Location: San Francisco
Top Things to do in San Francisco
What to do and see in San Francisco, California (CA): The Best Neighborhoods
Every neighborhood in San Francisco has its own personality, from the hippie chic of the Upper Haight to the hipster grit of the Mission. The Marina district boasts trendy bistros and postcard-perfect views of the Golden Gate Bridge, while Noe Valley offers quaint and quiet boutiques. Wave hello to the sea lions at Pier 39, and sample local cheese and charcuterie at the Ferry Building. Sit in on a yoga session in Dolores Park or marvel at the Dutch Windmill across from Ocean Beach.
Restaurants in San Francisco
1. The Embarcadero
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 924 reviews
Major street in the port area of San Francisco that has become a bustling area of shops, businesses and sightseeing attractions.
Reviewed By TV2451
We enjoyed a long drive along the Embarcadero on a Sunday and noticed the numbers of people enjoying their strolls at a safe distance. On a sunny day this is one of the best places in San Francisco for a walk. Lots to see and enjoy, the waterfront, the piers, the Ferry Building, the Bay Bridge.
2. Aquatic Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 80 reviews
This waterfront area, once part of Fort Mason, is now a complex for museums and artists.
Reviewed By mini - Fremont, United States
We love the views of the San Francisco Bay from Aquatic Park. Its a wonderful place to go for a walk. There are some restaurants such as McCormick and Schmick at Giardelli Square where one gets a good view of the park when dining. And yes - some even swim in the Bay.
3. Marina District
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 132 reviews
Trendy neighborhood in San Francisco with plenty of cool cafes, retail stores and restaurant choices to explore.
Reviewed By mini - Fremont, United States
We returned to the Mission District and had a great time. There is the Palace of Fine Arts. We also went to the Fort Mason Center. Then we spent time at the Marina Green area. There are awesome views of both the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz. There is also the small boat harbor. There are interesting mansions also to see.
4. North Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 294 reviews
Most of this neighborhood's former beatnik charm is retained while adding fine cuisine to its claim to fame.
Reviewed By misopiso88 - Seattle, United States
My son and I were in North Beach for the afternoon. We went for lunch as well as checked out a few of the shops. Then we walked south on Columbus Ave to City Lights Bookstore which is THE COOLEST! Highly recommend!
5. Bernal Heights Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 60 reviews
A hilly San Francisco neighborhood.
Reviewed By Nessou44 - San Francisco, United States
It’s a fantastic place to spend the afternoon, the views on the city are stunning. Quite a short walk to reach the top of the hill, nice and easy.
6. Pacific Heights
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 103 reviews
Attractive neighborhood where you will find multi-colored Victorian homes.
Reviewed By geotech522
We took the Pacific Heights Mansions tour with John Nockels who is with San Francisco City Guides. He was very familiar with the neighborhood as he lives in the neighborhood. The Pacific Heights zip code is the most expensive in San Francisco. Pacific Heights commands a great view of the San Francisco Bay extending from the Golden Gate to downtown San Francisco and all around 360 degrees at its highest point. We saw homes on the so-called Billionaires Row. There is a lot of history with the rich and famous of California from the days of the 49ers to the present day. We saw homes on not so large lots that sold for over $10 million. We started from Alta Plaza Park and walked around the neighborhood a few blocks from the park to get just a flavor of the community and the personalities that lived or are currently living in this great location.
7. Noe Valley
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 44 reviews
Reviewed By TV2451
This is definitely where folks want to live. Houses and apartments are very much in demand here because it is close to so much, the weather is good (for SF!) and the street vibe is so cool, Expect to see lots of families pushing baby carriages. Good shopping and good eating.
8. Hayes Valley
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 75 reviews
Reviewed By Jewlztravels - Livermore, United States
What a cool neighborhood. After dining at Petit Crenn, my friend and I decided to walk around and so enjoyed this area. It is very clean (unlike some other areas in the city). There are many great food options, from restaurants to food trucks all in one central area. We saw a lot of unique clothing stores and boutiques too. The weather was perfect so lots of folks were walking around or sitting on the benches eating their food truck food and enjoying the night. We wondered through a store that sells specialty grocery and food gifts and wine. You might find flavored honey, unique salad dressings, gift items and a large wine selection. This neighborhood is worth spending some time in.
9. Haight-Ashbury
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1,374 reviews
Center of the long-gone hippie culture of the 1960s, this trendy neighborhood is now a whole new scene with upscale boutiques, Internet cafes and hip restaurants.
Reviewed By mini - Fremont, United States
We went to Haight-Ashbury and enjoyed exploring it. Its a nice area, with unique features and stores. Its where the hippie generation had a major role. It is where one will see huge legs hanging from a window. One will see intriguing wall murals. You will see the corner road side of Haight-Ashbury. There is the former home of Jimi Hendrix. There are fun stores to go to such as Amoeba Music, There are restaurants and cafes such as Cha Cha Cha.
