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Walking Tour of San Francisco with Ferry Cruise & Sausalito experiences

35+ Attraction, Downhill Walking Tour Itinerary:

• Start at: The Ferry Building (Meet outside)
• Grace Cathedral
• Fairmont Historic Hotel
• Cable Car Barn Museum & Powerhouse (Tour inside)
• 1906 Earthquake Exhibition
• Chinatown (Full guided walk)
• Fortune Cookie Factory
• Transamerica Pyramid
• Ferry Building (Tour inside)
• Ferry Cruise to Sausalito (Walking tour customers)
• Sausalito (Time for exploring, Lunch)
• Ferry Cruise Back to San Francisco (25 minutes)
• Tour Ends at: The Ferry Building

Tour Benefits:

• Experienced, Knowledgeable Tour Guide.
• Only Downhill walks. No Uphill.
• Golden Gate Bridge included (see from Ferry Cruise).
• Ferry Cruise to/from Sausalito.
• See Alcatraz close up from Ferry Cruise.
• Visit Sausalito (small Mediterranean town with great SF views).
• Ferry Cruise offers outside and inside seating.
• Ride the famous Cable Car (fee not included).

Customers of this Tour Like/Want:

• More outdoor experiences.
• Unique, creative tour stops.
• Ferry / Bay Cruise.
• To avoid the crowds.
• Freedom of a walking tour.
• No uphill walking.

Ferry Cruise to/from Sausalito included in itinerary:

Take a 25-minute ferry cruise from The San Francisco Ferry Building to and from Sausalito on this tour. The sausalito ferry goes right by Alcatraz and the boat often slows down so you can get great views of Alcatraz Island. You will also get water views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Timing & Pricing

• Start Time: Daily at 9am
• Tour Duration: 5 hours
• Start location: The Ferry Building (Meet out in front)
• Available: 7 days a week
• Tour Type: Downhill walking Tour of San Francisco with Ferry Cruise & Sausalito experiences

Available San Francisco Tours:

Premium San Francisco Walking Tour

Muir Woods Tours

Muir woods tour.

This Muir Woods Tour is the only Redwood Tour that uses a Separate Tour Guide from Driver and stays longest in Muir Woods (90 minutes). This tour is also unique in that it goes to Marin Headlands (see below) to see the most majestic views of the Golden Gate Bridge (a very rare stop). You will also go to Sausalito, Muir Beach Overlook and a 25-minute Ferry/Bay Cruise. More tour details »

• Start at : The Ferry Building
• Muir Woods National Park (90 minutes)
• Sausalito (approximately 1 hour)
• Ferry/Bay Cruise (25 minutes)
• End at : The Ferry Building

Tour Benefits

• Includes Muir Woods Entry Ticket!
• Separate Tour Guide from Bus Driver. This benefit is crucial for a Muir Woods Tour – where guiding is prohibited in the park. Our Tour Guide will get to offer you face-to-face interaction so you can ask all of the questions before and after our stop in Muir Woods. This is better than looking at the back of your bus driver’s head on other tours.
• More Tour Stops are offered on this Muir Woods tour than any other comparable tour. It’s not just a Muir Woods tour! We also stop at Sausalito and include a ferry cruise.
• Ferry/Bay Cruise. Includes Ferry Cruise ticket costs! Get back from Muir Woods to San Francisco with a Ferry/Bay Cruise that goes right by Alcatraz Island (stones throw away). We are only tour operator that includes this ferry cruise in the itinerary!

Muir Woods 2018!

Available Muir Woods Tours and Combo Tours

• Muir Woods Tour Book Tour More Tour Details

Alcatraz Tours

Alcatraz Penitentiary was truly "The Rock," where America sent the worst of the worst criminals from 1934-1966.

Public enemies like Scarface Al Capone, Machine Gun Kelly, Creepy Karpis, and the Birdman (Robert Stroud) all learned this first hand. People on the outside have always been fascinated with Alcatraz. Visitors peered at Alcatraz through telescopes when the prisoners were there, and ever since it was opened to tours, thousands of visitors have come every year.

San Francisco Comprehensive Shuttle Tours can get Alcatraz Tickets sometimes even at last minute, and we can arrange these for guests who buy our 5 our Premium City Tour (9am).

Morning Combo Tour

• Start at : Alcatraz Landing (Arrive at 8:30am) Pier 33
• 9am Sailing to Alcatraz
• Alcatraz (2+ Hours)
• Walk or F-line Train from Pier 33 to Ferry Building
• Board Shuttle Bus at 2pm
• Fisherman's Wharf
• Nob Hill (Guided Walk)
• Cable Car Museum
• Lombard Street (Guided Downhill Walk)
• Golden Gate Bridge (20 minute stop)
• Palace of Fine Arts
• Tour ends at Ferry Building or Fisherman's Wharf

Afternoon Combo Tour

• Start from: The Ferry Building (9am)
• Sausalito (time for lunch, shopping and exploring)
• Golden Gate Bridge
• Chinatown (Guided Walk)
• Ferry/Bay Cruise Included
• Walk or F-line Train to Pier 33
• Alcatraz Ferry from Pier 33 - departs at: 3:20pm or 3:50pm (tickets included in price)
• Alcatraz (2 hours)

* This tour has a 25-minute Ferry/Bay Cruise

• Award winning audio tour of the Alcatraz cell house, featuring interviews with former guards and former prisoners
• Possibility of meeting an actual Alcatraz guard or ex-prisoner, who are often on the island to talk to visitors
• Learn about the 1962 escape that was featured in the movie Escape from Alcatraz. Decide for yourself if they really made it or not!
• Man-eating sharks? Dungeons? Executions? Learn for yourself what was real and what is only legend
• Step inside an actual Alcatraz prison cell to have your photograph taken, including their famous "Hole", which was reserved only for the very worst criminals
• Incredible views of San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge from Alcatraz Island
• Beautiful gardens that were planted by prisoners and are now being restored by volunteers
• Large colonies of nesting seabirds such as gulls, cormorants, and night herons

Available Alcatraz Tours and Combo Tours

Alcatraz Island Tickets

Yosemite by Motorcoach Tour

See yosemite in 1 day by motorcoach.

Safest Yosemite Tour Around. More Free Time in Yosemite. Expert Separate Tour Guide (not a bus driver guide). Lowest Cost Tour. Comfortable Bus. Sightseeing Stops in Valley Floor. More Free Time in Yosemite!

13.5 Hours Tour Itinerary

• Start at: The Ferry Building (San Francisco 7:00am)
• Bus Ride to Yosemite (2 Hours)
• Break for Breakfast (cost not included)
• Bus Ride to Yosemite (1.5 Hours)
• Arrive Yosemite National Park
• See: Half Dome
• Bridal Veil Falls
• Sentinel Bridge
• Tunnel View
• Yosemite Falls
• Free Time in Valley Floor (2 Hours )
• Bus Ride Back (4 Hours)
• DROP OFF AT: San Francisco Area Hotels*: (10:30pm ) — Fisherman's Wharf – Financial District – Union Square

* If they prefer, customers can also be dropped off at a Taxi stand to get to their hotel.

Safest Yosemite Tour Around

Our Driver does not drive more than 7 hours per day compared to other companies work their drivers 12 to 14 hours and require naps.

You will have one Driver the way up to Yosemite Valley and then a new, well-rested driver, who stayed-over the night before, will be your driver on the way home.

Other Tour Benefits

• More Free Time in Yosemite.
• Expert Separate Tour Guide (not a bus driver guide).
• Lowest Cost Tour. No need for Driver and Guide OT. We pass savings to you.
• Comfortable Bus.
• No Third Party Tour Company! Many Tour operators are running the same itinerary and passing you off to a brand you didn't book with.

Tour Details

• 16 Potential Tour Stops
• See the Entire City in a full day
• Get off the shuttle at any of 16 stops, catch the next shuttle
• We use 16 Passenger Sprinters, 30 Passenger Shuttles - - much smaller, more intimate than 70 passenger Huge Hopper Buses in SF
• Our 16 Passenger Sprinters are really small; our 30 Passenger Shuttles are decked out with wood-flooring and phone charging stations
• Temperature Controlled inside (Winter or Summer benefits)
• You can actually hear the PA announcer (Tour Guide) on this tour (big benefit)

Available Yosemite Tours

Yosemite Tour

Robert Mondavi Tour

Napa experience tour w/ robert mondavi winery.

Only the Wine Country Tour Shuttle visits the great Robert Mondavi winery for guests traveling from San Francisco. Just like the Wine Country Tour Shuttles regular tour, this tour boasts: Ferry/Bay Cruise, 4 winery stops and a picnic lunch in Napa Valley. The difference with this tour is that Robert Mondavi winery is a guaranteed stop.

• Shuttle to Napa Valley  (over the Golden Gate Bridge)
• Domain Chandon Winery - Napa Valley
• Bouchon Pastry & Coffee Shop
• Robert Mondavi Winery - Napa Valley
• V. Sattui Winery - Winery of the year
• Picnic Lunch in Napa Valley
• St. Clair Brown Brewery & Winery w/ Winery Tour
• Break at OxBow Market
• Ferry/Bay Cruise to San Francisco
• Ends at : The Ferry Building

Available Tours

Napa Tour from San Francisco with Premium Wineries and Flexible Itinerary

Combo Tour of Napa and Sonoma

Premium Napa Tours from Napa Valley

Private Tours

San francisco private tours.

You actually save money (in most cases) with a San Francisco Private Tour. Medium to larger sized groups actually enjoy the benefits of a lower price per person for tours of all types when they come in larger numbers.

Further, with private tours of San Francisco you really do get first class treatment ranging from 1) A before tour discussion with your tour guide is customary 2) San Francisco hotel pickup and drop-off 3) change the itinerary anyway you wish 4) Include lunch in the overall price of the tour. Basically, whatever you want is our command with a private tour.

Tour Highlights

Choose your own tour times, Change the itinerary!, Free San Francisco Hotel Pickup and Drop-off, Free Refreshments (bottled-water), Bathrooms on board available upon request for buses, Separate Tour Guide from Driver.

Available Private Tours an Combo Tours

Private San Francisco City Tour

Private Alcatraz Island Tickets

Private Muir Woods Tour

Private Napa Valley Wine Country Tour

Private Monetery / Carmel Tours

Must See & Do in San Francisco

Take the san francisco city tour.

Look for SF city tours that offer more stops and visit more than the most known landmarks in San Francisco. We recommend the SF Premium City Tour with Ferry!

Visit the Wine Country - Don't drive your first time!

We don't recommend drinking and driving thus, we don't recommend renting a car to go to Napa or Sonoma. Go on a bus tour from San Francisco that visits great wineries and has lots of variety during the tour.

Don't Miss The Redwoods - Go to Muir Woods!

So many people come to San Francisco and fail to visit the Giant California Sequioa Coastal Redwoods at Muir Woods National Park. We highly recommend this even over Alcatraz Island. Find a bus tour that uses smaller shuttles and visits other surrounding areas in Marin along with Muir Woods.

Go to Yosemite by Train instead of Car or Bus

The Yosemite Park Train Tour from San Francisco or Sacramento rocks! It's the coolest way to get to Yosemite. We highly consider you investigate the train tour versus a regular old bus tour to Yosemite.

Buy your Alcatraz Tickets Early

You need to book all Alcatraz tour combos at least 2 weeks in advance. Alcatraz tickets need to be sold as a tour combo. Be weary of anyone selling tickets solely and not combined.

Protect Your Trip »

16 best san francisco tours (alcatraz, wineries & more).

Explore SF's top sights and hidden gems on these traveler-approved tours.

The Best San Francisco Tours

Getty Images

Whether by air, by bike, by boat, by bus or even by vintage Volkswagen, there are so many different ways to take in the beauty of San Francisco and experience its top attractions . To help you decide which method is right for you, U.S. News compiled the city's top tours, considering traveler sentiment and expert opinion. Foodies, history buffs, adventurers and everyone in between will find a tour on this list.

Editor's Pick: Dylan's Tours – Dylan's Famous Tour with Muir Woods

Price: Adults from $99; kids from $79 Duration: 5 hours

U.S. News independently paid to send Lili Weigert , an arts and travel writer based in Marin County, on this tour to provide readers with an unbiased, first-hand perspective of what to expect. Dylan’s Famous Tour With Muir Woods was selected by our team as an Editor’s Pick thanks to its popularity and favorable user reviews.

