What to Do in San Francisco For a Weekend

When you’re visiting San Francisco, there are many things to do. You’ll want to check out Pier 39, Alcatraz, Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, and more. There are even plenty of outdoor activities to choose from! Regardless of whether you’re visiting the city for a weekend or for a month, there’s something for everyone. Here are some suggestions:

Pier 39

If you are planning a trip to San Francisco for the weekend, you should not miss visiting Pier 39, one of the top attractions. This historic pier is home to a wide variety of shops, restaurants, video arcades, street performances, and the Aquarium of the Bay. Visitors can enjoy virtual 3D rides, watch live California sea lions, and more.

The aquarium has over 20,000 species of marine animals and fish. You can even touch a bat ray wing, and daily educator-led animal feedings are available. Visitors will also love the Musical Stairs, an interactive art exhibit that lets visitors create music through motion and sound. A giant piano that looks like it came straight out of the movie “Big” is another attraction that is sure to be a crowd pleaser.

Alcatraz

Visiting Alcatraz in San Francisco for a day or weekend is a unique and worthwhile experience. It’s one of the most popular attractions in the city, and tours often sell out. The island is a haven for colonial nesting seabirds and many waterbirds call Alcatraz home. If you’re planning on visiting during the nesting season, late June is the time to go. The island can be very smelly during this time.

When visiting Alcatraz, wear comfortable shoes and layers. Since it can be foggy and chilly at times, you should bring a warm jacket and a raincoat. You should also wear a good pair of sunglasses. For photography, you’ll want to take your own camera if you’d like to take pictures of the landscape. A Sony Alpha a6000 is a good choice.

Fisherman’s Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf is a bustling area of San Francisco that is perfect for a weekend getaway. This neighborhood has a rich history and is filled with fun things to do. There are several activities to choose from, including boat tours and sightseeing cruises.

You can also check out Ghirardelli Square, a former chocolate factory that opened years ago. This attraction has been repurposed to house a vibrant mix of local stores and restaurants. The area has a unique mix of modernity and old-fashioned charm. It is also home to Andrea, a sculpture of a mermaid sitting in a fountain with a group of children.

Chinatown

If you’re looking for a fun place to spend a weekend, consider visiting Chinatown in San Francisco. This district is the largest Chinese community outside of Asia, and is spread across 24 city blocks. It’s an ideal place to spend a half day or more eating dim sum and shopping for souvenirs. It’s also a great place to learn about San Francisco’s Asian community. You might forget you’re in America for a while when you visit this lively neighborhood.

You can find inexpensive souvenirs and clothes in Chinatown. The streets are lined with Chinese-style buildings and lamp posts. There are plenty of gift shops in this area, including a quaint little store called Grant Avenue. Another place to find bargains is the Canton Bazaar, a large store that features thousands of items, including clothes, accessories, home decor, and gifts.

Lombard Street

The best time to drive down Lombard Street in San Francisco is early in the morning or during blue hour, as both sides of the street are well lit. However, this route is often clogged with traffic, and driving can be slow, especially during the busy summer months.

Lombard Street has paved bricks and tight turns, and the views from the road are spectacular. You’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Bay Bridge and the Coit Tower. The city recently passed a bill to charge visitors $5 per vehicle to drive on the street. However, you’ll need to register in advance for a time slot.

Union Square

If you’re planning a trip to San Francisco, be sure to visit Union Square, a 2.6-acre public plaza located in downtown San Francisco. The area is surrounded by Powell, Stockton, Post, and Geary Streets, and is the heart of the city’s shopping, theater, and hotel districts.

Union Square is the heart of San Francisco and is a popular location for visitors and locals alike. The area features high-end shopping, fun bars, and a thriving nightlife scene. To make the most of your visit, take the cable car from Union Square to Fisherman’s Wharf.