20 Hidden Gems in San Francisco That Tourists May Not Know About

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Here’s a curated list of 20 Hidden Gems in San Francisco — lesser-known spots that even many tourists miss, but locals absolutely love. These include scenic lookouts, quirky attractions, historic spots, and secret nature escapes.


🌉 20 Hidden Gems in San Francisco That Tourists May Not Know About

🌟 Place📍 LocationWhy It’s Special
1️⃣ Seward Street Slides 🛝Castro/Dolores HeightsTwo steep concrete slides—bring cardboard and your inner child.
2️⃣ 16th Avenue Tiled Steps 🎨Inner SunsetStunning mosaic staircase with panoramic views at the top.
3️⃣ Balmy Alley Murals 🎭Mission DistrictAlley filled with colorful, politically inspired street art.
4️⃣ Lover’s Lane & Wood Line 🌲PresidioA romantic trail with an Andy Goldsworthy art installation.
5️⃣ Fort Point National Site 🏰Under Golden Gate BridgeCivil War-era fort with incredible views from beneath the bridge.
6️⃣ Ina Coolbrith Park 🌺Nob HillSecluded garden park with sweeping views of downtown and Coit Tower.
7️⃣ The Wave Organ 🌊Marina DistrictA sound sculpture that plays music with the movement of the tides.
8️⃣ Filbert Street Steps 🪜Telegraph HillGarden-lined stairway with views and a chance to spot the parrots!
9️⃣ Jack Early Park 🧘‍♂️Russian HillTiny park with a bench and one of the best skyline views.
🔟 Lands End Labyrinth 🌀Lands EndA peaceful stone labyrinth perched on a cliffside with ocean views.
1️⃣1️⃣ Green Apple Books 📚Inner RichmondAn independent bookstore with a maze of rooms and local charm.
1️⃣2️⃣ The Vulcan Stairway 🌿Corona HeightsHidden stairway leading to gardens, views, and artist studios.
1️⃣3️⃣ Golden Gate Park’s Bison Paddock 🦬Golden Gate ParkLive American bison roam in the middle of a city park—yes, really.
1️⃣4️⃣ The Audium 🔊Lower Nob HillA sound-only theater where you sit in the dark as sound moves around.
1️⃣5️⃣ Fort Funston 🪂Southwest SFWindswept cliffs, hang gliders, and off-leash dog heaven.
1️⃣6️⃣ El Rio 🍹Bernal HeightsQuirky outdoor bar with live music, drag shows, and a community vibe.
1️⃣7️⃣ Tunnel Tops Park 🌁Presidio (New in 2022)Built over highway tunnels, this new park has views and picnic lawns.
1️⃣8️⃣ Crissy Field Marsh Trail 🚶‍♀️Marina/PresidioQuiet trail with views of the Golden Gate, wildlife, and wildflowers.
1️⃣9️⃣ Musée Mécanique 🎰Pier 45, Fisherman’s WharfVintage arcade with coin-operated machines and curiosities.
2️⃣0️⃣ Cupid’s Span 🏹EmbarcaderoGiant bow-and-arrow sculpture nestled in a grassy waterfront park.

🧭 Tips to Explore These Like a Local:

  • ✔ Most are free or low-cost.
  • ✔ Many are great for photography and views.
  • ✔ Pair stairways with comfy shoes and water—SF’s hills are real!
  • ✔ Go at sunrise or sunset for fewer crowds and dreamy lighting.

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