This half-day minibus excursion takes you from Fisherman's Wharf to Muir Woods and back, and includes a lively tour of some of San Francisco's most iconic neighborhoods and landmarks. Throughout the ride, our guide – a passionate San Francisco native – shared fun and surprising facts and pointed out interesting sights as we wound through North Beach , Pacific Heights, Chinatown and Alamo Square. After a dramatic photo-op at Fort Point (the waves can make a big spray!), we crossed the Golden Gate Bridge and drove to Muir Woods, where we spent almost 90 minutes strolling through the trees. After a lunch break in the town of Sausalito, we headed back over the bridge, making a quick stop to admire the Palace of Fine Arts before ending back at Fisherman's Wharf.

Tours operate daily at 8 a.m., 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Know that if you choose the 8 or 10 a.m. departure, you'll have a slightly higher fee because of the extra stop in Sausalito (the 8 a.m. tour) or the Ferry Building Marketplace (the 10 a.m. tour). Dylan's Tours offers a variety of minibus tours, including a foodie tour and a daylong Sonoma and Napa wine tour.

Lili Weigert

Why we love it:

• Our guide kept us entertained with fascinating historical anecdotes about the Bay Area; he even used visual aids and played music to bring the stories to life.
• In Muir Woods, our guide explained the different paths we could explore, then left us on our own so everyone could go at their own pace and as far as they wanted.
• The organization and timing of the entire tour was flawless – there were plenty of stops for photo-ops and our guide was very clear and respectful of everyone's questions and needs. He even had water and energy bars for us.
• Sausalito is a lovely spot for lunch and there’s enough time for a snack and stroll through town or a waterfront meal at The Spinnaker – just ask for your check when you order!

– Lili Weigert 

Check prices & availability on:

Red and White Fleet – Bridge 2 Bridge Cruise

Price: Adults from $48; kids from $36 Duration: 1.5 hours

Take in San Francisco's two most famous bridges on this boat trip through San Francisco Bay. In addition to sailing beneath both the Bay Bridge and Golden Gate Bridge, tourgoers will see Alcatraz Island, Palace of Fine Arts and the city skyline, among other landmarks. Red and White Fleet provides an audio guide available in 16 different languages that details the city's history. Reviewers say this is a must-do if you're a first-time visitor and that they enjoy the views, the helpful commentary, and the clean and comfortable boats. They recommend wearing layers – especially on evening tours – because it gets chilly on the water.

Tours run daily, year-round. You can hop on a boat in the morning and the afternoon, but exact times vary by day and time of year. Cruises depart from Fisherman's Wharf. Short on time? Red and White Fleet also offers an hourlong Golden Gate Bay Cruise, among other tours.

Vantigo – San Francisco City Tours

Price: Adults from $95; kids from $65 Duration: 3 hours

Instead of a traditional tour bus, Vantigo transports up to seven passengers in a vintage Volkswagen van to see all the city has to offer. The tour highlights 15 points of interest, with plenty of opportunities for photos and views of Haight-Ashbury, North Beach, Twin Peaks and more. Reviewers love the Volkswagen, which they say is roomy, comfortable and unique, and describe the guides as fun, informative and personable.

Tours are generally available Thursday through Monday once or twice daily. You can board at either Fisherman's Wharf or Union Square . Combo tours to Alcatraz are also available, as are brewery tours.

Secret Food Tours – San Francisco Mission District Food Tour

Price: Adults from $79; kids from $69 Duration: 3.5 hours

Weave your way through the epicenter of San Francisco's Latino culture on this tasty food tour of the Mission District . The tour starts with a Mission-style burrito and ends with a visit to a craft chocolate maker for a total of five stops, including the company's "secret" dish that's not revealed until the day of the tour. Along the way, your guide will share stories about how immigrants continue to shape the district's culture and food scene and its many murals. Travelers applaud the authentic food featured on the tour and are particularly impressed with the insightful guides, who share a bounty of historical information about the district and the dishes. 

This tour is offered daily at 11 a.m. and it's capped at 12 participants. If you're hungry for more, the company also runs a combo food tour of North Beach and Chinatown.   Check prices & availability on:

Seaplane Adventures – Alcatraz & City Sites Seaplane Tour

Price: From $249 Duration: 20 minutes

After you've walked the city streets and sailed the bay's waters, your next step should be an air tour. On this short seaplane tour, you'll fly over downtown and above Alcatraz and Angel Island before landing in Sausalito's Richardson Bay. Reviewers describe the trip as amazing and one of the best activities they did while visiting San Francisco. Even locals recommended it and were particularly impressed with the pilot.

Flights depart Thursday through Monday in the afternoon. If you're hoping to spend more time flying, consider the company's 45-minute Greater Bay Area Tour.

San Francisco Love Tours – The Love Tour

Price: From $85 Duration: 2 hours

Drive through the city in a classic Volkswagen hippie bus during this sightseeing tour. As you drive around to sites like Lombard Street and Golden Gate Park , you'll hear all about San Francisco history and listen to music. You'll also make two stops for photos to capture the Golden Gate Bridge and the city skyline. Reviewers rave about the knowledgeable guides and the nostalgic music choices and say this is a great way to spend a couple hours in San Francisco, especially on the first day of your trip.

Tours, which start and end near Fisherman's Wharf, are generally available daily at 8:30 and 11 a.m. as well as 2 and 5 p.m. The van can accommodate up to seven passengers. The company also runs a night tour.

Local Tastes of the City Tours – Tastes of Little Italy: North Beach San Francisco Food Tour

Price: Adults from $79; kids from $25 Duration: 3 hours

According to reviewers, this tour is a must for food and history lovers thanks to experienced guides who are engaging storytellers. Along the walking tour, you'll explore up to 10 blocks of North Beach (or "Little Italy"). Samples of the neighborhood's best pizza, pastries, coffee, chocolates and more are all included in the cost of the tour. Travelers say the portions are generous and recommend arriving to the tour hungry.

Tours are generally offered daily at 10:30 a.m. with an additional 2:30 p.m. tour available on select days. Still hungry? Consider the company's Chinatown tours.

Big Bus San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Price: Adults from $63; kids from $53 Duration: 2 hours

If you're looking for a convenient way to visit the city's top attractions in one day, this hop-on, hop-off tour may be just the ticket. Big Bus lets riders disembark at any of its stops, explore the area and catch another bus when they're ready. Buses frequent stops every 15 minutes and visit more than 15 locations, including Presidio Park , Chinatown, the Embarcadero and even includes a ride over the Golden Gate Bridge. The entire tour lasts a little more than two hours, if you don't choose to disembark. All buses have open tops and prerecorded commentary available in six languages. Reviewers enjoy the educational commentary and the opportunity to drive over the Golden Gate Bridge in the open-top bus, but many warn that buses get crowded quickly. For access to maps and live bus tracking, heed the advice of past riders and download the Big Bus Tours smartphone app.

Big Bus San Francisco also offers night tours of the city, as well as upgraded tickets that include free bike rentals or tours of Muir Woods.

Gray Line San Francisco – Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour

Price: Adults from $96; kids from $75 Duration: 5 hours

This half-day excursion from Gray Line San Francisco takes you to Muir Woods National Monument to see its beautiful redwood trees up close. After exploring the forest on your own for about 90 minutes, the tour continues to Sausalito, a charming town across the bay full of waterfront dining, shopping and art galleries. You'll have about an hour to explore on your own before boarding the bus back to San Francisco. For even more time in Sausalito, you can skip the bus and instead return to the city by ferry for an additional cost. Reviewers say the tour bus is comfortable and describe the driver as engaging and knowledgeable. Many recommend this tour if you do not want to navigate the traffic and parking headaches at Muir Woods.

Gray Line offers a variety of day trips from San Francisco, including trips to Sonoma , Napa Valley and Monterey .

Bay City Bike Rentals and Tours – Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito

Price: Adults from $75; kids from $55 Duration: 2 to 3 hours

See San Francisco by bike on this tour that guides you from Fisherman's Wharf to Sausalito. The trip takes two to three hours and covers 8 miles. After making your way along the waterfront, you'll pedal across the Golden Gate Bridge, stopping for photo-ops along the way. At the conclusion of the tour, you can either bike your way back to the city or opt to take the ferry from Sausalito to San Francisco for an additional fee. Tourgoers say guides are friendly and informative and the sights are beautiful.

Tours are open to all ages. From March through September, tours are available daily at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.; tours are available daily at 10 a.m. the rest of the year. The company also offers a Streets of San Francisco Electric Bike Tour, among other options.

Courtesy of San Francisco Whale Tours

San Francisco Whale Tours – Golden Gate Whale Watch

Price: Adults from $96; kids from $72 Duration: 2.5 hours

Head into San Francisco Bay to catch sight of some of the many whales that pass through its waters with San Francisco Whale Tours. On the cruise, you may see humpback or gray whales, harbor seals, dolphins, porpoises and seabirds, depending on the time of year. You'll also get a view of the Golden Gate Bridge. The tour does not include food, though you can bring your own, and you should bring warm clothes, including jackets, hats and gloves. Many tourists report seeing both gray and humpback whales and describe the crew as very friendly and respectful of the marine life.

Golden Gate Whale Watch tours are offered once or twice daily. The company also operates specialty cruises for popular seasonal events in San Francisco, such as Fleet Week and July Fourth fireworks.

Extranomical Tours – Yosemite National Park and Giant Sequoias Tour

Price: Adults from $214; kids from $192 Duration: 15 hours

Once you've gotten your fill of the city, trek to one of California's incomparable natural wonders with a day trip to Yosemite National Park . During the daylong tour, you'll stop at Tuolumne Meadows to see the 2,000-year-old giant sequoia trees, then hit top stops like El Capitan , Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall . You'll also enjoy about two hours to explore on your own in Yosemite Valley. Buses, which pick up from most San Francisco hotels , are equipped with expert park guides who provide commentary along the way. Tourgoers appreciate the information provided by the guides and compliment the drivers for their attention to safety. Reviewers also rave about the scenery and say this is a great option if you don't have time for a multiday trip to Yosemite.

The trip departs every day of the year. Tickets do not include meals, but do cover the park entrance fee. Extranomical Tours offers a variety of city tours, as well as excursions to wine country and Monterey.

San Francisco Movie Tours – San Francisco Movie Sets & Locations Tour

Price: Adults from $67; kids from $44 Duration: 3 hours

Countless movies and TV shows have been filmed in San Francisco, and this bus tour highlights all the top filming locations. Knowledgeable actors-turned-guides lead the interactive tour, which takes you to filming locations for productions such as "The Princess Diaries," "Mrs. Doubtfire" and "Full House." Throughout the trip, you'll see clips on big screens with surround sound of each movie or show as you arrive. Along the way, you'll see several of the city's most popular neighborhoods, including North Beach, Nob Hill, Golden Gate Park and Pacific Heights. Tourgoers describe it as a fun way to see the city and say guides are entertaining.

Tours are generally offered daily at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., though availability may vary by month.

The Haunt Ghost Tours – Ghost Hunting in Old San Francisco

Price: From $48 Duration: 90 minutes

According to reviewers, The Haunt Ghost Tours' outing is full of intriguing and spooky information told by engaging guides. The nighttime walking tour, which lasts up to 90 minutes, unveils the darker side of San Francisco history, including stories about Chinatown's history, documented hauntings and true crimes, while you hunt for spirits along the way with EMF meters – devices used to measure electromagnetic fields.

Tours meet nightly (exact times depend on the season) in the Jackson Square Historic District. Trips traverse less than a mile of downtown. Though the tour covers topics like hauntings and ghosts, the company says it is family-friendly and kids 4 and older require a ticket.

Adventure Cat Sailing Charters – San Francisco Bay Sail

Price: Adults from $65; kids from $35 Duration: 90 minutes

To feel a bay breeze and see San Francisco from a new perspective, climb aboard Adventure Cat's sailing catamaran. The cruise allows you to see the sights from inside the protected cabin or outside on a netted deck trampoline where you can feel the waves crashing beneath your feet. While you can't bring drinks on board, soda, beer and wine are available for purchase in the cabin bar. The company also provides an audio tour, which offers listeners information about key attractions as they sail by. Reviewers describe the cruise as fantastic, with many lauding the tour as their top experience in San Francisco. Others appreciate the excellent service provided by the crew.

