Fortunately for you and your family, there are plenty of rainy day attractions that offer indoor fun and excitement. 

So you've planned a vacation to lovely San Francisco by the Bay and the weather forecast informs you that it's going to rain (not a big surprise in San Fran, to be honest). Now what do you do? If you're searching for some ideas, check out our list of included indoor activities, full of cultural and artistic museums, kid-friendly attractions, and much more.

Things to do in San Francisco when it rains (Popular indoor activities)

<p>A few of our favorites include...</p>

<ul>
	<li>SFMOMA</li>
	<li>Exploratorium</li>
	<li>The California Academy of Sciences</li>
	<li>Aquarium of the Bay</li>
	<li>and many more</li>
</ul>

<h2>Looking for some fun things to do indoors?</h2>

<p>Admission to many of these recommended attractions are available on <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco" target="_blank">Go City&reg; San Francisco passes</a>. Choose as you go from dozens of fun attractions and save up to 50% off combined admission vs paying at the gate.</p>


<h2>Ripley&#39;s Believe it or Not! San Francisco</h2>

<p>A great family attraction in Fisherman&#39;s Wharf, Ripley&#39;s Believe It or Not! is perfect for those kids and adults who get a kick out of the weirder side of life. This collection&nbsp;of 400+ oddities features everything from natural and man-made artifacts to exciting local exhibits to see and marvel at, a Candy and Toy Factory, and 18 themed galleries that&#39;ll have you awe-inspired (or scared!)</p>

<p><strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/ripleys-believe-it-or-not/_attr_Sfo_Att_Ripley_s_Believe_It_Or_Not.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Ripley&#39;s Believe it or Not! San Francisco tickets</a>&nbsp;are included on all Go City&reg; San Francisco passes.</p>

<h2>Madame Tussauds San Francisco</h2>

<p>Pop culture lovers will enjoy visiting one of the country&#39;s most popular attraction chains: Madame Tussauds. This delightful institution holds realistic wax replicas of dozens of famous people from around the world and throughout history. Several areas are designed around themes, including &quot;Music Zone&quot; and &quot;Leaders and Entrepreneurs.&quot; You&#39;ll &quot;meet&quot; everyone from Mark Zuckerberg to Lady Gaga. Plus, a visit to Madame Tussauds is the easiest way to snag a selfie with your favorite celeb.</p>

<p><strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/madame-tussauds-san-francisco/_attr_Sfo_Att_Go_Madame_Tussauds_San_Francisco.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Madame Tussauds San Francisco tickets</a>&nbsp;are included&nbsp;on all Go City&reg; San Francisco passes.</p>


<p>While you may not be able to enjoy searching for marine life out of doors during a rainy San Francisco afternoon, you can still discover the fascinating sea life native to the San Francisco Bay at this fun and educational institution. There are tons of interactive exhibits, exciting demonstrations like animal feedings and naturalist presentations, and even touch pools filled with sharks, rays, and sea stars.</p>

<p>The Aquarium of the Bay has a clear crystal tunnel system that allows you to actually walk through aquatic exhibits. You&#39;ll get to see various sea life, such as sevengill sharks, jellyfish, giant octopi, and more from all angles.</p>

<p><strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/aquarium-of-the-bay/_attr_Sfo_Att_Aquarium_of_the_Bay.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Aquarium of the Bay tickets</a>&nbsp;are included on all Go City&reg; San Francisco passes.</p>

<h2>The Walt Disney Family Museum</h2>

<p>Naturally, the Walt Disney Family Museum is the perfect place to take the kids for a day full of fun and characters. Each exhibit works to tell the story of Walt Disney and how Disney&#39;s magic came to be. With over 200 screens, 40,000 sq. ft. of exhibit space, and an intricate model of Disneyland, you&#39;ll learn all there is to know about the world of Disney.</p>

<p>You&#39;ll see original Disney character drawings, sit at listening stations to hear your favorite Disney songs, and watch short films that explain the process of making the movies and characters come to life.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Getting in</strong>:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/walt-disney-family-museum/_attr_Sfo_Att_The_Walt_Disney_Family_Museum.html">The Walt Disney Family Museum tickets</a>&nbsp;are included on all Go City&reg; San Francisco passes.</p>


<h2>Shop at the Ferry Building Marketplace</h2>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<h2>Mus&eacute;e M&eacute;canique at Fisherman&#39;s Wharf</h2>


<h2>Rainy day recap</h2>

<p>See? You can stay dry all while having plenty of great options for things to do in San Francisco when it&#39;s raining out. We hope these ideas helped inspire you to create a fun-filled indoorsy itinerary.</p>

<h2>Save up to 50% on San Francisco attractions&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Planning your San Francisco trip? With Go City&reg;, you can explore big-name landmarks, local hotspots, and epic tours, all on one pass, all for one price. Not only that, but you&#39;ll enjoy savings of up to 50%, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>☀️<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/attractions" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">See all San Francisco attractions</a> ☀️ &ndash; 🌏 <a href="https://gocity.com/en" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Explore other destinations</a> 🌏 &ndash; ✈️ <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/passes?choices=3" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Buy a San Francisco pass</a> ✈️&nbsp;</p>


<p>Visit one of the world&#39;s largest privately owned collections of coin-operated mechanical musical instruments and unique arcade machines. Entry to Mus&eacute;e M&eacute;canique is free but the games and instruments cost money to play. Don&#39;t worry, though, these games are cheap and change machines are plentiful. They have something that everyone can enjoy at Mus&eacute;e M&eacute;canique!</p>


<p>Located right on the Embarcadero, the Ferry Building Marketplace serves as both a transit hub and a bustling marketplace. You&#39;ll find everything from classic, San Francisco fare (like the sourdough from Acme Bread Company!) and pantry provisions to coffee shops, homewares, and even bookshops.</p>

<p>If you haven&#39;t already, this is a great place to pick up souvenirs to take home. Want some more fun shopping destination ideas? Check out of post on where to find some of the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/things-to-do/shopping-in-san-francisco" rel="noopener" target="_blank">best &#39;discounted&#39; shopping in San Francisco</a>.</p>


<h2>San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)</h2>


<p>While the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art has always been a must-see spot. Originally constructed as the first-ever museum of modern and contemporary art on the West Coast, SFMOMA is now the largest modern art museum in the world and houses a wide array of all art styles, types, and mediums.</p>

<p>The halls and exhibits of SFMOMA are full of works by well-known artists like Paul Klee and Alexander Calder. You&#39;ll find everything from sculptures to paintings and multimedia displays projected across the walls. With its ever-changing, cutting-edge exhibits, SFMOMA makes for the perfect rainy-day place.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Getting in:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/attractions/museum-modern-art" rel="noopener" target="_blank">SFMOMA tickets</a>&nbsp;are included on all Go City&reg; San Francisco passes.</p>

<h2>The California Academy of Sciences</h2>

<p>Located right in Golden Gate Park, the California Academy of Sciences is the only attraction that combines a planetarium, aquarium, and natural history museum to make one mega-museum. From the lively penguins in African Hall to the wildlife on the Living Roof, the building is full of life. There&#39;s even a four-story living rainforest and awe-inspiring coral reef ecosystem to entertain visitors of all ages.</p>

<p>Enjoy daily talks and educational experiences, watch a 4D movie at the Morrison Planetarium, and explore the evolution of the plants and animals that call Earth home to this day. A visit here is a unique opportunity to explore all that the natural world has to offer, presented by some of the best scientific minds in the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/attractions/california-academy-sciences" rel="noopener" target="_blank">California Academy of Sciences tickets</a>&nbsp;are included&nbsp;on all Go City&reg; San Francisco passes.</p>

<h2>Exploratorium</h2>


<p>An art, science, and anthropological museum all in one, the Exploratorium is full of amazing hands-on experiences. It&#39;s the only place where you can play and tinker with all the exhibits. With more than 600 interactive exhibits to choose from, your kids will find plenty of opportunities to explore and learn.</p>

<p>Each exhibit inspires creative and scientific thinking and indulges your child&#39;s curiosity about the world around them. From large-scale outdoor art installations to learning labs for visitors of all ages, it&#39;s a great way to combine learning with fun on a rainy vacation day.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/exploratorium/_attr_Sfo_Att_Exploratorium.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Exploratorium tickets</a>&nbsp;are included&nbsp;on all Go City&reg; San Francisco passes.</p>

<h2>de Young Museum</h2>


<p>Another great museum to visit on a rainy day is the de Young Museum located right in Golden Gate Park. It&#39;s one of the most visited art museums in the country. The museum is full of over 1,000 paintings, sculptures, and fine art pieces. The collections span from the 17th to the 21st centuries, with art hailing from Africa, Oceania, the Americas, and beyond. You&#39;ll see textiles, costumes, contemporary paintings, and everything in between.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/de-young-museum/_attr_Sfo_Att_de_Young_Museum.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">de Young Museum tickets</a>&nbsp;are included on all Go City&reg; San Francisco passes.</p>


OH NO, visiting during rainy weather? Check out our top things to do in San Francisco when it rains, so you can experience fun indoor activities and stay dry.

Things to Do in San Francisco When it Rains (Popular Indoor Activities)

San Francisco is one of the coolest cities to visit at any age, but it's especially fun for teenagers.

It's a great city for introducing your kids to the rewards of travel, and there's plenty of excitement around every corner. No matter how uninterested teenagers may seem at first, with this endless list of San Francisco attractions and activities, there's sure to be something that your teen will enjoy.

10+ things to do in San Francisco with teens during your California vacation

<p>If you&rsquo;re looking for things to do in San Francisco with teens, check out our list of the top attractions and activities, including...</p>

<ul>
	<li>California Academy of Sciences</li>
	<li>Aquarium of the Bay</li>
	<li>California&#39;s Great America</li>
	<li>Explore Fisherman&#39;s Wharf</li>
	<li>Golden Gate Bay Cruise</li>
	<li>San Francisco GoCar Tours</li>
	<li>AT&amp;T Park Tour</li>
	<li>and more...</li>
</ul>

<h2>Engage with the sciences</h2>


<p>If your teen is interested in how the world works, then you&#39;re in luck. San Francisco has an excellent collection of scientific attractions, from aquariums to natural history museums. Visit the <strong>California Academy of Sciences</strong> for an unbelievable experience that combines the best of all scientific institutions, including an all-digital planetarium, a four-story rainforest, a natural history museum, and an aquarium.</p>

<p>Especially love sea creatures? Head to the <strong>Aquarium of the Bay</strong> at Fisherman&#39;s Wharf for more aquatic fun. A visit to either of these institutions is an excellent educational opportunity, too, so they&#39;ll be engaging their minds as they explore.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Getting In:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/attractions/california-academy-sciences" rel="noopener" target="_blank">California Academy of Sciences tickets</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/attractions/aquarium-bay" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Aquarium of the Bay tickets</a>&nbsp;are included on on all San Francisco passes.</p>


<h2>Get wild with thrill rides</h2>

<p>Everybody loves a good theme park. Bonus points for places with awesome roller coasters, like <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/attractions/californias-great-america" target="_blank"><strong>California&#39;s Great America</strong></a>, which is one of the most popular things to do in San Francisco with teens. Or, if you want the combination of theme park awesomeness and animal encounters, then <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/attractions/six-flags-discovery-kingdom" target="_blank"><strong>Six Flags Discovery Kingdom</strong></a> is your must-visit destination.</p>

<p>Both theme parks are all-day commitments, so they&#39;re an easy way to entertain your teens for an entire day.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Check out Fisherman&#39;s Wharf</h2>


<p>Once named &quot;One of the Most Amazing Inventions of the Year&rdquo; by Time magazine, you can drive yourself in the first-ever GPS-guided Storytelling Car&reg; that narrates what you&#39;re seeing via GPS coordinates as you drive around the city. <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/attractions/gocar-rental" target="_blank">GoCar San Francisco</a> lets you explore at your own pace and get around to some of the spots tour buses can&rsquo;t.</p>

<p>One thing to keep in mind is that while your teens can&#39;t pilot these GoCars themselves (you must be 21+ to be the driver). However, they can still enjoy directing you where to go, and which attractions to seek out.&nbsp;</p>


<h2>Go for a drive in a talking car</h2>


<h2>Save up to 50% on San Francisco attractions&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Planning your San Francisco trip? With Go City&reg;, you can explore big-name landmarks, local hotspots, and epic tours, all on one pass, all for one price. Not only that, but you&#39;ll enjoy savings of up to 50%, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>☀️<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/attractions" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">See all San Francisco attractions</a> ☀️ &ndash; 🌏 <a href="https://gocity.com/en" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Explore other destinations</a> 🌏 &ndash; ✈️ <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/passes" target="_blank">Buy a San Antonio pass</a> ✈️&nbsp;</p>


<p>It&#39;s one of the most popular places in San Francisco for tourists to explore, and we promise that teens will enjoy the many delightful experiences available at Fisherman&#39;s Wharf. There are attractions for all ages, whether you&#39;re into the super weird and wacky (Ripley&#39;s Believe it or Not!), the scary and campy (the San Francisco Dungeon), or the celebrity-centric (Madame Tussauds San Francisco).</p>

<p>Want some more ideas? Check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/things-to-do/things-to-do-at-fishermans-wharf" rel="noopener" target="_blank">post on things to do at Fisherman&#39;s Wharf</a>&nbsp;during your vacation.&nbsp;</p>


