31 Of The Best Cheap Things To Do In San Francisco
San Francisco, California is known as one of the most expensive cities in the US, thanks to steep hotel prices and a sky-high cost of living.
However, visiting can be reasonably priced thanks to the area’s many low-cost attractions.
Whether in town for a quick trip or for a full week, you’ll have no problem finding cheap things to enjoy in The Golden City.
Read on for some of the best cheap things to do in San Francisco!
The Best Cheap (or free!) Things To Do In San Francisco
Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge sits at the intersection of the Pacific Ocean and the San Francisco Bay, and is the city’s most iconic attraction.
If you’re looking for a fun and cheap way to fill your day in San Francisco go for a walk across the bridge. It’s completely free!
40 million people per year cross over the 1.7 mile bridge, with over 10 million of them traversing by foot!
How To Walk Across The Golden Gate Bridge
You’ll start at the Welcome Center on the south end and eventually conclude up north at Vista Point. The trek takes about 2 hours round trip – assuming you make frequent photo stops, which I’d highly recommend!
Pedestrians are required to walk on the east side walkway and are permitted to cross only during certain hours. Pedestrian hours vary seasonally but are roughly sun up to sun down, you can check exact times here.
Bike To Sausalito
If you live in San Francisco and own a bike consider biking across the bridge and exploring the town of Sausalito. Sausalito is located just 5 miles across the bay and has excellent views of the bay and San Francisco skyline. Instead of biking back across the bridge return to Fisherman’s Wharf on the $14 ferry.
The Sausalito Ferry offers top views of Alcatraz Island and the San Francisco Bay, so no need to book that boat tour!
Note: Those who are comfortable with a lot of walking could definitely make this trip by foot.
There are bike rentals in San Fran but they average about $35 – 45 for a full day rental.
Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park is a huge, and beloved, 1,017 acre urban park.
The park is home to so many popular attractions, such as the California Academy of Sciences, Japanese Tea Garden, and the de Young Museum! Most require admission, but the park itself is free.
There’s tons of space to walk around, bike, let the kids run on the playground, read a book, or have a picnic. Additionally there are numerous free gardens throughout the park such as a rose garden and tulip garden, and even a Redwood grove!
With the park being over 3 miles long and half a mile wide, it would be easy to spend an entire day here.
Below I’ve listed out a few of the park’s most popular attractions and their respective cost:
- Conservatory of Flowers: $10 – 14 / adult (Free Admission for San Francisco Residents & Veterans)
- California Academy of Sciences: Regular tickets run about $49/ adult, but they have a NightLife tickets available from 6pm – 10pm every Thursday night for just $25/ adult (21+ only)
- National AIDs Memorial: Free
- San Francisco Botanical Garden: $10 – 14 / adult (Free for San Francisco residents, Free for everyone each morning from 7:30 am – 9 am, free for everyone the second Tuesday of each month)
- Music Concourse: Free, check the free concert schedule here.
- de Young Museum: $20 / adult (free for kids under 18, free for Bay Area residents on Saturdays, Free Admission for general public on the first Tuesday of each month)
- Japanese Tea Garden: $15/ adult (Free admission for San Francisco residents & veterans. Free Monday, Wednesday and Friday 9:00am – 10:00am)
- Bison Paddock: Free
- Queen Wilhelmina Tulip Garden & Wind Mill: Free
Note: Above admissions may vary based on season, availability, etc.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf is a sight to behold for visitors thanks to bay views, endless rows of boats and docks, and even seals and sea lions lounging about the rocks and piers! You’ll find plenty of shops and attractions here, all of which will be fairly expensive, but simply walking around and enjoying the ambiance is completely free.
The Fisherman’s Wharf area runs along the bay’s edge from Hyde Street Park to Pier 35. Below are a few of my favorite cheap or free things to do in the area.
Hyde Park Pier
Hyde Street Pier is a historic ferry pier ran by the National Park Service on the western edge of Fisherman’s Wharf. The pier has a fleet of old ships consisting of turn of the 19th century vessels ranging from tug boats to schooners and steamer ferries.
There are many learning exhibits and ranger-guided tours available for those interested in learning more about maritime history. The pier itself is free but there is a price for boat tours.