Sails operate daily, but times vary by the season (know that Thursday to Sunday sails have a slightly higher fee per person). The company also offers sunset sails and Alcatraz combo tickets.

GoCar San Francisco

Price: From $286 Duration: 5 hours

Explore the city at your own pace with this GPS-guided talking car that provides directions and historical and cultural commentary as you follow the designated sightseeing route or branch off on detours, stopping for photo-ops or breaks as you please. The full-day option takes you to the Painted Ladies, Legion of Honor, the Marina District and more. A maximum of two people can fit inside the roofless, three-wheeled car and you must be at least 21 years old to drive it. The custom cars do not exceed a speed of 30 mph. Reviewers describe riding in the car as lots of fun and a unique way to see the city; they also assure that it's easy to drive.

The rental cost covers both passengers. A variety of routes and rental times are available daily.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best San Francisco Bus Tours
• The Best San Francisco Walking Tours
• The Best San Francisco Boat Tours
• The Best San Francisco Wine Tours
• The Top Things to Do in California

Tags: Tours , Travel , San Francisco , Vacations , California Vacations , US Vacations , U.S. West Vacations

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Real history, real experiences, real San Francisco

What is real san francisco tours.

Our guests are interested, curious people who want a real experience of San Francisco. That’s why we offer bicycle and walking tours and use the metro, it’s the best way to see and learn about the city, as well as being the most eco-friendly. Anyway, who doesn’t want to see SF by cable car, exploring cool neighborhoods with their own guide? We guarantee our San Francisco tours are an experience you’ll never forget. This is what we do:

SF in a Day Tour : We take you places that no one else does, traversing the city by cable car, rail and bus as we visit downtown, Nob Hill, City Hall, Hayes Valley, Castro, Haight-Ashbury, Painted Ladies, Lombard Street, North Beach and Chinatown. If you really want to get to know SF, this is the only way to do it (10am daily).

Half-Day SF City Highlights Tour : Explore some of the best parts of the city. Taking the cable car up to Nob Hill, then down to City Hall and Hayes Valley. Stroll through Castro, before ending the tour in Haight-Ashbury, a perfect spot for lunch (10am daily).

The Real San Francisco Bike Tour : See the historic parts of SF, visit City Hall & pass through beautiful neighborhoods, before getting some of he best views of the Golden Gate Bridge, all from the seat of your bike. Have lunch at Fisherman's Wharf (10am daily).

SF: Food + History + Art Tour : Learn all about how the city was founded, view some amazing public murals and street art and eat some of the best food in California (midday Sunday).

Icons of SF Tour : Visit the most famous places and picturesque neighborhoods in San Francisco after lunch. See Painted Ladies, Lombard St, North Beach, Chinatown & more (3.30pm daily).

Notorious SF: Ghost & Crime Tour : Go back in time to visit the sites of old Hollywood scandals, red-light districts, opium dens, gambling dives and Gold Rush era lynchings (6pm Saturday).

All of our experiences can be booked as private tours.

To open in Google Maps click the icon in the top right corner.

OUR REVIEWS

We love tours that give you the inside scoop, background, history & current cool things about any place. This tour completely fitted the bill for SF. We saw all the things we had heard were worth seeing & many that we had never heard of. My wife's fav was the fortune cookie "factory" in Chinatown. The tour also covered Russian Hill, Lombard Street, the Painted Ladies & some beautiful streets. Kevin, our guide, had passes so all the transit was covered. 
It was great!

- Marty K, TripAdvisor

Our expert guides create entertaining & enlightening tours, which will transform your understanding & appreciation of SF & California.

We have San Francisco tours for all budgets: free self guided tours, group tours from just $50 pp & private tours from just $325 for a group of up to 10.

We get off the beaten track to reveal the hidden beauty & history of San Francisco, meaning you have a truly memorable & enjoyable experience.

Real san francisco tours calendar.

I love travel. In the past there was nothing I enjoyed more than visiting a city and getting lost wandering its streets. However, during a trip to Europe in 2012, I discovered a guided walking tour and realized that it’s a much better experience. I got a quick history lesson, saw most of the best sights and was able to ask all the vital questions I had (like where to have lunch) from a local expert. It was the highlight of my trip and I began doing walking tours in every city I visited.

Returning home, to Los Angeles, I looked for a walking tour there, but all I found were bus tours of Beverly Hills, which isn’t where the “stars” live nowadays, and Rodeo Drive, where locals like me never go. So I decided to start a new company, The Real Los Angeles Tours , offering totally different tours - ones that would allow both visitors AND Angelenos to properly experience LA and learn its fascinating history. We opened in 2013 and we've been awarded multiple TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Hall of Fame awards, in recognition of hundreds of five-star reviews.

I'm often in the Bay Area and it seemed that there was an opening to create more authentic tours here too, that would delve more deeply into SF than the typical tour itinerary of Fisherman's Wharf, Lombard Street and the Golden Gate Bridge. So, in 2020, Real San Francisco Tours launched.

Our mission at Real San Francisco Tours is to give you an entertaining and authentic experience of SF culture and history. Join us on a tour and we promise you'll really get to know this amazing city, whether you're a visitor or a local.

- Damien, founder of Real San Francisco Tours

Morning & All-Day Tours

BOOK SF IN A DAY TOUR

10am daily, Embarcadero

$110 pp (inc transit)

BOOK HALF-DAY SF CITY HIGHLIGHTS TOUR

$80 pp (inc transit)

BOOK THE REAL SF BIKE TOUR

10am daily, Ferry Building

$90 pp (inc bike rental)

Afternoon & Evening Tours

BOOK SF: FOOD + HISTORY + ART TOUR

12 midday Sunday, Mission District

$85 pp (inc food)

BOOK ICONS OF SF TOUR

3.30pm daily, Alamo Square

$50 pp (inc transit)

BOOK NOTORIOUS SF: GHOST & CRIME TOUR

6pm Saturday, Union Square

I discovered early on that I love showing people around. For a long time I was a tour guide for historical and architectural societies as a hobby, but 15 years ago I decided to leave my corporate job and lead tours full time. It was the best decision of my life! Sharing the incredible beauty and history of San Francisco with visitors and locals is a privilege and pleasure! In fact, I gained so much experience that I recently published a “tour guide’s guide to San Francisco,” a training manual for SF guides that’s already become very popular.

At high school in Sacramento I read everything Californian John Steinbeck wrote. Then I pursued a nomadic Steinbeckian life for two years. After military service and university here and in Germany, I got into tour guiding. I’ve conducted tours in 48 U.S. states, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Europe.  I enjoy the “close to the ground” intimacy of walking tours. San Francisco offers so much to share; geology, topography, history, politics, prose, poetry, art, music and the stories of so many unique characters. It’s what I do and I love it!

I’ve been a working poet for forty years, which definitely feels like an achievement in and of itself. My latest full length collection is Roshi: San Francisco  (published by Norfolk Press). Something to Be , which is on the subject of work, is out soon (from Pski Porch), and a historical novel is on the way. I live with my wife, the activist Joan Juster. In between writing I’ve been showing people around San Francisco for more than a decade. I really love surprising guests with a different side of the city than they expect.

I’m that rare breed – someone living in San Francisco who was born and raised here. I was a History Major at UC Berkeley and since leaving I’ve been lucky enough to travel extensively. Ironically, one thing those vacations made me realize is that my hometown is a great place to visit too. San Francisco is a city of such distinct neighborhoods, each with its own charms, it’s unique. I’ve worked as a tour guide for many years and I love meeting fellow travelers from all over the world, sharing my passion for this amazing city.

I’m from the UK and I majored in History at the University of London. Travel is one of my main passions and I lived in Germany, Spain and Australia, before moving to California. Since then it’s become home and I love it. In 2013 I founded The Real Los Angeles Tours, bringing walking, bicycling and metro tours, focused on history, culture, architecture and food, to L.A. I’ve always loved San Francisco and I wanted to bring the same kinds of tours here too, so I’m very happy that I’ve been able to fulfill that dream.

(INSTAGRAM)

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If you’re a visitor looking for specific information related to your trip here, such as fun things to do in San Francisco , interesting places to go to in California or the best activities to do here with your kids , be sure to check S.F.Info .

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6 Historic Homes You Need to Visit in San Francisco

San Francisco is infamous for having expensive homes, but it’s also famous for having important historic properties that have been dutifully preserved since 1850.

Meld your affinity for real estate, history, and San Francisco’s aestheticism by paying a visit to some of these architecturally fascinating estates. You can even spend the night at one if admiring them from afar isn’t satisfying enough.

Painted Ladies aside, here is a compilation of 6 properties in San Francisco that every history buff and real estate aficionado should visit.

Related: Homeownership Under $1M: 7 Cheapest San Francisco Neighborhoods

1. The Grateful Dead House

The Grateful Dead House, the dark brown Queen Anne house photographed above, lives true to its name: it’s the house where the Grateful Dead lived during the 1960s. Located in the Haight on 710 Ashbury Street, visiting this home is an absolute necessity for all Dead Heads and lovers of hippie history. Fair warning, this home is privately owned, so don’t go knocking for Jerry.

Related: Love It or Haight It: Haight Ashbury Neighborhood Guide

2. The Octagon House

The McElroy Octagon House, also known as the Colonial Dames Octagon House, is a historic property located at 2645 Gough Street. Built in 1861, this architectural treasure is a Colonial and Federal Periods Decorative Arts Museum. The museum and garden are open to the public from 12PM to 3PM on the 2nd Sunday and the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month except January. Notably, it carries the shape of an octagon.

3. The  Abner Phelps House

Though the stories about this residence vary depending on the teller, the Abner Phelps house is considered to be the oldest unaltered residence in San Francisco, dating back to 1850. This Gothic Revival home was built by John Middleton & Sons, who was one of the first real estate “concerns” in the City. This house has changed locations a few times, but it is now settled at 1111 Oak Street.

4. The William Westerfeld House

Nestled on the northwest corner of Alamo Square at 1198 Fulton Street, the eye-popping William Westerfeld House is San Francisco Landmark Number 135 and sure to grab the attention of the most distracted of passersby. The first owner of this House of Legends was William Westerfield, a German-born confectioner who arrived in San Francisco in the 1870s. He hired builder Henry Geilfuss to construct a modest 28-room mansion for his family of 6.  After Westerfeld died, John Mahony, who built St. Francis Hotel and the Palace Hotel, purchased and expanded the property. The current owner is Jim Siegel, who purchased the mansion in 1986 and has since retrofitted and upgraded the home.

Related:  Views and Victorians: Things to Do in Alamo Square Park

5.  The Chateau Tivoli

Residing in the Alamo Square Historic District at 1057 Steiner Street, Chateau Tivoli is not only a restored 1892 structure embedded with Victorian antiques, it’s a bed and breakfast! As such, if you really want to indulge your penchant for history, this property might be as close as you can get to time traveling.

6. The Haas-Lilienthal House

Plotted on 2007 Franklin Street, the Haas-Lilienthal House is the the only period era home open to the public in San Francisco. This traditional Queen Anne house exemplifies upper-middle class life in the Victorian era. Designed by German architect Peter R. Schmidt in 1886, this home was commissioned William Haas who was a Bavarian immigrant and considered a leader in the Jewish community. Built of redwood and fir, the house withstood both the 1906 and 1989 earthquakes with only minor damage, making it one of few existing landmarks to have survived the quake.

The Top 10 Spots to Watch Fireworks in San Francisco This Fourth of July

9 Fun Ways You Can Cool Off During the San Francisco Heatwave

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The best San Francisco tours

Get to know the real Fog City on brewery crawls, art excursions, culinary walks and more of the best San Francisco tours

Though San Franciscans would rather cheer for the Dodgers than get caught riding one of those double-decker buses, it’s still fun to play tourist on one of the best San Francisco tours every now and then. Happily, there’s no shortage of offbeat excursions to quench the local thirst for discovery, from boozy trips to the best San Francisco breweries to strolls through the mural-covered Mission District . There are plenty of options for first-time visitors to the City by the Bay, too: You can get the lay of the land on a bike ride through Golden Gate Park or a walking tour of all the best San Francisco attractions .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best San Francisco tours

1.  city guides.

