San Francisco is an awesome city for so many reasons. Not only does the city offer unique opportunities such as riding on cable cars and walking across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, there are plenty of nearby places you can visit in a day trip. We spent several days in San Francisco during a California road trip and loved every minute of it. Here are some suggestions for all ages of things to do in the San Francisco area, most which we were able to do during our three day visit.
*This post was updated March, 2023
*This post contains affiliate links; if you purchase something familyTravelsUSA may receive a small commission. As always, opinions are my own.
Day One Highlights: Breakfast at a Local Favorite, Cable Car Rides, Alcatraz Tour Start the day with breakfast at one of the oldest restaurants in the city, Sears Fine Foods. It’s been around since 1938, and kids will love ordering the 18 Swedish Pancakes. Then head on over to the ferry terminal to visit Alcatraz Island, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Plan to spend at least half a day, including the ferry ride. All the day tours include the Cellhouse Audio Tour, which is definitely the best way to tour the facility. Kids stay engaged and everyone can move at their own pace. Pick up or download the Junior Ranger activity book as well. As a bonus, the views of San Francisco from the ferry and island are pretty photo worthy. When you return, take a ride on a cable car. This was something that was definitely on my bucket list! Try the California line if you want to experience a really steep hill, plus it is usually less crowded so you have more of a chance of getting an outside seat! Depending on what else you want to see in San Francisco, consider buying a San Francisco CityPASS® ticket if you think you are going to visit 4 of the offered attractions. This currently includes the California Academy of Sciences, the Aquarium of the Bay, and the Blue and Gold Fleet San Francisco Bay Cruise. The pass is valid for 9 consecutive days. The San Francisco C3® ticket offers access to any 3 attractions on the list, including an option for bike rentals at Bay City Bike & Parkwide Bike Rentals.
Day Two: Golden Gate Bridge, Muir Woods and Point Reyes National Seashore, Dinner at the Wharf
My husband was insistent that we walk across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, and I have to admit, it was a unique experience. Just remember that one of you has to go back to get the car! There is a pedestrian/bike path that spans both sides of the entire 1.2 miles of the bridge, so if you are feeling adventurous you can ride a bike across the bridge (pedestrians are only allowed on the east sidewalk). The southeast end of the bridge has a Visitor Plaza, with some parking. Be aware that the walkway does get crowded during the summer. Next stop is Muir Woods. This place is a must see for many reasons, but mainly because you can see giant coastal redwood trees, the tallest living things in the world. If you’ve never walked through a forest of giant trees, some which are over 200 feet tall, you won’t understand how cool this really is. Within the park there are 6 miles of trails to explore, starting with an easy one half hour loop trail. Kids can stop at the visitor center and pick up a Junior Ranger book to complete during a visit. Download the helpful National Park app before you go. You can save any park for offline use before you go. 
From Muir Woods, head up the coast to Point Reyes National Seashore. There are several visitor centers scattered throughout Point Reyes, and the views are stunning. We especially loved visiting Drake’s Beach, one of many beaches scattered along the 80 miles of shoreline. You’ll find some good tips for keeping safe on the beach while exploring this beautiful national seashore. Be sure you have plenty of gas before you start! At the end of the day, head back to the city and Boudin Sourdough Bakery at Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can enjoy a San Francisco classic, clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl. Day Three: Drive Down the Crooked Street, Visit the Fortune Cookie Factory, Spend Time at Golden Gate Park If you are staying near North Beach, head to Pat’s Cafe for breakfast. Then drive down Lombard Street, winding your way on the most crooked street in the world (although some would argue that Vermont Street is the winner). Stroll around Chinatown and find Ross Alley. Step into Golden Gate Fortune Cookie and watch how fortune cookies are assembled. Spend the afternoon at the California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park. With a natural history museum, rainforest, aquarium and planetarium, it’s sure to please everyone. Take time to enjoy the grounds and gardens at the park. Or, rent bikes and head out to explore the Presidio. There are plenty of choices to fill your day. 
Hotel Tip: We loved our stay at the Columbus Inn in North Beach when we last visited San Francisco. It was the perfect hotel for a family of 5, with large rooms, off-street parking, easy access to bus and cable car routes, and walking distance to the wharf. What other attractions would you add to the list? Feel free to comment below.
7 Comments
It's been several years since my last visit to San Francisco, but I remember Alcatraz being so much cooler than I thought it would be. I was expecting a really dull audio tour, but it far exceeded my expectations. I didn't walk across the Golden Gate Bridge or make it to John Muir Woods, so it looks like I've got to get back up there!
Jami
9/3/2019 10:43:31 am
We plan to travel to San Fran next month - Oct. It has been a couple of years since you posted this blog. Do you still recommend the Columbus Inn? Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
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