San Francisco, California may be known for its exorbitant cost of living and steep hotel prices but visiting this city can be reasonably priced thanks to the area’s many free attractions.
Town for a quick trip or for a full week, you’ll have no problem finding free things to enjoy in The Golden City. Below I’ve listed 13 of the best free things to do in San Francisco.
The Best Free Things To Do In San Francisco
16th Avenue Tiled Steps
At Moraga Street and 16th Ave you’ll find the whimsical 16th Avenue Tiled Steps. The public staircase is covered in colorful tiles starting with a mesmerizing ocean depiction at the base. The tiled artwork transitions into the earth and sun as you climb the 163 steps. The immaculate landscaping and stunning views make this well worth the climb.
The stairs are open at all hours but be reminded that this is a residential neighborhood, so please be respectful.
Take a Step Back in Time at the Palace of Fine Arts
The Palace of Fine Arts is known for its impressive rotunda built back in 1915. The structure was intended to reflect a ruin of Ancient Rome, and is situated between a lagoon and the exhibition center. A Roman ruin is quite unusual in California making this one of the most recognizable landmarks in the San Francisco area.
The rotunda is free and open at all hours.
Enjoy San Francisco’s Beaches
Highlighted by beautiful, rugged coastline, San Francisco’s beaches offer stunning views perfect for a leisurely stroll or relaxing picnic. These aren’t your typical swimming beaches but they’re beautiful and very popular nonetheless!
Be sure to check out the sea life at China Beach and McClures Beach, which are best viewed during low tide. This is one of my favorite free things to do in San Francisco.
The Best Beaches Near San Francisco
- Mile Rock Beach
- Ocean Beach
- McClures Beach
- Chrissy Field
- China Beach
- Baker Beach for excellent views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Explore Chinatown
San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest in the United States, and remains one of the largest as well. Take in the sights and traditional architecture while you enjoy authentic food, visit a temple, sample tea, or visit the Fortune Cookie Factory.
Grant Avenue runs the full length of Chinatown, you’ll find the most tourist friendly businesses here.
Tip: If visiting in late January or early February be sure to check out the festive and colorful Chinese New Year Parades.
Walk Across the Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge sits at the intersection of the Pacific Ocean and the San Francisco Bay, and is the city’s most iconic attraction. 40 million people per year cross over the 1.7 mile bridge, with over 10 million traversing by foot (wow!).
How to Walk Across the Golden Gate Bridge
You’ll start at the Welcome Center on the south end and eventually conclude up north at Vista Point. The trek takes about 2 hours round trip – assuming you make frequent photo stops, which I’d highly recommend!
Pedestrians are required to walk on the east side walkway and are permitted to cross only during certain hours.
If you’re up for a longer walk, access the bridge via Baker Beach. (As a bonus, you’ll find some of the best Golden Gate Bridge views here too!) Follow the beach to Batteries Bluff Trail. Then follow the trail east, cross under the bridge and meet up with the Welcome Center. This is about a 2.5 mile walk.
Experience Lombard Street in San Francisco
The famous stretch of Lombard Street is characterized by eight hairpin turns and is located near Russian Hill Park. In 1922, it was determined that the 27% grade was too steep for most cars and pedestrians. Therefore the road was created with switchbacks resulting in a quirky and now-famous street adored by tourists.
Fun Fact: This is not the steepest street in San Francisco. Filbert between Leavenworth and Hyde holds that title at a 31.5% grade.
The famous stretch begins at Hyde Street & Lombard ending at Leavenworth Street & Lombard and you can drive or walk the unorthodox street.
Lombard has plenty of pedestrian space and can be accessed from either the bottom or the top of the street. If you’d prefer to drive, you must enter at Hyde Street, but be aware there’s usually a long line of cars. Plan accordingly and pack your patience!
The street is accessible at all hours, but this is a residential street (can you imagine?!) so mind your manners.
Enjoy a Day in Mission Dolores Park
Dolores Park is located in the Castro District on Dolores Street between 18th & 20th street. This large, hillside park is where you’ll find locals lounging and hanging out on warm afternoons. This is a great place to have a picnic, play games, people watch, and enjoy the uninterrupted views of downtown San Francisco.
Visit The Sutro Bath Ruins
The Sutro Baths are large urban ruins located in the Lands End area of western San Francisco. The site was once a public swimming complex built by Adolph Sutro in the late 1800’s. Fed by the Pacific Ocean this was the largest indoor swimming pool in the world.