<h2>Bike across the Golden Gate Bridge</h2>


<p>Biking across the Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most rewarding activities to do in San Francisco. Leave from North Beach or Fisherman&#39;s Wharf area and you&#39;ll pass through the beautiful Ghirardelli Square (an excellent place to pick up some souvenir chocolate) and Crissy Field (where you can stop for great photos of the bridge) before crossing the bridge<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/attractions/all-day-comfort-bike-rental" target="_blank"> on your bike</a>. Grab a bite to eat in Sausalito and explore the beautiful oceanside town.</p>

<p>From there you can turn around and bike back to downtown San Francisco or, if you&#39;re up for it, continue to Tiburon and poke around the shops or grab an ice cream, before hopping on the ferry for your ride back.</p>


<h2>See the most notorious prison in the country</h2>

<p>Take your teen on the Blue &amp; Gold Fleet&#39;s&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/attractions/escape-rock" target="_blank">Escape from the Rock</a> boat cruise and learn all about one of the most infamous prisons to ever operate in the United States. This 90-minute trip takes passengers under the Golden Gate Bridge and circles the correctional facility.</p>

<p>The cruise is filled with sound effects and intriguing stories about Al Capone, Billy Cook the Killer, and Clyde Johnson&rsquo;s escape attempt. Keep in mind that this cruise does not land at Alcatraz. However, it&#39;s chock full of eerie excitement and interesting facts, so you&#39;ll still get a thorough overview of the prison and its history.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Enjoy other cruises</h2>


<p>If Alcatraz is a bit too spooky for your teen, or if they love the water so much that they&#39;re up for another bay-based adventure, then consider taking the whole family on a sightseeing cruise. You have several options that explore the <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/attractions/bay-cruise-adventure" target="_blank">San Francisco Bay</a>, like the <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/attractions/san-francisco-bridge-to-bridge-cruise">Bridge 2 Bridge Cruise</a>.</p>

<p>These cruises showcase the best and biggest highlights of the city, the shoreline, and the natural world around you. Their informative narration will keep teens from getting bored. Plus, depending on the time of year, it&#39;s a great way to soak up the sun and get some fresh air.&nbsp;</p>


<p>Taking a trip to the<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/attractions/exploratorium" target="_blank">&nbsp;Exploratorium</a>&nbsp;is a great activity for a rainy day in San Francisco for your teens. Located on Pier 15, this museum combines science, art, and human perception into a unique experience that is distinctly San Francisco. Visitors are encouraged to ask questions and have fun while interacting with the hands-on exhibits and workshops.</p>

<p>This attraction is also good for younger kids, which is perfect for big families or those with a big age range. It&#39;s also super exciting for any fans of science - where else do you get to step inside a tornado?</p>


<h2>Take a Tour of AT&amp;T Park</h2>

<p>Sports fans will know that San Francisco has one of the most beautiful baseball stadiums in all of Major League Baseball. Perched right on the edge of the harbor, AT&amp;T Park is a marvel. Enjoy a tour of this fabulous ballpark. It&#39;s a great place to tour and an even better place to take in a game, whether or not you&#39;re a Giants fan.&nbsp;</p>


Check out our favorite things to do in San Francisco with teens. Save on admission to many of these popular attractions that are fun for teenagers.

10+ Things to Do in San Francisco with Teens - Go City

San Francisco is the perfect destination for a long vacation.

To help you make the most of your time in this amazing city, we’ve put together a week in San Francisco itinerary for first timers, covering a bunch of fun activities that you could choose from to build your perfect week-long trip or even 5 days in San Francisco.

A week in San Francisco – Spending 5 to 7 days in San Francisco for first timers

<p>Because of its rich cultural and artistic heritage, the museum scene in the City by the Bay is unbeatable. And when it comes to beautiful and distinctive architecture, the city has much to offer. Combine that with a plethora of delightful tours, cruises, and parks, and you&rsquo;ve got a ton of great attraction options to choose from.</p>

<p><strong>This itinerary includes popular attractions grouped by neighbourhood or type of activity, including:</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Fisherman&rsquo;s Wharf</strong>&nbsp;&ndash; Big Bus San Francisco Sightseeing Tour, Madame Tussauds, Aquarium of the Bay...</li>
	<li><strong>Golden Gate Park</strong>&nbsp;&ndash; California Academy of Science, de Young Museum...</li>
	<li><strong>Union Square &amp; SoMa</strong>&nbsp;&ndash; SFMOMA, AT&amp;T Park Tour, Bike Rental...</li>
	<li><strong>Theme Park Day</strong>&nbsp;&ndash; Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, California&rsquo;s Great Adventure...</li>
	<li><strong>Wine Country Day</strong>&nbsp;&ndash; Full Day Wine Country Tour</li>
</ul>

<p>Spending fewer days in San Francisco but still want some fun ideas? That&rsquo;s okay &ndash; check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/blog/one-day-in-san-francisco/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">1 day</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/blog/weekend-in-san-francisco/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">2 days</a>, or&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/blog/san-francisco-itinerary/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">3 days in San Francisco itineraries</a>.</p>

<h2><strong>Save on Attraction Admission</strong></h2>

<p>Admission to many of these&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/_d_Sfo-p1.html?pass=Sfo_Prod_Go" rel="noopener" target="_blank">top San Francisco attractions&nbsp;</a>and activities are included on the Go San Francisco&reg; Card. This itinerary is just one of many ways to experience San Francisco. The Go San Francisco Card. give you the flexibility to choose which attractions to visit on the go. Depending on how many attractions you&rsquo;d like to visit per day and which neighborhoods you want to tackle, this itinerary could easy fit into 5 days in San Francisco. See all available passes, attractions &amp; prices &ndash;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/_d_Sfo-p1.html?pass=Sfo_Prod_Go" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Learn more.</a></p>

<h2><strong>Fisherman&rsquo;s Wharf Options to Add to Your Itinerary:</strong>&nbsp;Big Bus San Francisco Sightseeing Tour</h2>


<p>If you&rsquo;re a first-time visitor to San Francisco, then a sightseeing bus tour should be a must on your itinerary. It&rsquo;s one of the best ways to get a feel for where all the major attractions are and how the neighborhoods connect to one another. Choose a hop-on hop-off option for the flexibility to get off at places that interest you. Even better? Your ticket is good for 48 hours, so feel free to take your time!&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/bus-tour/_attr_Sfo_Att_Hop_On_Hop_Off_Classic_Tour_1_Day_Ticket.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Hop On Hop Off San Francisco Bus Tour tickets</a>&nbsp;are included with the Go San Francisco Card.</p>


<h2><strong>Madame Tussauds San Francisco</strong></h2>

<p>No need to visit Hollywood to meet your favorite celebrities &ndash; just head to Madame Tussauds San Francisco to come face-to-face with musicians, actors, historical figures, and many more. With seven different themed areas that span the gamut from Hollywood to sports to music, you&rsquo;re sure to find your personal fav.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/madame-tussauds-san-francisco/_attr_Sfo_Att_Go_Madame_Tussauds_San_Francisco.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Madame Tussauds San Francisco tickets</a>&nbsp;are included with the Go San Francisco Card.</p>

<h2><strong>Escape From the Rock Cruise</strong></h2>


<p>Another popular destination in Golden Gate Park worth a few hours visit is the San Francisco Zoo and Gardens. Combining many of your favorite critters across multiple exhibit spaces (including African Savanna, Bear Country, and Australian WalkAbout) with 100 acres of lovely gardens, this is a can&#39;t-miss attraction. They also frequently host special events (often around holidays, or during the summer) so be sure to check their event calendar before your visit to see what&#39;s going on!&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/zoo-gardens/_attr_Sfo_Att_San_Francisco_Zoo_and_Gardens.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Francisco Zoo &amp; Gardens tickets</a>&nbsp;are included with the Go San Francisco Card.</p>


<h2><strong>Golden Gate Park</strong></h2>


<p>This beautiful urban green space is a favorite with locals and visitors alike. It has served as the green heart of San Francisco since the city&rsquo;s founding and attracts over 13 million visitors each year. Pack a picnic and relax on the lawns, play a game of Frisbee, or rent a bike and pedal around the paths.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:</strong>&nbsp;Admission to Golden Gate Park is free.</p>


<h2><strong>Japanese Tea Garden</strong></h2>

<p>The oldest public Japanese garden in the entire country, the Japanese Tea Garden is a peaceful oasis nestled in the heart of Golden Gate Park. Featuring all the classic elements from pagodas and stone bridges to koi ponds and a zen garden, this popular destination is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of ordinary life. If you&rsquo;re visiting in the spring, be sure not to miss a chance to see their cherry blossom trees.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong>Admission to the Japanese Tea Garden is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go San Francisco Card. For more information about this attraction and to purchase tickets, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://japaneseteagardensf.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">attraction website</a>.</p>

<h2><strong>Union Square &amp; SoMa Options to Add to Your Itinerary:</strong><strong>San Francisco Museum of Modern Art</strong></h2>


<p>This fantastically popular attraction is a must-visit for all travelers to San Francisco. The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, or SFMOMA, is a premier art institution featuring stellar collections of paintings, sketches, sculptures, and much more. It underwent a massive renovation not too long ago and is now one of the largest and most significant collections of modern art in the country. Art lover should not overlook this stunner! Highlights of the Doris &amp; Donald Fisher Collection include artistic giants like Alexander Calder and Paul Klee, among others.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/san-francisco-museum-of-modern-art-moma/_attr_Sfo_Att_SFMOMA.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) tickets</a>&nbsp;are included with the Go San Francisco Card.</p>


<h2><strong>AT&amp;T Park Tour</strong></h2>

<p>Sports lovers will enjoy a chance to tour the beautiful AT&amp;T Park, one of the most charmingly situated ballparks in all of Major League Baseball. Some of the sights on your tour include the player&rsquo;s dugout, batting cages, the press box, a luxury suite, and much more.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/things-to-do/week-in-san-francisco-vacation#" rel="noopener" target="_blank">AT&amp;T Park Tour tickets</a>&nbsp;are included with the Go San Francisco Card.</p>

<h2><strong>All-Day Bike Rental by Blazing Saddles</strong></h2>

<p>San Francisco is one of the most bike-friendly cities around. With tons of trails, paths, and streets to explore, you&rsquo;ll run out of energy before you run out of miles to pedal. Blazing Saddles also offers a special guiding app which allows you to plot your route around major sights. Try their &ldquo;Bike the Bridge&rdquo; route!&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/blazing-saddles/_attr_Sfo_Att_Comfort_Basic_Bike_Rental.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">All-Day San Francisco Bike Rentals</a>&nbsp;are included with the Go San Francisco Card.</p>

<h2><strong>Yerba Buena Center for the Arts</strong></h2>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>If you&rsquo;re looking for some more artsy attractions to add to your San Francisco itinerary, a visit to the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts (YBCA) is the perfect choice. A contemporary art center that focuses on innovation and community-based art, this institution features a variety of films, performances, exhibits, and events that exemplify the most unique developments in contemporary art.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong>Admission to the YBCA is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go San Francisco Card. For more information about this attraction and to purchase tickets, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ybca.org/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">attraction website</a>.</p>

<h2><strong>Theme Park Options to Add to Your Itinerary:</strong><strong>Six Flags Discovery Kingdom</strong></h2>


<p>A visit to Six Flags Discovery Kingdom is a rare opportunity to enjoy theme park rides alongside animal encounters. Featuring both marine life and land-bound critters, this attraction offers the best attributes of an animal park in a playful setting. For those really looking for that theme park excitement, their thrilling roller coasters are great choices.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/six-flags-discovery-kingdom/_attr_Sfo_Att_Six_Flags_Discovery_Kingdom.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Six Flags Discovery Kingdom tickets</a>&nbsp;are included with the Go San Francisco Card.</p>


<h2><strong>California&rsquo;s Great America</strong></h2>

<p>A more classic theme park option is California&rsquo;s Great America. With dozens of rides and slides to enjoy, the whole family will delight in this fun attraction. Some popular areas include the Boomerang Bay water park, Planet Snoopy, and the Action Theater. Be prepared to spend a whole day here!&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/californias-great-america-san-francisco/_attr_Sfo_Att_Californias_Great_America_San_Francisco.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">California&rsquo;s Great America tickets</a>&nbsp;are included with the Go San Francisco Card.</p>

<h2><strong>Children&rsquo;s Fairyland</strong></h2>

<p>With their storybook and fairytale-themed rides and attractions, this whimsical park has been serving the San Francisco area since 1950. In addition to rides designed specifically for small children, the park also offers the Fairyland menagerie and ten acres of charming gardens. This attraction is a great option for families with little ones who may not be comfortable on thrill rides.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong>Admission to Children&rsquo;s Fairyland is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go San Francisco Card. For more information about this attraction and to purchase tickets, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fairyland.org/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">attraction website</a>.</p>

<h2><strong>Wine Country Options to Add to Your Itinerary:</strong>&nbsp;Weekday Napa &amp; Sonoma Wine Country Tour</h2>

