Looking for some interesting things to do in San Francisco? While taking a tour of Alcatraz or spending the day in Fisherman’s Wharf are popular activities for visitors to the city, San Francisco has a long list of unique activities that will offer a different experience for travelers who like to take the road less traveled.
We have compiled a list of activities that you will rarely find in the standard “things to do in San Francisco” articles so you dig a little deeper into the culture of San Francisco.
Andy Goldsworthy’s Art at The Presidio
Tucked away within the natural beauty of The Presidio, Andy Goldsworthy’s art installations are a serene and thought-provoking escape from the bustle of San Francisco. The British artist, known for his site-specific environmental sculptures, has created four breathtaking pieces that seamlessly blend into the surrounding landscape.
Start your journey with “Wood Line”, a sinuous path of eucalyptus branches winding gracefully through a eucalyptus grove, inviting contemplation and an almost whimsical sense of discovery. Nearby, “Tree Fall” is a sculptural marvel housed in the historic Powder Magazine, where a tree’s limbs seem suspended midair, coated in a layer of clay and earth, connecting history to nature.
Further along, “Spire” stands tall as a tribute to renewal and continuity. Constructed from 37 Monterey cypress trunks, this towering sculpture rises dramatically against the skyline, symbolizing the Presidio’s reforestation efforts. Finally, “Earth Wall”, located at the Presidio Officers’ Club, is a fascinating blend of excavation and art, where a sphere of branches appears to emerge from the very walls of the historic building.
These installations are not only visually stunning but also deeply tied to the natural and historical essence of The Presidio. A walk through Goldsworthy’s art feels less like visiting a gallery and more like uncovering secrets that have always belonged to the land. It’s a must-see for art lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a hidden gem in San Francisco.
Location: The Presidio
Poet’s Corner at Ina Coolbrith Park
Perched high above the city within the serene Ina Coolbrith Park, San Francisco’s Poet’s Corner is a hidden gem that offers awesome views in the city. Named after Ina Coolbrith, California’s first poet laureate, the park and its Poet’s Corner honor the city’s literary heritage while providing a peaceful retreat from the urban bustle.
Tucked away on the park’s sloping hillside, Poet’s Corner is a quiet lookout that reveals sweeping vistas of the San Francisco skyline, the Bay Bridge, and beyond. Framed by lush greenery, this spot feels like a secret escape—perfect for snapping Instagram-worthy photos, jotting down a few lines of poetry, or simply soaking in the beauty of the city.
Unlike its famous namesake in London, San Francisco’s Poet’s Corner is all about celebrating the art of reflection and the inspiration found in nature. It’s an ideal stop for locals and visitors alike who want to experience a quieter side of the city while enjoying unparalleled views SF.
Location: 1652 Taylor St. San Francisco, CA 94133
The Octagon Houses of San Francisco
San Francisco’s Octagon Houses are a quirky architectural relic from the mid-19th century, offering a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era. Popularized in the 1850s by Orson Squire Fowler, a phrenologist and author who believed octagonal homes were healthier, more efficient, and better for natural light, these unique eight-sided structures became a fleeting trend in American architecture.
Today, only three of these historic gems remain in San Francisco, and they’re a must-see for anyone intrigued by history, architecture, or unusual design. The most notable is The McElroy Octagon House, located in Cow Hollow. Built in 1861, this beautifully preserved structure now houses a museum showcasing early Americana and Federal-era artifacts. Its striking symmetry and historic charm make it a standout in a city already full of architectural wonders.
The second, the Feusier Octagon House, dates back to 1857 and stands proudly in the Pacific Heights neighborhood. Privately owned so you can’t see the inside, it’s a rare example of how these homes have been adapted for modern living while retaining their historical essence. If you are going to visit Poet’s Corner, the Feusier Octagon House is only a couple of blocks away.
The third, The Marine Octagon House, is located at the Presidio and is used as a private residence. While not open to the public, it’s worth seeking out for a quick photo and a moment to reflect on this curious chapter in architectural history.
Locations: McElroy Octagon House 2645 Gough St, San Francisco, CA 94123
1067 Green St, San Francisco, CA 94133 Feusier Octagon House
The Marine Octagon House 2500 El Camino Del Mar, San Francisco, CA 94121
Harry Potter-Themed Attractions in San Francisco
San Francisco may not be Hogwarts, but it has its share of magical spots that Harry Potter fans will love. From sipping on wizardly cocktails to stumbling upon a hidden magical door, these attractions are perfect for adding a little enchantment to your day.
Wizards & Wands Bar
Located in the heart of the Marina District, Wizards & Wands is a Harry Potter-themed bar that brings the wizarding world to life. Step inside, and you’ll find yourself in a cozy pub reminiscent of Hogsmeade, complete with flickering lanterns, spellbinding décor, and cocktails straight out of a potion master’s notebook. Sip on the “Polyjuice Potion” or the “Butterbrew Old Fashioned” as you immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for Potterheads to gather and toast to their house pride—whether you’re a Gryffindor, Slytherin, Ravenclaw, or Hufflepuff.