What started out more than 30 years ago as a request from the mayor for librarian-led tours of City Hall has evolved into a nonprofit operation with more than 200 volunteers who lead some 50 different walking tours all over San Francisco—entirely for free (though donations are gladly accepted). Guides are local history buffs who live to share their knowledge and wax poetic about their city. Tours cover every niche, nook and cranny of S.F.—from Russian Hill stairways and Alfred Hitchcock film locations to Chinatown tongs and gangs and the 1906 earthquake and fire.  Free

Photograph: Courtesy Creative Commons/Flickr/ Roger

2.  Precita Eyes Murals Tour

With more than 200 murals canvasing its walls and back alleys, the Mission District is the city’s mecca for political, cultural and just downright beautiful street art. Since it was established in 1977, the Precita Eyes Mural Arts Center has worked with local artists to create and preserve many of the stunning works. On the third Saturday of every month, founder and director Susan Cervantes leads guided mural walks through the Mission. Learn how the art reflects the changing cultural and physical landscape and tells the story of the nabe's Hispanic heritage. $20

3.  Gourmet Walks

Given the city’s rep as a food mecca, it’s no surprise that there are a glut of “eat your way through…” tours in SF. Gourmet Walks stands out by having a great grasp on what people want, focusing on hip neighborhoods, of-the-moment dishes (think salted caramel ice cream, artisan salumi and fresh-baked breads), and of course, chocolate. Local cooks and culinary aficionados lead tasting tours of Hayes Valley , Russian Hill and Alamo Square that offer plenty of samples, plus meet-and-greets with chefs, cheesemongers, bakers and chocolatiers. $55–$90

4.  AT&T Park Tours

Regardless of where your team loyalties lie, few can argue about the fabulousness of AT&T Park, which in 2000 kicked off the transformation of South Beach from an abandoned warehouse wasteland into a bonafide five-star neighborhood. Behind-the-scenes tours of the park are offered all year, giving fans a chance to sit in the dugout, visit the clubhouse and press box, soak up the spectacular Bay views and walk on the field where the Giants have taken three World Series victory laps in the last six years. $22 adults, $17 seniors, $12 kids 12 and under

Photograph: Courtesy Creative Commons/Flickr/ Shawn Clover

5.  Teas, Temples and Beatniks Tour

This walking tour pairs up two of the city’s most visited neighborhoods: Chinatown and North Beach. Start at Chinatown Gate, then venture further into the ‘hood to taste mooncakes at a local bakery, have your fortune told at the oldest Chinese temple in the country and taste freshly made fortune cookies at the factory. Then you’ll head into North Beach to see former hangouts of Beat poets like Jack Kerouac and look up Coit Tower. $66

Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/ Giuseppe Milo

6.  The Castro Historical Walking Tour

Though San Franciscans have lived in the Castro for decades, it didn’t become the thriving LGBTQ community it is today until after World War II, when discharged LGBTQ servicemen settled in the neighborhood. Since then, the Castro has become a hotbed for social and political activism and a symbol of acceptance and diversity for people around the world. Discover the nabe’s history on a walking tour that visits cultural and historic landmarks like the Rainbow Honor Walk, Harvey Milk's residence and the Castro Theater. $25

7.  SF on Tap Tours

Hop heads can quench their thirst for suds on an SF on Tap brewery tour. Guided walking tours take drinkers to three local breweries and craft beer bars in Haight-Ashbury , SoMa or North Beach , where you'll sip complimentary beers as you learn about the city's beer history. Each tour is capped at 12 people, so you'll have plenty of opportunities to pepper your guide with questions about his favorite local brews.  $79

8.  San Francisco Urban Hike

Thanks to the city’s hilly terrain, walking in San Francisco might as well be considered hiking—just in an urban jungle instead of, well, a natural one. Ascend some of S.F.’s steepest hills on this three-hour tour that requires you to wear hiking boots. You’ll climb Kite Hill, ride the Seward Street Slides, discover a hidden eucalyptus forest and summit Twin Peaks. The sweeping views of the city are worth the perspiration. $49

9.  Historic Sausalito Houseboat Tour

After World War II ended, the once-bustling shipbuilding operation in Richardson Bay shut down, leaving tons of wood and scrap metal behind. Enterprising locals took the opportunity (and free materials) to build an entire community of floating houseboats in the harbor. Today, Sausalito is still home to more than 200 houseboats—everything from rough-and-tumble shantys to million-dollar properties. Explore the waterfront community that inspired Otis Redding’s “(Sittin’ on) the Dock of the Bay” on this walking tour. $58.83

Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/ Jay Sterling Austin

10.  San Francisco Love Tour

Channel the spirit of peace and love that once enveloped San Francisco on this ‘60s-themed bus tour. Instead of a charter coach, the tour uses a vintage Volkswagen van decked out with neon blue seats, shag carpets and beaded curtains to set the scene. You’ll cruise all over town to landmarks like Lombard Street and Golden Gate Park, plus the former homes of counter-culture icons like Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin. $48

11.  Golden Gate Park Self-Guided Bike Tour

Though 13 million people visit San Francisco’s verdant oasis every year, few of them explore all of the park’s 1,017 acres. Instead of hoofing it, hop on a bike to cover more ground in less time. Cycle to the Conservatory of Flowers, National AIDS Memorial Grove, Beach Chalet, Lloyd Lake, Japanese Tea Garden and other lauded landmarks at your own pace. $32

12.  Barbary Coast Trail

If you’re not a tour kind of person, but you still want to find out the backstory of San Francisco’s wild and scandalous Gold Rush past, take yourself down to the Barbary Coast Trail. The walking path was created in 1998 by local historian Daniel Bacon in conjunction with the San Francisco Historical Society. Bacon worked tirelessly for years to install more than 170 bronze Barbary Coast Trail medallions in the sidewalk that trace a 3.8-mile path through the history of gold diggers, shanghai dens, railroad barons and ship graveyards. The best part is you can do as little or as much as you want and you don’t need to go in order. Pick up a printed pocket guide, a Walking San Francisco on the Barbary Coast Trail book or download an audio tour. For the full experience, you can also book Bacon for a guided tour ($25 a person, $400 minimum).

Photograph: Courtesy Creative Commons/Flickr/ San Francisco Maritime NHP

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The 15 Best San Francisco Tours you Have to Take!

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From the Lands End Trail and its amazing views of the Golden Gate Bridge to the Embarcadero and the vistas of the San Francisco- Oakland Bay Bridge, there’s much to cover on a visit to San Francisco . Since its 1776 founding, the city has been shaped over the years by the many different settlers of such diverse cultures who have called it home. 

When you tour San Francisco, you never know what you’ll discover. Each district offers something different, from the vibrancy of the Mission District to the tranquility of the Richmond District. From walking tours to boat cruises to a ride on one of San Francisco’s famous cable cars, there’s so much to do and see in this city.

There’s so much to do in San Francisco, in fact, that you may not know where to start. If you’re looking for someone to help you see all the different sides of the city, start with one of the best tours in San Francisco, which we’ve compiled for you. From food crawls to guided hikes, there’s something for everyone!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

The 15 Best Tours in San Francisco, CA

1. see two of san francisco’s greatest landmarks on one cruise.

Many San Francisco tours will take you around the Golden Gate Bridge, but it’s often forgotten that the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge is an equally beautiful monument. On the Bridge to Bridge Cruise , you’ll take an hour-and-a-half tour from Fisherman’s Wharf, taking you from the Golden Gate Bridge to the Bay Bridge. You’ll get the best of both worlds and see a side of San Francisco that those who just took a Golden Gate Bridge cruise wouldn’t get to see.

On your journey, you’ll get narration telling you all about San Francisco’s most famous landmarks, as well as the city’s history, architecture, and Indigenous culture. You’ll sail under the Golden Gate Bridge, cruise past the infamous Alcatraz Island, and take in the sights of San Francisco’s waterfront. Then, you’ll pass under the Bay Bridge before returning back to Fisherman’s Wharf.

Take a Relaxing Bridge to Bridge Cruise

2. Visit Alcatraz and Sail around the San Francisco Bay

Want an up-close look at Alcatraz Island? The four-hour Alcatraz Visit With Ferry and Bay Cruise gets you to take one of the city’s famous San Francisco Bay cruises while also getting you admission to explore Alcatraz. 

Alcatraz Island is best known for being the former home of the Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary, which once housed the US’s most infamous criminals, like Al Capone. Known as “The Rock,” the prison was best known as being inescapable. But on your visit to the island, you’ll hear plenty of stories of people who tried, as well as the few who perhaps pulled off the impossible.

In addition to your Alcatraz visit and the ferry taking you to the island, this ticket also comes with a cruise around the San Francisco Bay. Take in the sights of the San Francisco waterfront on this relaxing journey, complete with a trip around the Golden Gate Bridge.

Visit Alcatraz Island on a Cruise

3. Walk, Ride, and Cruise around San Francisco

For one of the best walking tours in San Francisco, check out the City Walking Tour and Bay Cruise With Cable Car . On this unique tour, you’ll explore the city on foot, by cable car, and by boat. 

You’ll begin your all-day tour near the Ferry Building before catching one of San Francisco’s famous cable cars. Riding on a cable car is a must-do San Francisco activity. During your tour, you’ll learn about the history of the cable car and what makes it so special.

You’ll stop off at Nob Hill for a stunning view, as well as a look at some of San Francisco’s most beautiful buildings, like the Grace Cathedral. From there, you’ll walk to Chinatown, where you’ll see hidden gems like the Tin How Buddhist Temple. You’ll see how fortune cookies are made at the legendary Golden Gate Factory and even get a custom-made cookie to take home. 

Next up, you’ll see the most crooked street in the world, Lombard Street, and venture over to Fisherman’s Wharf and Ghirardelli Square, where you’ll sample some delicious chocolate. From Fisherman’s Wharf, you’ll cap off your day with a cruise around the San Francisco Bay, complete with narration about the city’s history and landmarks. Sail around Alcatraz, cruise under the Golden Gate Bridge, and enjoy the incredible vistas of the San Francisco skyline.

Experience San Francisco’s Top Attractions 

4. Get an Aerial View of the Golden Gate Bridge from a Seaplane

Plenty of tours around San Francisco will take you under the Golden Gate Bridge. But how about one that takes you above it? On the Golden Gate Bridge Seaplane Tour , you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of some of the city’s most iconic sights.

On this half-hour tour, you’ll meet your pilot at the seaplane base in Mill Valley or take a round-trip shuttle from Fisherman’s Wharf. From there, you’ll board your plane and soar high over the San Francisco Bay. 

Take in the sights of the historic buildings, steep hills, and, of course, the famous bridge. You’ll also fly over Fisherman’s Wharf, Angel Island, and Alcatraz, as well as the scenic cities of Tiburon, Belvedere, and Sausalito, before you end your tour at the docks of Sausalito.

Fly Over the Iconic Golden Gate Bridge

5. Go Sightseeing on a Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Looking for a flexible way to see Fog City? The Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour is one of the best tours in San Francisco because you get to see all of the city’s biggest and best attractions, but it’s up to you where you want to hop off. 

Climb aboard an open-air sightseeing bus and ride along for one of three distinct routes that will take you around the city. Pass through Alamo Square, Chinatown, Union Square, and much more. With your ticket purchase, you can hop on and off for a full day. The bus will also allow you to take some time for photos at the Golden Gate Bridge, regardless of which route you take.

Choose to go deeper into San Francisco’s history by opting for a 48-hour ticket instead. With your 48-hour ticket, you can choose between admission to the USS Pampanito, a WWII submarine, or a free bike rental. Cycle across the Golden Gate Bridge for incredible views and a day trip into the picturesque Sausalito.

See the Sights of San Francisco

6. Bike Over the Golden Gate Bridge

Want to experience San Francisco with the wind in your hair? The Golden Gate Bridge: 3-Hour Sausalito Cycle Tour is a biking tour that lets you get out and see San Francisco in a unique way. You’ll start your tour in Fisherman’s Wharf, where you’ll be outfitted with a bike, front handlebar bag, lock, helmet, rear gear rack, and takeaway map – everything you need to enjoy a day of riding through the San Francisco air!