<p>One thing you can&#39;t do is leave San Francisco without taking the time to tour beautiful wine country. Take this tour of Napa and Sonoma and visit three fantastic wineries: Madonna Estate, Sutter Home, and Sebastiani Vineyards. Each has a different approach to their craft, so you&#39;ll also learn about diverse wine-making styles as you sample their delicious wares.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/wine-country-tour/_ptattr_Sfo_Att_Weekday_Napa_and_Sonoma_Wine_Country_Tour.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Weekday Napa &amp; Sonoma Wine Country Tour tickets&nbsp;</a>are available with the Build Your Own Pass.</p>

<h2><strong>Let&rsquo;s Recap</strong></h2>

<p>This week in San Francisco itinerary was designed to be a great introduction to the city, filled with top attractions and activities located throughout the Bay area. Choose from any of these great attraction options to craft that perfect San Francisco vacation. Don&rsquo;t forget &ndash; many of these great activities and more are available on our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/_d_Sfo-p1.html?pass=Sfo_Prod_Go" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Francisco attraction passes</a>, where you can save up to 55% on combined admission vs. paying at the gate. We hope you consider adding a few of these great options to your upcoming San Francisco itinerary.</p>


<p>This informative and exciting 90-minute cruise provides a great opportunity to sail through the bay and around the notorious Alcatraz. Snap photos of the country&rsquo;s most famous historic prison and enjoy unparalleled views of the sweeping city skyline. Kids will especially love the narration and sound effects that showcase the history of Alcatraz.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/escape-from-the-rock-boat-cruise/_attr_Sfo_Att_Escape_from_the_Rock_Boat_Cruise.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Escape From the Rock Cruise tickets</a>&nbsp;are included with the Go San Francisco Card.</p>


<h2><strong>Aquarium of the Bay</strong></h2>


<p>This singular aquarium focuses particularly on the marine life of the San Francisco Bay, giving you a special perspective on the fascinating plants and creatures that call this region home. A must-see exhibit at this attraction is the 300-foot-long clear glass tunnel system that winds under a tank filled with thousands of species and specimens.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/aquarium-of-the-bay/_attr_Sfo_Att_Aquarium_of_the_Bay.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Aquarium of the Bay tickets</a>&nbsp;are included with the Go San Francisco Card.</p>


<h2><strong>Bridge 2 Bridge Cruise</strong></h2>

<p>This exciting and informative 90-minute cruise escorts visitors around the Bay, showcasing the top landmarks and sites of the region. Sights you&rsquo;ll see on the tour include Alcatraz, Treasure Island, the Bay Bridge, the Golden Gate Bridge, and more. Be sure your phone or camera is charged for this cruise!&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/bridge-2-bridge-cruise/_attr_Sfo_Att_Bridge_2_Bridge_Cruise.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Bridge 2 Bridge Cruise tickets</a>&nbsp;are included with the Go San Francisco Card.</p>

<h2><strong>Ripley&rsquo;s Believe it or Not!</strong></h2>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Visit Ripley&rsquo;s for a glimpse into a weird and wonderful world. Explore 400 different wacky exhibits (70 of which offer hands-on attributes) arranged in 18 themed galleries. You&rsquo;ll marvel at real natural artifacts, man-made objects, wacky works of art, and much more. Kids always love a visit to Ripley&rsquo;s.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/ripleys-believe-it-or-not/_attr_Sfo_Att_Ripley_s_Believe_It_Or_Not.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Ripley&rsquo;s Believe it or Not! San Francisco tickets</a>&nbsp;are included with the Go San Francisco Card.</p>

<h2><strong>Mus&eacute;e M&eacute;canique (free!)</strong></h2>

<p>A perfect pairing with Ripley&rsquo;s Believe it or Not!, the Mus&eacute;e M&eacute;canique features one of the most extensive private collections of mechanical musical instruments and antiques in the world. Their antique arcade machines are a particular highlight of the collections. A visit here is a certainly a walk down memory lane!&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong>Admission to the Mus&eacute;e M&eacute;canique is free.</p>

<h2><strong>Golden Gate Park Options to Add to Your Itinerary:</strong><strong>California Academy of Sciences</strong></h2>


<p>This unique attraction combines all of your favorite scientific institutions under one green roof: an aquarium, an all-digital planetarium, a natural history museum, and a research center. A visit here is a great opportunity to satisfy your curiosity about the natural world, and to learn all about the latest scientific advances being made at this facility. Some of our favorite things to do at the California Academy of Sciences include &quot;Pterosaurs: Flight in the Age of Dinosaurs,&quot; &quot;Twilight Zone: Deep Reefs Revealed,&quot; and &quot;Dark Universe.&quot;&nbsp;<strong>Getting In</strong>:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/california-academy-of-sciences/_attr_Sfo_Att_Calif_Academy_of_Sciences.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">California Academy of Sciences tickets</a>&nbsp;are included with the Go San Francisco Card.</p>


<h2><strong>de Young Museum</strong></h2>


<p>This comprehensive art museum features a diverse collection of art and artifacts that span the globe, with everything from Oceanic art to American painting and decorative arts. They also have particular strengths in sculpture, art of the Americas, and African art. Be sure to pay attention to the building itself, too; it was designed by world-renowned architects to integrate art with the natural landscape. NEW: Get combined admission to the de Young Museum and the nearby Legion of Honor, an excellent fine arts museum with strengths in European painting.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/de-young-museum/_attr_Sfo_Att_de_Young_Museum.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">de Young Museum tickets</a>&nbsp;are included with the Go San Francisco Card.</p>


<h2>San Francisco Zoo &amp; Gardens</h2>


This popular one week in San Francisco itinerary includes the best things to do during your 7 days, or even 5 days in San Francisco.

A Week in San Francisco Itinerary - 5 Days in Francisco for First Timers

San Francisco is bursting with great activities for couples and groups of friends

Culturally rich, diverse in population, and filled with an array of attractions to explore, it's easy to see why San Francisco is one of the most popular vacation spots in the US. 

10+ things to do in San Francisco for adults

<p>Outdoorsy, relaxed, and plenty of attractions to keep travelers busy; San Francisco has it all.</p>

<p>While it has a reputation as a kid-friendly city, there&#39;s more than enough for groups of friends or couples to enjoy in the Bay Area. Take to the water and get a view from the shoreline, bike along the Golden Gate Bridge, and sample the dining and nightlife scene. You&#39;ll be spoilt for choice!</p>

<p>So, if you&rsquo;re looking for things to do in San Francisco for adults, check out our list, including:</p>

<ul>
	<li>Big Bus San Francisco Sightseeing Tour</li>
	<li>California Academy of Sciences</li>
	<li>San Francisco Museum of Modern Art</li>
	<li>San Francisco Cruises</li>
	<li>AT&amp;T Park Tour</li>
	<li>UC Berkeley Botanical Gardens</li>
	<li>and more!</li>
</ul>

<h2>Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour</h2>

<p>A great introduction to San Francisco for first-time visitors is a&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/big-bus-san-francisco" rel="noopener" target="_blank">hop-on hop-off bus tour</a>. Although the city itself is pretty compact, it&rsquo;s also hilly and very densely populated, and it can be difficult to plan an itinerary for yourself that covers all the big highlights in a single day.</p>

<p>Opt for a comprehensive bus tour that showcases all the biggies. As a bonus, a hop-on hop-off version gives you the flexibility to pick and choose what you want to see without being tied to an entire progression.</p>

<h2>California Academy of Sciences</h2>


<p>Let&#39;s kick off with one of the most amazing museums on the entire West Coast, the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/cal-academy-science" rel="noopener" target="_blank">California Academy of Sciences</a>. It&rsquo;s got everything from natural history galleries to an aquarium to an all-digital planetarium and much more. With a reputation for being at the forefront of conservation activities, the California&nbsp;Academy of Sciences&#39; cutting-edge research plays a valuable role in sharing information with the public. Pay a visit to their playful penguins, marvel at their green roof, and walk through a four-story rainforest.</p>


<h2>San Francisco Museum of Modern Art</h2>


<p>You&#39;ll find plenty of animal fun in San Fran. Head to Golden Gate Park and the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/san-francisco-zoo-gardens-0" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Francisco Zoo</a>. It&#39;s filled with amazing critters big and small, from bears to zebras, and also boasts a peaceful series of gardens featuring local California flora.</p>

<p>A visit here is a nice chance to see your favorite animal pals and to get some fun souvenirs, too. Of course, if the garden aspect is your favorite part, perhaps you&#39;ll want to consider our next suggestion...</p>


<p>Nature is all around you at the UC Berkeley Botanical Gardens. This place makes for a delightful trip outside of the city, to see a wide variety of native and exotic flora in recreated environs. Wander through 34 acres of amazing plants, representative of over 12,000 different species from across the globe.&nbsp;There&rsquo;s a special emphasis on plants from Mediterranean climates, so keep an eye out for some especially cool exotics.</p>


<h2>Dining &amp; nightlife</h2>

<p>San Francisco is also an amazing culinary city, offering multiple areas of the city with award-winning cuisine. Try the Financial District, Japantown, Jackson Square, Lower Haight, the Richmond.</p>

<p>If you&rsquo;re looking for some fun nightlife or great drinks, then Gaslamp Quarter (also very historical), the Mission, North Beach, and the Tenderloin are good choices. Resources like Yelp and Open Table can be really helpful when finding good insight into local places, too.</p>


<h2>More San Francisco art museums</h2>

<p>Can&rsquo;t get enough of San Francisco arts and culture? Fortunately for you, there are plenty more wonderful art museums to explore in the city. The stellar&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/de-young-museum" rel="noopener" target="_blank">de Young Museum</a>&nbsp;is beautiful both outside and in and features fine collections of American painting, art of the broader Americas, Oceana, and more. The Legion of Honor, designed to look like an eighteenth-century French palace, offers a variety of European paintings plus ancient art and artifacts.</p>


<p>Finally, the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/asian-art-museum" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Asian Art Museum</a>&nbsp;has a particular focus on 6,000 years of art and history from the continent.</p>


<h2>Can&#39;t choose? No need, see it all with Go City&reg;&nbsp;</h2>

<p>With an All-Inclusive Pass from Go City, you can visit both attractions for a fraction of the cost. Plus, you could save up to 50% on all your San Francisco must-sees. Or pick an Explorer Pass, if you&#39;ve chosen your fave and have a specific bucket list you&#39;re dreaming of ticking off.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>☀️ <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Compare San Francisco passes</a> ☀️&ndash; 🌏 <a href="https://gocity.com/en" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Explore other destinations </a>🌏 &ndash;&nbsp; ✈️ <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/passes?duration=3" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Buy a pass ✈</a>&nbsp;</p>


<p>Art lovers will relish the chance to visit this famed institution. The&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/museum-modern-art" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Francisco Museum of Modern Art</a>&nbsp;(SFMOMA) is filled with some of the most inspiring and innovative contemporary and modern art in the world.</p>

<p>Explore the Doris and Donald Fisher Collection in all its glory, and see works from diverse artists: famous, local, and in between. The SFMOMA also has a number of special events and exhibits on rotation, so be sure to consult their website before you visit to see if there&#39;s any you want to check out. They&rsquo;ll often have adults-only evening events, too - perfect for a quiet evening of reflection.</p>


<p>Outdoorsy couples or friends will want to&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/all-day-comfort-bike-rental" rel="noopener" target="_blank">bike around San Francisco</a>. It&rsquo;s certainly very hilly, but the challenge is part of what makes it so much fun. The bike-friendly streets of San Francisco are a blast to pedal around, and the waterfront paths are particularly scenic. Your rental comes with a map and some suggested routes of varying distances. Opt to stick around the city, or take a ride all the way to Sausalito.</p>


<p>The waters of the San Francisco Bay are beautiful and fun to explore. A cruise is a great option to combine sightseeing with a delightful few hours spent out on the open water. Choose an Escape from the Rock Cruise for an informative and exciting overview of the most famous prison in the United States.</p>

<p><a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/escape-rock" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Sail around Alcatraz Island</a>&nbsp;as you&rsquo;re regaled with tales of its controversial history. Or, opt for the Bridge 2 Bridge Cruise, a sightseeing excursion that takes you under both the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay Bridge.</p>


<h2>GoCar San Francisco tour</h2>

<p>Enjoy one of the more unique ways to explore San Francisco with this GPS-guided storytelling car. This&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/gocar-rental" rel="noopener" target="_blank">GoCar Tour</a>&nbsp;offers a way to see the city without the hassle and stress of navigating on your own and showcases sites that visitors rarely see (and a few where tour buses can&rsquo;t even go!) A few of the highlights on your tour are the best for photos, like Ghirardelli Square, the Cannery, the Marina District, the Presidio, the Sea Cliff, and more.</p>

<h2>AT&amp;T Park</h2>

<p>Sports fans should take advantage of the chance to tour one of Major League Baseball&rsquo;s most charming stadiums. Located right on the water, the views from this stadium are breathtaking. The insight you&rsquo;ll get on the tour is really interesting, too.</p>

<p>See significant places within the park like the Batting Cages, the Press Box, a Luxury Suite, and more. Depending on when you&rsquo;re visiting, you could also pick up tickets to a game. What&rsquo;s more fun than enjoying some hotdogs and beer while watching America&rsquo;s favorite sport?</p>

<h2>Aquarium of the Bay</h2>


<p>Animal lovers will definitely want to visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/aquarium-bay" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Aquarium of the Bay</a>, an amazing institution that focuses exclusively on the marine life of the San Francisco Bay and contiguous waters. One of our favorite exhibits is &ldquo;Under the Bay&rdquo; where you can stroll through 300 feet of clear tunnels under a marine exhibit, featuring over 20,000 animals.</p>

<p>You&rsquo;ll get some awesome photos of the sea life in this exhibit, as well as the &ldquo;Touch the Bay&rdquo; tank, where you can actually come into contact with (tiny) sharks.</p>


Check out our favorite things to do in San Francisco for adults. Save on admission to many of these popular attractions that are fun for adults!

