San Francisco, California skyline: the 49 most iconic buildings and best views in San Francisco

Yesterday I had the incredible privilege of visiting the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco with my lady and our dogs, and it is an experience I will never forget. Built in 1915 for the Panama Pacific International Exposition, this monumental landmark was designed by Bernard Maybeck to resemble a ruin from ancient Rome, a reminder of timeless beauty rising from history itself. Though the original structure was never meant to last, the people of San Francisco loved it so much that it was carefully rebuilt in the 1960s, ensuring that its breathtaking magic would remain for future generations. Walking through the grounds felt like entering another world. The moment we stepped onto the path, the massive rotunda came into view, its towering dome rising above us, reflected perfectly in the shimmering lagoon. Our dogs tugged forward with excitement, noses full of new scents, tails wagging as if they too understood they were somewhere special. The columns soared above us in endless rows, each carved detail catching the light of the afternoon sun. Every angle revealed something new — archways framing the sky, shadows stretching across the walkways, and water birds gliding effortlessly across the lagoon. Sharing that walk with my lady made the moment even more meaningful. Hand in hand, we strolled beneath arches that felt eternal, pausing often to just soak in the view. She pointed out the way sunlight sparkled off the water while I watched our dogs explore the grass, trotting happily under the shadow of something monumental. We laughed as they tried to chase a duck swimming just out of reach, their playfulness adding life to a place already so alive with history and art. The whole experience felt like a perfect balance of romance, history, and simple joy. What struck me most was the atmosphere of peace and reflection. Though the Palace is grand in scale, it feels intimate when you are there. You can sense the echoes of the millions of people who have walked its paths before, yet in that moment it felt like it was ours alone. Sitting on a bench beneath the dome, with my lady by my side and our dogs resting at our feet, time seemed to slow down. We were surrounded by beauty, but more than that, we were part of it. It felt cinematic, like living inside a masterpiece painting that celebrates love, life, and the wonder of human creativity. The Palace of Fine Arts is not just an architectural treasure, it is an experience that stays with you. It represents the resilience and imagination of San Francisco while offering a sanctuary of calm in the middle of a bustling city. Yesterday it gave us more than just a visit, it gave us a memory — one filled with laughter, beauty, and connection. If you ever find yourself in San Francisco, this is not a place to pass by. It is a must-see, a place that will inspire you, ground you, and remind you of how important it is to preserve spaces that make us feel truly alive. For me, yesterday was one of the most magical days I have spent in this city, and I will carry the memory of that walk with my lady and our dogs at the Palace of Fine Arts for the rest of my life.

Wonderful views of San Francisco Bay. Coit Tower is definitely worth a visit, though parking can be very difficult to find. The ticket price was reasonable, but when I went the elevator was out of service. Be sure to take a look at the frescoes inside—they are truly stunning. Overall, I highly recommend it!

Visiting the Golden Gate Bridge is an unforgettable experience. Standing on or near this iconic landmark, you feel the scale and beauty of San Francisco in a way that photos just can’t capture. The view of the city skyline framed by the bridge’s signature orange towers is breathtaking, especially on a clear day. Walking or biking across gives a sense of accomplishment and offers unique perspectives of the bay, the Marin Headlands, and Alcatraz. Even just admiring it from nearby lookout points provides incredible photo opportunities. The atmosphere is lively with tourists from all over the world, yet the sheer grandeur of the bridge gives it a sense of serenity and awe. Whether you’re here for sightseeing, photography, or just to feel the iconic vibes of SF, the Golden Gate Bridge is a must-visit landmark that truly embodies the spirit of the city.

A really special street with lots of sharp turn and being very steep. It was beautifully decorated with blossoming flowers. You can enjoy a good city view from there as well.

I love this building. I love looking at the clock tower. Apparently it’s based on a Renaissance tower in Sienna or one of those cities. It’s in the Beaux Arts style, like the City Hall. The building itself has pricey shops and eateries, and it’s a bit of a tourist trap, but it’s also bustling with activity. Great for street photography if you’re into that kind of thing. There’s a small plaza in front where people hangout, and it’s great for people watching. But just remember, when you’re people watching, people are watching you!