Your guide will take you around the San Francisco waterfront, past Aquatic Park, Fort Mason, and into the Presidio. Take in the views from Crissy Field, enjoy one of the most unique places to see the Golden Gate Bridge at Fort Point, and then cross the bridge itself. 

Once you reach the end of the bridge, you’ll head to even more landmarks, like Old Fort Baker in the Marin Headlands. As your tour comes to a close, you’ll end your day in Sausalito, where you can enjoy the scenic city and see everything, from the famous floating houses to the many art galleries. 

The bike is yours for the day, so how you return to the bike shop before closing is up to you. Take the ferry back or enjoy riding back over the bridge if you’re not too tired from your day of exploration.

Bike Ride Across the Golden Gate Bridge

7. Discover Sausalito and the Famous Muir Woods Redwoods

If you’re visiting San Francisco, seeing the coastal redwoods belongs on your vacation bucket list. And the From San Francisco: Muir Woods and Sausalito Half-Day Trip will ensure that you get plenty of time to see these beautiful giants. Plus, you get the added benefit of getting some time in scenic Sausalito.

You’ll begin your tour with a pick-up at a central San Francisco hotel. From there, your coach bus will take you over the Golden Gate Bridge and into the Marin Headlands. Then, you’re off to Muir Woods National Monument, where you’ll be given an hour and a half to explore on your own. Enjoy a stroll through the woods, where the towering trees will soar into the sky all around you. 

After your time in the woods, you’ll hop back in the coach and be whisked off to Sausalito, with the tour offering narration about the history of the area and some tips on how to explore the Mediterranean-style town. Then, you’ll take some time to explore Downtown Sausalito, which is filled with fine dining, boutique shopping, and tons of art galleries. Or you can just sit back and enjoy the scenic views.

The tour provides round-trip transportation, so you can just hop back on the coach and be taken back to your pick-up point. But if you want to spend more time in Sausalito, you can always let the tour know you’re sticking around and take the ferry back instead. 

Explore the Muir Woods National Monument

8. Visit Locations from Your Favorite Movies

Who says Los Angeles is the only part of California that’s immersed in film history? Plenty of movies and shows have been featured and filmed in San Francisco, and the San Francisco Movie Sights City Tour will make sure you see them all. This three-hour guided tour is one of the best San Francisco tours and a must-do for film lovers.

Hop on the bus, where you’ll watch over 50 clips from the most famous movies filmed in San Francisco, with many of the filming locations just outside the bus’s windows. While many other tours around San Francisco focus on well-known landmarks, like the Golden Gate Bridge, this tour focuses more on locations that are little acknowledged but hold important places in film and TV history. 

Highlights of the tour include the family home from “Mrs. Doubtfire,” the park from the opening credits of “Full House,” the high school from “The Princess Diaries,” and the damaged park steps from the car chase in “What’s Up Doc?” You’ll still see plenty of famous landmarks, but you’ll get to see many locations that people often walk right past without knowing they were once featured in all kinds of cinema.

Your guide isn’t just a tour guide. They’re also an actor or comedian, so you know you’re in for a great time with fun and exciting narration throughout your journey. 

Match Movie Clips with Locations

9. See the Natural and Not-So-Natural Beauty of San Francisco

As a city, San Francisco is quite proud of all of its green spaces. The city takes special care to maintain its natural beauty, which is why the San Francisco 3-Hour Castro & Twin Peaks Urban Hiking Tour is one of the best San Francisco tours and an excellent choice for anyone who wants to embrace the greener side of the city.

If you’re up for a very active adventure, this tour will show you San Francisco in a new light. You’ll hike for about three hours, covering about five miles, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring lots of water. 

The views are one of the biggest highlights of the hike. If you’re up for the trek, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping vistas of Golden Gate Park, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Downtown San Francisco. But you’ll also be rewarded with finding hidden gems that few know exist in the city. 

Slide down the Seward Street Slides in a park designed by a 14-year-old, hike unmarked trails that you can only find with your knowledgeable guides, find a eucalyptus forest in the center of San Francisco, and stroll through quiet streets from Acme Alley to Pemberton Place. 

Hike the Summit of Twin Peaks

10. Zip around in a GoCar

When you tour San Francisco on a tour bus, you’ll find that the massive vehicle doesn’t really fit everywhere. As a result, some of the hidden gems around San Francisco are simply unreachable. But with a GoCar, you don’t have to worry about fitting on the winding city streets.

With the Golden Gate Bridge and Lombard GoCar Tour , you can explore the city on your own terms and time, with your car as your guide. Your GoCar, which you can rent for two hours at a time, is GPS-guided and comes with narration, just like you’d get on a tour bus. However, your tiny GoCar lets you go to more places than a tour bus could. 

Drive through the city’s iconic parks, make your way to the Golden Gate Bridge, and get incredible shots as you ride along the coast of the Pacific Ocean. Then, pedal through the boutique shopping districts of Chestnut and Union Street. And because you have your own vehicle, you can stop and do some shopping on your own. 

But perhaps the biggest highlight of the tour is Russian Hill. Once you drive up Russian Hill, you can take an incredible ride down the famous crooked Lombard Street to finish out your tour.

Jump in a GoCar and Tour San Francisco

11. Eat Your Way Around North Beach

San Francisco is filled with cuisine of all kinds. One of the best areas to grab a bite to eat is North Beach, aka Little Italy. If you’re a lover of Italian food, the North Beach and Little Italy Food Tour is one of the best tours in San Francisco for you!

Just walking around North Beach is a delight for the senses, from the quaint, intimate shops filled with handcrafted local goods to the smell of fresh bread wafting through the air from the Italian bakeries and cafes. This three-hour tour isn’t just about eating incredible food. It’s about learning about the culture of the area and embracing its history.

You’ll start your tour by visiting a family of bakers, where you’ll find the freshest bread around. Then, you’ll stop by coffee shops that have made roasting fresh coffee beans into an art. Along your journey, you’ll taste everything from cappuccinos, chocolates, and pastries to olive oil, specialty meats, and breads, covering both the sweet and savory of Italian cuisine.

You’ll also discover handcrafted goods made by local artisans, Italian cathedrals, and much more. This cultural journey is one that will remind you of what makes San Francisco such a remarkable city.

Enjoy Tasting Great Local Foods

12. Go on the Ultimate Foodie Tour in Chinatown

Another area of San Francisco you definitely want to eat your way around is Chinatown, and with the San Francisco Chinatown Culinary Walking Tour , you can do just that. Eating around Chinatown is about more than finding delicious food. It’s also about exploring traditional techniques that date back centuries and celebrating the history that’s cooked into every bite of the treats you’ll find on this three-hour walking tour.

After you meet your guide, you’ll be taken to a number of different restaurants and food markets, where you’ll marvel at the flavors and aromas awaiting you. You’ll see how fortune cookies are crafted, sample dim sum, and sip teas filled with exotic flavors. 

Beyond the food portion of the tour, you’ll also peruse rare antiquities, traditional cookware, authentic pottery, rare musical instruments, and sacred ritual items. This tour is as much about culinary delights as it is about celebrating an incredible culture. 

Try Foods from San Francisco’s Chinatown

13. Discover San Francisco’s Haunted History

Discover the ghosts and ghouls of San Francisco with the San Francisco Ghosts: Gold and Ghouls Tour . Choose between the traditional one-hour tour or the extended hour-and-a-half option to learn even more about San Francisco’s hauntings. 

This walking tour will take you around Downtown San Francisco to hear about what goes bump in the night. You’ll hear about a different side of San Francisco than you typically get during a guided tour. While some struck it rich with the 1849 Gold Rush and created an affluent city, others weren’t so lucky. And while luck and prosperity shaped the city, so too did tragedy.

Learn about the not-so-happy haunts of The Westin St. Francis, the fateful night that led to Fatty Arbuckle’s blacklisting from the film industry, what happened during the 1906 earthquake, and much more. Each story is bound to send shivers down your spine and make you see San Francisco in a new light.

Journey through the Darkest Corners of SF

14. Learn About the Rich History and Activism of the Castro

Many communities of all kinds have shaped San Francisco, and the LGBTQ community greatly impacted the formation of the Castro. Considered the world’s largest LGBTQ community, the Castro is filled with people who found a home where they can be included. And they’ve worked hard to maintain the district’s inclusive roots.

The Castro LGBTQ Walking Tour invites you to join a local activist on a one-of-a-kind tour through landmarks like the Pink Triangle Park and Memorial, the AIDS Memorial Quilt and Names Project, the Rainbow Honor Walk, and much more. Step into the shoes of Harvey Milk, the LGBTQ Civil Rights leader who died advocating for the inclusive world the Castro became. 

This two-hour walking tour invites you to see a vital side of San Francisco and celebrate those who have worked so hard to make it into what it is today. The vibrant Castro is a place that you’ll love exploring. 

Explore the Diverse and Colorful Sites of the Castro

15. Become a VIP at the Aquarium of the Bay

Over on Fisherman’s Wharf, you’ll find the Aquarium of the Bay, an amazing place to discover more than 20,000 aquatic animals and learn about what you can do to help conserve their natural habitats. With the Aquarium of the Bay VIP Tour , you get admission to the aquarium, as well as a look behind the scenes that few people get to see.

With your admission ticket, you’ll enjoy access to the four main exhibit halls, where you’ll see everything from river otters to sharks. Once you’re done exploring, head to the lab to begin your VIP tour. You’ll learn about how the marine animals are taken care of when they get injured or fall ill. 

Then, you’ll head to the holding tank to see how new arrivals are readied for the aquarium. You’ll also get a look at how jellyfish go from being white specks to fully-grown majestic creatures, and you may also see how the sharks are fed by the divers.

If you’re an animal lover, this hour-and-a-half tour is easily one of the best tours in San Francisco. While exploring the aquarium is lovely on its own, going behind the scenes will give you a new appreciation for how the staff at the aquarium takes care of every animal that comes their way.

Discover the Aquarium of the Bay

There you have it! The 15 best tours in San Francisco. What’s your favorite San Francisco tour? Let us know in the comments!

Planning a trip to California? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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Jacqueline is a writer and editor pursuing the freelance life to explore the world. Born and raised in New Jersey, she spent her college years in Boston before settling down with her partner and puppy in Monterey, California. When she’s not writing, you can often find her planning her next trip. Road trips are her favorite, whether it’s driving across the country or simply exploring a new city in her own backyard. She loves uncovering the history of every new place she goes. Jacqueline has a restless passion for learning and makes it a goal to pick up a new skill every year. She’s picked up embroidery, crocheting, knitting, and cross-stitching, but she’s hoping to master more languages to help her in her travels. She’s also a published author, with short stories and poetry appearing in several anthologies.

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The 8 Best Historical Tours in San Francisco and the Bay Area for Seniors

San Francisco is a town of endless reinvention, from a muddy piratical outpost to a Gold Rush boomtown to a shipping epicenter to a wrecked and burnt-out husk to a phoenix reborn. It’s been a counterculture haven and the beating heart of a new tech and capitalist revolution. But reinvention doesn’t mean ignoring its past. San Francisco is layered, each era impacted by the ones that came before it and affecting the next. The past is still alive, here. The counterculture still dances and the Gold Rush still attracts and pirates still reach scabrously from the muddy bay… You know all this already because no matter what else, San Francisco is home. If you’re an older adult living here, you’ve been witness to some of San Francisco’s transformations, and you know the way the city has changed. You probably have a good working knowledge of some of San Francisco’s history. But no one can know everything. That’s why we encourage you to take a historical walking tour of San Francisco. These can shed more light on parts of the city you thought you knew, and illuminate times and places you had no idea existed. Walking is great exercise for older adults , and if you can do it, this summer and fall is a great time for it. You can work out your body and your mind, and see beneath the top layer of the city you call home. You’ll love what you discover underneath.