10+ Things to Do in San Francisco for Adults (Couples & Friend Ideas)

San Francisco is one of the top shopping destinations in the US.

Where are the best places to shop in San Francisco? Well, to answer that question, we've made a list of the top 12 places and areas to shop in San Francisco, including popular outlet malls, shopping centers, hip boutiques and more.

Best shopping in San Francisco - Boutiques, outlet malls & more

<p>Visitors can find everything from locally created artisan crafts to name-brand retailers.&nbsp;<em>Did you know?</em>&nbsp;Gap Inc., which owns and operates Gap, Banana Republic, and Old Navy, is headquartered in San Francisco.</p>

<p>So, a shopping spree on vacation? Let&#39;s go!</p>


<h2>Union Square</h2>

<p>Union Square is San Francisco&#39;s premier destination for shopping. Besides Bloomingdale&#39;s and Macy&#39;s, Union Square boasts a large collection of department stores, upscale shops, and brand-name retailers, conveniently in downtown San Francisco.</p>

<p>Westfield Centre is Bloomingdale&#39;s West Coast flagship store, offering designer fashion with department store variety. Whether you&#39;re shopping for the latest fashions or the home, Bloomingdale&#39;s has it all. Plus, in-store services include package delivery to your hotel - no need to drag all those bags around!</p>

<p>The Macy&#39;s store takes up almost two city blocks, making it not just a top shopping destination, but a must-see shopping experience. Macy&#39;s offers a wide selection of top brands, including Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, Estee Lauder, Clinique, Levi&#39;s, and more.</p>


<h2>Fillmore Street</h2>

<p>Fillmore Street features countless upscale brands from around the world, like Eileen Fisher, Jonathan Adler, Joie, Scotch &amp; Soda, and more. This street also has plenty of hip, eclectic boutique shops and caf&eacute;s to dip in and out of.</p>


<h2>Haight Street</h2>

<p>Famous for the role it played as a hippie hangout in the 60&#39;s and 70s, the Haight Ashbury area&#39;s progressive culture is apparent in its store offerings. You&#39;ll be able to find lots of high-end vintage shops, hip boutiques, innovative dining establishments, and lots of pride on display.</p>


<h2>Polk Street</h2>

<p>Polk Street is a popular destination for second-hand and thrift shopping in San Francisco. Whether you&#39;re looking for knick-knacks or a new wardrobe staple to remember your trip by, Polk Street is a great place to unearth an unexpected gem.</p>


<h2>North Beach</h2>

<p>Famous for being San Francisco&#39;s Italian neighborhood brimming with food that rivals that of Italy and some of the best boutique caf&eacute;s, it&#39;s no surprise North Beach is a shopping destination that offers visitors more of a European vibe than other parts of the city. You&#39;ll find artisan pieces and charming bookstores in this area.</p>


<h2>Left your heart (or your wallet) in San Francisco?</h2>

<p>We hope we&#39;ve given you some inspiration and spots to check out (and hit the checkout!) These areas have the best shopping in San Francisco, including popular affordable options, outlet malls, and designer brands.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<h2>Shop til&#39; you drop in San Francisco and save up to 50% on attractions&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Planning your San Francisco trip? With Go City&reg;, you can explore big-name landmarks, local hotspots, and epic tours, all on one pass, all for one price. Not only that, but you&#39;ll enjoy savings of up to 50%, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>☀️<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/attractions" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">See all San Francisco attractions</a> ☀️ &ndash; 🌏 <a href="https://gocity.com/en" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Explore other destinations</a> 🌏 &ndash; ✈️ <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/passes?duration=3" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Buy a San Francisco pass</a> ✈️&nbsp;</p>


<h2>Petaluma Village Premium Outlets</h2>

<p>Located north of San Francisco in Sonoma County, Petaluma Village Premium Outlets offers steep discounts of 25%-65% off over 60 brand-name stores, including Banana Republic, Brooks Brothers, Coach, Nike, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, and more in a picturesque, outdoor open setting.</p>


<h2>Napa Premium Outlets</h2>

<p>The Napa Premium Outlets are an easy side trip to add to a day trip to Napa Valley - this area is around 45 minutes from downtown San Francisco. Stores feature everyday savings of 25%-65% off stores like Cole Haan, Ann Taylor Factory Store, J. Crew, Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store, Coach Outlet, Timberland, and more. Perfect for stocking up on the season&#39;s essentials.</p>


<h2>Gift Center and Jewelry Mart</h2>

<p>Catch a little sparkle with exclusive access to wholesale prices typically only available to registered trade professionals at the San Francisco Gift Center and Jewelry Mart. You&#39;ll be able to shop unbeatable prices on a large selection of merchandise, including gifts, jewelry, and accessories from over 25 countries. From diamonds and pearls to custom designs, you&#39;ll find it all.</p>


<h2>Wondering how to fit shopping into your San Francisco trip?</h2>

<p>Our itineraries and guides will help you slot your shopping crusade in between activities and sightseeing.&nbsp;The below suggestions are a great way for newcomers to familiarize themselves with the city, all while saving a bunch of money on top attractions, tours, and more.</p>

<ul>
	<li><a href="https://gocity.com/blog/san-francisco-itinerary/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Popular 3 days in San Francisco itinerary</a></li>
	<li><a href="https://gocity.com/blog/things-to-do-for-teens-in-san-francisco/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Things to do in San Francisco with teens</a></li>
	<li><a href="https://gocity.com/blog/san-francisco-on-a-budget/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Visiting San Francisco on a budget</a></li>
</ul>


<h2>Embarcadero Center</h2>

<p>Embarcadero Center is a large, mixed-use building complex home to over 100 retail shops, restaurants, and even a cinema. Located in San Francisco&#39;s waterfront area, also known as the Embarcadero, it&#39;s conveniently close to lots of attractions and sights in the Bay Area. You&#39;re bound to find something that catches your eye here.</p>


<h2>Chestnut Street</h2>

<p>For more of a classic San Francisco neighborhood shopping destination experience, head to Chestnut Street for higher-end boutique shops and look for a unique find to bring home with you. If you&#39;re flagging during your shopping expedition, there are a myriad of eclectic restaurants and sophisticated coffee shops for tasty treats and refreshments.</p>


Checkout these hot spots for some of the best shopping in San Francisco. Our list includes the trendy/unique, cheap/discount, outlet malls & more.

Best Shopping in San Francisco - Boutiques, Outlet Malls & More

Check out our list of what makes San Francisco famous.

From iconic sights like the Golden Gate Bridge to its rich and diverse culture, there are lots of places and people that make San Francisco unique.

What is San Francisco famous for?

<p>San Francisco is one of the most well-known and recognizable cities in the world. But what is San Francisco famous for? If you&rsquo;re planning on visiting the Bay Area, check out our list of what makes San Francisco famous, including...</p>

<ul>
	<li>The Golden Gate&nbsp;Bridge</li>
	<li>Alcatraz</li>
	<li>San Francisco Giants</li>
	<li>Fisherman&rsquo;s Wharf</li>
	<li>Cable Car</li>
	<li>Haight Ashbury</li>
	<li>The Castro District</li>
	<li>And more!</li>
</ul>


<h2>Golden Gate Bridge</h2>

<p>A trip to San Francisco would be incomplete without visiting the Golden Gate Bridge. It&#39;s over 80 years old and has long been one of the most famous sights in San Francisco. For a unique perspective on the bridge, take to the water on a sightseeing cruise.</p>

<p>This hour-long cruise takes you directly under the bridge, while your audio tour tells you everything you need to know about the sights. Or get up close and take a Golden Gate Bridge guided bike tour along the waterfront and across the bridge itself. This fully-guided, three-hour tour departs from Fisherman&rsquo;s Wharf, takes you to Sausalito Bay, and brings you back to the city on a ferry.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Getting in:&nbsp;</strong>🎟️ <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/attractions/scenic-golden-gate-bridge-bike-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Golden Gate Bridge Guided Bike Tour</a>&nbsp;admission is available on the Go City&reg; Explorer Pass.</p>

<p>🎟️&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/attractions/bay-cruise-adventure" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Golden Gate Bay Cruise&nbsp;</a>admission is available on the Go City&reg; All-Inclusive Pass.</p>


<h2>The Castro District</h2>

<p>Another famous area of San Francisco is the Castro District, which is considered San Francisco&rsquo;s LGBTQ neighborhood. The Castro is known as a symbol of LGBTQ activism. It was also home to Harvey Milk, who was the first openly gay man voted to public office. Learn about The Castro District&rsquo;s history at the GLBT Historical Society Museum and join the <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/attractions/ultimate-lgbtq-castro-district-walking-tour">LGBTQ Castro District Walking Tour</a>.</p>

<p>Then, visit the Human Rights Action store at the former location of Harvey Milk&rsquo;s camera store. This neighborhood is full of interesting San Francisco history, so consider adding a visit here to your itinerary.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Getting in:</strong>&nbsp;Admission to the GLBT Historical Society Museum tickets must be purchased separately. Entry to the Human Rights Action store is free.</p>


<h2>Can&#39;t choose? No need, see it all with Go City&reg;</h2>

<p>With an <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/passes/all-inclusive?days=3&amp;choices=3" target="_blank">All-Inclusive Pass</a> from Go City, you can visit both attractions for a fraction of the cost. Plus, you could save up to 50% on all your San Francisco must-sees. Or pick an <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/passes/explorer?days=3&amp;choices=3" target="_blank">Explorer Pass</a>, if you&#39;ve chosen your fave and have a specific bucket list you&#39;re dreaming of ticking off.</p>

<p>☀️<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/passes?days=3&amp;choices=3">Compare San Francisco passes</a>☀️ &ndash; 🌏 <a href="https://gocity.com/en">Explore other destinations</a> 🌏 &ndash; ✈️ <a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/passes?days=3&amp;choices=3#choose-your-pass">Buy a pass</a> ✈️</p>


<h2>Alcatraz Island</h2>

<p>Alcatraz is an island in San Francisco Bay, known for being a prison that was home to notorious gangsters, including Al Capone. Escaping from Alcatraz was said to be impossible &ndash; but that didn&rsquo;t stop its prisoners from trying. Learn all about the attempted escapes, as well as the prison&rsquo;s history and its famous former inhabitants.</p>

<p>Take the Escape from the Rock cruise around the island, which gives you an insight into Alcatraz&rsquo;s rich and complex history. Your narrated audio guide tells you everything you need to know as you take in a 360-view of the island.</p>

<p><strong>Getting in:</strong>&nbsp;🎟️ The&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/attractions/escape-rock" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Escape from the Rock cruise</a>&nbsp;is included with the Go San Francisco All-Inclusive pass.</p>


<h2>San Francisco Giants</h2>

<p>Sports fans will know that San Francisco is famous for its baseball team, the San Francisco Giants. If you can, get tickets to see the Giants in action and make the most of the city&#39;s sports scene. Games take place all year round so check out the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mlb.com/giants/tickets" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Giants</a>&nbsp;website to see if there&rsquo;s a game happening during your vacation.</p>

<p>Whether you&rsquo;re a baseball fan or have been inspired by seeing a Giants game, you can take a behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Park stadium. See everything from the press box to The Giant Vault.</p>


<h2>Fisherman&rsquo;s Wharf</h2>

<p>One of the most popular areas of the city for visitors, Fisherman&#39;s Wharf is home to a plethora of attractions and sights including Ghirardelli Square, the seals on Pier 39, and more. Be sure to stop here for food &ndash; there are tons of classic San Francisco dishes to choose from, such as clam chowder bowls and crab.</p>

<p>Take a one-hour tour of&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/blog/things-to-do-at-fishermans-wharf/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Fisherman&rsquo;s Wharf</a>&nbsp;and learn all about San Francisco&rsquo;s fascinating history. Remember to take your camera for amazing views of the bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. Plus, keep an eye out for the seals on Pier 39.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Getting in:</strong>&nbsp;🎟️ Admission to&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/san-francisco/attractions/fishermans-wharf-walking-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Fisherman&rsquo;s Wharf Walking Tour&nbsp;</a>is included&nbsp;on all Go City&reg; San Francisco passes.</p>


<h2>San Francisco Cable Cars</h2>

<p>For a uniquely San Francisco experience, take a trip on the cable cars. Cable cars were invented in San Francisco nearly 150 years ago. However, they still take locals around the city (and up and down those steep San Francisco streets) to this day. Traveling by cable car is a great way to experience the city&rsquo;s most important landmarks. If you feel inspired and want to learn more, why not visit the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cablecarmuseum.org/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Cable Car Museum?</a>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Getting in:</strong>&nbsp;🎟️ Admission to the Cable Car Museum is free, cable car tickets are purchased separately.</p>


<h2>Haight Ashbury</h2>

<p>Haight Ashbury is one of San Francisco&rsquo;s most famous&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/blog/san-francisco-neighborhoods/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">neighborhoods.</a>&nbsp;It is considered the birthplace of the 1960s counterculture movement. Its hippie history can still be seen in the vintage clothing and music stores that line the colorful streets. Haight Ashbury was home to famous bands and singers of the 1960s, including the Grateful Dead and Janis Joplin.</p>

<p>The neighborhood reached its peak during the 1967 Summer of Love, but its cultural impact remains. Stroll through the eclectic streets, browse vintage clothes in the thrift stores, and pick up a vinyl record or two.&nbsp;</p>


San Francisco is famous for its landmarks, neighborhoods, rich history and diverse culture. Save on admission to popular San Francisco attractions.

