San Francisco is an iconic city and has some equally iconic landmarks. With its rugged coastline, open and inclusive culture, and the beautiful Golden Gate Bridge, it’s not hard to see why it’s so popular.
Another great thing about San Francisco, is there are lots of great free activities if you want to visit the pacific coast and save some of your hard earned dollars.
Here are 10 free things to do in San Francisco.
Golden Gate Bridge – Always Free
Walking across the one of the most recognizabe landmaks in the world is an absolute must whenvisiting SF. It can get breezy up there so you may want to take a sweater.
Ferry Building – Always Free
The San Francisco Ferry Building is a terminal for ferries that travel across the San Francisco Bay. The historic building is home to one of the largest farmers markets in the area, and houses numerous artisanal shops.
Mural’s of Mission – Always Free
The Mission District is home to many artists, and you can see this by the art covering buildings and alleyways in the area. Aim for the Clarion Alley.
Sea lions at Pier 39
Rose Garden at Golden Gate Bridge Park – Always Free
A beatiful park that you’ll find once you’ve crossd over the Golden Gate Bridge. There are more than 60 rose beds planted in the garden by a collection of dedicated locals.
Free Sailing Class – Sometimes Free
Ten times a year, the Cal Sailing club offers free introductory sailing lessons. You’ll sail around in the San Francisco Bay, learning about boat and waterfront safety, Bay ecology, and the fun of sailing a non-motorized watercraft.
Hike Mount Sutro – Always Free
This is a great park, located in the heart of San Fransico. It’s home to a nearly 100-year-old forest, as well as a 900-foot hill, great if you want to get in some exercise on your trip.
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts – Free First Tuesday of the Month
YBCA annually hosts between seven and ten special exhibitions, a mix of solo artist and group shows. It’s displays provide thought-provoking, politically informed works.
San Francisco skyline
Sea Lions at Pier 39 – Always Free
One of the new iconic sounds of San Fransico is the barking of the sea lions that love to sunbathe at Pier 39
People Watch at Dolores Park – Always Free
Located at the western edge of the Mission district and is home to a colorful cast of characters. The park includes a large slope which offers an unobstructed view of downtown San Francisco.
Lombard Street – Always Free
Walking down the historic zig-zagged Lombard Street can be more fun than driving it as you get to take it in for longer, and you don’t have to concentrate on driving.
So there you have it, 10 free things to do in San Francisco.
This list is by no means the only free things to do in San Francisco, it’s just a selection of the most popular. If you want to add your favorite things to do in the comments, please share with our readers.
One last thing, if you want to browse some booking options for a trip to San Francisco, check out our travel resources page.
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