Being home for a whole semester has given me the opportunity to explore one of the greatest cities in the world, one that I have the pleasure of living right next to known as: San Francisco, California. While it is most recognized for the Cable Cars, Chinatown, Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz, there is much more to do in the city. Below, I have compiled a list of some of my favorite things to do. Trust me, there’s something for everyone.
1. Hike in the Marin Headlands
Right near San Francisco, The Tennessee Valley offers several different trails, each leading to amazing views of the bay and the city.
2. Take Another Hike at Muir National Woods
Hike through the Muir Woods! There are a plethora of trails to choose from, and the trees are absolutely stunning.
3. Explore the Sutro Baths
Check out the historical site that is the Sutro Baths, an oceanside area that used to be a public bathhouse for thousands of San Francisco natives. There's also many rocks to climb on, and a cave.
4. Go to the SFMOMA
Explore the inner artist in you and check out the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art.
5. Walk Up Twin Peaks
Twin Peaks offers two minuscule hikes (more like, a few steps) that reward you with what many call “San Francisco’s best view”. Bring a jacket though, because it can get a bit chilly.
6. View the City From Coit Tower
If walking up two hills isn’t your thing, check out Coit Tower - a historical landmark which also offers great views of San Francisco.
7. Stroll Around The Palace of Fine Arts
Located very close to Crissy Fields and the Golden Gate, the Palace of Fine Arts is a great park-esque area to walk through with interesting architecture. (Tip: go at night time, it’s very peaceful!)
8. Relax at Alamo Square
Reenact Full House as you read a book, have a picnic, or maybe even dance to the theme song in Alamo Square; most known for the Painted Ladies.
9. Venture Around Golden Gate Park
Take a walk, run, or bike ride through Golden Gate Park. Bring a book with you, or bring a dog, as it's great for leisurely activities. They also offer boat rides across Snow Lake.
10. Eat at the Marina District
Walk through the Marina District, located near the Palace of Fine Arts. Chestnut Street is equipped with many innovative and trendy restaurants, like Tacolicious and Delarosa.
11. Mangé Une Crêpe du la Pier 39
I’m not even joking, the best crepes I have ever had are from this crepe restaurant located at the Pier 39. (I lived in Paris for a year, so that must mean something, right?)
12. Eat Some of Trish’s Donuts
If you don’t like crepes (shame on you), I also highly recommend grabbing a bucket of Trish’s Donuts- also from the Pier. It’s worth the calories.
13. See Local Vendors at the Ferry Building
Explore all the artisan, unique, and local restaurants and food stands in the Ferry Building. Each weekend, the Farmer’s Market is held right outside its doors.
14. Eat Your Heart Out at the Food Trucks
Several days out of the month, Off the Grid, a food truck organization, provides truck markets around the city. Each business is local, kitschy, and there is no doubt you will want to go back for seconds.
15. Presidio Picnic
The Presidio is a national park, that hosts many different events - one being the Presidio Picnic. Depending on the time of year, you can stop by the park, play games, and eat delicious food.
