1. Japanese Tea Gardens

On the eastern edge of Golden Gate Park, the Japanese Tea Garden San Francisco is a lovely and soothing environment. It is the United States’ oldest Japanese Tea Garden. 

It was built for the California Midwinter International Exposition in 1894. Makoto Hagiwara, a Japanese immigrant, continued to care for and extend the garden after the exposition. Many landscape architects and others have contributed to and cared for it throughout the years. It now spans more than five acres of land.  

When you visit the Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco, you’ll see that there are pathways leading in all directions. All of the pathways wind their way through and around the park, taking you past its various attractions.  These include a pagoda, a bridge, a koi pond, and more. 

Beautiful blossoming flowers, a stunning drum bridge, a historic pagoda, a Zen garden, and much more can be found within. You may also spend some additional time at the on-site teahouse, which serves tea and meals. You can also purchase tea and Japanese snacks inside the garden.

The garden is free to enter, and it’s a great place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city. There are a number of different tea ceremonies you can participate in, or you can simply enjoy the peace and quiet. 

2. The Buena Vista 

In 1916, the Buena Vista San Francisco first opened its doors as a saloon. The words ‘buena vista’ means ‘excellent view’ in Spanish. The café is located just a block from San Francisco Bay and is known for its spectacular views.

Buena Vista San Francisco is a well-known cafe in the Fisherman’s Wharf district of San Francisco. This coffeehouse is known for introducing Irish coffee to the United States. 

It’s a wonderful spot for a late breakfast, lunch, or dinner. They also offer breakfast till 2 p.m. every day.  The menu consists of American and Irish dishes. You can start your meal with the Buena Vista’s house salad, which comes with blue cheese, bacon, and avocado. For your entree, you might choose the shepherd’s pie or the fish and chips. And of course, you can’t leave without trying an Irish coffee.

Another amazing feature of this establishment is the warm atmosphere and courteous employees.  The waitstaff is attentive and very knowledgeable about the menu items. They’re also happy to make recommendations.

3. San Francisco Whale Tour

San Francisco Whale Tours are a great way to see the city’s skyline and get a close-up view of the area’s wildlife. These tours depart from Pier 39, which is located in the Fisherman’s Wharf district of San Francisco.

During your tour, you’ll likely see a variety of different whales, including humpback whales, blue whales, and orcas. You may also see dolphins, sea lions, and other marine life. The tour guides are very knowledgeable about the area’s wildlife and can answer any questions you have. They’re also happy to take pictures for you.

San Francisco Whale Tours last for about two hours. They run daily from late April through early November.

If you’re looking for a unique way to see the city and its wildlife, then San Francisco Whale Tours is definitely worth checking out.

3. Presidio 

San Francisco is a city full of surprises, and the Presidio is the city’s 1500-acre crown gem. You may visit this historical site several times and your visit will never be the same again because of the rich culture, diversity, gastronomy, and activities that take place here throughout the year.

The Presidio is home to the Walt Disney Family Museum, the California Palace of the Legion of Honor, and numerous other attractions. There are also a number of restaurants and cafes located within the Presidio.

Photo by Greg Rakozy on Unsplash

Not only that, there are over 300 native plant species, and an equivalent number of bird species may be found in this natural oasis. With a tidal marsh, three watersheds, and even a freshwater lake, it is as diverse in terms of terrain. 

You can ride your bike or walk through the forest on the 2.1-mile paved track to explore the natural flora and animals of this location as an activity. Or you can begin at the Lombard Gate, which has been restored to its 19th-century appearance, and walk to the end of the trail while inhaling the scents of bright and aromatic wildflowers and admiring the magnificent military architecture.

There are almost 700 structures in the park, including air hangars, stables, barracks, and even luxurious commanders’ residences.

4. San Francisco Hiking Trails 

San Francisco is home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world. With so many different trails to choose from, it’s hard to know where to begin.

If you’re looking for an easy trail, then we would recommend checking out Lands End. This trail is located in San Francisco’s Sutro Heights Park and offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Marin Headlands, and the city skyline.

For a more challenging hike, we would recommend checking out Mt. Tamalpais State Park. This park is located just north of San Francisco and offers beautiful views of the Bay Area. The park also has a number of different trails to choose from, so you can find one that’s perfect for your fitness level.

5. Boudin Sourdough Bakery & Cafe 

Boudin Sourdough Bakery & Cafe is a must-visit for anyone who’s visiting San Francisco. This bakery has been around since 1849 and is the city’s oldest continuously operating business.

The bread at Boudin Sourdough Bakery & Cafe is some of the best you’ll ever taste. The sourdough bread is made using a sourdough starter that’s over 150 years old. The bread is then baked in a brick oven, which gives it a unique flavor and texture.

In addition to the bread, Boudin Sourdough Bakery & Cafe also offers a variety of pastries, sandwiches, soups, and salads. The cafe is also a great place to grab a cup of coffee or tea.

If you’re looking for a unique bakery with delicious bread, then Boudin Sourdough Bakery & Cafe is definitely worth checking out.

Featured Image: Photo by Joshua Chun on Unsplash