dress appropriately.
2. The Full House house
You can find the house that was shown in the opening credits of the late ‘80’s – early ‘90’s show Full House at 1709 Broderick St. In 2020, the home was sold for over $5 million. Since it’s a private home now, you can no longer sit on the front steps, but you can still get a photo out front.
3. The Painted Ladies
Also called Postcard Row, the Painted Ladies are a row of Victorian-style houses on an incline across from Alamo Square. Since they’re a historical landmark, you can just put “The Painted Ladies” into Google Maps, and it’ll get you there. You can find more info about the Painted Ladies and best times to visit here https://www.sftravel.com/painted-ladies.
4. Lombard Street
Next up, head to Lombard Street, the most crooked street in the world. It was designed with eight sharp turns because the hill is so steep. You can decide whether you walk it, drive it, or both. Just be respectful of the people who live on the street, and be sure not to leave any valuables in your car as there are tons of warning signs about car break-ins near here.
5. Fisherman’s Wharf
Plan to spend a little more time at Fisherman’s Wharf. I recommend finding a place where you can park for a few hours if you have been driving. The Wharf has all kinds of things to explore, and it’s a great place to get lunch or dinner. #5-9 on this list are all in and around Fisherman’s Wharf, so you can walk in between.
Fisherman’s Wharf is a tourist destination in San Fran with food, Naval Ship Museums, departures to Alcatraz, tourist shops, markets, and more. You can find everything you need to know about it here https://www.fishermanswharf.org. Something to note, as of August 2021, indoor restaurants there are requiring proof of COVID-19 vaccination and face masks.
6. The Sea Lions at Pier 39
Towards the East end of Fisherman’s Wharf, you’ll find Pier 39.
Pier 39 also has its own website, and you can find a map here. Enjoy watching the playful sea lions trampling over one another as the lazy ones bask in the sun. Check out Lefty’s to get an appreciation for all the left-handed friends in your life. You can also find artist Robert Wyland murals on display in the area and see Alcatraz in the distance.
7. Boudin Sourdough Bakery
If you haven’t been lured in to another restaurant yet, eat at Bistro Boudin. You can find it on the second floor of Boudin Bakery.
We ordered the Crab, Spinach, and Artichoke Dip to start. I got the Crab and Corn Bisque in a Petite Breadbowl for lunch. 10/10 would recommend!
If you’ve already eaten, take a quick (and free!) tour of the bakery and watch as the bakers and dough machines transform sourdough into loaves, pizza crust, rolls, and all kinds of other things. Learn about the history of sourdough, why it tastes different in San Fran, and how they’ve kept their starter alive since the mid-1800’s!
8. Umbrella Alley
Heading to the West side of Fisherman’s Wharf, check out Umbrella Alley on your way to Ghirardelli Square. In case you didn’t have enough Instagram-worthy photos already, you’ll be able to get them here! The murals are all designed by local artists, and you can support them through Venmo and by tagging them on Instagram.
9. Ghirardelli Square
Believe it or not, Ghirardelli Square has more than just squares of chocolate. It’s a really cute spot where you could probably spend a whole afternoon if you wanted. The Ghirardelli shop itself actually isn’t super big, but you can get a good sundae or hot chocolate there and pick up some gifts to bring home for your friends and family. There’s also a brewery and tea shop and a couple boutiques tucked away in the square that you can check out while you’re there.
10. Cityscape Bar & Lounge or The View Lounge
Last, but definitely not least, watch the sun set from a rooftop lounge. These both had some funny hours, so make sure you check and plan ahead before you go. These pictures are from Cityscape Bar at the top of the Hilton. As of August 2021, you’ll need proof of vaccination to enter.
More Ideas and Day Trips
If you have more than a day to continue exploring, consider checking out some of the list below!
- Chinatown
- Ride a trolley
- Visit Alcatraz
- Muir Woods (Day Trip)
- Alamere Falls waterfall hike (Day Trip)
- Napa Wineries (Day Trip – pick 2-3 and lunch in between)
Stay tuned for my next post about my best friend’s bachelorette weekend in Napa!
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Cheers!
Sarah
[…] San Francisco Day Trip – A few of us had an extra day or two before our flights home, so we took advantage of the time to see the city. Check out my blog post about it here! […]