8 Great Historical Tours of San Francisco

To be honest, there are more great historical tours in San Francisco and the Bay Area then we can really keep track of. This is just a small sample to get you going, and hopefully, we have a little something for everyone. The Castro: Gay and Lesbian History Price: $25 Duration: 2 hours Time: Year-round Location: Castro District San Francisco was one of the leading cities in the long struggle for LGBTQ civil rights. It was a place where people could be themselves, and be free to love whom they wanted. It wasn’t always easy, as the killing of Harvey Milk and the horrors of the AIDS crisis showed, but the community thrived in its strength and togetherness and changed the city and the world. This guided tour takes you all around the world famous Castro District, the heart of San Francisco’s LGBTQ history, showing you places like Milk’s home and offering a moving visit to the original AIDS quilt. It is solemn and joyful, a celebration of love, sadness, and courage. And it’s fun. It’s important. It’s a vital part of America. Emperor Norton’s San Francisco Time Travel Price: $30 Duration: 3 hours Time: Year-round Location: Depart from Union Square Joshua Norton was a British citizen and vagabond who came to San Francisco in the 1840s. In 1859, tired of politics as usual, he declared himself Emperor Norton I, Ruler of America and later, Protector of Mexico. While neither of these proclamations exactly took , he became a local celebrity, and continued to make declarations befitting an emperor. He was treated with amused deference in the city, not being mocked, but accepted as one of San Francisco’s great characters. And you can get a tour of history with him, as a Norton I impersonator takes your group on a rollicking time-travel tour of the city, the Barbary Coast, the earthquake regions, and more. You’ll hear about Norton himself as well as other characters who have added so much flavor to San Francisco. Who, really, have given it life. Chinatown Walking Tour Price: $35 (does not include optional lunch) Duration: Around 2 hours Time: Year-round Location: St. Mary’s Cathedral It shouldn’t come as much of a surprise to learn that San Francisco has always attracted immigrants from the west as well as the east. Many people from China moved here throughout the centuries (including, of course, before California was a state or a part of the United States). They aren’t separate from mainstream San Francisco history; they are a vital part of it. That’s why a tour of Chinatown is important. It isn’t a tourist area; it’s a living, breathing section of the city, rich in history, filled with character and characters, and a hugely important contributor to San Francisco and the region. On this tour, you’ll see stores you may have missed, eat food you may not have tried, and see the splendor and quiet beauty of a temple. Computer History Museum Price: $17.50 Duration: Varies Time: Open Tuesday-Sunday, 12-5pm Location: Mountain View, CA This is the only non-walking tour, although all museums are sort of walking tours. But it’s ok that this one is idiosyncratic: the whole museum is. It’s a tribute to self-proclaimed geekery, to tech wizardry, and to the combination of rigorous science and incredible information that transformed Silicon Valley and altered the world. Of all of the regions transformations, this one might have been the most dramatic, and the Computer History Museum captures all of that with equal parts reverence and irreverence. You can see how determined women and men had the vision to create a new technology, and the world they bequeathed us.   San Francisco Silent Film Price: Free (donations welcome) Duration: 2 hours Time: Saturdays Location: Pacific and Kearney Bullit . Vertigo. Dirty Harry. 48 Hours. The Maltese Falcon. The Conversation. San Francisco is one of the most famously cinematic cities in the world. Often, we really only think of films from the 50s to the 70s. But from the earliest days of cinema, filmmakers recognized the potential of the fog and the hills, the bustling city juxtaposed against the ferocious bay, and wanted part of it. This free tour from San Francisco City Guides shows you the alleys and buildings in which some of the most famous silent films of all time were shot. You’ll walk in the footsteps of Chaplin, Pickford, Chaney, and Valentino and see where Fatty Arbuckle created the first modern media scandal. It’s a salacious and enlightening tour and not to be missed. 1850’s San Francisco Price: Free (donations welcome) Duration: 2 hours Time: Sporadically throughout the year (see calendar) Location: Transatlantic Building We don’t often think of San Francisco in the 1850s, but that was the time of its first real boom, in the echoes of the Gold Rush. It was a time when people from around the world flocked to make their fortune. Some did; most did not. Those who did created the city we know today. Like so much else of the world in that time, there was a decided French influence, and the architecture and culture of San Francisco’s first great boom took on a decidedly Parisian air. This free tour shows you how this made the city and still influences it. This is one of the first layers built up after the depredations of the Gold Rush turned native villages to muck and grime, and it is surprisingly elegant and continues to impact San Francisco today. Fisherman’s Wharf Price: Free (donations welcome) Duration: 1 hour Time: Sporadically throughout the year (see calendar) Location: Mermaid Fountain Fisherman’s Wharf is another one of those places that seem sanctified by tourism and bleached by ubiquity, but it isn’t, really. It’s an active market, bringing in fresh seafood that goes out around the country, but especially makes its home in San Francisco’s restaurants, from the hottest haute cuisine to the greasiest spoon. This tour shows you behind the scenes. What’s more, The wharf area has long been a slithering and scaly place, from the earliest days when this was a fishing village, and a coastal haven, before it turned to finance and computers. The tour will remind you that the stubborn reality of San Francisco is that it is a port town, tied to the ocean, and beholden to the bounty of the sea. Also, the fish are absolutely delicious. 1906 Earthquake Tour Price: Free (donations welcome) Duration: One hour Time: Sporadically throughout the year (see calendar) Location: 525 Market Street One of the most important events in San Francisco’s history is the 1906 earthquake that shattered the city and ravaged it with fire. San Francisco was not yet old. It was a new city, barely removed from the death of Emperor Norton, and still acclimating to the end of the frontier. And then it was burned rubble. But that didn’t matter. It rebuilt and became stronger. It didn’t forget what was under its feet and instituted more and more stringent earthquake protections. This tour is a reminder that earthquake preparedness for older adults is crucial , but also a reminder of the indomitable and renewing spirit of this great city.

You and Historic San Francisco: Always Changing but Still The Same

In a lot of ways, a city is like a person. Many people might only see one facet, whether that is Silicon Valley or the LGBTQ community, just like people might say you’re just like your mom or reduce you to your profession. But we all know neither of those is true. A person, like a city, is a collection of everything that has ever happened to them, building and growing on itself, and facing the next day with the weight and blessing of accumulated experience. Because a city, like a person, can age and change but still remain the same, with the same beating heart and the same indomitable spirit. No matter how you see yourself in the mirror or how many skyscrapers have risen where ramshackle gambling dens and fancy Parisian mansions once stood, it’s still the same. So celebrate San Francisco. Celebrate its oft-sordid past and its gleeful present, its booms and busts, its characters and catastrophes, its death and rebirth. In doing so, celebrate yourself. You’ve earned it. You’re here, in this great contradictory sprawling wild city. You’re still you. At Institute on Aging , our programs and services help older adults, their families, and caregivers explore aging together, through good times and bad, as an adventure and a journey. Contact us today to learn more.

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Join our United Health Equity in Aging Summit Watch Party! 📺🎉 Where: Weinberg Auditorium, 3575 Geary Blvd, San Francisco, CA When: September 18th, 2024 | 9am-4pm - Drop in anytime! Institute on Aging and @thescanfndtn invite you to a live viewing of the 2nd Annual United for Health Equity in Aging Summit. Come enjoy sessions focusing on: Elevating older adults` voices 🗣️ Innovative aging solutions ✨ Breaking down health equity barriers 🚫 Light bites and beverages provided, along with raffle and giveaway prizes! Whether you come for a bit or stay all day, we can`t wait to see you! Visit the link in our bio to RSVP today! #HealthEquitySummit #InstituteOnAging #WatchParty #CommunityEvent

We`re celebrating the incredible members of our Friendship Line team! These fantastic volunteers dedicate their time and hearts to serving our community, offering support and companionship to those who need it most. 📞💕 We recently honored these selfless individuals for their commitment and passion. Join us in applauding their amazing work and learn how you too can make a difference by visiting the link in our bio. #FriendshipLine #CommunityHeroes #VolunteerAppreciation #MakeADifference #JoinUs

Connection is just a call away! Institute on Aging`s Friendship Line understands the importance of human touch and the warmth of a friendly chat. You`re always greeted by a real person ready to listen, share a laugh, or offer support. Dial 1(888) 670-1360 and make a new friend today. Because at IOA, we believe no one should feel alone. #FriendshipLine #Friendship #InstituteonAging #WarmLine #CallUsToday

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San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park Tours

San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park

Overview: At San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park you will experience the sights, sounds and textures of the city's seafaring past. You will get to know what life was like for the people who made their living at sea.  

Come aboard the historic ships C.A. Thayer and Balclutha with its award-winning Cargo Is King exhibit. The pier is open Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM with last entry at 4:30 PM. More maritime history awaits at the Visitor Center, open Monday through Friday from 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM and 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays.  

Also visit the Maritime Museum to enjoy more exhibits, views of the San Francisco Bay, and WPA-era art and architecture. The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM.

Notifications and Alerts

Historic ships collection on Hyde Street Pier are only open Saturdays and Sundays weather and preservation work permitting! Please check park's Alerts & Conditions page and social media (e.g., Facebook, and Twitter ) for any specific weekend closures. The park is preparing to relocate the ships while we rebuild Hyde Street Pier.

Need to Know

• Hyde Street Pier, with the historic ships, is open only on Saturdays and Sundays.
• Some parts of the ships might be closed due to ongoing preservation work or weather conditions. 
• Steam ferryboat Eureka is permanently closed prior to major restoration.
• There is no designated parking area for the park. There is metered street parking, garages and parking lots that charge various prices for parking. 
• Park smart: if you love it, don't leave it. Take all valuables out of your vehicle with you -- from small items, like cell phones and sunglasses, to bigger items like luggage and backpacks. 

Changes and Cancellations

No refunds once tour starts. See Facility Rates for fees.

Contact Information

Mailing address.

Fort Mason Center Building E San Francisco CA 94123

Phone Number

415-447-5000

Available Tours and Tickets

• Waterfront Walking Tour: The Historic Northern Waterfront
• Cargoes of Memories: The Many Careers of Balclutha
• The Last Survivor: CA Thayer

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Please note that the Museum will be closed for exhibit installation on these dates:

Saturday, August 24th Thursday, August 29th Friday, August 30th

Welcome! The San Francisco Historical Society exists to uncover, preserve, and present, in engaging ways, the colorful and diverse history of our city from its earliest days to the present.

Our museum at 608 Commercial Street is now OPEN! Thursday, Friday, Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Click Here to Rent the Museum for private events!

UPCOMING PROGRAMS & TOURS

Sf history live “san francisco’s first mints and the stories they tell.” presented by scott griffin., tuesday, september 10 @ 6:30 pm.

Ferlinghetti Exhibit Opening Celebration

Thursday, september 12 @ 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm.

Secrets and Stories of San Francisco’s Wall Street of the West

Friday, september 13 @ 11:00 am - 12:30 pm.

Unspeakable Vice Walking Tour

Saturday, september 14 @ 11:00 am - 12:30 pm.

Barbary Coast and Jackson Square: Pleasure Seekers and Merry Makers

Gold Rush and Sunken Ships

2024 fracchia prize winners.

We are pleased to present the winners of the Fifth 2024 Fracchia Prize for original research about San Francisco history. On May 22nd, Mayor Breed hosted the award ceremony in the Mayoral office. The three winners received cash prizes and publication in the SFHS Panorama or Argonaut.

2024 Fracchia Prize Writing Prompt: Shine a Light on San Francisco’s Leading Ladies: Movers, Shakers, and Change-Makers.

Over time, San Francisco’s women have helped to shape the city in more ways than most people imagine. Our “leading ladies” include social activists, pioneers, poets, political giants, entrepreneurs—and much more! Some are famous, while others are largely forgotten. The 2024 Fracchia Prize contest invites you to write about local ladies who helped pave the way for progress, freedom, and innovation.

First Place Winner: Winter Caine Lowell High School, Junior History Teacher: Ana Maldonado-Silva Essay Title: “Wildflower Wildfire”

From the start of the essay, Winter uses simile to vividly describe Lillie Hitchock Coit “like a wildfire” who “…burned through her life at an intense speed, traveling and loving and dedicating herself to what she believed in.” Lillie Hitchcock Coit chased after fire trucks as a teen and became an honorary member of the volunteer fire brigade Knickerbocker Engine Company No. 5. She was beloved by San Franciscans for her individuality, irreverence for the social norms of the day, and fierceness. Later in life, Lillie travelled the world. Lillie honored the city that loved and raised her by leaving $225,000, to the city in her will, which later built Coit Tower.