San Francisco Maritime Museum
Located across the street from Hyde Street Pier is the San Francisco Maritime Museum.
The Maritime Museum was built during the late Art Deco period as a bathhouse and was made to resemble an ocean liner. Throughout the interior you’ll find colorful murals by famous artists Sargent Johnson and Hilaire Hiler.
The museum is free to all visitors.
Ghirardelli Square
Ghirardelli Square sits just outside the outer edge of Fisherman’s Wharf and is a central hub with popular restaurants and shops as well as an excellent green space overlooking the bay.
Not shockingly, the space was once a warehouse and factory for Ghirardelli Chocolate Company!
The space is now one of the most popular attractions in the downtown area for tourists, and a must stop for fantastic photos and views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
In my opinion this is one of the best places near Fisherman’s Wharf to hangout and enjoy views without too much of a crowd.
Pier 39’s Sea Lions
While you’re in Fisherman’s Wharf be sure to stop by Pier 39! This is one of the top attractions in San Francisco thanks to the huge number of sea lions found here year-round. To the marina staff’s initial shock, the lions took over shortly after the Loma Prieta earthquake hit in October of 1989. It remains uncertain why exactly they ended up here, but regardless, it’s theirs now!
The sea lions can only be viewed from a distance and you can expect a large crowd of onlookers. You can see them lounging on Pier 39’s K- Dock.
Ride A Cable Car
The cable car system is not only quintessential San Francisco but it’s also the last manually operated cable car system in the world.
The Powell/ Hyde cable car line runs through, or very near, many tourist attractions so it gets plenty of love. I’m a fan of the California Line as it’s one of the most picturesque routes and usually has less visitors than the aforementioned.
No matter the line you choose this is one of the best ways to get around and experience a San Francisco icon all at once!
Check out the schedule on the SFMTA website. The cable car is $8 each time you get on making it one of the best cheap things to do in San Francisco!
San Francisco Cable Car Museum
Interested in learning more about the iconic cable cars? Check out the San Francisco Cable Car Museum!
This museum does a fantastic job of walking you through the invention of cable cars, the technology behind them, and the unique history that they represent. It also touches on why San Francisco residents fought so hard to save them, and thankfully they did, they’re a very charming addition to the city!
The museum has no admission fee and is closed on Monday.
Go For A Free Walking Tour
Walking tours are a great way to get to know a city! San Francisco City Guides have been giving free walking tours in conjunction with the San Francisco Public Library since 1978 so they’re a great resource when it comes to exploring San Francisco!
They offer a huge variety of tours exploring different neighborhoods, historic landmarks, and much more. From Chinatown to the Castro District or the Golden Gate Bridge to the Ferry Building they have great options for everyone.
Check out the tour schedule on their website and be sure to reserve your spot in advance. The tours are free but please consider making a cash donation. Even just a small amount is the best way to thank the organization for sharing their time and knowledge.
This is definitely one of the best things cheap things to do in San Francisco!
For more ideas check out these Free Things To Do In San Francisco.
Self-Guided Audio Tours
Prefer a self-guided audio tour? Check out these options, most tours are about $5 – 15 and allow you to visit attractions at your own pace while learning the history of the area!
- Japantown
- Fisherman’s Wharf
- Financial District
- San Francisco Highlights
- Golden Gate Park
- Castro District
Ferry Building
The Ferry Building Marketplace is one of the best spots to visit in San Francisco!
This lively, expansive farmers market focuses on local product and small business, all tucked under the most recognizable icon of the city’s waterfront, the Ferry Building clock tower.
The market is free to walk around and you’ll find many affordable vendors throughout!
Stroll The Neighborhoods
One of the best things to do in San Francisco no matter your budget is simply roam the neighborhoods. The Golden City is full of picturesque homes, unique buildings, and an incredible landscaping, not to mention endless people watching.
Some popular neighborhoods worth strolling through are:
- Union Square
- Haight-Ashbury
- Nob Hill
- Russian Hill
- Chinatown
- Pacific Heights
- Hayes Valley
- The Castro
- The Mission
Painted Ladies
The Painted Ladies are a row of colorful victorian homes made famous by the television show Full House. The homes, built in the late 1800’s, represent a detailed and intricate architectural style not often seen today.