What is San Francisco Famous For? - Go City

10+ Things to Do for Halloween in San Francisco

<p>Thinking about spending this Halloween in San Francisco? Check out a few of these festive attractions to get you in the holiday spirit. From tours and parties to special family-friendly events, there&rsquo;s something for everyone on this list. Keep in mind that some events may require reservations; research the attractions you are interested in. You may need to purchase tickets before you go. All of these attractions are great for families with kids, but exercise caution when it comes to spooky stuff and small children.</p>


<p>If you visit during the day, Fright Fest is a gently spooky excursion for the little ones. You&#39;ll experience cookie-decorating, trick or treating, and all their favorites rides and other attractions. If you come around at night, however, you best beware. Everything is turned upside down through deliciously terrifying scare zones, wandering monsters, delightfully themed entertainment, and the creepiest haunted mazes you could imagine.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong>Admission to Fright Fest at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go San Francisco pass. For more information about this event and to purchase tickets, please visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sixflags.com/discoverykingdom/special-events/fright-fest-event" rel="noopener" target="_blank">event website</a>. General admission to&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/six-flags-discovery-kingdom">Six Flags Discovery Kingdom</a>&nbsp;is included with the Go San Francisco pass.</p>


Fright Fest at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom

<h2>The San Francisco Dungeon</h2>

<p>If you want to see something truly spooky and horrible this October, head to the San Francisco Dungeon, where the weird and wild of San Francisco&#39;s history come out to play in force. Wander through several lively exhibits with costumed actors, enjoy amazing recreated historic sites, and be more than a little scared by some of the horrific things going on in these recreations.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/san-francisco-dungeon">San Francisco Dungeon</a>&nbsp;tickets are included with the Go San Francisco&reg; pass.</p>

<h2><strong>SuperNatural Halloween at California Academy of Sciences</strong></h2>

<p>This festive family event sees the California Academy of Sciences transformed into a spooky scientific dreamland. From traditional activities like pumpkin carving and trick-or-treating to extra surprises like face painting and magic shows, this event has everything that makes Halloween special. Scientists will also be on hand to demonstrate the &ldquo;spooky&rdquo; scientific phenomenon and to encourage the educational element of the event. It&rsquo;s bound to be a great time for the whole family!&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong>Admission to SuperNatural Halloween is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go San Francisco pass. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.calacademy.org/halloween" rel="noopener" target="_blank">event website</a>. General admission to the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/cal-academy-science">California Academy of Sciences</a>&nbsp;is included with the Go San Francisco pass.</p>


<p>Come visit California&#39;s Great America during this truly spooky season of terrors and frights. There&#39;s so much to enjoy (and be terrified by!) at this attraction, you won&#39;t know what to do first. Wander through nine mazes and spooky attractions, stumble through three horrifying scare zones, enjoy four live shows, and have a blast on dozens of delightful rides.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:</strong>&nbsp;Admission to Halloween Haunt is only $26 for Go San Francisco pass or Explorer Pass customers. General admission to&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/californias-great-america">California&#39;s Great America</a>&nbsp;is included with the Go San Francisco&reg; pass.</p>


Halloween Haunt at California's Great America

<h2>The Great Pumpkin Fest at California&#39;s Great America</h2>

<p>This is one for the younger kids at California&#39;s Great America. See Planet Snoopy transformed into the gentle Planet Spooky, where kids 12 and under can trick-or-treat with the whole PEANUTs gang in costume. Various activities include a fun hay maze, creative pumpkin decorating, a play-in-able pumpkin patch, and the chance to watch talented pumpkin-carvers practice their craft. A daytime event, this is great for really little ones who aren&#39;t ready for after dark scares. Planet Snoopy is transformed into Planet Spooky where kids 12 &amp; under can show off their costumes as they trick-or-treat along with Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and the rest of the PEANUTS friends.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:</strong>&nbsp;Admission to The Great Pumpkin Fest is only $26 for Go San Francisco pass customers.</p>

<h2><strong>Monster Bash &amp; Haunted Hornet</strong></h2>


<p>Visit this historic aircraft carrier under special circumstances &ndash; as a guest at their annual Monster Bash! The USS Hornet transforms into a haunted ship, filled with spooky entertainment and festive music. Take the &ldquo;Haunted Sick Bay&rdquo; tour and explore some of the creepier areas of this iconic vessel. Come in costume and enter into a fun costume contest with a $500 cash prize! There will also be a dedicated Children&rsquo;s Zone with a festive magician and a kids-only costume contest.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong>Admission the Monster Bash and Haunted Hornet is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go San Francisco pass. For more information about this event and to purchase tickets, please visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uss-hornet.org/calendar/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">attraction website</a>. If you&#39;re interested in visiting the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/uss-hornet-museum">USS Hornet</a>&nbsp;on non-spooky times, you can visit the Go San Francisco pass.</p>


USS Hornet

<h2><strong>Halloween Hoopla</strong></h2>

<h3><strong>Children&rsquo;s Creativity Museum</strong></h3>

<p>The 15th annual Halloween Hoopla at the Children&rsquo;s Creativity Museum, this popular family event is ideal for kids 10 and under. Filled with interactive performances, festive displays, and seasonal crafts, the Hoopla is a great way to spend an educational and fun afternoon in the beautiful Yerba Buena Gardens. Everyone will enjoy dancing, funny clowns, palm readings, and even more festive activities. Kids can even design their own trick-or-treat bags!&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong>Admission to the Halloween Hoopla is free.</p>

<h2><strong>Ghost Tours</strong></h2>


<p>San Francisco has quite the history, and certainly has the ghosts to prove it! There are a wide variety of ghost tours for you to choose from this holiday season, each of which captures something unique about the Bay Area&rsquo;s haunted happenings. Take a night tour of Alcatraz and visit one of the eeriest places in America at a particularly eerie time of day! Or, opt for a Chinatown Ghost Tour for a dose of the Chinese culture and mythology that permeates modern San Franciscan culture. One of our favorites is the &ldquo;<a href="http://www.hauntedhaight.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Haunted Haight</a>&rdquo; tour, featuring all the spooky supernatural things of the Haight-Ashbury arts district.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong>Haunted San Francisco tours are separately ticketed and are not included with the Go San Francisco pass. For more information about each tour and to purchase tickets, visit the individual tour company sites.</p>


Downtown San Francisco

<h2><strong>Spooktacular Halloween Party</strong></h2>

<h3><strong>Japantown Peace Plaza</strong></h3>

<p>This free, kid-centric event takes place in one of San Francisco&rsquo;s most charming public squares. Kids will be able to enjoy trick-or-treating, festive crafts, and seasonal games, in addition to Halloween d&eacute;cor and artistic displays. The carnival-like atmosphere continues with additional offerings like a bouncy house, temporary tattoos, and even seasonal face painting. Come in costume!&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong>Admission to the Spooktacular Halloween Party is free.</p>

<h2><strong>Clancy&rsquo;s Pumpkin Patch</strong></h2>

<h3><strong>1620 7th Ave.</strong></h3>

<p>Are you a local looking for a convenient place to pick a few pumpkins, or a visitor trying to celebrate the holiday in a new town? Either way, Clancy&rsquo;s Pumpkin Patch should be your go-to stop for all things pumpkin related. Choose from a wide variety of pumpkins &ndash; including some rare varieties not found elsewhere. Go on a hayride through San Francisco, or explore a hay maze. You can even score some gourds, Indian corn, and apple cider.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong>Admission to Clancy&#39;s Pumpkin Patch is free.</p>

<h2>Let&#39;s Recap</h2>

<p>So there you have it. Our list of some festive and spooky things to do for Halloween in San Francisco this year. Remember, a number of these options are available on the Go San Francisco pass, where you can save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. Please note, the Halloween events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed and not included with the Go San Francisco pass. Consider adding a few of these fun options to your mid-fall getaway itinerary.</p>


Check out these fun & festive things to do for Halloween in San Francisco this year. Save on admission to a few of these top attractions and events.

10+ Things to Do for Halloween in San Francisco - Go City

Visiting the Exploratorium - Discount Ticket Admission, Tips & More

<p>The San Francisco Exploratorium is an internationally renowned museum of science, art, and human perception, located at Pier 15 in the heart of San Francisco&#39;s vibrant Embarcadero. A perfect destination for families, this wonderful museum contains more than 600 interactive exhibits and experiences which create a culture of learning through innovative environments, programs, and tools that nurture curiosity. Families visiting San Francisco should definitely plan to visit the Exploratorium and all of its wild and wonderful exhibits. Get the most out of your visit to this fun educational institution with these tips and ideas.</p>

<h2>Looking for Exploratorium Discount Tickets?</h2>

<p>We&rsquo;ve got you covered &ndash;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/exploratorium/_attr_Sfo_Att_Exploratorium.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Exploratorium admission</a>&nbsp;is available with the below money saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that&rsquo;s right for you: 1.&nbsp;<strong>All-Inclusive Pass</strong>&nbsp;&ndash; All you can do. Includes admission to dozens of attractions. 2.&nbsp;<strong>Explorer Pass</strong>&nbsp;&ndash; Choose as you go. Includes admission of up to 5 attractions. 3.&nbsp;<strong>Build Your Own Pass</strong>&nbsp;&ndash; Select the attractions you want to visit prior to visiting.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/_d_Sfo-p1.html?pass=Sfo_Prod_Go" rel="noopener" target="_blank">See all available San Francisco passes, attractions &amp; prices.</a>&nbsp;Families shouldn&#39;t miss out on this amazing institution during their San Francisco vacation &ndash; it is, after all, the most experimental museum in the world!</p>


<ul>
	<li>Consult the museum map online before arriving; it will help you plan the exhibits you most want to see and save you time during your visit.</li>
	<li>Buy your tickets in advance to save on admission prices and skip ticket lines.</li>
	<li>Wear comfortable clothes (preferably layers). You&rsquo;ll be very active inside the museum and may warm up, but San Francisco is breezy on the best of days outside.</li>
	<li>If you have really young children, arrive especially early to reserve one of their complimentary strollers.</li>
	<li>Minimize what you bring inside, or use the paid lockers provided by the museum to store your stuff as you explore.</li>
	<li>If you get hungry during your visit, check out their popular SeaGlass Restaurant.</li>
</ul>


Tips for Visiting the Exploratorium

<h2>When to Visit</h2>

<p>Arriving early is always a safe bet, and weekdays are going to be less crowded than weekends. We recommend either aiming to be there when they open, or arriving sometime in the mid afternoon (after the lunchtime crowd leaves).</p>


<p><strong>*</strong><em>Keep in mind that many Exploratorium exhibits are temporary, and may be different at the time of your visit.</em>&nbsp;The Exploratorium exhibits are located across six different, themed galleries. Here&#39;s a rundown of those galleries, and a selection of current exhibits within those galleries.</p>


What to Do There

<h3><strong>Gallery 1: Human Phenomenon</strong></h3>

<p>Exploring human thoughts, feelings, and social behavior through a variety of interactive exhibits, this is one fun place to start exploring this attraction. Kids can build, sit, play, listen, and more in these exhibits. Some of the current exhibits include exquisite Balinese masks, a bronze hand, a cloud ring, and more more.</p>

<h3>Gallery 2: Tinkering</h3>

<p>This gallery is bound to be the most popular with creative and crafty kids. It&#39;s filled with fascinating machinery, exhibits, and tools that all boast interactive components that allow visitors to play, create, and test out their inventions. Some featured exhibits in this gallery include the amazing Tinkerer&#39;s Clock, the super fun Marble Machines (build your own marble maze!), and the Art of Tinkering exhibition.</p>

<h3>Gallery 3: Seeing and Listening</h3>

<p>One of the central galleries of this attraction, the Seeing and Listening space is filled with activities and exhibits that highlight these all-important senses. Kids and adults alike can play with colors, shadows, sights, and sounds to get a feel for how light and sound work, and to gain a great understanding of scientific processes. Create colorful shadows. Paint with soap film. Wander through the monochromatic room where everything is drained of color. Marvel at a giant mirror (once part of a NASA flight simulator). And much more!</p>

<h3>Gallery 4: Living Systems</h3>

<p>Explore the growing story of, well, everything! See the living world from great to small as you learn about DNA, microorganisms, and entire ecosystems. Explore Plankton Populations to imagine what life is like on a totally different scale. Use special lenses to actually see this microscopic creatures who are responsible producing approximately half of the oxygens humans breathe each year. Explore live data from the NOAA tide station by the Golden Gate Bridge to see what the current tides are nearby and learn about how the tides have a monumental effect on life in the water. There&rsquo;s even a microscopic imaging station to give you a glimpse of what cells look like up close!</p>