Winter won $2,500 and her work will be published in the Summer 2024 issue of The Argonaut

Second Place Winner: Kylie Chau Lowell High School, Senior History Teacher: Lauretta Komlos Essay Title: “The Journey and the Destination”

Kylie’s essay shines a light on the work of the Mujeres Muralistas and artist Ruth Asawa. Having seen and admired murals all her life, Kylie explains why public artwork, especially murals, “continues to inspire generation after generation of female muralists.” Yet, it is easy to take our public art for granted because it is so much a part of our everyday life. Ruth Asawa’s work includes murals at El Dorado Elementary School, the bronze art at Japantown, and her first public artwork, Andrea, in Ghiradelli Square. Asawa advocated for school art programs that would benefit underserved youth, which eventually led to the creation of the San Francisco School of the Arts, later renamed after her.

Kylie won $1,500 and her essay was published in the Quarter 3 issue of the Panorama

Third Place Winner: Zoe Amaya Sacred Heart Cathedral, Sophomore History Teacher: David Pardini Essay Title: “Amy Meyer Brings Parks to the People”

Zoe’s essay shines a light on Amy Meyer, who helped create and protect recreation spaces in the San Francisco Bay Area for over 40 years and was one of the founders of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. While Meyers began as “a mother looking for a community project,” she has touched almost every San Francisco park space with her unique approach of bringing parks to where people live rather than acquiring land in remote areas. Zoe closes by listing some of her favorite spots for outside recreation, such as the top of Hawk Hill in Marin Headlands and El Polin Spring in the Presidio.

Zoe won $1,000 and her work will be published in the Quarter 4 issue of Panorama

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Are you ready for a unique, vibrant and unforgettable adventure, the golden gate city - san francisco.

Our journey begins with the breathtaking Golden Gate Bridge a marvelous feat of engineering and an iconic symbol of the city. View this awe-inspiring structure from unique angles, capturing once-in-a-lifetime photographs. 

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Next, we navigate the winding roads of *lombard street*, can't miss the historic and colorful *haight-ashbury* district, conclude your journey with a visit to *pier 39*, join us and embrace the enchanting city of san francisco in all its glory be ready to make unforgettable memories with dingo tours. with us, you'll not only explore, but you'll feel, live, and breathe every bit of this mesmerizing city., descriptions.

Travel in style and safety and experience a courteous, prompt, and safe transportation service.

This is an easy and cost-effective way to get to know the city of San Francisco and the Bay Area. Avoid the crowded bus tours, parking hassles, and map searches, and start your San Francisco visit without delay.

Choose your departure time and location within San Francisco and enjoy a private tour of San Francisco by car!

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San Francisco Bay Area National Parks: A Complete Guide

W hen most Northern Californians think of national parks, Yosemite looms large. Perhaps Lassen, Sequoia, or Kings Canyon come to mind for the more outdoor-minded. What so many travelers don’t realize is that the National Parks Service manages a number of historical and natural sites of interest all over the nation. Many of these national park sites are in urban or suburban areas – including in and near San Francisco!

For Bay Area locals looking for a staycation or visitors to the Bay not ready to bite off significant transportation logistics, there’s no need to drive far – or even drive at all – to visit one of these attractions. So many of them offer educational and memorable adventures for kids, and quite a few of them are also totally free to visit.

Our family visits national parks regularly, including many national parks, monuments, historical sites, and other federal lands close to our home in the San Francisco Bay Area. Here’s an overview of all the national parks sites in the city of San Francisco and within the Bay Area, with tips for making the most of a visit to a NPS park as well as saving money along the way.

National Parks Near San Francisco: Bay Area National Monuments, Recreation Areas, Memorials and More

1. golden gate national recreation area (san francisco).

• Location : Multiple (from southern San Mateo County to northern Marin County)
• Cost : Many sites free, varies
• Recommended Ages : All ages

First things first when it comes to getting your San Francisco national parks bearings and terminology straight: Golden Gate National Recreation Area is the umbrella name used to describe multiple National Park destinations in the San Francisco Bay Area. These include Alcatraz Island, Muir Woods, Fort Point, the Presidio, and the Marin Headlands.

The terminology can be confusing since the whole area is sometimes promoted together as a single unit. It’s important to understand that each of the destinations may charge separate admission fees and are not necessarily co-located.

There’s so much to do within this area that you definitely need a few days if you want to see it all. Get some sense of the range of offerings here . And then keep reading, as I’ve detailed several of the best individual attractions within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area as separate listings below.

2. Alcatraz Island (San Francisco)

• Location : Ferries depart from Pier 33 (Alcatraz Landing), San Francisco
• Cost : No NPS fee, but ferry tickets required: $45.25 adult, $45.25 junior (12-17), $27.55 child (5-11), $42.65 senior (62+)
• Recommended Ages : School Age Kids, Teens

The country’s most famous former prison almost needs no introduction! Alcatraz is one of San Francisco’s most well-known tourist attractions. The Rock was once home to the likes of Al Capone and many other notorious criminals and is now an excellent outing for kids of elementary school age and up. What many visitors don’t realize is that Alcatraz is operated and protected by the National Park Service.

To get to Alcatraz today, you’ll need to take a short ferry ride. While Alcatraz itself is free, the ferry transport is not. Be sure to make advance reservations for a seat, as tickets go fast during the high seasons and on weekends. I highly recommend booking tickets direct from the concessioner, Alcatraz City Cruises , as third party sites often have a needless markup or may not even be legit. For families of four with two kids ages 5-11, the family ticket pack usually saves about $15.

Set aside up to half of a day for a visit, and plan to take the free audio tour of the cell blocks. Pack lots and lots of layers because the sea breeze can make the island downright frigid many months of the year.

3. San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park

• Location : 2905 Hyde St., San Francisco
• Cost : Free for most of the park area; $15 adult (16+), children free (15 & under) for Hyde Street Pier (admission is included with an America the Beautiful National Park Pass)
• Recommended Ages : Preschool, School Age, Teens

Located in the thick of things among the tourist attractions of Fisherman’s Wharf is the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. For families with kids interested in ships or for any naval history buffs, this park is easy to visit and returns a lot of bang for your buck.

The park includes several buildings and sites to visit down by the waterfront adjacent to Ghirardelli Square . Those include the Visitor Center, the Maritime Museum (located in the Aquatic Park Bathhouse Building), a Maritime Research Center, and the Aquatic Park Historic District.

The main attraction for most guests in the park is the Hyde Street Pier. The pier is the mooring location for 8 historic ships, several of which are available to tour and explore for an additional fee.

Many kids will enjoy participating in the park’s challenge on the interactive mobile app game, Agents of Discovery, or becoming a Junior Ranger.

4. Presidio of San Francisco

• Location : 210 Lincoln Boulevard, San Francisco (and surrounding areas)
• Cost : Free

One of several sites within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, the Presidio protects the historic army buildings near the approach to the Golden Gate Bridge. But it’s much more than a military installment. The Presidio has truly become a major destination in its own right since I moved to the Bay Area nearly two decades ago.

The top draw for families is the new Presidio Tunnel Tops, a massive park and public works project with open spaces, playgrounds, food trucks, and more within view of the Golden Gate Bridge. The Presidio is also home to the Walt Disney Family Museum , a must-visit for Disney fans and anyone interested in the history of American film and entertainment.

Crissy Field and Beach are also popular recreational spaces on warm days. And if the weather doesn’t cooperate, there is indoor fun to be had at the House of Air trampoline park or at Presidio Bowl (for a separate fee, of course).

5. Fort Point National Historic Site (San Francisco)

• Location : 201 Marine Dr., San Francisco
• Recommended Ages : School Age, Teens

Located in the Presidio in the shadow of the Golden Gate Bridge, Fort Point is the strategic position used to defend historic San Francisco in the years after the Gold Rush. Built during the Civil War, it was central to the Union’s planned defense of the city from a potential Confederate attack. It was used again extensively during World War II.

The historic fort houses exhibits featuring both military history as well as the history of the Golden Gate Bridge, so this is a national park site that is probably best for history buffs and older kids. There are 15 minute ranger talks three times daily if you just want a quick bit of information on a shorter visit.

Within walking distance of Fort Point building is the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center which has additional history on display about the bridge itself. Be sure to walk around the area for multiple Golden Gate Bridge vantage and view points for photos.

6. Muir Woods National Monument (Mill Valley)

• Location : 1 Muir Woods Rd, Mill Valley
• Cost : $15 adult (16+), children free (15 & under) (admission is included with an America the Beautiful National Park Pass)

Strolling through the majestic redwoods in Muir Woods should be on every San Francisco local and visitor’s must-do list. The views are simply incredible. Muir Woods is the national park site in the Bay Area that my family has visited most over the years, and we get something different out of it every time we visit with our kids at different ages and stages. It’s also highly accessible, so we’ve had success visiting with babies and with grandparents.

The monument makes an easy day trip from San Francisco . Just note that it is exceptionally popular on weekends and has limited parking, so the NPS instituted a reservation system several years ago. Be sure to book well in advance if you plan to drive.

There is an easy loop hike through the main part of the redwoods that has several alternative paths to return, so you can customize your tour based on the length of time you have to visit. Plan for up to about 2 hours for a casual visit, but longer if you plan to take one of the more serious hikes out of the valley.

7. Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site (Danville)

• Location : 205 Railroad Ave, Danville (meeting point for shuttle)
• Recommended Ages : Teens

This site in Danville is the former home of one of America’s most famous playwrights, Eugene O’Neill. If you have older teens beginning to study his work, consider a trip to tour his home.

Advance tour reservations are usually required (except on Saturdays). You must park at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley and take a NPS shuttle to the home, so plan ahead for logistics and book well in advance.

8. John Muir National Historic Site (Martinez)

• Location : 4202 Alhambra Ave., Martinez

I bet you didn’t know that the nation’s most famous conservationist lived just 30 miles from San Francisco when he wasn’t exploring the great outdoors! This national parks site protects John Muir’s home near Martinez. It has a small enough footprint that it is a doable outing even with younger kids.

The site offers a 20 minute video to get oriented, followed by a free audio tour with 12 stops on the grounds. You can also tour the historic Victorian home, explore the orchards, or hike on one of several trails nearby. Consider packing a picnic lunch for longer visits.

Note that the Martinez Adobe (which houses the only permanent exhibit of the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail that starts in Southern California) has structural damage and is closed indefinitely.

9. Point Reyes National Seashore (Marin County)

• Location : 1 Bear Valley Road, Point Reyes Station

Point Reyes is one of the nation’s most gorgeous stretch of beaches. Located north of Stinson Beach along Highway 1, this National Park site is a little harder to reach than some of the others on this list, but it delivers a big payoff.

Things to do in addition to just spending time on the beach include hiking seashore trails, watching for whales, sea lion spotting at Sea Lion Cove, visiting the historic lighthouse, or even chasing a waterfall. This is another one of the San Francisco Bay Area national park sites that may take more than just a single day to explore.

The main Bear Valley Visitor Center is the place to pick up a Junior Ranger booklet or get additional information. As is often the case on the coast of Northern California, fog in the area is common. Pack layers to be prepared for cold!

10. Rosie the Riveter WWII Homefront National Historical Park (Richmond)

• Location : 1414 Harbour Way South, Suite 3000, Richmond

One of the newer National Park sites (founded in 2000), this site in Richmond is an easily accessible educational outing for kids beginning to study World War II history. The museum collection focuses on the effect of the war on the home front, with special focus on the role that women played to support the war effort. Films are shown in the Visitor Education Center as well.

On most Fridays a real “Rosie” hosts a talk, so this is an increasingly rare place to meet a member of the Greatest Generation and hear their important stories first hand. Near the site and available to tour on Sundays for an additional fee is the SS Red Oak Victory ship, the only remaining ship (of 747!) built in Richmond’s Kaiser Shipyards during World War II.

11. Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial (Concord)

• Location : Meeting point: 4202 Alhambra Ave., Martinez

Another important and more somber World World II site in the Bay Area is the Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial. The memorial is located on the site of a massive 1944 accidental explosion caused when loading two ships with ammunition bound for the Pacific theater. The result was the loss of 320 men (a majority of whom were African American), making it the largest disaster on the home front during the war.

As this memorial site is located on an active military base, access is highly controlled. Reservations are required and must be made a minimum of 2 weeks in advance. Visitors are shuttled from John Muir National Historic Site by the National Park Service.

Tips for Visiting San Francisco Bay Area National Parks Sites

Ready to plan a Bay Area national parks excursion with your family? Be sure to check out my getting started guide to national parks for beginners , but here are a few specific tips for making the most of your visit to national parks near San Francisco.

