Speaking of savings, what could be more affordable than "free"? San Francisco -- despite being a pricey town -- does offer a number of fun, free things to do, every day of the year. Meaning, you don't have to wait for them. The 49-Mile Scenic Drive? That’s always available. A picnic in the park? A walk along the Embarcadero? These are never closed.
You simply need to find the time. Here’s a quick ideas list to get you started. As you’ll find, it’s heavy on the sightseeing side, but with a city as lovely as this, it's little wonder you'll want to see it all. As Frank Lloyd Wright once said, “What I like best about San Francisco is San Francisco.”
Alamo Square
Home to the famous "Postcard Row," Alamo Square is a pretty place to visit for photos, a view of the city, or simply, an afternoon break.
Coit Tower
Take a trip up to Coit Tower for a 360° view of San Francisco. Also, take a tour inside the structure for a look at the famed murals. On Saturdays at 11 a.m., San Francisco City Guides leads a free, informative tour. To enter the tower now, there is a fee. But a very reasonable $4.50. What's more, the journey there (the steps up Telegraph Hill) and the view from above and around the landmark, are well worth it.
Embarcadero Waterfront
Great for walking, the waterfront's Embarcadero is highlighted by AT&T Park, the Ferry Building, Rincon Park (Cupid's Span), and a wonderful view of the Bay Bridge. Take photos, rest by the water, meditate, grab lunch, visit the farmers' market.
Golden Gate Bridge
Completed in 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge is synonymous with San Francisco. Walking the bridge's span is always popular, as well as absolutely free. As for the vehicles making their way across, "the Gate" annually sees 40 million. (Note: overall, the bridge is 1.7 miles long. You can also walk under it by way of Crissy Field).
Golden Gate Park
This beautiful park is so expansive, you'll need several days to really see it all. From the Japanese Tea Garden to the Conservatory of Flowers to the California Academy of Sciences, Golden Gate Park offers beauty and education, not to mention a good workout without even realizing it. Along with walking, there's also archery, lawn bowling, and a children's playground. In the summertime, look for free Sunday afternoon concerts, courtesy of the Golden Gate Park Band.
Museum Days
If you happen to be visiting San Francisco at the beginning of the month, definitely try and check out a free museum day or two. These designated days fall on the first Tuesday or Wednesday of each month and with them, your admission is covered - for free.
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Tuesday:
Cartoon Art Museum (pay any fee you wish) | Conservatory of Flowers | de Young Museum | Legion of Honor | Museum of Craft & Folk Art | SF Museum of Modern Art
Wednesday:
Exploratorium | California Academy of Sciences (third Wednesday of each month)
Palace of Fine Arts
Admire the view. A classical Roman-style rotunda, a lovely pond with swans and other waterfowl. A perfect place for some quiet reflection and photo-taking. (Note: the Exploratorium is right next door.)
The Presidio
A former military base, the Presidio is now a public park that's rich with history and activity. Biking and hiking trails call to the outdoor enthusiast. Find over 500 historic buildings, coastal defense fortifications, a historic airfield, and pet cemetery. Check out "Kids on Trails", a self-guided tour that helps kids and adults learn about the Presidio's Ecology Trail.
Yerba Buena Gardens Festival
Each year from May to October, the Yerba Buena Gardens Festival offers a nice mix of free artistic, cultural and community events. From operatic music to visual arts to spoken-word, the festival brings together a unique, diverse group of artists and performers. (Note: Also in the summer, there's the historic Stern Grove Festival.)
Walking Tours
For over 25 years, San Francisco City Guides has been offering free walking tours of the city, led by volunteers who simply "love the city, it's history, lore, and legends." This nonprofit organization of more than 200 trained volunteers offers tours of all points in San Francisco, including Chinatown, North Beach, Union Square, Nob Hill, and Haight Ashbury.
Before you arrive, videos are a great to "see" where you might be going. Here's a nice short one of Coit Tower:
Comments
From San Franciso
Thanks for a great article Jennifer!
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