Here is a list of 15 fun things to do in San Francisco for a day. These destinations are popular with both tourists and locals alike. It is possible to visit several places in one day. Have fun exploring San Francisco.
Can’t-Miss San Francisco
California Academy Sciences a Must-Visit Destination
California Academy of Sciences boasts a unique 197,000-square-foot living roof featuring a mosaic of native plant species. Steinhart Aquarium, Morrison Planetarium, Kimball Natural History Museum, and a four-story rainforest await visitors inside.
Exploratorium Pier 15 a Fun Family Outing
Exhibits begin the minute you walk in the door. Regardless of your chosen direction, you will most likely experience every facet of science when you make a complete loop of the Exploratorium. Exploratorium San Francisco is a great family outing. It’s a marvelous place to take out-of-guests to see a side of San Francisco other than Cable Cars and Alcatraz Island.
Blue & Gold Sightseeing San Francisco Bay Cruise
Tourists and locals alike can enjoy the sightseeing of San Francisco’s iconic landmarks from a tour boat that departs from Fisherman’s Wharf. Blue & Gold Fleet is one of the area’s most sought-after bay cruise companies, offering two cruise options from Fisherman’s Wharf: the San Francisco Bay Cruise Adventure and the Escape From The Rock.
Aquarium of the Bay on Pier 39
Aquarium of the Bay has two sections: ‘Under the Golden Gate’ and ‘Under the Bay,’ where visitors can observe sea life from the San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean, respectively. Kids can interact with bat rays, leopard sharks, and tide pool animals upstairs.
Presidio San Francisco Next to the Golden Gate Bridge
Once a military installation from 1776 until 1994, the Presidio saw duty for Spain, Mexico, and the U.S. and is a historic landmark and national park with almost 1,500 acres. Hiking and biking trails offer sweeping views of the bay and Golden Gate Bridge.
Alcatraz Island Learn About Its Famous Residents
Alcatraz Island is a must-see destination while visiting San Francisco. The buildings on the island are remains of the federal prison that operated from 1933 to 1963. Guided and self-guided tours explain the history of the facilities and tell stories of some of its famous residents. The audio tour of the prison is recommended.
San Francisco’s Zoo Exotic Wildlife Exhibits
Located on the Pacific Ocean in the city’s southwest corner, the San Francisco Zoo features an abundance of exotic wildlife exhibits and houses more than 930 animals, including some 245 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates spread over 100 acres.
Golden Gate Park Botanical Garden
San Francisco Botanical Garden features more than 8,000 varieties of plants worldwide on 55 acres in the heart of Golden Gate Park. Open 365 days a year. This living museum boasts one of the most diverse plant collections in the world.
Walt Disney Museum Presidio San Francisco
Walt Disney Museum lets visitors explore in detail the artistic and technological accomplishments of Walt Disney. You will get a chance to understand and assess all aspects of Walt Disney’s work and the history of the man himself.
Ferry Building Marketplace Coffee Shops & Bakeries
The San Francisco Ferry Building is a San Francisco landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This marketplace provides hours of shopping and dining opportunities for tourists and locals alike. The Ferry Building is a place for the whole family and can quickly fill a day with activities.
Fisherman’s Wharf Sourdough Bread & Fresh Seafood
Fisherman’s Wharf is an integral part of San Francisco’s history, and if you’re willing to brave the crowds (or go in the off-season), it offers an excellent deal for natives. Below are some of the top picks for locals at Fisherman’s Wharf.
Explore San Francisco’s Downtown Chinatown
Chinatown is the oldest in North America and the largest Chinese community outside Asia. The first residents began building the city in the 1840s, and since then, it has been highly influential in the history and culture of Chinese immigrants to the United States.
Lands End Park Gateway to the SF Bay
Lands End Park offers a beautiful escape from the nearby city with its cliff-top walks through shady cypress, open grass hikes, and gorgeous views up and down the California coast. The region is often windswept and cloaked in fog, with shipwrecks and a history of landslides.
Angel Island State Park Hiking & Camping
If you want to see San Francisco Bay from a unique perspective, one of the best ways is via sea level at Angel Island State Park. Rising from the water between Marin and San Francisco counties, Angel Island has served many purposes, including a military base and prisoner-of-war detention.
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