San Francisco is a city that sends an open invitation to everyone, whether you live in the bay area or are traveling through California. The best moments in San Francisco may be found in the favorite hotspots and the national parks, which invite everyone to join in. Get ready to try a “shrimp walkaway” on Fisherman’s Wharf or examine the pre-Depression architecture of the Golden Gate Theater. Walk through Chinatown and choose delicious entrees you’ve never heard of and saunter through the Victorian Ladies neighborhood, where sculptured homes are beautifully arranged like icing on a cake. There are endless possibilities for seeing, engaging and fully enjoying San Francisco. Check out the following best national parks in the bay area and some favorite San Francisco hotspots.
1. John Muir National Historic Site
Your first stop in the San Francisco Bay should rightly be a visit to the John Muir National Historic Site. After all, John Muir was the founder of the National Parks System and the dedicated conservationist who paved the way for over 431 parks and 150 related areas to be carefully acquired and held in the United States for visitors now and in the future. Lace up your walking shoes and don your sunglasses to visit Muir Woods National Monument, housed in a beautiful 558-acre conservation area of the last remaining redwood trees of the San Francisco area.
- Website: www.nps.gov/jomu/index.htm
- Address: 4202 Alhambra Ave, Martinez, CA 94553
- Phone: 925-228-8860
2. Golden Gate Theater
This theater is a “favorite of the city,” offering an intoxicating array of touring plays, Broadway shows, and operas. Near Union Square, the theater boasts almost 3,000 seats and distinctive architecture that calls out for instagram-worthy pictures from inside and outside. Enjoy elaborate settings and unforgettable shows, music and talent at the Golden Gate Theater.
- Website: https://www.goldengatetheatresf.com/
- Address: Golden Gate Theatre, 1 Taylor Street, San Francisco, California 94102
- Phone: 888-746-1799
3. Sutro Baths & Lands End
Undoubtedly, the best ocean view on the western edge of the United States, the Sutro Baths in the Lands End area is one favorite hotspots of San Francisco. Almost completely obscured by years of ocean water and shifting sands, the Sutro Baths once housed seven bathing pools, each featuring varying temperatures to meet each customer’s preference. In addition, an aquarium and seating areas provided the ultimate in seaside enjoyment and comfort for customers. Constructed in 1894, a walk to the main area of the Sutro Baths ruins is a piece of the fascinating history of San Francisco. The property and ruins are now managed by the National Parks Service.
- Website: www.nps.gov/places/000/sutro-baths.htm
- Address: 1004 Point Lobos Avenue, San Francisco, California 94121
- Phone: n/a
4. Walk or Roller Skate Across the Golden Gate Bridge
Stunning views and the low price (free!) of walking or skating across the Golden Gate Bridge calls to visitors from all over the world. One side of the bridge features an excellent and safe-from-traffic walking path, which invites roller skates, bicycles, or feet along this almost 9,000 foot bridge. Wear a hood or hat to protect yourself from the windy conditions and plan on at least 1-2 hours to get across the bridge. Watch for bicyclists and non-motorized scooters as you walk and try to avoid the busiest hours of the bridge, late-morning to early evening.
- Website: www.goldengate.org
- Address: GoldenGatebrg. San Francisco, California
- Phone: +1 415-921-5858
5. Pinnacles National Park
If you enjoy hiking in any form, short or long, beginner or expert, you’ll want to visit Pinnacles National Park while in the San Francisco area. This volcanic rock park is packed with interesting and unusual geo-finds of all kinds. Check out the Visitors Center, camping and the talus caves while you’re there. And, if you like to camp out, make a reservation and view millions of stars in the clear night sky.
- Website: www.nps.gov/pinn/index.htm
- Address: 5000 East Entrance Road, Paicines, CA 95043
- Phone: 831-389-4486
6. Lombard Street
Without a doubt the most enjoyable street in San Francisco, Lombard Street is well-known as “The Crookedest Street in the World.” If you plan on driving along the continually zigzag street, you’ll want to go slowly, both to enjoy the street and the views, as well as to watch the road carefully. Because it is a popular street on which to drive, try to avoid the busier times of the days: mid-morning to early afternoon.
Address: 1098 Lombard Street, San Francisco, California
7. Bernal Heights Park
This park with outstanding sunset views of the San Francisco Bay is a natural refuge in the city of San Francisco. Although it is often foggy on Twin Peaks by mid-to-late afternoon, the sky is clear on the sunny south side and the scenic wildlife is beautiful to enjoy. One of the finest city parks, Bernal Heights Park is located within the busy Bernal Heights district and is known to be a quiet space for people who live and work in the vibrant city.
Address: Bernal Heights Park, Bernal Heights Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94110
8. Palace of Fine Arts
Built in 1915 for the Panama-Pacific Exhibition, this gorgeous site is nestled within the Golden Gate Park in San Francisco. The park itself is filled with beauty at every turn; however, this little gem of a rotunda demonstrates the very best of the Greco-Roman style popular in the early 1900s. Take a picnic and sit on a grassy stretch next to the building while you admire the lines and spectacular architecture and don’t forget to check out the surrounding beauty of areas nearby.
- Website: https://palaceoffinearts.com/
- Address: 3601 Lyon Street, San Francisco, California 94123
- Phone: +1 415-360-3731
9. Sunset Night Market
Building on the popular Thai attraction, the Sunset Night Market is a local gathering of purveyors of fine food, artwork, and community organizers. Children are invited to face painting, games and prizes, while families share desserts, Asian treats, and organic foods of all regions. This is a neighborhood event that occurs only on select Friday nights and is growing in popularity. Parking may be limited, but the visit is well worth the enjoyment.
- Website: https://sunsetmercantilesf.com/sunset-night-market/
- Address: Irving St, 19th to 26th
- Phone: 707-582-0566
10. Napa Valley
Technically, not in San Francisco Bay, but the Napa Valley is mere miles away and offers the experience of a lifetime. Nestled among valley oaks, vineyards and golden leaves, the valley boasts wineries and specialty stores all along the way. In addition, you’ll find fantastic eateries and fine dining to partner with those fine wines. Check local farmers markets and fairs for special events and stop at any number of wineries to enjoy a tasting along the way. The Crush, which occurs each fall season, is the busiest; reservations for dining and tasting would be the best choice overall. In the winter, when the vineyards are dormant, life moves more slowly and the tasting rooms aren’t as busy. Spring and summer bring warmer weather and sunny gatherings outside the wineries.
- Website: www.visitnapavalley.com
- Address: Check local map for winery information
- Phone: n/a