<h3>Gallery 5: Outdoor Exhibits</h3>

<p>The Exploratorium actually has an entire series of exhibits in their exterior space, many of which are dedicated to exploring natural phenomena, physical curiosities, and feats of human ingenuity. Some of their most popular outdoor exhibits include the&nbsp;<strong>Over the Water&nbsp;</strong>collection of temporary art exhibits, in which the pieces each reflect something abut the Exploratorium&#39;s unique location in San Francisco, and the 27-foot-tall&nbsp;<strong>Aeolian Harp<em>,&nbsp;</em></strong>built for the museum by artist Doug Hollis in 1976. In warmer weather, be sure to check out the interactive&nbsp;<strong>Remote Rains&nbsp;</strong>exhibit, which actually reproduces realistic weather patterns under a bright orange umbrella. BONUS! Enjoy at-home fun with Exploratorium Science Snacks. These snacks aren&rsquo;t the kind you can eat, but instead they&rsquo;re fun mini-experiments that teach kids basic scientific principles and practices. They&rsquo;re great hands-on activities that often model the larger exhibits at the Exploratorium. Visit their website for details.</p>

<h3>Gallery 6: Observing Landscapes</h3>

<p>Focusing on the natural history and ecology of the San Francisco Bay region, this gallery includes exhibits that trace human and natural forces on the landscape around you. Scope out sediment cores from around the Bay to see what&#39;s going on underneath the earth, follow the digital footprints of San Francisco residents as they go about their days, and peek at a live oyster colony.</p>


<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>

<p>The Exploratorium is conveniently located on the waterfront, just a short jaunt from the bustling neighborhood of Fisherman&rsquo;s Wharf. There, you can enjoy everything from Madame Tussauds to a number of popular cruises and tours.</p>

<h3><strong>Madame Tussauds</strong></h3>

<p>This is is everyone&#39;s favorite wax museum, filled with a variety of exhibits and themed rooms that appeal to broad interests. It&#39;s particularly suited for kids, too, because of their cultural and historical focus.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/madame-tussauds-san-francisco/_attr_Sfo_Att_Go_Madame_Tussauds_San_Francisco.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Madame Tussauds tickets</a>&nbsp;are included with the Go San Francisco Card.</p>


<p>The Aquarium of the Bay is another popular attraction nearby, a local institution that features marine life specific to the San Francisco Bay Area (along with some other creatures, too!). Families love this aquarium.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/aquarium-of-the-bay/_attr_Sfo_Att_Aquarium_of_the_Bay.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Aquarium of the Bay tickets</a>&nbsp;are included with the Go San Francisco Card.</p>


Aquarium of the Bay

<p>If you&#39;re looking to hop aboard a fun cruise, the Golden Gate Bay Cruise is a perennial favorite with visitors. It showcases the iconic bridge, as well as other landmarks that populate the Bay including Alcatraz, Angel Island, and more.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/golden-gate-bay-cruise-red-and-white-fleet/_attr_Sfo_Att_Golden_Gate_Bay_Cruise_Red_and_White_Fleet.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Golden Gate Bay Cruise tickets</a>&nbsp;are included with the Go San Francisco Card.</p>


Golden Gate Bay Cruise

<h3><strong>Hop-on Hop-off Big Bus San Francisco Tour</strong></h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fisherman&#39;s Wharf is also a pickup point for the famous Big Bus San Francisco tours, vehicles that provide convenient hop on and off service throughout the city.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/bus-tour/_attr_Sfo_Att_Hop_On_Hop_Off_Classic_Tour_1_Day_Ticket.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Big Bus San Francisco tickets</a>&nbsp;are included with the Go San Francisco Card. If you&#39;re looking for more information about how to explore San Francisco, including transportation information, check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/travel-guides/getting-around-san-francisco.html">Getting Around San Francisco guide</a>.</p>

<h2>Places to Eat Nearby</h2>

<p>If you choose not to eat at the Exploratorium itself, there are plenty of dining choices on the waterfront.</p>

<ul>
	<li>The nearby&nbsp;<strong>Grumpy&rsquo;s Restaurant &amp; Pub</strong>&nbsp;is a local favorite that serves classic pub fare plus a full breakfast menu.</li>
	<li>Or, choose something a bit more chic by dining at&nbsp;<strong>Caf&eacute; de Stijl</strong>, a casual eatery (owned &amp; designed by a local architect!) specializing in French fare.</li>
	<li>Looking to be right on the water? Head up to Pier 23 for the&nbsp;<strong>Pier 23 Caf&eacute;</strong>.</li>
</ul>

<h2>Save on Admission with a Go San Francisco Card</h2>

<p>Remember, the&nbsp;<strong>Go San Francisco&reg; Card</strong>&nbsp;is the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility, which includes&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/exploratorium/_attr_Sfo_Att_Exploratorium.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Exploratorium tickets</a>, plus admission to your choice of other top attractions. Save up to 55% on top museums, tours, and activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple San Francisco attractions for one low price.</p>


Buy Exploratorium tickets included in these Pass options. Make the most of your visit with these tips, highlights & discount tickets.

Exploratorium Discount Tickets & Tips - Save Up to 55% Off

Best Places for School Trips in San Francisco

<p>For San Francisco or Bay Area natives planning a school field trip, you&#39;ll find yourself faced with an abundance of attraction options. Whether you&#39;re completing a unit on sea creatures or encouraging their scientific explorations or even developing their artistic skills, San Francisco has a perfect school trip option for you. Looking for a place to take your kids that&#39;s both educational and enjoyable? Check out our list of top school-trip ideas in San Francisco, including:</p>

<ul>
	<li>California Academy of Sciences</li>
	<li>Aquarium of the Bay</li>
	<li>Exploratorium</li>
	<li>San Francisco Zoo &amp; Gardens</li>
	<li>San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)</li>
</ul>

<h2><strong>Save on San Francisco Field Trips</strong></h2>

<p>If you&#39;re looking to take your kids (or class!) on an awesome field trip in San Francisco, then you&#39;re probably also looking for a way to save on those often-pricey admission tickets. Pick up an all-inclusive Go San Francisco Card and save up to 60% on combined admission prices vs, paying at the gate See all included attractions, passes, and prices --&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/_d_Sfo-p1.html?pass=Sfo_Prod_Go" rel="noopener" target="_blank">learn more.</a></p>

<h2>California Academy of Sciences</h2>


<p>With a planetarium, a natural history museum, an aquarium and more, the 412,000-square-foot California Academy of Sciences might just be one of the most impressive museums in the country. In addition to those features, the California Academy of Sciences is also home to a two-and-a-half acre Living Roof, the deepest coral reef exhibit in the world, a four-story tropical rainforest, a spacious solar canopy, and a colony of African penguins. It&#39;s the perfect combo attraction to suit multiple scholastic interests!&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/california-academy-of-science/_attr_Sfo_Att_Cal_Academy_of_Science.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">California Academy of Sciences tickets</a>&nbsp;are included with the Go San Francisco Card.</p>


<p>There are few field trips as classic as a day spent at the aquarium. The Aquarium of the Bay is particularly appealing, too, for a number of reasons. For one, it focuses exclusively on the marine life of the San Francisco Bay, showcasing creatures great and small that call the waters around San Fran home. They also boast a 725-gallon tank filled with jellies, a massive, walk-through glass tunnel that features sharks, octopi, and much more, and a group of playful river otters.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/aquarium-of-the-bay/_attr_Sfo_Att_Aquarium_of_the_Bay.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Aquarium of the Bay tickets</a>&nbsp;are included with the Go San Francisco Card.</p>


<p>Quite rightly deserving the title of &quot;most experimental museum in the world,&quot; the Exploratorium is a fantastic educational destination in San Francisco. You&#39;ll be able to escort your class through galleries upon galleries of engaging, educational material, including more than 650 interactive exhibits. This field trip is probably best for elementary or middle-grade students.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/exploratorium/_attr_Sfo_Att_Exploratorium.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Exploratorium tickets</a>&nbsp;are included with the Go San Francisco Card.</p>


<p>A zoo is another fine choice for a class field trip and is suitable for students of all ages. Come to the San Francisco Zoo &amp; Gardens to visit more than 2,000 different critters, many of whom are endangered and several of whom have been rescued. Animals come from all over the world and include iconic favorites like zebras, kangaroos, grizzly bears, and many more. This zoo also earns the garden epithet with its 100 acres of flora featuring indigenous and acclimatized species.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/zoo-gardens/_attr_Sfo_Att_San_Francisco_Zoo_and_Gardens.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Francisco Zoo &amp; Gardens tickets</a>&nbsp;are included with the Go San Francisco Card.</p>


<p>This stellar modern art museum is a top field trip choice for schools going the cultural route. They offer a plethora of stunning exhibits of modern and contemporary art, much of which is produced by living artists. Special exhibitions also boast impressive themes and topics, including the current one on contemporary Chinese art. Please note that the SFMOMA is free for all visitors under 18; use the Go San Francisco Card to save on admission for the adults and chaperones in your group.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/san-francisco-museum-of-modern-art-moma/_attr_Sfo_Att_SFMOMA.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">SFMOMA tickets</a>&nbsp;are included with the Go San Francisco Card.</p>


<h2><strong>Don&#39;t Forget to Save on Admission to Top San Francisco Field Trip Attractions</strong></h2>

<p>There you have it -- a list of our favorite field trip attractions in San Francisco. Remember the Go San Francisco Card when you&#39;re budgeting for this trip, too! We even offer discounts for large group purchases.</p>


Whether you're looking for enriching programs for the arts, sciences, or anything in between, there are tons of options for San Francisco school field trips

Best Places for School Trips in San Francisco - Go City

San Francisco Labor Day Weekend – 10+ Fun Things to Do in September

<p>If you&#39;re spending Labor Day weekend in San Francisco, you won&#39;t be short of things to do. From live music to festivals and bike rides to cruises, celebrate the unofficial last few days of summer in San Francisco.</p>

<p>If you&rsquo;re looking for San Francisco Labor Day weekend ideas, check out some of these local activities and fun things do in San Francisco in September, including...</p>

<ul>
	<li>Bridge 2 Bridge Cruise</li>
	<li>Full Day Wine Country Tour</li>
	<li>Six Flags Discovery Kingdom</li>
	<li>Union Square Live</li>
	<li>And more!</li>
</ul>

<h2>Union Square Live</h2>


<p>Tango in the Square with Claudio Ortega and the Bay Area Argentine Tango Associaton. Members of the ensemble hail from Russia, Switzerland, Canada and the US; making this a diverse but also traditional Argentine Tango. You&#39;ll be cutting a rug in no time! Admission to Union Square Live is free.</p>


<h2>Shakespeare in the Park</h2>

<p>Take in a free performance of a classic play by the world-famous bard in the lovely McLaren Park. Put on by the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.sfshakes.org/performances/free-shakespeare-in-the-park-2022" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Francisco Shakespeare Festival</a>, these performances are a summer favorite with locals, with previous performances such as&nbsp;<em>Much Ado About Nothing</em>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<em>As You Like It</em>&nbsp;drawing throngs of crowds.</p>

<p>Shakespeare in the park is a lovely way to spend time in the sun while soaking up San Francisco theater.</p>

<h2>Sausalito Art Festival</h2>


<p>There are few things as quintessential summer as amusement parks or theme parks. There&rsquo;s something perfect about the roller coasters and Ferris wheels in the summer, especially on a warm afternoon. Take the kids to California&rsquo;s Great America for the afternoon of their lives, or to a place like Six Flags Discovery Kingdom to enjoy both thrill rides and educational fun.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/californias-great-america" rel="noopener" target="_blank">California&#39;s Great America tickets</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/six-flags-discovery-kingdom" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Six Flags Discovery Kingdom tickets</a>&nbsp;are included on the Go San Francisco pass.</p>


<p>At the Aquarium of the Bay, you&#39;ll find seven different habitats that represent the ecosystems of the bay area. A favorite of many visitors is the crystal-clear tunnels filled with 20,000 species of sea creatures.&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/aquarium-bay">Aquarium of the Bay tickets</a>&nbsp;are included on the Go San Francisco pass.</p>


<h2>Save on Attraction Admission</h2>

<p>There you go - plenty of fun ideas for things to do in&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Francisco</a>&nbsp;in September to help you plan your Labor Day weekend itinerary. Remember, some of these great attraction options are included on the Go San Francisco pass, where you can save on combined admission vs paying at the gate.</p>

<p>Please note, the Labor Day weekend events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed and not included with Go City&reg;. We hope you consider visiting some of these attractions to help round out your summer vacation in style.</p>


<p>If you&rsquo;re a fan of art, food, and/or music, this is the place for you. A massive festival that takes place every summer just a short trip across the bay, the Sausalito Art Festival is a celebration of all things creative. This three-day event showcases music from more than 10 different bands, tons of children&rsquo;s events, and features a plethora of visual arts on display.</p>

<p>Admission to the Sausalito Art Festival is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go San Francisco pass. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://sausalitoartfestival.org/">event website</a>.</p>


<p>Various cultural events from music and dance to kids shows will take place over the summer months. The Yerba Buena Gardens Festival is a fun and cultural way of celebrating Labor Day weekend.&nbsp;<a href="https://ybgfestival.org/">Check their website</a>&nbsp;for a full schedule of events.</p>