Location: 2030 Lombard St, San Francisco, CA 94123
The Chamber of Secrets Door
Hidden in plain sight in San Francisco’s Financial District, the Chamber of Secrets Door is an Instagram-worthy treasure for die-hard Harry Potter fans. Tucked away near the entrance of a nondescript building, the door is adorned with a serpent design that looks straight out of Salazar Slytherin’s lair. While it doesn’t lead to an underground basilisk (we think), it’s a fun and quirky spot to stumble upon while exploring the city. Snap a picture and let your imagination transport you to the world of Hogwarts.
Location: 2645 Leavenworth Street, San Francisco, CA 94133
The Old Ship Saloon
Located in the historic Jackson Square district, The Old Ship Saloon is a fascinating piece of San Francisco’s maritime past and one of the city’s oldest bars. This unique watering hole began its life not as a saloon, but as the wreckage of the ship Arkansas, which ran aground during the Gold Rush in 1849. With the vessel partially buried in the sand, enterprising locals saw an opportunity.
They cut a door into the hull, mounted a sign reading “Bar Entrance,” and began serving thirsty miners directly from the stranded ship.
As the city expanded, the bay waters receded, leaving the ship permanently landlocked. Over the years, the bar evolved into a traditional saloon but retained its name and maritime spirit. Today, The Old Ship Saloon is a cozy spot where you can sip craft cocktails or enjoy a meal while surrounded by historical artifacts and nautical decor. It’s a place where the stories of San Francisco’s Gold Rush past come alive, making it a must-visit for history buffs and curious travelers alike.
Location: 298 Pacific Ave, San Francisco, CA 94111
Peephole Cinema
Tucked away in an unassuming alley in San Francisco’s Mission District, the Peephole Cinema is a tiny, whimsical art installation that turns a simple glance into a delightful discovery. Part of a broader series also found in Brooklyn and Los Angeles, this miniature cinema invites passersby to peer through a small hole to view a looping short film. With its rotating selection of experimental, animated, or silent shorts, the Peephole Cinema offers a bite-sized dose of creativity in the most unexpected place.
The San Francisco location is hidden along Capp Street, and stumbling upon it feels like uncovering a secret treasure. There’s no marquee or ticket booth—just a discreet viewing window and a magical little screen inside. It’s a quirky reminder of the city’s vibrant art scene and its love of the unconventional.
Location: 280 Orange Alley, San Francisco, CA 94110
The Beat Museum
Located in the heart of North Beach, The Beat Museum is a haven for literature enthusiasts and history buffs alike, celebrating the legacy of the Beat Generation—an influential cultural movement born in the 1950s. Dedicated to icons like Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, and Neal Cassady, this museum offers a deep dive into the revolutionary spirit that defined an era.
Step inside, and you’ll find a treasure trove of rare books, manuscripts, photographs, and memorabilia from the Beats, including first editions of On the Road and personal letters from key figures in the movement. The museum’s exhibits also explore the Beats’ impact on art, music, and politics, making it a multifaceted look at a cultural revolution that began in San Francisco and spread across the world.
Beyond the artifacts, The Beat Museum also serves as a gathering space for contemporary writers, poets, and artists, hosting events, readings, and discussions that keep the spirit of the Beats alive. Whether you’re a Kerouac devotee or just curious about San Francisco’s rich literary history, this hidden gem offers an intimate and inspiring journey into a transformative chapter of American culture.
Location: 540 Broadway, San Francisco, CA 9413
Jack Kerouac Alley
Nestled between Chinatown and North Beach, Jack Kerouac Alley is a hidden treasure that celebrates San Francisco’s literary history. Named after the iconic Beat Generation author, this pedestrian-only alleyway is a vibrant passageway connecting the city’s rich cultural neighborhoods while serving as a tribute to artistic expression.
Lined with colorful murals, literary quotes, and inscriptions in multiple languages, Jack Kerouac Alley feels like an open-air gallery. The alley features lines from Kerouac’s work and other literary greats, making it a poetic escape amidst the bustling city. It’s a fitting homage to the Beat icon, who spent much of his time in the nearby haunts of North Beach.
The alley links two historic landmarks: City Lights Bookstore, the famed independent bookstore and publisher of Beat literature, and Vesuvio Café, a favorite hangout of Beat poets and artists.
Location: 257 Columbus AveSan Francisco, CA 94133
SFMTA Vallejo Street Garage
While a parking garage may seem like an odd inclusion to a list about activities in San Francisco, we promise it is worth a visit. Nestled in the heart of North Beach, the top floor of the SFMTA Vallejo Street Garage offers an almost 360-degree vantage point that rivals the city’s most famous lookout spots—but without the crowds.
If you are planning on checking out North Beach, the Beat Museum, or Jack Kerouac Alley then you can park in the garage to make things easy. If you aren’t driving, you can still visit the garage as the doors are always open. On the top level, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Coit Tower, the San Francisco skyline, Downtown, Fisherman’s Wharf, and even glimpses of the Bay. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast looking for the perfect shot or just want to soak in the beauty of the city, this spot won’t disappoint.
Location: 766 Vallejo St., San Francisco, CA 94133
