an Francisco is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the U.S., and for good reason – with its beautiful beaches, rolling hills, and unique, thriving mix of cultures, it’s a fantastic place to visit (or live!). Especially for young adults, there’s a lot to do in San Francisco, including:
- Visiting gorgeous landmarks
- Going hiking (yes, in the city!)
- Hitting up the best bars in town
- Exploring SF’s diverse literary culture
Whether you’re traveling or a local looking for something new to do, you’re sure to find great new things to try.
Explore Every Nook And Cranny
There’s Something To Interest Everyone
Founded in 1776, San Francisco is old – and with that age comes a lot of history. There are a lot of eye-catching landmarks and historic areas, including (but certainly not limited to):
1. The Golden Gate Bridge
Even if you’ve never set foot in San Francisco – or even California – you’ve no doubt seen imagery of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. At the time of its completion in 1937, it was the tallest and longest suspension bridge in the world. Whether you’re walking or biking along it, or sailing on a boat under it, you won’t want to miss the chance to see it.
2. The Castro District
San Francisco is well-known as an LGBT travel destination, and this is in part due to the Castro district (often simply known as “the Castro”). The Castro was one of the first gay neighborhoods in the U.S. Created in 1887, many discharged gay servicemen flocked to the area, and in the 1970s, Harvey Milk moved there and eventually led the gay political movement in San Francisco. With street fairs, theaters, and more, there’s a lot to do in the Castro.
3. Haight-Ashbury
Haight-Ashbury is another district you may have heard of – it’s something of a tradition among tourists to snap a photo at the Haight-Ashbury intersection (and grab a scoop of Ben & Jerry’s from the store there after), but Haight-Ashbury is known for a lot more than just that. Much of the 1960s counter-cultural movement was rooted in that very district, and bands like The Grateful Dead called it home for a long time. With everything from Victorian houses to record stores to coffee shops, Haight-Ashbury has something for everyone.
4. Mission San Francisco de Asís
Located in the Mission district of San Francisco, Mission San Francisco de Asís is the oldest intact building in San Francisco (though much of it was destroyed in 1906 by an earthquake, and rebuilt in 1918) – not much of a surprise, given that San Francisco was founded in the first place by Spanish missionaries. If you’re interested in San Francisco’s religious history, definitely check out the church complex (and check out the rest of the beautiful Mission district).
If you want even more of a taste of the historic, consider taking a cable car ride through the city! Though a little more expensive than taking the bus, cable cars offer a great view, and will take you past a lot of fantastic tourist destinations. Feel free to ride the line all the way to the end, or hop off when you see something interesting!
Take A Hike
Get Your Steps In, While Drinking In Breathtaking Views
Of course, with great hills comes a whole lot of walking – though San Francisco is a city through and through, there are plenty of gorgeous parks and trails to get your steps in, and have a beautiful view while you do it. Though certainly not limited to these places, some of our favorite areas include:
1. Sutro Heights
Surprisingly, Sutro Heights is still a bit of a hidden gem. Sutro Heights has been around since 1881, when Prussian-American engineer (and later San Francisco mayor) Adolph Sutro began developing the park for his mansion out of a sense of homesickness for European aesthetics. Beginning in 1885, Sutro Heights was opened to public viewing. Though the estate itself fell into disrepair after Sutro’s death and was eventually torn down, the park remains, and has an absolutely beautiful view of Ocean Beach.
2. Mt. Davidson Cross
Throughout the city, you can see the Mt. Davidson Cross – Mt. Davidson is the highest point in San Francisco, and at the very top sits the Mt. Davidson Cross, a memorial to the victims of the Armenian Genocide of 1915. One of the oldest landmarks in SF, it’s a beautiful, peaceful hike to get there, and provides an opportunity to reflect, remember, and pay your respects.
3. Golden Gate Park
Sprawling across 1,017 acres of land, Golden Gate Park is the third most visited urban park in the United States. Featuring conservatories, a museum, and plenty of walking trails, Golden Gate Park is a beautiful part of San Francisco, and contains some fantastic pieces of history (such as the Japanese Tea Garden, built for the 1894 Midwinter Exposition). The park also holds plenty of events, so you’re sure to find a great way to spend your time, and meet tons of new people while you’re at it.
Grab A Drink
Dive Bar Or Theme Bar, SF’s Got You Covered
Like any city, San Francisco has had many unique bars pop up over the years. You’ll find them just about everywhere, boldly lining the streets or tucked away in hidden corners, but we’ve gotten together some of our favorites for you today. For anyone over 21, this is a great way to get out and meet all sorts of different folks, as well as just plain have a great time (just remember to drink responsibly – you want to remember your trip, right?).
1. Tonga Room
Praised by Anthony Bourdain himself, Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar is one of the most fascinating tiki bars out there. Of course, the food and drink are to die for, but Tonga Room’s main allure is its interior – the entire bar is decked out like a ship, but not only that, there’s a giant lagoon in the center, on which is also a stage for live music.
2. Noc Noc
If you’re a fan of dive bars, you’ll love Noc Noc. Short for “Nocturnal Nocturne,” Noc Noc is nestled into the Lower Haight district, and boasts some beautifully eclectic decor. Founded by Iranian immigrant Rahmat Shirakhon, the beer and sake bar has been a favorite of locals for years, and for good reason.
3. Emporium Arcade Bar
Though the brand originated in Chicago, Emporium recently opened a location in San Francisco – specifically in the Harding Theater, a historic venue. An exhilarating “barcade,” Emporium combines music, drinks, and arcade games. Sit back and enjoy a cocktail, or try your hand at any game from Galaga to Dance Dance Revolution Extreme.
Buy A Book (Or Several)
(We Won’t Judge)
San Francisco has a lot of bookstores. Some are very generalist, while others have their specific niches. Some even do readings and events. If you’re looking to hit up a bookstore that isn’t just your average Barnes & Noble, SF is one of the best places to do it. Some of our favorite places are:
1. The Booksmith
If you’re visiting Haight-Ashbury, you can’t miss The Booksmith. Located right on Haight Street, The Booksmith is a lovely queer-owned indie bookstore that does tons of events. From drag shows to silent reading parties to writing workshops, you’re sure to find something you enjoy.
2. Medicine for Nightmares
Located in the Mission, Medicine for Nightmares focuses on latine lit – but not only that, it doubles as an art gallery. A more recent establishment, Medicine for Nightmares was opened in 2021 and quickly became a key part of the neighborhood, seeking to fight the nightmare of a white power structure through literature.
3. City Lights
Founded in 1953, City Lights was progressive then, and it’s progressive now. An all-paperback bookstore, City Lights has expanded to encompass three floors, and has not only titles from major publishers, but also plenty of more niche titles from specialty publishers. From poetry and fiction, to politics, spirituality, music, cultural studies, and more, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye.
With that, our guide on things for young adults to do in San Francisco draws to a close. We hope you’ve found something exciting to do on your trip!