Free for youth 18 and under! Really nice place, beautiful interior and pretty nice works in there. I particularly liked the sculptures section and the little coffee shop. The museum store has some really cool things, different kinds of lighting, little boardgames, etc. Definitely go early! the line gets huge very quickly.

Our tour guide was Jack who was an amazing tour guide very informative with all the knowledge of the history of San . From the beginning, he made us feel comfortable and welcomed. He had no issues answering questions that we had had great music and being a photographer . At the end of the tour, we walked away with much knowledge And an amazing new outlook for this wonderful city of San Francisco! We would definitely do this tour again, ensuring that Jack will be our guide.

We came here to get a closer look at this interesting building. It is so visible from any part of the city due to it’s height and unique design. Its modern and clean design is a contrast to other office buildings. We were also hoping to see some of the wild parrots that now make their home in the redwood park at the base of this building. We did not have any luck with the parrots. We did find an interesting exhibit at the Transamerica. It was called the The Vertical City and displayed some of the buildings designed by Lord Norman Foster a world renowned architect. Besides building models it also had drawings and videos. His company had redesigned parts of the building’s interior and exterior at ground level to revitalize it. They also designed the Millennium Tower in Tokyo, 30 St Mary Axe in London and 425 and 270 (completing this year) Park Avenue in New York along with buildings in Kuwait and Germany. The exhibit is open until April 30. It is definitely worth seeing!

Grace Cathedral is truly one of the most beautiful and serene spots in San Francisco. The architecture alone is worth the visit — towering stained glass windows, dramatic vaulted ceilings, and detailed stonework that transport you to another time and place. Whether you’re religious or not, there’s something deeply calming about walking through the vast, echoing space. The labyrinth on the floor invites quiet reflection, and the light filtering in through the colorful glass creates a peaceful, almost dreamlike atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you feel compelled to slow down, breathe, and take everything in. That said, the admission ticket feels a bit steep, especially if you’re just popping in for a quick look. It might make more sense for out-of-town visitors or those planning to spend time really exploring the space and reading the history. Still, it’s hard to put a price on the kind of calm and wonder you feel once inside. If you time it with one of their special events — like yoga in the cathedral, art installations, or live music — the experience becomes even more memorable. For locals and tourists alike, Grace Cathedral is a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.

I visited San Francisco City Hall during my August 2024 trip. The building is an architectural marvel—grand, elegant, and beautifully maintained. The weather was cold and foggy that day, which added a moody charm to the experience. I thoroughly enjoyed walking around the area and taking in the majestic structure. It’s a great spot for photography, quiet reflection, and appreciating the city’s civic pride. A hidden gem that’s definitely worth a visit.

Must visit. The original sundae is good. If health conscious order the mini and it will still be too much for you but worth a try. Expect crowd on a weekend. Parking is halved if you order from any store . Get it validated inside the store though. There’s surprisingly sufficient parking the number of times I was here. Enjoy

The Conservatory of Flowers in Golden Gate Park is a peaceful and beautiful escape into nature. We visited with our family and enjoyed exploring the stunning collection of exotic plants and colorful blooms inside the Victorian-era greenhouse. Each room offers a different climate and plant theme, from tropical rainforests to highland orchids. Tip: It’s warm and humid inside, so dress lightly. Also, weekdays are less crowded, making for a quieter experience. Don’t forget your camera—the building and plants are perfect for photos. A lovely stop for plant lovers, families, or anyone needing a relaxing break in the park!

"The Cable Car Museum in San Francisco is a fascinating and unique destination that offers visitors an in-depth look at one of the city's most iconic modes of transportation. Located in the historic cable car barn and powerhouse, the museum provides a blend of history, engineering, and culture that makes it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated, showcasing the evolution of cable cars from their inception in the late 19th century to their continued operation today. You'll find beautifully preserved historic cable cars on display, including the first cable car ever built, which adds a personal and nostalgic touch to the experience. The museum also features detailed explanations of the mechanics behind the cable car system, including the underground cables and pulleys that power these vehicles. Watching the machinery in action is a highlight, as it offers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of this ingenious transportation system. Interactive displays and informative panels make the museum engaging for visitors of all ages. Whether you're a history buff, an engineering enthusiast, or simply curious about San Francisco's unique character, the Cable Car Museum has something to offer. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to answer questions and share interesting anecdotes about the cable cars and their role in the city's history. The museum's location in Nob Hill adds to its charm, as the surrounding area is steeped in history and offers stunning views of the city. Admission is free, making it an accessible and budget-friendly option for anyone exploring San Francisco. Donations are welcome and help support the museum's efforts to preserve and share this important piece of the city's heritage.

