🔥 Top 10 Free Things to Do in San Francisco (That Locals Absolutely Love)

Living in San Francisco can feel like a constant battle between loving the city and trying not to go broke. 

But the good news is you don’t have to shell out big bucks to have a great time.

You just need to know where to look 😉

Today, we’ll share the top 10 FREE things you can do in SF!

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1. Get a Library Card and Access Free Tickets

This one’s a bit of a cheat code. Your library card can be your ticket to free or low-cost entry at museums, science centers, zoos, and theaters. 

Plus, getting a library card is super easy. Just head to your nearest library branch, bring proof of address, and sign up. Once you have it, use Discover & Go to see what’s available

2. Hike Land’s End Trail

You can get some of the best views of the Golden Gate, rugged cliffs, and fresh air ( and it’s free!)

You can also make the hike as short or as long as you want. Some people do the whole loop, while others just walk a bit and then sit on a bench overlooking the water. 

Either way, you’re getting fresh air, exercise, and some serious mind-clearing time. That’s like nature therapy with a view! 

3. Take a Free Walking Tour

Think you know SF? Think again. 

These free walking tours are led by locals who know their stuff. They’ll take you through neighborhoods you’ve passed a hundred times and point out stories you never knew. 

You’ll walk away with random facts that’ll make you sound way more interesting at your next get-together.

4. Watch Sea Lions at Pier 39

Yeah, it’s touristy. But it’s also kind of awesome. The sea lions at Pier 39 are loud, playful, and always putting on a show. They flop around, argue over spots, and bark like they own the place. 

And there’s something oddly calming about it, too!  Maybe it’s the sound of the water, the way they sunbathe, or just the simple fact that they’re completely carefree. It’s the kind of thing that makes you slow down and just enjoy the moment.

So if you’re feeling stressed or just need a good laugh, watching the sea lions for a few minutes can make you forget whatever’s on your mind. 

Address: Pier 39, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Watch the Sea Lions Here

5. Walk Through Presidio Tunnel Tops

Sometimes you just need open space and good vibes, the Presidio Tunnel Tops give you both.

You’ve got picnic spots, grassy areas, and views for days. It’s perfect whether you’re with friends or just need a spot to zone out for a while.

It’s also notable to mention that families love it too because there’s a playground that keeps kids entertained for hours. 

And, it’s one of those places where you can watch the fog roll in and make the whole area look a little bit magical.

Address: 210 Lincoln Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94129, United States

Visit the Presidio Tunnel Here

6. Visit the Bison Paddock

This might sound a little strange, but yes, we have bison and no, you don’t need to leave the city to see them. Just head to Golden Gate Park and check out the Bison Paddock. 

These guys are massive, peaceful, and a little bit mysterious.  If you’ve never stopped by to see them, it’s 100% worth it! 

You don’t need to spend a long time there, just a quick visit to appreciate how unique it is.

And a little side whisper, it’s a great spot to take visitors, in case you have one, they never expect to see bison right in the city!

Address: 📍 1237 John F Kennedy Dr, San Francisco, CA 94121

7. Climb the Hamon Observation Tower

Want to experience free panoramic views of the city? Head to the Hamon Observation Tower at the de Young Museum!

You take an elevator to the top, and suddenly you’re looking out over the entire city, Golden Gate Park, the downtown skyline, and the bay. 

You also get to experience San Francisco's diverse landscapes. The art, the culture and the museum. It is in fact the 360 degrees of pure SF beauty, and you don’t have to buy a ticket! 

Address: 📍 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118

8. Explore the Cable Car Museum

This is more interesting than you think. 

If you’ve ever ridden a cable car and wondered how it works, this is the place to find out. 

And if you haven’t, The Cable Car Museum gives you a peek behind the scenes of one of SF’s most iconic modes of transport.

It’s weirdly fascinating and definitely worth a quick visit.

Address: 📍 1201 Mason St, San Francisco, CA 94108

9. Visit Fort Point

Built to protect the bay from invaders, now a historic site with stunning views and a lot of character.

Right under the Golden Gate Bridge, Fort Point lets you take a step back in time with its old-school military vibe and iconic brick corridors.

But that’s not the highlight; what really steals the show is the view. Standing at the edge of the fort, looking up at the bridge, you can feel the wind from the bay and hear the waves crashing below.

It’s an incredible spot for photos or just taking a moment to appreciate how beautiful SF really is

Address: 📍 201 Marine Dr, San Francisco, CA 94129

10. Listen to the Wave Organ

This one’s different. It is one of those under-the-radar spots that makes SF feel like a living piece of art.

Built into the shoreline, this acoustic sculpture plays sounds as waves hit the pipes. And there’s something meditative about just sitting there and hearing the sounds blend with the natural rhythm of the water while enjoying the views of the bay and Alcatraz.

People don’t always know what to expect when they visit, and that’s what makes it special!

Address: 📍 83 Marina Green Dr, San Francisco, CA 94123

And that’s it! Iconic SF spots for $0! 

Because there are times when you want to get out without spending cash. These spots give you that little escape, something new, something different, and most importantly, something free.

Living in SF doesn’t have to mean spending lots of money every time you want to have fun. Sometimes, the best things are the ones you stumble upon (in this case we bring to you) while just living your life.

Now go out, explore, and remember why SF is one of the coolest places to live.

Which spots are you visiting first? Let us know!! 

Next In SF Team.