Many of San Francisco’s homes from this era have been destroyed by natural disasters, making the Painted Ladies a treasured addition to the city.
The homes are located on Steiner Street between Grove Street and Hayes Street, facing Alamo Square Park. The best views of the Painted Ladies are from the east side of the park.
While you’re here enjoy the lovely neighborhood and popular park, Alamo Square.
Castro District
Simply known as “The Castro”, this vibrant San Francisco neighborhood was one of the earliest recognized gay neighborhoods in the United States and is widely renowned as a prominent symbol for LGBTQ+ rights, activism, and events.
While you’re in the area enjoy the street murals, incredible food, and be sure to check out the Castro Theatre, one of the city’s earliest and most famous movie houses.
Mission Dolores Park
Dolores Park is located in the Castro District on Dolores Street between 18th & 20th street.
This large, hillside park is where you’ll find locals lounging and hanging out on warm afternoons. This is a great place to have a picnic, play games, people watch, and enjoy the uninterrupted views of downtown San Francisco.
The Beat Museum
The Beat Museum is dedicated to exploring and remembering the works of a musical era known as The Beat Generation, and spreading its values of compassion and tolerance.
The Beat Generation refers to a collection of artists who challenged societal norms in a post-WWII era of music that celebrated being one’s true self, and accepted experimentation of religion, drugs, and sexuality.
Artists such as Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, William S Burroughs, and Neal Cassady were considered to be at the forefront of the movement, but more well-known names such as the Doors, the Beatles, and Bob Dylan were associated as well.
The museum is just $8 per adult!
16th Ave Tiled Steps & Grandview Park
At Moraga Street and 16th Ave you’ll find the whimsical 16th Avenue Tiled Steps. The public staircase is covered in colorful tiles climbing the staircase’s 163 steps.
Did You Know? The beautiful tiles were hand-laid and took hundreds of hours to complete.
The immaculate surrounding landscaping and stunning views make this well worth the climb.
While you’re here it’s definitely worth checking out Grandview Park, located just a short walk from the tiled steps. It’s a great little trail with excellent city and bay views.
San Francisco Stairways
In a city full of massive hills it shouldn’t come as a surprise that there are tons of gorgeous stairways here! For more picturesque stairways and pretty viewpoints check out:
- Lincoln Park Steps
- Arelious Walker Stairway
- Lyon Street Steps
- Esmeralda Street Slides
- Embarcadero Center Steps
- Hidden Garden Steps
- Avalon Greenspace Steps
- Seward Street Slides
- Dragon’s Tale Staircase at Miraloma
Sutro Bath Ruins & Lands End
The Sutro Baths are large urban ruins located in the Lands End area of western San Francisco. The site was once a public swimming complex built by Adolph Sutro in the late 1800’s. Fed by the Pacific Ocean this was the largest indoor swimming pool in the world and a really incredible public space.
Following the heyday of the baths a construction fire destroyed the property, leaving behind the large urban ruins we see today.
While here you must explore the Lands End area! Hike Lands End Trail, take in the area’s many lookout points, visit Lands End Labyrinth, check out the Lincoln Park Steps, or take a walk through Sutro Heights Park.
There’s so much to enjoy in Lands End, it’s definitely one of the best free things to do in San Francisco!
Explore Chinatown
San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest in the United States and remains one of the largest as well. Take in the sights and traditional architecture while you enjoy incredible food, sample tea, or visit the free Fortune Cookie Factory.
There’s a maze of seemingly never-ending streets worth exploring but Grant Avenue runs the full length of Chinatown and is where you’ll find the most tourist-friendly businesses.
Tip: This is the best place to grab a cheap bite to eat, just keep an eye out for business hours as they can be a little unconventional.
If visiting in late-January or early-February be sure to enjoy the festive Chinese New Year Parades.
Hike Twin Peaks
If soaring 360-degree views of San Francisco interest you, there’s no better vantage point than Twin Peaks. Nearly 1,000 feet above the city, these two peaks provide fantastic views of downtown and the bay!
Many drive to the top but did you know you can hike?
The hike is 4 miles round trip with about a 900 foot elevation change! If you choose to get your workout on you’ll definitely need proper footwear, plenty of water and some snacks.
You can find trail information here.
