San Francisco is a vibrant and diverse city known for its iconic landmarks, cultural attractions, and bustling neighborhoods. While popular tourist destinations like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island are must-see attractions, the city also offers a plethora of hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences. If you’re looking to explore San Francisco beyond the usual tourist spots, here are some hidden things to do that will give you a unique and memorable experience.
20 Hidden Things to Do in San Francisco
The following are some of the lesser-known things to do in San Francisco:
- Hike through Land’s End
- Step back in time at the Musée Mécanique
- Get lost in the Mirror Maze at Pier 39
- See the Sutro Baths
- Liberate your inner child at Castro Concrete Slides
- Drive along Presidio Avenue
- Eat from different food trucks at the Presidio Off the Grid Event
- Dine at Forbes Island
- Enjoy Chinese cuisine at Mission Chinese
- Experience the best of SF Entertainment at Rickshaw Stop
- Party at Monarch’s Downstairs Club
- Visit The Hideout at Dalva for artisanal cocktails
- Experience SF’s Speakeasy Culture at Bourbon and Branch
- Locate 620 Jones for an exhilarating bar experience
- Lodge at the Crescent Hotel
- Immerse yourself in the beauties of the Conservatory of Flowers
- Row boats at Stow Lake
- See a movie at Roxie Theater
- Ride the Mini through the City
- Get Dollar Drinks in the Castro on a Monday
Hike through Land’s End
Located next to the historic Sutro Baths, Land’s End offers picturesque hiking trails with stunning views of the bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. This hike provides a secluded experience compared to most viewing spots in the city, making it perfect for a peaceful walk with your dog or a break from the urban environment.
Step Back in Time at the Musée Mécanique
This hidden gem is a vintage arcade museum located at Fisherman’s Wharf. You step back in time exploring a collection of antique arcade games and mechanical musical instruments. It’s a nostalgic experience that guarantees hours of fun and entertainment for only $8.
Get Lost in the Mirror Maze at Pier 39
While Pier 39 is a popular tourist destination, the Mirror Maze is something visitors rarely get to see. If you have a chance to come to San Francisco, prepare to get lost in a maze of mirrors, twists, and turns, and challenge yourself to find your way out. It’s an interactive and mind-bending experience that adds a touch of adventure to your visit.
See the Sutro Baths
Sutro Baths are often overshadowed by the nearby Lands End hiking trails. These ruins were once a grand saltwater swimming complex and now provide a glimpse into San Francisco’s history. You should consider exploring the remnants of the baths and enjoying the stunning ocean views if you want something off the radar to do in San Francisco.
Liberate Your Inner Child at Castro Concrete Slides
Tucked away in the Castro neighborhood, you’ll find a hidden gem that’s sure to bring out your inner child. These concrete slides offer an exhilarating ride down the hillside and a unique experience that’s off the beaten path.
Drive along Presidio Avenue
Take a scenic drive towards the marina via Presidio Avenue. Enjoy the lush greenery of the Presidio, a former military base turned national park, and soak in the beauty of the surroundings as you make your way to the marina district.
Eat From Different Food Trucks at the Presidio Off the Grid Event
If you happen to be in the Presidio on a Sunday, don’t miss the Off the Grid food truck event. Sample a variety of delicious cuisines from different food trucks while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of this outdoor market.
Dine at Forbes Island
Located in the heart of the city, Forbes Island offers a unique dining experience. This floating restaurant resembles a private island and provides breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay. Whether you want to have a romantic dinner or celebrate a special occasion in this hidden oasis, this is one hidden gem in San Francisco to try.
Enjoy Chinese Cuisines at Mission Chinese
For a culinary adventure, head to Mission Chinese, a hidden gem in the Mission District. This restaurant offers a fusion of Chinese and American flavors, with a menu that surprises and delights. Take a pass on the popular eateries and enjoy a memorable dining experience filled with bold and inventive dishes.
Experience the Best of SF Entertainment at Rickshaw Stop
Another good place to visit if you are looking for hidden things to do in San Francisco, you should head over to the Rickshaw Stop in the city’s Hayes Valley neighborhood. This intimate space hosts a variety of live performances, including concerts, comedy shows, and DJ sets. Immerse yourself in the local music and arts scene at this hidden gem.
Party at Monarch’s Downstairs Club
If you’re in the mood for dancing, head downstairs to Monarch and discover a hidden club that offers an underground nightlife experience. With a unique ambiance and talented DJs, this venue guarantees a night of dancing and fun.
Visit The Hideout at Dalva for Artisanal Cocktails
Tucked away beneath the popular Dalva bar, The Hideout is a hidden speakeasy-style cocktail bar. Step into this cozy hideaway and enjoy artisanal cocktails crafted with precision and creativity.
Experience SF’s Speakeasy Culture at Bourbon and Branch
For a taste of San Francisco’s speakeasy culture, visit Bourbon and Branch. This hidden bar requires a reservation and a secret password to enter. Once inside, you’ll find a sophisticated ambiance and a menu of expertly crafted cocktails.
Locate 620 Jones for an Exhilarating Bar Experience
620 Jones is a hidden rooftop bar with a stylish and relaxed atmosphere. It is located in the Tenderloin neighborhood and offers guests a range of refreshing drinks and breathtaking views of the city skyline while escaping the hustle and bustle of the streets below.
Lodge at the Crescent Hotel
For your accommodation issues, the Crescent Hotel is an ideal destination to visit. This boutique hotel is nestled in a historic building in the Tenderloin. It offers a charming and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a unique stay in San Francisco.
Immerse Yourself in the Beauties of the Conservatory of Flowers
Located in Golden Gate Park, the Conservatory of Flowers is a hidden oasis of lush botanical beauty. Step inside and explore the various themed rooms filled with exotic plants and flowers. It’s a tranquil and enchanting escape from the city’s bustling streets.
Row Boats at Stow Lake
Get out on the water and rent a rowboat at Stow Lake in Golden Gate Park. This hidden gem allows you to paddle around a picturesque lake surrounded by nature. Enjoy a peaceful and romantic experience as you navigate the calm waters.
See a Movie at Roxie Theater
Experience the charm of independent cinema at the Roxie Theater in the Mission District. This hidden movie theater showcases a curated selection of films, including art-house, foreign, and documentary movies.
Ride the Mini through the City
Although this may not be described as one of the hidden things to do in San Francisco, it is not as common. You can uniquely go through the city by riding the Mini, a small, electric-powered car designed for two people. These compact vehicles are perfect for navigating San Francisco’s narrow streets and offer a fun and eco-friendly mode of transportation.
Get Dollar Drinks in the Castro on a Monday
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly evening out, head to the Castro neighborhood on a Monday night. Many bars in the area offer dollar drinks, allowing you to enjoy a night of socializing and libations without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts on Hidden Things to Do in San Francisco
San Francisco is a city full of surprises, and these hidden gems offer a chance to experience the city from a different perspective. Venture off the beaten path and embrace the spirit of adventure as you uncover the hidden side of the City by the Bay.