<p>What&#39;s more, admission to the Yerba Buena Gardens Festival is free.</p>


<h2>Architecture and The City</h2>

<h3>Throughout September Citywide</h3>

<p>Sponsored by AIA San Francisco, the largest architectural festival in the country hosts a number of great events on Labor Day Weekend. Enjoy professional architecture tours, film screenings, lectures, exhibitions, and much more.</p>

<p><strong>Top tip:&nbsp;</strong>Select Architecture and The City events are free; for those events that do require tickets, please visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.archandcity.org/">event website</a>.</p>

<h2>Millbrae Art &amp; Wine Festival</h2>

<p>One of the biggest street festivals in the area, the Millbrae Art &amp; Wine Festival is perfect for adults. This year they&rsquo;re celebrating their 49th year with tons of great events, exhibits, performances, and more. This Mardi Gras-style celebration is an exciting mix of food, wine, art, and music &ndash; don&rsquo;t miss out!</p>

<p>Admission to the Millbrae Art &amp; Wine Festival is free, although you do need to pay for select tastings.</p>

<h2>Go for a Bike Ride</h2>


<p>San Francisco&rsquo;s pleasant summer weather is just perfect for a relaxing bike ride. Use your pass to acces&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/all-day-comfort-bike-rental" rel="noopener" target="_blank">All-Day San Francisco Bike Rentals by Blazing Saddles</a>&nbsp;and pedal along the waterfront, or get a workout going up those infamous hills. If you aren&rsquo;t from the area and don&rsquo;t have your own bike, it couldn&rsquo;t be easier to rent one right from Fisherman&rsquo;s Wharf!</p>


<p>Enjoy the cool bay breezes aboard a relaxing cruise through the Golden Gate Bay and beyond. Choose from a wide variety of cruises &ndash; included some specially-themed summer ones &ndash; and take the whole family along. One of our favorites is the iconic Bridge 2 Bridge Cruise.</p>


<h2>Indulge in a Wine Country Tour</h2>

<p>You can&rsquo;t travel to San Francisco without paying a visit to their famed wine country. Hop aboard a bus pop down to Napa Valley and Sonoma and unleash your inner sommelier. Several wine tours even include transportation from main hubs like Fisherman&rsquo;s Wharf. Bonus, you can enjoy as many wine samples as you&rsquo;d like!&nbsp;<strong>Getting In:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/build-your-own/attractions/wine-country-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Weekday Napa and Sonoma Wine Country Tour tickets</a>&nbsp;are an option on the Go San Francisco pass - Build Your Own.</p>

<h2>Visit a Theme Park</h2>


Check out our favorite things to do in San Francisco in September and for Labor Day Weekend. Save on admission to many of these San Francisco attractions.

San Francisco Labor Day Weekend - 10+ Things to Do in San Francisco in September

Romantic Things to Do in San Francisco - Valentine's Day & More

<p>There are few places in the country as romantic as San Francisco. Sweeping ocean vistas, verdant wine country and charming historic city streets. If you&rsquo;re looking for a few specific ideas to make your perfect romantic getaway &ndash; whether it&rsquo;s for Valentine&rsquo;s Day or for any other special occasion &ndash; check out our favorite romantic things to do in San Francisco.</p>

<h2>Visit the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art</h2>


<p>This prestigious institution is practically unmatched when it comes to their outstanding collection of modern and contemporary art. The&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/attractions/museum-modern-art" rel="noopener" target="_blank">SFMOMA</a>&nbsp;is, in fact, the largest museum of its kind in the country, offering three times as much gallery space in this new incarnation. Some highlights of their collection include works by Alexander Calder, Paul Klee, Robert Rauschenberg and many more. You&#39;re also likely to encounter dozens of new and up-and-coming artists, particularly from the Bay Area, so keep an eye out for their exciting work.</p>


<h3><strong>Explore the Art World More</strong></h3>

<p>San Francisco has always been at the forefront of the artistic world, and the various art museums around the city are a perfect way to explore your artsy side. From animation to textiles and beyond, there&rsquo;s something for everyone. If you love classical sculpture and traditional painting, the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/attractions/de-young-museum" rel="noopener" target="_blank">de Young Museum</a>&nbsp;is a perfect fine arts destination. The de Young is also a fantastic architectural marvel in itself, so a visit here is a great chance to explore the building, too. Culture lovers will be fascinated by the unique offerings of&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/attractions/asian-art-museum" rel="noopener" target="_blank">the Asian Art Museum</a>. They boast more than 17,000+ works of art that cover a span of nearly 6,000 years of Asian history -- quite a collection. There&#39;s everything from sculpture and architecture to textiles and jewelry, so you&#39;re sure to see something that inspires you.</p>

<h2><strong>Indulge in a Wine Country Tour</strong></h2>

<p>A tour of Northern California Wine Country is a unique spin on the &ldquo;bottle of nice wine with dinner&rdquo; component to Valentine&rsquo;s Day. Instead of ordering on your waiter&rsquo;s recommendation, why not take a tour of Napa and Sonoma Valley and become a wine aficionado yourself? Sonoma and Napa are the premium wine grape growing areas of North America, and there are dozens of high profile and independent wineries to visit &ndash; not to mention the lush scenery perfect for that ideal couples photo. Tours can be informative, fun and a great way to get in the mood for love as you learn all about the most romantic beverage in the world.</p>

<h2><strong>Visit the California Academy of Sciences</strong></h2>


<p><a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/explorer/attractions/cal-academy-science" rel="noopener" target="_blank">The California Academy of Sciences</a>&nbsp;is renowned for its innovative exhibits, activities, and special events &ndash; and Valentine&rsquo;s Day is no exception. Each year, Academy biologists distribute hand-made valentines (crafted by visitors like you!) to each of the members of the African Penguin colony. Although the penguins ultimately use the valentines as nesting material, the gift itself promotes bonding between penguin couples: an important emotional bond for a species that is known to mate for life.</p>


<h2><strong>Hop Aboard a Cruise</strong></h2>


<p>This Valentine&rsquo;s Day, venture out in the world with a beautiful&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/attractions/bay-cruise-adventure" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Francisco Bay Cruise.</a>&nbsp;This one-hour tour sails directly under the Golden Gate Bridge, providing spectacular views of its unique architectural span. Then, you&rsquo;ll pass back into the Bay past Angel Island State Park and Sausalito, continuing on to Fisherman&rsquo;s Wharf and past the SS Jeremiah O&rsquo;Brien and USS Pampanito. Perfect for photo opportunities of you and your loved one as a way to commemorate your special day. Of course, if you really want to up the romance game, there are specific Valentine&#39;s Day cruises available with various amenities and special extras through several different tour companies, and they all offer beautiful scenery.</p>


<p>As you might expect in a city that calls the lovely Golden Gate Park home, there are plenty of natural beauties in San Francisco to please the nature-loving couples. At the San Francisco Conservatory of Flowers, you&rsquo;ll be dazzled by the hundreds of plant specimens that call this specular &ldquo;living museum&rdquo; home. From rare and beautiful tropical plants, to aquatic plants and special exhibits of regional flora, the Conservatory&rsquo;s collection is breathtaking. Another great natural option for exploring the creative varieties of nature in chilly February is the UC Berkeley Botanical Gardens. Spanning 34 acres and featuring more than an astonishing 12,000 different kinds of plants, this charming venue has much to offer for the floral fans.</p>


<p>Looking for something fun and playful this Valentine&#39;s Day? And an idea that still lets you see a bit of the city? Then try a Wharf and Waterfront Segway Tour -- voted the #1 Tour in San Francisco on TripAdvisor. This two and a half hour tour will escort you throughout the city&#39;s most popular neighborhoods and past all the big landmarks like Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, Little Italy in North Beach, and more. All on the delightfully charming Segway! Because this an adults-only tour, it&#39;s also a nice way to see the city without the kids (or even better, without other people&#39;s kids). Not quite sure about a Segway? How about a romantic&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/attractions/golden-gate-bridge-bike-tour-unlimited-biking" rel="noopener" target="_blank">bike ride around Golden Gate Park,</a>&nbsp;with stunning views of the bridge.</p>


<h2><strong>Enjoy a Romantic Dinner</strong></h2>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Who doesn&rsquo;t love a delicious dinner? It&rsquo;s even better when it&rsquo;s spent in the company of your loved one, perhaps with some nice champagne and a delicious chocolate dessert. Fortunately for you, San Fran has a fabulous dining scene, drawing from global cultures and locally sourced ingredients. You&rsquo;ll find excellent meals ranging from elegant and high end to laid back but still delicious all over the city, but some of our favorite areas to look for great restaurants include SoMA, the Mission District, and the Richmond.</p>

<h2><strong>Take in a Show</strong></h2>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>San Francisco has a fantastic theatre scene, from the grand and glamorous San Francisco Ballet to the funky indie theaters that populate areas like Haight-Ashbury and the Mission District. Remember to purchase tickets in advance, as going to a play or other performance is a popular Valentine&rsquo;s Day tradition, whether you&#39;re going on February 14 or the weekends before and after.</p>

<h2><strong>Save on Admission</strong></h2>

<p>We hope you&rsquo;ve been inspired to try one &ndash; or a few! &ndash; of our favorite romantic things to do in San Francisco. Whether you love wine country or the city itself, high romance or quirky fun, there&rsquo;s something to please every couple. Remember, some of these great options are included with an&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/all-inclusive" rel="noopener" target="_blank">All-Inclusive</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/explorer" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Explorer Pass</a>&nbsp;from<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us" rel="noopener" target="_blank">&nbsp;Go City</a>. Save up to 60% as you discover hidden gems, and bucket list attractions.</p>


Check out these fun ideas for romantic things to do in San Francisco for Valentine's Day. Save up to 55% on admission to many of these top attractions.

10+ Romantic Things to Do in San Francisco - Valentine's Day

California Academy of Sciences vs. Aquarium of the Bay

<p>San Francisco is lucky to be home to not one, but two excellent marine life attractions in the California Academy of Sciences and the Aquarium of the Bay. If you&rsquo;re trying to compare the California Academy of Sciences vs the Aquarium of the Bay, we&rsquo;ve put together a handy guide to help you consider which attraction appeals to you the most. Visit one, or check them both out. Both attractions are located in San Francisco proper, and each offers a world-class aquarium experience, although the California Academy of Sciences also includes a rainforest, a living roof, a digital planetarium, and more. For your convenience, we&rsquo;ve put together a list of the more nuanced differences and similarities between the two attractions, arranged by:</p>

<ul>
	<li>What&rsquo;s Included with General Admission</li>
	<li>Location</li>
	<li>Comparing Exhibits</li>
	<li>Tips for Visiting</li>
</ul>

<h2><strong>Thinking about Visiting the California Academy of Sciences and/or the Aquarium of the Bay?</strong></h2>


<p>Save up to 60% on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/california-academy-of-science/_attr_Sfo_Att_Cal_Academy_of_Science.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">admission to the California Academy of Sciences</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/aquarium-of-the-bay/_attr_Sfo_Att_Aquarium_of_the_Bay.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">admission to the Aquarium of the Bay</a>&nbsp;with an all-inclusive Go San Francisco&reg; Card. Visit either, or visit them both, and save on combined admission prices. You can also choose from nearly 30 other top San Francisco area attractions to build your ideal vacation in the City by the Bay</p>


<h2><strong>What&rsquo;s Included with General Admission</strong><strong>California Academy of Sciences General Admission</strong></h2>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>Access to the Steinhart Aquarium</li>
	<li>Access to the Morrison Planetarium</li>
	<li>Access to the Osher Rainforest</li>
	<li>Access to the Kimball Natural History Museum</li>
</ul>

<h2><strong>Aquarium of the Bay General Admission</strong></h2>


<p>Access to all regular exhibits, including:</p>

<ul>
	<li>Discover the Bay</li>
	<li>Go With the Flow</li>
	<li>Under the Bay</li>
	<li>Touch the Bay</li>
	<li>River Otters</li>
</ul>


<h2><strong>Location</strong></h2>

<p><strong>California Academy of Sciences:&nbsp;</strong>Located in the east end of Golden Gate Park, near the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/de-young-museum/_attr_Sfo_Att_de_Young_Museum.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">de Young Museum</a>, the Conservatory of Flowers, and the San Francisco Botanical Garden.&nbsp;<strong>Aquarium of the Bay:&nbsp;</strong>Located in the Embarcadero area, on Pier 39, near a number of restaurants, several shops, and departure points for selected cruises.</p>

<h2><strong>Comparing Exhibits</strong></h2>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the most basic level, the California Academy of Sciences offers more exhibits than the Aquarium of the Bay, and on more diverse topics. This means that their primary focus is not aquatic or marine life, but this isn&rsquo;t to say that they aren&rsquo;t experts on the subject. In fact, while the Steinhart Aquarium is only one portion of the California Academy of Sciences, it still encompasses more marine specimens than the Aquarium of the Bay overall. (A current estimate puts the number of marine specimens in the Steinhart Aquarium at around 40,000 &ndash; from 900 different species &ndash; while the number of marine specimens in the Aquarium of the Bay comes to a bit over 20,000.) The other major difference, as you might guess, is that the Aquarium of the Bay focuses exclusively on marine life that can be naturally found in the San Francisco Bay. This limits their focus a bit, but it also allows for more depth for visitors specifically interested in the flora and fauna of the region.</p>