Lombard Street
Lombard Street in Russian Hill is famous for a small stretch of road characterized by eight hairpin turns. The switchbacks were paved in 1922 when it was determined the 27% grade was too steep for most cars and pedestrians, resulting in a quirky street adored by visitors.
Lombard has plenty of pedestrian space and can be accessed from either the bottom or the top of the street. The top side has great views of the bay!
While you’re in the area be sure to explore the pretty homes in the upscale Russian Hill neighborhood.
See The Coit Tower
The Coit Tower is one of the best cheap things to do in San Francisco.
The art deco building is an especially famous San Francisco landmark located in the Telegraph Hill neighborhood. Many believe this tower to be the home of the best panoramic views of San Francisco Bay extending all the way out to the Golden Gate and Bay bridges. Plus it comes complete with extravagant American fresco mural paintings.
It’s just $10 / adult to access the tower’s observation deck. They also offer guided tours for a fair price which you can check out on their website.
North Beach
North Beach is a bustling neighborhood sitting on the edge of Fisherman’s Wharf often referred to as Little Italy. Enjoy a walk through the area, check out the shops and live music establishments, and of course, grab a bite of delicious Italian food!
This is also where you’ll find Saint Peter and Paul Church, a gorgeous cathedral located in Washington Square Park.
Tip: You may also like Grace Cathedral near Huntington Park in Nob Hill.
Go To The Beach
Highlighted by beautiful, rugged coastline, San Francisco’s beaches offer stunning views perfect for a leisurely stroll or relaxing picnic.
These aren’t your typical swimming beaches (the water is cold and the current is strong) but they’re beautiful and very popular nonetheless!
The Best Beaches Near San Francisco
- Mile Rock Beach
- Ocean Beach
- McClures Beach
- Crissy Field
- China Beach
- Marshall’s Beach
- Baker Beach
Palace Of Fine Arts
The Palace of Fine Arts is known for an impressive rotunda built for the World Fair back in 1915. The structure was intended to reflect a ruin of Ancient Rome, and is situated between a lagoon and the exhibition center. A Roman ruin is quite unusual in California making this one of the most recognizable landmarks in the San Francisco area.
Did You Know? The rotunda was supposed to be removed following the World Fair but was loved by locals and therefore still stands today.
The rotunda is free for all visitors.
Angel Island State Park
Angel Island is the largest island within San Francisco Bay and offers breathtaking views of the bay, San Francisco skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, and more. Hike or bike your way through the island’s nature trails and learn about its interesting history away from all the noise of San Fran.
To get here you’ll take the ferry which is $16/ adult each way. The ferry covers all state park fees and offers great views of Alcatraz and the San Francisco Bay!
The Presidio
Presidio meets the southern tip of the Golden Gate Bridge and one of the most famous urban parks in the city. A former military post, you’ll find various scenic overlooks, running trails, forested terrain, and Fort Point here.
Note: The PresidGo Shuttle offers free rides between downtown San Francisco (near the Financial District) to the Presidio.
Some popular free activities in the Presidio include:
- See the views from Fort Point National Historic Site.
- Walk Lover’s Lane trail.
- Go to the beach.
- Admire the Palace of Fine Arts.
- Go for a hike or bike ride.
Haight-Ashbury
Haight-Ashbury came to prominence in the 1960’s as the center of the counterculture movement and hippie culture. Colorful murals adorn many of the neighborhood’s historic buildings and you’ll quickly notice the open-minded culture engrained into the surrounding area.
Many of the area’s Victorian homes have bright, popping colors and make for fantastic photos.
The Haight is well-known for an affordable foodie and drinking culture, so stroll the shops and enjoy the unique options here.
As you can see, San Francisco has tons of free and cheap activities to enjoy!
Any any questions or additional ideas? Please leave a comment below or reach out on social media!
For more ideas check out these Free Things To Do In San Francisco or head on over to SF Travel!
Additional Information For Your San Francisco Vacation:
- Free Things To Do In San Francisco
- What To Wear In San Francisco
- How To Spend 1 Day In San Francisco
- San Francisco 3 Day Guide
More Information For Your West Coast Travels:
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Great 100th Post – congrats Amy!!
YAHOO!! Thank you!!