Fun Filled Things to do in San Francisco

May 8, 2025

Let me start with a truth bomb: San Francisco is weird. Not in a bad way—more like that eccentric aunt who shows up to brunch in a vintage coat, tells wild stories from the '70s, and somehow always knows the newest vegan ice cream spot. SF is compact, chaotic, foggy, tech-obsessed, and still managing to cling to its hippie soul. And that’s exactly what makes it so incredibly fun. So, whether you’re new in town, visiting for a few days, or just rediscovering your own backyard, here are a few fun-filled things to do in San Francisco—one quirky, beautiful, and delicious adventure at a time.

1. Start With the Obvious: Golden Gate Bridge

On the list of things to do in San Francisco is visiting the Golden Gate Bridge . Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, every guidebook in the world mentions it. But here’s the thing—it’s absolutely worth it. Rent a bike (or an e-bike if you’re anti-hill like me) from Fisherman’s Wharf and cycle across the bridge into Sausalito. The ride offers stunning views, bracing wind, and some seriously Instagram-worthy photo ops. Insider tip: Don’t just bike back—take the ferry. You'll get incredible views of the Bay and avoid the uphill ride that will make you question every carb you've ever eaten.

2. Ride a Cable Car… At Least Once

Next in the list of things to do in San Francisco is riding a cable car. Okay, I get it. You think it’s a gimmick. But riding a cable car through Nob Hill or Powell Street, clinging to the side as the brakes screech and the wind whips by, is low-key thrilling. It’s part transportation, part historical amusement park ride. Pro move: Hop on early in the morning to avoid lines. Or better yet, try the California Street line—it’s less crowded but just as charming.

3. Explore Golden Gate Park (It’s Way Bigger Than You Think)

This park is San Francisco’s backyard, and it’s enormous. Like, bigger-than-Central-Park enormous—a must-visit on the list of things to do in San Francisco. Check out the Conservatory of Flowers (feels like walking through a Victorian jungle), the Japanese Tea Garden (serene AF), and, if you’re into quirky stuff, the bison paddock (yes, actual bison live here). Rent a paddleboat at Stow Lake and feel like a main character in a romantic comedy.

4. Get Lost in the Mission

There are many must-visit places on the list of things to do in San Francisco; one of them is the Mission District. The Mission District is one of those neighborhoods that feels like several cities rolled into one. It’s hipster, it’s Latinx, it’s artistic, and it’s rebellious. Start your day with a pastry and espresso at Tartine Bakery—get there early because there will be a line. Then walk down Valencia Street for boutique shopping, murals, record stores, and more coffee than your nervous system needs. Be sure to stop at Dolores Park. On a sunny weekend, it turns into a human kaleidoscope—techies, stoners, musicians, dogs, jugglers, and sunbathers all spread across the grass like they’re in some indie movie montage.

5. Chinatown: More Than Just Dim Sum (But Also Definitely Dim Sum)

San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest in North America, and it feels like stepping into another world. Stroll down Grant Avenue for colorful lanterns, apothecaries, and markets. But head to Stockton Street for the real local flavor—bustling produce stalls and hole-in-the-wall restaurants where English is optional. Don’t leave without having dim sum at Good Mong Kok Bakery—a must-visit place on the list of things to do in San Francisco. It’s always busy, and the shrimp dumplings are the stuff of dreams.

6. Climb to Coit Tower (And Work Off That Dim Sum)

Perched on Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower offers 360-degree views of the city and some amazing WPA-era murals inside. The real fun? The climb. Take the Filbert Steps through lush gardens and tucked-away homes. It’s like discovering a secret fairy-tale path in the middle of an urban jungle. And if you’re lucky, you might spot the wild parrots of Telegraph Hill. Yes, that’s a thing.

7. Check Out Alcatraz (Because, C’mon, It’s Alcatraz)

Remember that iconic 1979 movie, “Escape from Alcatraz”? Yes, this is the same place. Another “touristy” activity? Agreed. But Alcatraz is one of those rare attractions that lives up to the hype. The ferry ride over is scenic, the self-guided audio tour is genuinely fascinating, and the whole place gives off eerie, fascinating vibes. You’ll leave with a weird mix of historical insight and existential dread - a must-visit place on the list of things to do in San Francisco.

8. Eat Your Way Through Ferry Building Marketplace

Last but not least, a must-visit place on the list of things to do in San Francisco is Ferry Building Marketplace. Foodies, this one’s for you. The Ferry Building is a gourmet playground packed with local vendors offering everything from artisan cheese to wild mushrooms to fresh oysters. Hit up Hog Island Oyster Co. for a view of the Bay while you slurp down your dozen.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Fog and the Funk

San Francisco isn’t perfect—it’s expensive, sometimes chaotic, and the weather is famously unpredictable. (Pro tip: Always carry a jacket.). Even in July.) But it’s also one of the most vibrant, diverse, and endlessly entertaining cities you’ll ever visit. There are many things to do in San Francisco. It’s a place where you can sip a lavender latte, watch a naked bike parade, hike a coastal trail, and eat world-class sushi—all in the same day. So go ahead, let the city surprise you.