Vacations can be expensive, even more so if you add admission prices to local venues. When cash is precious, it’s always useful to know what you can do for free in whichever city you’re in.
This guide of things to do for free in San Francisco seeks to offer just that. The opportunity to fill your day with culture and entertainment without bankrupting you with charges. Some even come with free samples!
The Cable Car Museum offers free entry if you time it right and is an opportunity to get up close and learn more about this piece of San Francisco iconic character. It’s a great way to see history and learn about one of the most famous pieces of our city.
The Anchor Brewing Company makes our local beer, “Anchor” and offers free tours of its manufactory on Mariposa Street. The tour includes free samples at the end, so is always a good choice on a summers day. You will need to book ahead to secure a spot though, especially during tourist season.
Tours of the Golden Gate Bridge cost money, but it’s free to walk or cycle across. It is 1.7 miles each way from end to end and is a great way to experience the most famous landmark in California. If you’re not up to full distance, many visitors go half way and come back, or get a bus back from the other side.
While you’re there, Golden Gate Park is over 1000 acres of woodland and park that contains a huge range of things going on, depending on the weather. There are often free concerts, free entertainments and of course the lovely parkland to walk around.
Public Library City Guided Walking Tours
Public Library City Guided Walking Tours are a great way to learn about the city from someone who lives there. These schedule tours are run by volunteers and take in a range of city features, including famous movie locations and historical destinations. These are free, but it’s nice to offer a donation to the guide.
The sea lions at Pier 39 are a local celebrity and can often be see basking in the sun or playing in the bay during the day. These buys are funny and nobody is too cool to watch them play, stretch and enjoy the sun.
These are just a few of the many things you can do in San Francisco that cost little or nothing. With them, you can explore the city, learn things and experience life that most tourists simply pass by. They are a great, cheap way to spend time in our city.