How to explore San Francisco like a local
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Dolores Park in the Mission neighborhood of San Francisco is pictured. Photo by: David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images
So you're visiting San Francisco or showing it off to an out-of-towner. Great choice, it's one of the best cities in the world.
The latest: You may be here for one of the city's many happenings this weekend. But if you have some extra time to spare to explore San Francisco here are some recommendations.
Before we start, read our list of Valentine's Day- related events, NBA All-Star parties and Lunar New Year celebrations happening from Feb. 14-16.
Now, let's get into it:
🧺 Picnic in Dolores Park
Stop by Bi-Rite Market for a bottle of rosé and some charcuterie staples — or better yet a burrito from El Farolito or Señor Sisig — before heading to the park to take in the stunning views of the city skyline.
- It's an especially popular destination on a sunny weekend, where you're sure to encounter one of the park's unique vendors, who offer everything from beer, ice cream and hot dogs to edibles and chocolate shrooms.
🍹 Have a cocktail
The city has a vibrant bar scene and you'd be missing out if you didn't stop by one of these beloved spots.
- To revel in history, go to The Saloon in North Beach, one of the city's oldest bars that opened in 1861; Buena Vista Café near Fisherman's Wharf known as the birthplace of the Irish coffee in the U.S.; or Li Po Lounge in Chinatown that's famous for its killer Mai Tai.
- If you're in the mood for a fancy cocktail: ABV, Pacific Cocktail Haven or True Laurel.
- If you want a tiki drink: Lost Resort, Smuggler's Cove or Last Rites.
🚶Take a stroll through the Richmond
The Inner Richmond, and specifically Clement Street, holds a special place in our hearts. It has plenty of shops, amazing restaurants and one of the best farmer's markets in the city. Here's a brief breakdown of what we love most:
- Restaurants: Lokma (for authentic Turkish fare), Pasta Supply Co. (for homemade pasta), Burma Superstar (for their signature tea leaf salad), or Lily (for Vietnamese dishes you won't find elsewhere).
- Cafes: Arsicault (for the best croissants), Breck's (for the best happy hour wine special), or Bazaar on California Street (for their eccentric ambience and backyard).
- Shops: For a book, unique gift or keepsake made by a local artist head to Park Life, Tantrum, Fleetwood, Green Apple Books, or The Golden Hour.
🌁 Visit the Tunnel Tops park in the Presidio
This newly renovated national park has incredible views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the bay and is within walking distance to Crissy Field and the beach.
- Stop by Il Parco for lunch or swing by one of the many food trucks before taking a walk on the trails, lounging on the public lawns, or heading to the Outpost playground and Field Station curiosity lab.
🚴 Bike along JFK Drive through Golden Gate Park
Start by renting a bike at Haight and Stanyan Streets to take along the scenic car-free route through Golden Gate Park that passes by museums, the Conservatory of Flowers, bison herds, a waterfall and a Dutch windmill before reaching Ocean Beach.
🚃 Hop on the F Line
San Francisco's cable cars may be famous, but just as iconic is the city's collection of historic streetcars that run along Market Street in the Castro up to the waterfront at the Embarcadero and Fisherman's Wharf.
- The F Line is part of MUNI, the city's public transit system, which makes this ride an affordable and convenient option to explore several neighborhoods while also taking part in a bit of history.
- A ticket is $3 if paid in cash, $2.75 if paid via the MuniMobile app or Clipper Card.
🥟 Eat Chinese food in the Sunset
While Chinatown has great restaurants, many of us locals believe the city's westside neighborhoods have the most authentic and diverse Chinese food. Here are some favorites worth making the trek out west for:
- Try Yuanbao Jiaozi (for the dumplings), San Tung Chinese Restaurant (for their legendary chicken wings), King of Noodles (for the spicy beef noodle soup) House of Pancakes (for the beef roll pancake) or Pineapple King Bakery (for the buns).
🚙 Ride in a Waymo
Download the app to experience the self-driving phenomenon firsthand. The autonomous ride gives you a chance to relax, enjoy the lack of awkward small talk or play your favorite music prior to reaching your destination.
🎪 See a circus show
San Francisco has a vibrant circus community and long history as a home to performers who helped inspire the circus renaissance movement in the U.S.
- That legacy continues with "Dear San Francisco" — a show from the acclaimed circus troupe The 7 Fingers that celebrates what people love about the city.
- The story features original music, acrobatics and impressive choreography that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the city.
🎤 Sing karaoke
Karaoke culture is alive and well in San Francisco. Head to one of the city's premiere spots to sing your heart out. Or, if you don't like to be in the limelight, rent out a private room or sit back and watch the regulars break out in song.