The city of San Francisco offers some of the most amazing views in the country, many of which people cannot fully appreciate unless they view them while walking. However, visitors and new residents of San Francisco may want to brush up on a few tips before heading out on their walking journey.
What Walkers Should Know Before They Go
People visiting from out of state sometimes assume that all parts of California are warm all the time, so it comes as a shock to them just how chilly it can get in San Francisco. Walkers should always bring at least a light jacket with them, even when the sky is clear and sunny.
People also need to be aware of their surroundings in San Francisco to avoid becoming a victim of theft. They should try to avoid using their phone while walking in public since an opportunistic thief could take advantage of their temporary distraction. Walkers should also consider traveling in pairs or groups for added safety.
Choose One or More Unique Districts to Explore
San Francisco has numerous districts, each with its own attractions and personality. People can choose to explore them on their own or sign up for a guided walking tour. Guides are typically San Francisco natives who have plenty of inside scoops on the history of each area their group visits. Here are just some of the San Francisco districts walkers can explore:
Aquatic Park: See the famous Alcatraz Prison, Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco Bay, and historic naval ship.
Barbary Coast Trail: This red-light district from the 19th century is now a scenic trail.
Chinatown: San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest outside of Asia. It spans for 24 blocks and contains authentic Chinese restaurants, shops, temples, and many photo opportunities.
Embarcadero Promenade: One of San Francisco’s most trendy areas filled with dining, shopping, and amusement opportunities is the former location of a traditional maritime port.
Financial District: Depending on the time-of-day walkers set out, they will either find this area bustling or deserted. Thousands of locals work in the district.
Ghirardelli Square: This is where the famous chocolate factory stood for many years.
Golden Gate Bridge & Presidio: This Golden Gate Bridge walking tour provides opportunities to walk from the bridge, along the rugged bluffs of the Presidio, and past multiple former military installations and monuments. After getting in a physical workout, walkers can reward themselves with an early dinner in the Richmond District.
Little Italy: This immigrant neighborhood in the North Beach area offers several historical lessons.
Lombard Street: One of the city’s most unique streets is also its most crooked.
Pier 39: Located at the Waterfront, Pier 39 is the ideal place to get an up-close view of sea lions.
Russian Hill: Anyone up for a steep walk will not want to miss Russian Hill, which settlers named after a Russian cemetery that sits at the top of it.
Telegraph Hill: Walkers will see plenty of sites here, including flocks of parrots and Coit Tower.
Union Square: This historic development is the main shopping district in San Francisco.
Waterfront: Walkers can stop to chat with vendors and go home with delicious food such as clam chowder in a bread bowl.
