San Francisco is a great city to visit for any length of time. When I got a chance to tour the city, I only had two full days but I felt like I saw most of the notable San Francisco icons. I even toured a couple of amazing places that many people don’t know about! Here’s what I recommend you see in San Francisco if you are only able to visit for a weekend:
- Golden Gate Bridge
- “Full House” House
- Ghirardelli Square
- Fisherman’s Wharf and Alcatraz
- Mr. Holmes Bakehouse
- Walt Disney Family Museum
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Golden Gate Bridge
This iconic bridge is a symbol of San Francisco. You cannot go there without talking a walk on the bridge! I recommend visiting during the day. Near the start of the bridge is a welcome center with a store for all of your Golden Gate Bridge souvenir shopping. It is conveniently located next to a parking structure where you can leave your car during your walk.
“Full House” House
If you have never seen “Full House”, you might want to watch an episode or two before your visit. This classic show was set in San Francisco, and the scenes outside of their house were shot on an actual street in San Francisco! While you cannot go inside, it’s still fun to take photos outside! The house is located at 1709 Broderick St., San Francisco, CA 94115. You can easily find I on Google Maps by typing in “Full House”, or if you take a taxi odds are they know how to get there.
Ghirardelli Square
One of my favorite chocolates started in San Francisco! Ghirardelli square is home to the first Ghirardelli store as well as other shops and eateries. This adorable area is a great place to stop for lunch. Sometimes you’ll be lucky enough to stumble upon a performance at Ghirardelli square! When I visited in December, we watched a local school choir perform their holiday concert!
Fisherman’s Wharf and Alcatraz
Right outside of Ghirardelli Square is another place I recommend visiting: Fisherman’s Wharf. This wharf has plenty of shops and restaurants to peruse during your free time. Along one of the piers you can take a boat tour across the way to Alcatraz. I am by no means a “history person”, but I really enjoyed visiting Alcatraz. Listening to the audio tour is necessary on Alcatraz if you want to get the full experience. Listening to the stories of people who lived there was interesting, and gave me a greater appreciation for what this island really was.
Mr. Holmes Bakehouse
Have you ever seen someone visit San Francisco and post a photo of neon lights spelling “I got baked in San Francisco”? These lights have become fairly famous and those traveling to San Francisco often stop by just to get a photo. These lights can be found at Mr. Holmes Bakehouse. The bakery is a quick stop for breakfast, and definitely worth the visit. The pastries are amazing, and with the variety you are sure to find something you like!
Walt Disney Family Museum
I love everything Disney, so of course I had to stop by the Walt Disney Family Museum while I was in San Francisco! This museum is something you could easily pass up if you didn’t know it was there. Located on Montgomery St., this museum brings the magic of Disney to San Fran. If you have ever been to a Disney park, you probably know what I call the “Disney feeling”. It’s the feeling of being a kid again through an atmosphere that is bigger and more extraordinary than daily life. This museum definitely has the “Disney feeling” with colorful sculptures and interactive displays. If you like learning more about Walt Disney and his life, this is definitely a place you want to visit.
What else would you add to this list? Let me know in the comments!
Anna’s Pick of the Week
San Francisco’s weather can vary depending on the time of year. It’s always a good idea to have a light jacket handy. This jacket is a great option as it is light weight, water resistant, and folds up into a small bag. I have a similar jacket and I love how convenient it is to throw in my backpack as I head out the door!