Participate in Junior Ranger Programs

Most (but not all) sites run by the National Park Service in the San Francisco area offer “Junior Ranger” activities that are perfect for engaging kids in the destinations. Ask at the visitors centers for each site and you’ll be given an activity book for your child to complete while touring the area. You can also sometimes download the booklets in advance of a trip so your kids have something to occupy themselves on a drive. Complete the required activities in the book and get a badge and certificate to take home as a souvenir.

Watch for Free Days

To entice more visitors into the parks, the park service offers a few special free days where all park admission fees (for those that charge them) are waived. 

While many of the destinations run by the National Parks Service in the Bay Area are free already, two (Muir Woods and the San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park) usually require admission fees, so these free days offer a great opportunity for savings. Note that Alcatraz is always free, but since a private company operates boat transport to the island, there are sadly no free trips to the Rock!

Fee-free days in 2023 (and projected dates for 2024) are:

• September 23, 2023:  National Public Lands Day
• November 11, 2023:  Veterans Day
• January 15, 2024:  Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday
• April 20, 2024:  First day of National Park Week
• August 3, 2024:  Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
• September 23, 2024:  National Public Lands Day
• November 11, 2024:  Veterans Day

Get in Free with Your Fourth Grader!

For the better part of the last decade, the federal government has run a program (originally known as “Every Kid in a Park” and known now as Every Kid Outdoors) that allows all Fourth Graders to visit national parks for free . To be eligible for this benefit, you need to apply online at EveryKidOutdoors.gov  and take a printed pass with you on each visit. The pass is good for all children under 16 and up to three adults for free, so the whole family can come along! (Note that if you visit a park that charges vehicle fees, the pass admits all children under 16 and all adults in up to one passenger vehicle.)

Save on Multiple Visits with an Annual Pass

If you don’t have a fourth grader in the family, there is still a way to get into national parks pretty cheaply. The America the Beautiful annual pass costs just $85 and usually covers admission for a whole family for a full year into every national park site and many additional federally-managed lands.

If you are planning to visit even just a couple of larger national parks, or a single large national park and a few smaller local ones, you’ll likely come out ahead with a pass.

(Looking for more information on larger national parks close to San Francisco? See my guide to Northern California National Parks for tips on Yosemite, Sequoia, Lassen, and more.)

Download the NPS App

In 2021, the National Park Service released a brand new smartphone app to serve as an on-the-go-guide to national parks. It’s quite informative and well done, and I highly recommend getting it on your phone before a trip. It includes park hours, admission information, time-sensitive alerts, things to do, suggested tours, and more.

While most NPS sites in the San Francisco Bay Area have plenty of cell coverage, If you plan to visit a national park site that is more remote, you can even download that park’s information locally to your device for access off the grid.

Check Park Hours

Not all San Francisco Bay Area national park sites are open daily, especially the smaller ones. Check opening days and times carefully before planning a visit.

Need more San Francisco Travel Information? Check out these posts:

• 21 Very Best Things to Do in San Francisco with Kids (by a Local Parent!)
• 25 Free Things to Do in San Francisco with Kids (with Map!)
• How to get around San Francisco: Transportation and Transit Guide
• San Francisco 1 Day Itinerary: Best of the City in 24 Hours
• Flying to San Francisco: Complete Guide to Bay Area Airports

The post San Francisco Bay Area National Parks: A Complete Guide appeared first on Trips With Tykes .

Kamala Harris courts donors at sold-out SF event where tickets went for up to $500K a pop

The ritzy fundraiser, which followed the campaign's multi-state tour through swing states, raised about $12 million.

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Kamala Harris touched down in the Bay Area this weekend after a multi-state tour introducing her new running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, to court donors in a home crowd at a thousands-of-dollars-a-head fundraiser in San Francisco.

The night before, San Francisco Mayor London Breed greeted the vice president-turned-Democratic nominee on the tarmac at SFO alongside California Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis.

The VP drew hundreds of donors to the exclusive Sunday morning event hosted by the Harris Victory Fund, which reportedly raised about $12 million by selling tickets for $3,300 to $500,000 apiece.

Welcome back to SF Madam @VP ! So proud to have the Future President of the United States back in San Francisco where it all started. pic.twitter.com/sr2l940a2U — London Breed (@LondonBreed) August 11, 2024

For Harris, an Oakland native who served as San Francisco district attorney before catapulting to higher office, the event is something of a homecoming.

As a host of big-money Democratic donors filed into the iconic Fairmont Hotel in Nob Hill, hundreds of demonstrators gathered outside to demand a ceasefire in Gaza, where the Health Ministry recently reported the death toll for Palestinians exceeded 41,000.

Protesters held up signs calling out Harris directly, including one featuring Harris holding a bomb that read, “Got $ for war, but can’t feed the poor.”

Inside the Harris Victory Fund soiree, attendees sipped mimosas and nibbled on hors d’oeuvres brought by gray-uniformed servers before shuffling into 14 rows of forty seats divided by an aisle in the hotel’s Grand Ballroom.

The stage was adorned with American and California flags and a big blue sign with Harris-Walz in bold white lettering.

The soundtrack opened with, among other classic hits, Jackson 5’s “ABC,” the Staple Singers’ “I’ll Take You There,” Tina Turner’s “What’s Love Got to Do With It” and Aretha Franklin’s “Think.”

Some attendees telegraphed their enthusiasm through signs or quote-emblazoned shirts. One woman walked in with a homemade poster board display that read “Make America Joyful Again.” Another donned a white T-shirt with “Elect Women” stitched on the front in cursive.

At least one person wore a shirt from Harris’ 2020 campaign that read “For the people.” A number of people showed up wearing all-white in homage to the women’s suffrage movement and as a symbol of hope that the nation may finally elect its first female commander-in-chief.

In a line slowly making its way toward the back of the room for beverages, a man with spectacles on his head stood out in the roomful of blue blazers and button-up shirts by channeling The Big Lebowski protagonist in an off-white T-shirt with Jeff Bridges’ face surrounded by the slogan “Dudes for like, Harris, man.”

A host of San Francisco leaders, including Mayor Breed in a blue jacket and Supervisor Aaron Peskin in a white button-up shirt and a navy suit, were seen mingling in the crowd.

Gov. Gavin Newsom, in a crisp white shirt and dark-gray suit, pressed flesh and posed for photos — including an obligatory snapshot with a baby — in the back of the ballroom.

SF was proud to welcome our very own @VP back to the Bay! It was especially poignant to congratulate my childhood friend @KamalaHarris on her historic reenergizing of the @DNC and bid to keep the @JoeBiden -Harris legacy alive. Our country needs her and she needs us! Let’s GO! pic.twitter.com/fagheO9Q38 — Aaron Peskin (@AaronPeskin) August 11, 2024

Other California Democratic dignitaries in attendance: Newsom second-in-command Kounalakis, House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, state Attorney General Rob Bonta and U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee.

Gary McCoy, vice president of communications for San Francisco’s Harvey Milk LGBTQ Democratic Club, showed up with his husband, Kory Powell-McCoy, to soak in the celebratory atmosphere.

“I see joy,” Gary McCoy told The Standard. “That’s what this campaign has been pushing and promoting and exuding.”

Reporters were relegated to a balcony overlooking the ticket-holding crowd below, forbidden from taking pictures or recording audio or video, and told they could stay only until the end of Harris’ speech.

By 11:20 a.m., a voice piped through the PA system directing everyone to take their seats. Alicia Keys’ “Girl on Fire” played followed by Janelle Monae’s “Tightrope” and Bob Marley and the Wailers’ “Sun is Shining.”

Another hour passed before the mixer ended with Pelosi taking to the podium to a roar of applause. “Good morning, everyone,” she began. “And isn’t it a wonderful morning?”

The congresswoman began her stump speech by touting the importance of “the three M’s” — that is, mobilization, message and money.

“We must do our work … with our mobilization on the ground, we have to have a message that is bold and progressive, and we have to have the money to get the job done,” she said.

Pelosi then thanked the attendees — whose price of entry on Sunday helped cover the last M — “for making all of that possible.”

She then rattled off Harris’ accomplishments over the past few years under President Biden.

“Democracy is on the ballot,” Pelosi said, “and we want democracy to win an Olympic gold on that day.”

She then welcomed the guest of honor to the stage. Harris, in a dark suit and white blouse with a bow, took the mic.

“How’re you doing, everyone?” she asked. “It’s always good to be home.”

She gave a nod to Newsom, noting how she and the governor were both began their political careers with their election on the same day in San Francisco: Jan. 8, 2004.

“We took our oath and I have known Gavin as a friend and a colleague for so many years,” she said. “I want to thank you in person for being an extraordinary Californian and a national leader.”

The audience responded with a standing ovation.

Harris then wished a happy 50th birthday to Breed, gave a shout-out to Rep. Lee and congratulated “our soon-to-be congressperson” Lateefah Simon.

“This is a room of dear, dear longstanding friends,” Harris continued. “So many of you have been on this journey with me through some very tough races. We’ve been through a lot together. I thank you for our dedication to our country.

“I’ll start and end with this: We will win this election.”

Audience members again rose from their seats in applause.

She said the stakes are high in the coming election and described her campaign as “focused on the future” while the Republicans are “so clearly focused on the past.”

Harris took a shot at Project 2025, the conservative policy blueprint whose more controversial proposals have given the Democrats fodder for anti-Republican attacks.

“Can you believe that they actually put that thing in writing?” Harris asked. “So much of what they’re proposing is based on proven failed policies. We are not going back.”

In some parts of the country, she said, crowds start chanting about how they don’t want to go back before she even says it. On cue, the room began to chant: “We’re not going back!”

She then turned to listing various freedoms she said are under threat by her political opponents, such as freedom from gun violence, freedom to breathe clean air, and freedom to openly love whom one loves.

“Not to mention the fundamental attack on the freedom to make decisions about your own body,” Harris said to yet another standing ovation.

She noted how when Donald Trump was president, he hand-picked three U.S. Supreme Court justices who went on to undo Roe v. Wade. And if he wins the White House again, she warned, “he would sign a national abortion ban.”

If she’s elected, however, she said she vows to sign Roe v. Wade protections into law.

“We each face a question: What kind of country do we want to live in?” Harris continued. “A country of chaos, fear and hate? Or a country of freedom, compassion and rule of law? We each have the power to answer that question. Because in a democracy, the power is with the people.”

Harris ended her speech by reminding her supporters that there’s a lot of work to do before election day.

“Yes, we will fight for freedom and we will fight for our future,” she concluded. “And as I say at every rally, when we fight, we win.”

The speech ended with uproarious applause, Beyonce’s “Freedom” playing from the speakers and the crowd lining up along the stage to greet Harris.

Outside the Fairmont, at the corner of California and Powell streets, landscape designer Stephen Suzman was still glowing after attending Sunday’s rally.

“I’ve known Kamala for 20 years,” he said. “I supported her when she was running for DA, I supported her when she was running for attorney general, I’m absolutely over the moon and thrilled that she’s running for president and I think she’s going to win. It’s so critical.”

Having come from South Africa, where he said he got involved in the fight against apartheid as young as 12, Suzman said he knows what fascist governments can do to people and he’s “scared and angry” that Trump — whom he described as “a greedy old man” — is “playing games with the most important democracy in the world.”

San Francisco resident and retired veteran Jim Martinez, another Harris supporter outside the event, wore a T-shirt that read “Kamala Harris for the people” and said he hopes she can resolve conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

“I’m hoping that she can take care of the Palestinian crisis,” he said. “I’m giving her a chance to take care of this, get the hostages back home and get a two-state solution.”

Though Sunday’s event was set to draw no more than 700 people — a small crowd compared to the record turnout of 14,000 for the Harris-Walz rally in Philadelphia, for example — it was expected to raise millions of dollars.

The fundraiser came days after Silicon Valley raised a six-figure haul for the Harris-Walz campaign in a Zoom call led by venture capitalist Ron Conway and featuring LinkedIn cofounder Reid Hoffman.

And it came about two months after former President Donald Trump raised $12 million from Republican donors at a fundraiser in San Francisco’s posh Pacific Heights neighborhood.

George Kelly can be reached at [email protected] Jennifer Wadsworth can be reached at [email protected]

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