By Alexandra Harper 
San Francisco is one of those cities that never fails to impress travelers. If you’re planning a trip to the U.S. West Coast, SF is an essential stop. Here are some of the best tips to eat, stay, and explore the city like a local.
To eat
San Francisco is a true paradise for food lovers. The city’s culinary scene reflects its multicultural spirit—you’ll find flavors from all over the globe within just a few blocks.
It’s often said that San Francisco has more restaurants per capita than anywhere else in the United States, which means that great food is never hard to find.
Start with fresh seafood, one of the city’s specialties. Pair a plate of grilled fish with a crisp California wine, enjoy a gourmet burger with artisanal cheese, or sip on a craft beer at one of the many local breweries. Each option delivers the perfect taste of San Francisco’s unique food culture.
For a more traditional view of the city, head straight to Fisherman’s Wharf.
This bustling waterfront neighborhood is a must for visitors. Here, seafood is king—clams, oysters, and especially the famous Dungeness crab. Don’t leave without trying it in one of its many delicious variations.
Another classic dish is clam chowder, served in a sourdough bread bowl, an authentic San Francisco staple. And if you’re looking for something hearty, order a bowl of crab cioppino, a flavorful seafood stew with mussels, clams, and crab simmered in a tomato, garlic, and onion broth.
If you want a more interesting experience, consider joining a curated food tour San Francisco. These guided tastings take you beyond the touristy spots and into local neighborhoods where you can sample everything from dim sum in Chinatown to Mission-style burritos in the Mission District. It’s one of the best ways to eat like a local and discover the hidden gems of the city’s food scene.
To stay
Where you stay can completely shape your San Francisco experience. For those looking for an unforgettable retreat, The Inn Above Tide in Sausalito is hard to beat.
This intimate waterfront hotel offers 31 rooms and suites, each with its own private terrace overlooking the San Francisco Bay. From your balcony, you can take in panoramic views of the city skyline, Alcatraz, and Angel Island.
The Inn Above Tide also offers a perfect balance: you’re steps away from the charming streets of Sausalito, filled with galleries, boutiques, and cozy restaurants, but just a short ferry ride from downtown San Francisco.
For those with extra time, the hotel’s location also makes it easy to plan a day trip to the vineyards of Napa and Sonoma. It’s a magical blend of relaxation and adventure.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for something more flexible (and perhaps more affordable), Airbnb is a fantastic option. Fun fact: Airbnb was actually founded in San Francisco, so there’s no better place to try it. Staying in a local apartment or home can give you a more authentic experience of the city.
To do
Beyond its food and iconic bridges, San Francisco is also a hub for art and culture. A perfect example is Yerba Buena Gardens, once a plain parking lot but now a lively cultural oasis in the heart of the city. Families relax on the lawns, kids play near the waterfall, and art enthusiasts head straight to the museums.
SFMOMA – A Modern Icon
The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) is a landmark in itself. Behind its striking façade of red brick and a black-and-white striped tower lies one of the largest collections of modern art in the country. Visitors can admire photographs by Ansel Adams, paintings by Picasso, and works by Matisse. Originally opened in 1935, SFMOMA moved to its current location beside Yerba Buena Gardens in 1995. With frequent exhibitions, it’s a must-see for art lovers.
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts
Next door, the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts (YBCA) is all about fresh perspectives. Unlike traditional museums, YBCA doesn’t have a permanent collection. Instead, it constantly rotates exhibitions focusing on contemporary art—video installations, photography, and even interactive displays exploring the Bay Bridge.
The center also houses a theater that regularly hosts dance and music performances, making it a vibrant cultural hotspot.
Creativity for kids
San Francisco is also a great destination for families, and the Children’s Creativity Museum is proof of that. This interactive museum combines art, technology, and imagination. Its mission is to teach kids the “three Cs” of modern skills: communication, collaboration, and creativity.
Children can experiment with multimedia projects and hands-on exhibits. Don’t miss the Creativity Carousel, a beautifully restored carousel from 1906 that delights visitors of all ages.