It’s easy to understand why both locals and repeat visitors keep heading back to San Francisco’s tourism standbys: they’re extraordinary. Crissy Field offers up panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Ferry Building is brimming with culinary delights, and the Painted Ladies look positively dashing on anybody’s Instagram feed.
That said, there’s something truly exhilarating about encountering something spectacular for the first time. This collection of lesser-known attractions and underappreciated experiences is designed to do just that, in settings both coastal and urban. Bring your walking shoes, an extra layer (as always), and get ready to fall in love with San Francisco all over again.
Harry Street Steps, Glen Park
San Francisco’s steep hills will get your heart beating faster, and so will the little surprises you find along its urban stairways. A climb up these 230 stairs offer city views up top and nature and architectural delights along the way. Enter at Laidley Street to ascend or Beacon Street to head down (both entrances are easy to miss; look behind the hedges). You’ll find tranquil beauty canopied by trees and a welcome respite from urban bustle.
Batteries to Bluffs Trail, Presidio
With so many urban enticements at your disposal, it’s easy to overlook San Francisco’s natural beauty. Don’t sell the coastline short: The Batteries to Bluffs Trail offers dramatic views of the Presidio’s western shoreline, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Marin Headlands. Enter at Lincoln Boulevard and take in the native plants and flora until you reach the Battery Crosby, a gun battery built in 1900. This connects you to Marshall’s Beach, a secluded spot where you could spot a dolphin or seal in the distance.
Balmy and Clarion Alleys, Mission District
These ever-evolving mural alleys are located about a mile apart in the Mission District and are worthy of a dedicated visit (and your Instagram followers will thank you). Balmy is the original mural alley near 24th Street and has served as a platform for artists to protest political and social injustices since the early ‘80s. The Clarion Alley Mural Project, near the more gentrified 16th, has created more than 700 murals since the early ‘90s, including the current George Floyd mural by artist Keyvan Shovir.
The Wave Organ, Marina District
This acoustic sculpture, located on a jetty in the Marina District, was developed in the 1980s by Exploratorium artist-in-residence Peter Richards and sculptor George Gonzalez. The crash of waves against the 25 organ pipes—which are made of PVC and concrete—creates the beautiful Wave Organ sounds, which are best heard at high tide.
Music City San Francisco, Nob Hill
What started as a gleam in founder Rudy Colombini’s eye decades ago—after a chance run-in with John Lennon and frequent visits to Don Wehr’s Music in North Beach—is now ready for guests. Music City San Francisco is a music-themed hotel and hostel that also offers affordable rehearsal spaces and multiple performance venues for local acts, as well as a photography collection (“The Gallery”) and a display of Bay Area music memorabilia called Visionars. It’s also home to the San Francisco Music Hall of Fame. A stay here is guaranteed to give you a local’s feel for what’s happening in the City by the Bay, as well as how it earned its reputation as a storied music hot spot.
Magic Flute, Presidio Heights
If you’ve already made a pilgrimage to James Beard winners Tartine Bakery and B. Patisserie, it’s time to try Magic Flute. This quiet spot serves up the best cinnamon and sugar beignets—with cinnamon mascarpone whipped cream!—this side of Bourbon Street. It’s the kind of unhip place you’ll want to take your mom to (but all the while you’ll secretly soak up its unpretentious charm). A mimosa brunch is the best way to enjoy the garden setting.
The John Coltrane Church, Fillmore District
Even if you are a veteran of jazz clubs in the Bay Area (or anywhere else for that matter), it’s unlikely you’ve experienced anything like the John Coltrane Church. Founded in 1965 and dedicated to the life and music of the legendary musician, the church holds services that feature live jazz performances, and also hosts concerts, workshops, and other events. Whether you are a fan of live music or simply seeking an uplifting experience, this Sunday-at-noon weekly neighborhood gathering is well worth experiencing. (A meditation on A Love Supreme takes place on the first Sunday of every month.)
Crosstown Trail
To ditch the car and simply walk through San Francisco’s diverse neighborhoods, check out this newish 17-mile trail for hikers and bikers. Pop in and out for a day of exploring new haunts and sites, including a 360-degree view of the city at Grandview Park, Stow Lake Boathouse, the Moraga 16th Avenue mosaic tiles steps, Baker Beach, and Lands End.
Home Coffee, Chinatown
Lavender lattes and mochi pastries at this modern Chinatown spot add a twist to your San Francisco coffee experience. (You can stand in line at one of the national chains, but why?) If you’re looking for a less touristy neighborhood experience, head to Home’s just-as-charming second location on Clement Street.
Salesforce Park, Downtown
Whenever you’re downtown, consider a quick detour to this elevated four-block-long public space/living roof just above Salesforce Transit Center. On the northern end, you can’t miss the 1,200-foot-tall granite sculpture “Bus Fountain” by artist Ned Kahn. Its 247 water jets create an interactive fountain triggered by the movement of buses coming and going in the transit station below. Stake your claim on a bench and read a book or play a boardgame on the grassy lawn.
Letterman Digital Arts Center, Presidio
If you’ve already explored the Palace of Fine Arts, head across the street to the headquarters for Lucasfilm, Industrial Light and Magic, and the George Lucas Educational Foundation. Tours are not available but the 17-acre property is open to the public and features a tree-filled meadow and lagoon as well as views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Star Wars fans will want a snapshot with the iconic Yoda fountain and you can head into the lobby (when open) to find props, memorabilia, costumes, and a life-sized Darth Vader statue.
Martuni’s Piano Bar, Mid-Market
If stiff drinks and showtunes are your thing, then Martuni’s—one of San Francisco’s last piano bars located on Valencia and Market—does not disappoint. Talented locals belt out Broadway and other kitschy tunes to a lively crowd, fueled no doubt by the generous pours. Order the Martuni to get things started—Bombay Sapphire gin, dry vermouth, lemon twist or olive—and if you’re feeling brave, consider upshifting to the Dragon Fruit Martini.
Before you explore, be sure to visit our Responsible Travel Hub, which includes helpful Travel Updates.
