Rainy day in San Francisco

Ferry Building Marketplace

Food and Drink Destinations4.6

Housed in a 1898 Beaux-Arts building, the Ferry Building Marketplace serves as a culinary landmark at the feet of the Bay Bridge. Its clock tower is a recognizable part of the San Francisco skyline.

Worth knowing. Check out the hidden back patio at the Ferry Building Marketplace for a chill spot to enjoy your food away from the crowds.

Monday to Sunday 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)

Arts and Entertainment Venues4.6

SFMOMA reopened in 2016 after a major renovation, doubling its gallery space, showcasing an impressive living wall and an intricate design by Snøhetta.

Worth knowing. Explore the rooftop terrace for the outdoor living wall and take a break with views of the city.

Monday to Tuesday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM Friday to Sunday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Coit Tower

Cultural & Heritage Sites4.5

Perched atop Telegraph Hill since 1933, Coit Tower is a slender white column celebrating San Francisco's firefighting history.

Worth knowing. Avoid the crowds by visiting Coit Tower early in the morning for a peaceful sunrise view of the city.

Daily 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Exploratorium

Science and Technology Exhibits4.7

The Exploratorium at San Francisco's Pier 15 features over 600 hands-on exhibits blending science and art, fostering curiosity and exploration.

Worth knowing. Visit on a Thursday evening during After Dark events for a unique, adult-only experience with cocktails.

Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

A distinct twist of modern architecture, the de Young Museum’s copper-clad exterior stands in contrast to its collection of American art from the past four centuries. Don’t overlook the Hamon Observation Tower, which provides a 360-degree panorama of the city.

Worth knowing. Check out the observation tower for a killer 360-degree view of the city - it's free and not many people know about it.

Tuesday to Sunday 9:30 AM – 5:15 PM

Cable Car Museum

Cultural & Heritage Sites4.7

The Cable Car Museum, inaugurated in 1974, provides a comprehensive look at San Francisco's iconic mode of transportation. Visitors can view the actual engines that power the city's cable cars, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into cable car operations. Perfect for history buffs, it's a quick visit en route to exploring the city.

Worth knowing. The upstairs gallery offers the best vantage point to watch the giant wheels in action.

Legion of Honor

Cultural & Heritage Sites4.8

The Legion of Honor, opened in 1924, is San Francisco’s homage to French neoclassical architecture, originally constructed to commemorate Californian soldiers in World War I. Inside, it houses an extensive collection of European art spanning 4,000 years, featuring works by Rodin, Monet, and Rembrandt. Its location offers a sweeping view of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific Ocean, perfect for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Worth knowing. The museum has a free organ concert every Saturday at 4pm.

California Academy of Sciences

Science and Technology Exhibits4.6

In Golden Gate Park, the California Academy of Sciences opened in 1853, now featuring a stunning design by Renzo Piano with sustainable architecture at its core.

Worth knowing. Visit on a Thursday for NightLife events — adults-only evenings with music, themed bars, and talks.

Monday to Saturday 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday NightLife 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Aquarium of the Bay

Family-Friendly Attractions4.1

Aquarium of the Bay offers a unique underwater experience featuring over 20,000 marine animals from the San Francisco Bay and surrounding waters. A highlight is the 300-foot crystal-clear tunnel where sevengill sharks swim overhead. A visit is especially rewarding for families, ideally in the late afternoon when the crowds lessen.

Worth knowing. The touch pools on the second floor allow for hands-on interaction with sea stars and rays.

More to do in San Francisco