The Top Things to Do in San Francisco Before You Move
San Francisco is one of the most iconic cities in the world, known for its stunning natural beauty, world-renowned landmarks, eclectic culture, and delicious culinary scene. Before you leave this wonderful city, make sure that you have explored all its top things to do and have soaked up all its unique culture.
From visiting the Golden Gate Bridge to sampling local cuisine at the Ferry Building Marketplace, here are the top things to do in San Francisco before moving to San Francisco. By following these moving to San Francisco tips, you’ll be on your way to explore this magical city!
Explore Iconic Landmarks
Visit the Golden Gate Bridge
Your move to SF is simply incomplete without a visit to the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge. This iconic cantilever bridge spans the Golden Gate strait between San Francisco and Marin County, offering breathtaking views of the city and the San Francisco Bay.
The bridge was opened in 1937 and was the longest suspension bridge in the world at the time. It was designed by Joseph Strauss, Irving Morrow, and Charles Ellis and took four years to build. The bridge is painted in a distinctive orange color, which was chosen to make it more visible in the fog that often shrouds the bay.
You can choose to walk, bike, or drive across the bridge, and even take a guided tour to learn more about its history and construction. Don’t forget to take a selfie with this masterpiece of engineering!
Discover Alcatraz Island
If you’re interested in history, you should definitely add Alcatraz Island to your San Francisco itinerary. This former federal prison is located on a small island in the middle of San Francisco Bay and was once home to some of the most notorious criminals in US history, such as Al Capone and Robert Stroud. The prison was in operation from 1934 to 1963 and was known for its harsh conditions and strict discipline.
Today, you can take a ferry to the island and tour the prison, learn about its infamous inmates, and experience the stunning views of the city and the bay. The island is also home to a variety of wildlife, including seabirds and sea lions, which you can observe from the shore.
Stroll through Fisherman’s Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf is one of the most vibrant and lively neighborhoods in San Francisco, offering a unique blend of tourist attractions, seafood restaurants, and souvenir shops. The wharf has a long history as a hub of maritime activity, and you can still see fishermen unloading their catch of the day at the pier.
You can take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, watch the sea lions basking in the sun, and sample some of the freshest seafood in the city. You can also check out the nearby Maritime Museum, the Wax Museum, and the Aquarium of the Bay. The wharf is also a great place to catch a boat tour of the bay, which will take you past the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and other landmarks.
Marvel at the Painted Ladies
San Francisco is known for its historic Victorian houses, and one of the most famous examples is the Painted Ladies, a row of colorful houses located across from Alamo Square. These charming residences date back to the 19th century and are adorned with ornate details, vibrant colors, and intricate designs. The houses have been featured in numerous movies and TV shows, including the opening credits of the sitcom Full House.
You can relax on the park’s grassy hill and admire the stunning panorama view of the city skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge. The park is also a popular spot for picnics, sunbathing, and people-watching.
San Francisco is a city full of iconic landmarks and attractions, and these are just a few of the must-see sights. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city by the bay.
Immerse Yourself in Art and Culture
Explore the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
If you’re a fan of contemporary art, you simply can’t miss the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA). This world-renowned museum houses a vast collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by famous artists such as Andy Warhol, Frida Kahlo, and Jackson Pollock. You can take a guided tour, attend a lecture or workshop, or simply wander around the galleries and soak up the creative energy.
Attend a Performance at the War Memorial Opera House
The War Memorial Opera House is a magnificent architectural landmark located in the heart of San Francisco. This elegant venue hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, including opera, ballet, and musicals. You can dress up in your finest attire, enjoy a glass of champagne, and immerse yourself in the world of arts and culture.
Visit the Beat Museum in North Beach
San Francisco is also known for its counterculture movement of the 1950s and 60s, which was led by a group of writers and artists known as the Beats. You can explore this fascinating era by visiting the Beat Museum in North Beach, which houses a vast collection of Beat literature, poetry, and music. You can learn about the lives and works of famous Beat writers such as Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, and William S. Burroughs.
Experience the Great Outdoors
Relax in Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park is one of the most beautiful and expansive urban parks in the world, offering a variety of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. You can wander through its lush gardens and manicured lawns, visit its museums and galleries, ride a bicycle or a Segway, and even have a picnic. You can also explore its hidden gems, such as the Japanese Tea Garden, the Conservatory of Flowers, and the de Young Museum.
Hike the Lands End Trail
Lands End is a rugged and rocky promontory located at the western edge of San Francisco, offering dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Marin Headlands. You can take a hike on the Lands End Trail, which winds through cypress forests, coastal bluffs, and hidden beaches. Along the way, you can spot wildlife such as sea birds, sea lions, and sometimes even whales.
Take a Bike Ride Across the Golden Gate Bridge
If you’re a cycling enthusiast, you should definitely rent a bike and ride across the Golden Gate Bridge. This exhilarating experience offers stunning views of the city, the bay, and the ocean, and is suitable for riders of all levels. You can take a guided tour, or simply explore at your own pace, and perhaps even stop for a picnic on the other side of the bridge.
Indulge in San Francisco’s Culinary Scene
Sample Local Cuisine at the Ferry Building Marketplace
The Ferry Building Marketplace is a mecca for food lovers, offering a wide range of artisanal and organic products, from fresh produce and seafood to baked goods and confections. You can sample some of San Francisco’s famous dishes, such as clam chowder, sourdough bread, and Dungeness crab. You can also browse the stalls, take a cooking class, or attend a wine tasting.
Dine at a Michelin-Starred Restaurant
San Francisco is home to some of the best restaurants in the world, many of which have earned Michelin stars for their exceptional cuisine and service. You can treat yourself to a fine dining experience at one of these establishments, such as Benu, Saison, or Quince, and savor dishes that are both innovative and delicious. You can also enjoy stunning views of the city skyline, the bay, or the ocean.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at Ghirardelli Square
San Francisco is also famous for its confections, especially chocolate. You can satisfy your sweet tooth by visiting Ghirardelli Square, a historic chocolate factory turned shopping mall and tourist attraction. You can sample some of Ghirardelli’s mouth-watering treats, such as hot fudge sundaes, chocolate truffles, and caramel apples. You can also shop for souvenirs and gifts, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Conclusion
Moving to San Francisco alone can be grueling, but San Francisco is a city that offers something for everyone, from its stunning natural beauty to its vibrant culture and rich history. Make sure that you have explored all its top things to do before you move to San Francisco, so that you can leave with unforgettable memories and experiences.
