Things to do in San Francisco from NZ$9

Take a trip to “The Rock”, home to the infamous and abandoned island prison, and discover how it earned its reputation as a bleak and unforgiving place.

Gaze in awe at the majestic towering redwood trees at this National Park, less than an hour’s drive from downtown San Francisco, yet a world away.

One of the most iconic bridges in the world, walk the 2.7-kilometre marvel of engineering for the best views over the bay and the ocean beyond, fog permitting.

This former military base combines history and culture with open spaces, spectacular views and the Jedi Master Yoda!

This golden stretch of beach at the foot of the imposing serpentine cliffs offers panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Marin Headlands.

This waterfront location has a mix of thrilling rides and lively street entertainment, but watching the sea lions hanging out in the bay wins the day!

This Roman-inspired palace is one of San Francisco’s beautiful treasures and remains a modern-day renaissance centre of fine arts and science.

The oldest Japanese garden in the United States is an oasis of calm and a place to soothe the soul, nestled away in Golden Gate Park.

Enjoy the tranquil beauty of this beloved park in this oasis of calm away from the bustle of the city, yet right in San Francisco’s backyard.

This vast scientific institution is one of the world’s largest natural history museums.

Use all your senses as you explore science through dozens of interactive exhibits at San Francisco’s famous museum on Pier 15.

This famous fine arts museum in Golden Gate Park was founded in the 19th century and offers an engaging space for plenty of creative exploration.

Step aboard century-old ships, watch boat builders at work, browse exhibits about U.S. maritime heritage and enjoy scenic picnics at this historic waterfront district.

Bring your camera to capture the iconic, colorfully painted, Victorian-style houses and the downtown cityscape from this well-known hilltop park.

Go up to the top of this lofty peak on a clear day for unparalleled aerial views of San Francisco’s most recognizable landmarks.

Relax on the sand, spot seabirds, fly kites and enjoy other outdoor activities at this secluded San Francisco beach.

Browse high-end shops and see a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed building at this fashionable lane, which was once at the heart of San Francisco’s red-light district.

From shipwrecks to the Sutro Baths, find adventure and plenty of photo opportunities around every corner in San Francisco’s stunning coastal park.

Enjoy sun, surf and stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge in this tiny secluded cove between Lands End and Baker Beach.

Discover the man behind Mickey Mouse at this interactive museum located in the heart of San Francisco’s Presidio neighborhood. 

Admire the incredible array of blooms on display, from insect-eating plants to elaborately shaped orchids, at this well-preserved Victorian-era conservatory.

Surround yourself with inspiring nature, learn about the San Francisco Bay Area and meet its wild inhabitants in San Mateo’s sprawling waterfront park.

Learn about the old-fashioned cable cars that have transported San Franciscans for generations as you tour around a historic powerhouse and working museum.

Drive, bike or walk across the state-of-the-art bridge that connects San Francisco to Oakland and the East Bay beyond.

Go boating on Golden Gate Park’s largest lake. The placid body of water is the home of turtles, ducks and during winter, Canadian geese.  

Walk through some of the most beautiful scenery in San Francisco along Lands End’s oceanfront trail from where you can see iconic sights such as the Golden Gate Bridge.