Following the heyday of the baths a construction fire destroyed the property in 1966, leaving behind the large urban ruins we see today.
Getting to the Sutro Bath Ruins
To get here park at the Lands End Lookout Visitor Center and follow the short trail down to the ruins. Be sure to use caution, this area can be very slippery.
Tip: Be sure to explore the Lands End area while here! Hike Lands End Trail, take in the area’s many lookout points, visit Lands End Labyrinth, or take a walk through Sutro Heights Park.
See The Historic Painted Ladies
The Painted Ladies are a row of colorful victorian homes made famous by the television show Full House. The homes, built in the late 1800’s, represent an intricate architectural style not often seen anymore. Many of San Francisco’s homes from this era have been destroyed by natural disasters, most commonly earthquakes.
Where are the Painted Ladies?
The Painted Ladies are located on Steiner Street between Grove Street and Hayes Street, facing Alamo Square Park. The best views of the Painted Ladies are from the east side of the park.
Admire the Clarion Alley Street Art
Clarion Alley Street Art is a public art display in the Mission District ran by the Clarion Alley Mural Project. The small alley runs for one block and is completely covered in colorful graffiti. This backstreet has housed 900 murals and supported over 700 artists dating back to 1992.
The site is located between Valencia Street and Mission Street and is free for self guided tours.
Have a passion for photography? This alley is an absolute can’t miss for those immersed in the space.
Bike Or Walk Through Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park is a large 1,017 acre urban park. This park is actually about 20% larger than NYC’s famous Central Park, and is home to many attractions, such as the California Academy of Sciences, Japanese Tea Garden, de Young Museum, and so many more! While these attractions require admission, the park itself is free.
There’s tons of space to walk around, bike, play games, read a book, or have a picnic. Seeing that the park is over 3 miles long and half a mile wide, it would be easy to spend an entire day here.
Visit the Sea Lions at Pier 39
Pier 39 is one of the top attractions in San Francisco thanks to the abundance of sea lions found here year around. To the marina staff’s initial dismay, the lions took over shortly after the Loma Prieta earthquake hit in October of 1989.
It remains uncertain why exactly they ended up here, but the pier does offer natural protection, space, and ample food. The pier has now been embracing these unexpected visitors for the past 30 years.
The sea lions can only be viewed from a distance and you can expect a large crowd of onlookers. You can see them on Pier 39’s K- Dock. The pier is located in Fisherman’s Wharf, one of the most famous (and free!) San Francisco attractions.
Check Out a Free Museum Day Or Free Walking Tour
San Francisco has countless museums and historical sites, most of which require admission, however, with some planning you can experience these sites for free.
The California Academy of Science offers free admissions on select Sundays. The Japanese Tea Garden has free admission on select mornings, and the de Young Museum offers free admission on Thursdays, just to name a few.
FAQs
What are some free attractions in San Francisco?
San Francisco offers several iconic attractions that are completely free to enjoy, such as walking across the Golden Gate Bridge, exploring Golden Gate Park, visiting Lombard Street, or watching the sea lions at Pier 39.
Is it free to visit Alamo Square and see the Painted Ladies?
Yes, it’s absolutely free! Alamo Square is a public park, and you can enjoy a scenic view of the famous Painted Ladies (the colorful Victorian houses) with the San Francisco skyline in the background.
Can I explore Fisherman’s Wharf without spending money?
Yes. Walking around Fisherman’s Wharf, taking in the street performances, and enjoying the waterfront views are all free activities. Just browsing the shops and attractions costs nothing.
Are San Francisco’s museums ever free?
Some museums offer free admission on certain days. For example, the de Young Museum and Legion of Honor offer free admission to residents on select Saturdays. Always check the museum’s website for updated free days.
Is it free to visit Chinatown in San Francisco?
Yes, exploring Chinatown is free. You can walk through the vibrant streets, see historic temples, and enjoy the colorful atmosphere without spending a dime.
Can I hike or walk for free in San Francisco?
Definitely! San Francisco is full of scenic hiking trails and walking paths like Lands End, Twin Peaks, Coit Tower steps, and the Presidio — all offering stunning views without any cost.
Is public transportation ever free in San Francisco?
While most public transit isn’t free, Muni offers occasional free ride days, and some neighborhoods offer free shuttle services. However, walking and biking remain great free options to explore the city.
Are there any free festivals or events in San Francisco?
Yes! San Francisco hosts numerous free festivals and events throughout the year, such as Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, Stern Grove Festival, and Chinese New Year Parade.