<h2><strong>California Academy of Sciences Exhibits</strong></h2>


<p><strong>Steinhart Aquarium Highlights</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Philippine Coral Reef:</strong>&nbsp;one of the deepest and largest displays of live coral in the entire world. This features a fun new &ldquo;Hidden Reef&rdquo; section that showcases tiny reef inhabitants.</li>
	<li><strong>Discovery Tidepool:&nbsp;</strong>Part of the larger California Coast exhibit, this interactive section showcases a very changeable environment that&rsquo;s only home to the hardiest, most adaptable creatures.</li>
	<li><strong>Northern California Coast:</strong>&nbsp;A 100,000-gallon tank that is designed to recreate the Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary. Here you can peer in from a surface walkway above or look into the tank from below the surface.</li>
	<li><strong>African Penguins:&nbsp;</strong>This thriving penguin colony is one of the California Academy of Sciences&rsquo; most popular exhibits. If you adore them after your visit, you can also check them out on one of three live penguin cams.</li>
	<li><strong>Water Planet:&nbsp;</strong>A fascinating exhibition combining shifting collections of marine critters that have adapted to unique environments through distinctive biological shifts. You&rsquo;ll see jellies, seahorse, pythons, and more.</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>Morrison Planetarium Highlights</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>Periodically changing films that are projected on the digital planetarium roof.</li>
	<li>A &ldquo;virtual cosmos&rdquo; that highlights the latest findings in the scientific world.</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>Osher Rainforest Highlights</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>Located inside a dome, the rainforest stretches 90 feet above ground level.</li>
	<li>An elevator will take you from the canopy to four stories below to the Amazon flooded rainforest.</li>
	<li>Highlights include vibrant butterflies and striking tropical flora.</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>Kimball Natural History Museum Highlights</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Tusher African Hall:&nbsp;</strong>See striking dioramas that recreate grand African landscapes while retelling the early history of the human race.</li>
	<li><strong>Giants of Land and Sea:&nbsp;</strong>This exciting, interactive exhibit showcases massive natural phenomena, including redwoods and marine mammals.</li>
	<li><strong>Gems and Minerals Unearthed:&nbsp;</strong>Featuring more than 400 gorgeous specimens from the Academy&rsquo;s collections, this exhibit is visually inspiring.</li>
	<li><strong>Foucault Pendulum:&nbsp;</strong>A unique invention that indicates the rotation of the earth through its own mechanical movement, the Foucault pendulum has been a part of the collection since the original Academy.</li>
</ul>


<h2><strong>Aquarium of the Bay Exhibits</strong></h2>


<ul>
	<li><strong>Discover the Bay:&nbsp;</strong>The first introduction to the San Francisco Bay ecosystem, this exhibit features seven different themed habitats, including the &ldquo;Beauties of the Bay,&rdquo; which showcases the most visually appealing and colorful specimens. You&rsquo;ll also see &ldquo;Bay Babies,&rdquo; which features little newborns beneath the waves.</li>
	<li><strong>Go With the Flow:&nbsp;</strong>This marks the transition to Under the Bay, and is comprised of two massive tanks: a 725-gallon tank that showcases moon jellies and a 740-gallon tank displaying Pacific Sea Nettles. You&rsquo;ll learn all about the weird and wonderful jellies, of which there are more than 200 different species worldwide!</li>
	<li><strong>Under the Bay:</strong>&nbsp;Comprised of 300 feet of acrylic tunnels filled with water, this exhibit makes you feel like you&rsquo;re walking underneath the waves. You&rsquo;ll see different tunnels featuring various marine creatures, such as the Near Shore Tunnel, which includes sea animals that in the shallow depths of the Bay. Then, the Alcatraz Tunnel is filled with sharks!</li>
	<li><strong>Touch the Bay:&nbsp;</strong>This interactive area of the aquarium provides visitors with the opportunity to touch and feel various creatures. In the Touchpools, you&rsquo;ll find sea stars, sea cucumbers, skates, and even small sharks. Then, in the Bay Labs, visitors can see land animals whose environments are being impacted by climate change.</li>
	<li><strong>River Otters:&nbsp;</strong>Home to four playful river otters &ndash; Shasta, Ryer, Baxter, and Tahoe &ndash; this exhibit highlights their distinctive behaviors and unique environments.</li>
</ul>


<h2><strong>Tips for Visiting Each Attraction</strong><strong>Tips for Visiting the California Academy of Sciences</strong></h2>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>The California Academy of Sciences offers two dining options: the casual Academy Caf&eacute; and the more elevated Terrace Restaurant. Both require paid admission to the attraction to dine at.</li>
	<li>You also have the option of exploring the Academy Store, which offers a wide selection of apparel, toys &amp; games, books, figurines, scientific content, and much more.</li>
	<li>They also offer periodic talks on accessible and exciting scientific topics. These talks are sometimes ticketed, and sometimes open to the public, but all are inspiring.</li>
	<li>Visitors can also choose to update to a specialty tour, like a Behind-The-Scenes tour, a NightLife VIP Tour, or an Animal Encounter. These options offer personalized, hands-on experiences to guests.</li>
	<li>It takes about 3 hours to cover the entire Academy, but maybe an hour and a half to cover just the Aquarium portion.</li>
</ul>

<h2><strong>Tips for Aquarium of the Bay</strong></h2>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>Did you know that the Aquarium of the Bay is located right near a rare urban sea lion colony? Check them out by visiting the Sea Lion Center by K-Dock.</li>
	<li>There&rsquo;s no parking provided at the Aquarium of the Bay, so be prepared to pay for street or off-street public parking. Or, you can take public transit to avoid the bad traffic and expensive parking fees.</li>
	<li>It takes approximately 90 minutes to walk through all exhibits, so plan accordingly.</li>
	<li>Outside food is not permitted in the aquarium, but you can bring bottled water, etc.</li>
	<li>The Aquarium of the Bay also hosts frequent special events that you might want to check out during your visit. Although not typically included in general admission, these events can make a vacation truly special.</li>
</ul>

<h2><strong>In Summary (The Biggest Differences)</strong></h2>


<p>Essentially, you&rsquo;ll find that the differences between the two attractions are pretty straightforward. The Steinhart Aquarium at the California Academy of Sciences is only one part of what it has to offer, but it is a significant focus. It&rsquo;s also larger with more animals than the Aquarium of the Bay. Conversely, the Aquarium of the Bay has a local focus that the Academy lacks, making a visit there a handy learning experience for those looking to really explore the San Francisco Bay marine life.</p>


<h2><strong>Visit the California Academy of Sciences and the Aquarium of the Bay and Save on Admission</strong></h2>

<p>If you&rsquo;re an aquarium lover, then you&rsquo;ll for sure want to check out one (or both!) of these amazing attractions. Each of these aquariums has plenty to offer for fans of marine life, although they have important differences between them, too. Don&rsquo;t forget to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smartdestinations.com/san-francisco-attractions-and-tours/_d_Sfo-p1.html?pass=Sfo_Prod_Go">save on admission to the California Academy of Sciences and the Aquarium of the Bay</a>&nbsp;with an all-inclusive Go San Francisco&reg; Card. Save up to 60% on combined admission vs. paying at the gate. Happy exploring!</p>


San Francisco is home to two excellent marine life attractions - compare the California Academy of Sciences vs the Aquarium of the Bay.

Getting Around San Francisco - How to Get Around San Francisco for Tourists

<p>Heading to the City by the Bay? We put together a go-to guide packed with information for getting around San Francisco and beyond, including getting to and from the airport. Downtown San Francisco is easy to navigate.</p>

<p>It&rsquo;s compact and fairly walkable, with multiple easy-to-use public transit options. However, due to its windy, hilly streets and pricy parking, driving around San Francisco is not recommended unless you plan on traveling outside the city itself. Even still, the area&rsquo;s regional rail system is affordable and very accessible, making it a great alternative to driving.</p>

<p>Planning to see lots of San Francisco attractions? Check out the pass for&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/all-inclusive/pricing" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Francisco</a>&nbsp;by Go City&reg; &ndash; the more you do, the more you save.</p>

<h3>Around the City with Muni</h3>


<p>Muni service includes local buses, F-line, Vintage Trolley Cars, Historic Cable Cars, and light rail, which have routes to/from Fisherman&rsquo;s Wharf, Union Square, Golden Gate Park, Chinatown, SOMA district, and more.</p>

<p>Bus and rail rides are detailed on the mobile app MuniMobile. With your fare receipt, you can ride for 90 minutes on any combination of buses and light rail. Multi-day passes are also available and you can also get Historic Cable Car tickets.</p>

<p>To get to Golden Gate Park, take Muni buses #5, #21, or the Muni-Metro N-Judah Streetcar from Market Street. Lincoln Park is accessible by bus #38.</p>

<p>Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.sfmta.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">sfmta.com</a>&nbsp;for up-to-date fares and trip planners.</p>


<h3>Muni&#39;s F-Line</h3>

<p>The historic trolley cars of the F-line are vintage electric rail cars which serve the City&rsquo;s main artery, Market Street, and its grand waterfront boulevard, the Embarcadero. These amazing trolleys will take visitors to popular tourist attractions like Fisherman&rsquo;s Wharf, the Embarcadero, the Ferry Building, and Market Street, just a short walk from Union Square and SOMA district.</p>

<h3>Historic Cable Cars</h3>

<p>Much like the F-line street cars, Cable Cars are a big part of San Francisco&rsquo;s transportation history. Today there are 3 cable car lines still working: Powell-Mason Line, Powell-Hyde Line, and the California Street Line. The Cable Car Turnaround (located on Powell Street) is actually an attraction in itself, so even if you aren&#39;t riding the Cable Cars, it&#39;s worth some time to stroll over there and watch them for a bit.</p>

<h3>Walking &amp; Biking</h3>


<p>Although San Francisco is notoriously hilly, its neighborhoods are dense and close together, making them easy to explore on foot if you&rsquo;re dedicated to a bit of exercise. Although you should use caution when walking at night and in downtown neighborhoods (as you would in any major city), the city is safe and very pedestrian-friendly.</p>

<p>If you prefer a more adventurous route, consider bringing or&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/all-day-comfort-bike-rental" rel="noopener" target="_blank">renting a bike</a>&nbsp;&ndash; whizzing down those hills will be a blast! Explore the city by neighborhood, see top attractions and discover your own unexpected sights and hidden gems.</p>


<p>Taxis are generally not a good option in San Francisco. They can be tough to find unless you&rsquo;re in major downtown areas and they are really quite pricey. Although they can be a great way to get between destinations if you don&rsquo;t want to hassle of figuring out directions yourself, you&rsquo;re probably better off taking public transit or, if you need to travel further away, renting a car.</p>


<h3>Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tours</h3>

<p>You can also opt for a&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/san-francisco/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/big-bus-san-francisco" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Hop On Hop Off Big Bus San Francisco Tour</a>&nbsp;to see the sites at your own pace. Please note, the hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour is a great way to get acquainted with the city, but should not be relied on as a mode of transportation.</p>

<h3>Outside the City</h3>

<p>Bay Area Rapid Transit or BART links the downtown area with the peninsula to the south, including SFO International Airport, and with the East Bay including Berkeley and Oakland. Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.bart.gov/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">bart.gov</a>&nbsp;for the most current information.</p>

<h3>Parking</h3>

<p>As you might expect in a compact and busy urban center like San Francisco, parking is difficult to find and expensive. Garages charge steep fees for daily parking and street parking enforcement is tough. And remember, if you end up parking on a hill, be sure to use your parking brake!</p>

<h2>Getting To San Francisco</h2>


<h3>By Plane</h3>

<p>San Francisco is actually serviced by a number of area airports. The primary airport is San Francisco International, but Oakland International in the East Bay and San Jose International, just an hour north of San Francisco, are good options as well. Oakland and San Jose offer more discount airfares, but SFO offers more international flights.</p>

<p>Both San Francisco International and Oakland are connected to downtown via the BART system. It&rsquo;s a brief walk or quick shuttle ride to the BART station from SFO, and a short train ride to the Coliseum BART station from Oakland. If you&rsquo;re coming into San Jose, hop on the Caltrain, which links up with the BART system at Millbrae.</p>

<h3>By Train</h3>

<p>Several Amtrak routes serve the Bay Area, including the California Zephyr, the Coast Starlight, the Capitol Corridor, and the San Joaquins. Trains arrive in Emeryville (a small city on the bay adjacent to San Fran) or Jack London Square Station (in Oakland). Again, Caltrain and BART are also regional rail options if you&rsquo;re coming from the area.</p>

<h3>By Bus</h3>

<p>Buses are a little tricky, as there is no centralized bus depot in San Francisco. They are predominantly used by locals or those visiting from the surrounding towns, so if you&rsquo;re staying elsewhere in California and are just popping down to San Francisco, they may be a good choice.</p>

<p>Some options you might consider include the Bolt Bus, Greyhound, California Shuttle Bus, or Megabus (many of which are national companies with good reputations). For someone truly unfamiliar with the area, however, we recommend sticking with the rail options.</p>


Heading to the City by the Bay? We put together a go-to guide packed with information for getting around San Francisco and beyond, including getting to and from the airport. Downtown San Francisco is easy to navigate.

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