The Northern California city of San Francisco is a great place to visit. The city is known for some iconic attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, and is also home to countless hidden gems. If you're looking for some off-the-beaten-path things to do during your next trip, this is the list for you. Here are seven such hidden gems to add to your itinerary on your next city tour.
1.California Academy of Sciences.
The California Academy of Sciences is by no means a boring, sullen museum. This museum is home to some truly unique, memorable, and interactive exhibits. For example, explore the three-story indoor rainforest and learn more about the reptiles, insects, and fish that call this environment home. Tickets can be purchased ** or in person.
2.Experiences are intertwined.
If you're visiting San Francisco in the next few months, head to Golden Gate Park to explore a spot that's far less well-known than the bridge itself: the Enchanting Forest. Entwined is an art installation featuring life-size LED sculptures that wind through the forest. The exhibition will last until March 12 and is free to experience.
3.Relax in the botanical gardens.
If you're looking for a relaxing way to spend an afternoon during your trip to San Francisco, this is the one for you. The San Francisco Botanical Garden is a 55-acre garden with thousands of gorgeous plant species. It's the perfect place for a leisurely stroll or a photo getaway**, and tickets can be purchased in person or **.
4.Take the *** tour.
If you're looking for a truly unique way to get around the city, consider *** Tour. Such a tour will provide a whole new perspective – literally. There are also a variety of tours for different budgets and desires. For example, San Francisco*** offers shorter scenic tours (starting at $235 per person), as well as longer tours such as wine country tours (starting at $485 per person).
5.Explore the Exploratorium.
If you're traveling with kids, you definitely won't want to miss the Exploratorium. However, the exhibits at this interactive museum will entertain people of all ages. Some examples of their intriguing, education-oriented exhibits include anti-gravity mirrors and living, colored bacterial pads encased in glass. Tickets can be purchased.
6.Have a drink at the pawnshop.
If you're in the mood for a drink in San Francisco, pawn shops are the perfect off-the-beaten-path option. This hidden speakeasy-style snack and cocktail bar is located in what was once a real pawnshop. Reservations – and how to "find" this elusive bar – can be made by calling the number on their ** in advance.
7.Visit Muir Woods.
If you want to enjoy a peaceful getaway in the middle of nature, you don't have to be far from downtown San Francisco to find one. Muir Woods is just about a 30-minute drive from the main area of the city and offers some tranquil hiking trails that wind through ancient redwood trees. While they may not be as well-known as other wilderness areas in California, such as Yosemite, they are perfect for an afternoon trip while visiting the city.