This would have to be one of the most beautiful sporting arenas in the world. The stadium has the old world charm combined with being situated right next to the water. There is not a bad seat that I could find in the place. We sat level 1 behind home base and then also visited the top tier to take in the views of the field out to sea. If you are in San Fransisco going to a game if you can time it right - this is a must do. The atmosphere was like a carnival and we had so much fun. The food vendors, the merchandise stalls everything is easily accessible and this place is such a super vibe. Even better that the Giants won during our visit! Access is really easy. You can easily catch public transport and walk to the venue. Thanks to the wonderful team who make this event great.

Incredible. A large varied collection housed in an architectural wonder. A large museum that requires an enough time to begin to appreciate all its offerings. It even has an observation tower which gives grand views of Golden Gate Park and beyond. The museum also has a sculpture garden with walking trails. The museum ticket includes admission to the Legion of Honor museum. A must see.

Beautiful gallery! 😍 Loved seeing works from Monet, Renoir, Rodin, and more. The layout is easy to follow, which made the visit really enjoyable. Parking was a little tricky, but once inside, everything was wonderful. The gift shop staff were also so kind and welcoming. Highly recommend!

Great for photography during the day or night! This unique bridge design is due to the South direction of traffic being being on top and North being on the bottom, and is ultimately rare around the world.

Fort Point is a must-visit historical monument nestled right beneath the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s incredibly well built — a true masterpiece of military architecture and 19th-century engineering. Walking through its solid brick corridors and massive arched ceilings, you can really appreciate the craftsmanship and strategic design that went into its construction. From the rooftop, you also get a breathtaking view of the bridge from a totally unique perspective. A fascinating and beautifully preserved piece of history that blends art, engineering, and American heritage. Don’t miss it if you’re in San Francisco!

Sutro Baths are incredibly beauty! I thoroughly enjoyed my time there, especially having researched the origin story prior to visiting. It gave me a lot of interesting perspective on things. There are stairs down from the parking lot, but I chose to take some side trails. Wear shoes that are easy to walk on sand, particularly hiking shoes. The terrain was unsteady in spots and had large step ups and down. Plan accordingly. I did not and was in Teva. Not overly crowded on a weekend in late May.

Christmas Season means add Nutcracker to my calendar. There are so many places to go. This year I picked San Francisco Opera House. Plan to get there early as traffic around there is no joke. Ideally plan on having dinner downstairs, buffet or chose from the menu. I believe they start at 5pm. It’s a way better option then stress out in traffic (as I did this time around) Uber may be ideal if you live nearby, if you are driving and running late, pick the 2nd garage their website is recommending. The first one got fully booked and we wasted time getting there. The building is beautiful and performance was top tier, very enjoyable. The camera is prohibited 🚫 I just took a tidbits of some scenes as a “souvenir”…a reminder of a cool evening

Our favorite bar in The Castro. The vibe there is really relaxed. Shoutout to Steven for making great drinks and being really nice. We’ll definitely go back on our next visit to San Francisco.

🌟 The Salesforce Tower is the tallest building in San Francisco, standing at 1,070 feet. This architectural marvel offers stunning 360-degree views from the 61st-floor observation deck. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the panoramic city and bay vistas are a must-see. Don't forget to book in advance! 🌁🏙️✨

This historic theater is gorgeous. My son and I love attending the Movies for Maniacs screenings. The host, Jesse, has an infectious passion for the films he shows and it's been really fun experiencing movies we wouldn't normally seek out. The staff is also wonderful ❤️

Architecturally unique. Adds character to Market Street. Exciting news: The Hobart Building is a GlowSF 2022 site! See the beautiful illumination art which debuted December 2, 2022 and will play from 5pm to 10pm for several weeks…The Hobart & GlowSF are a perfect match!

Just had an incredible adventure at Pier 39 with my family! 🎉 It was such a fun and exciting day, filled with sea lion watching and lots of very good food. 🦭 Every moment was memorable, and the atmosphere was fantastic. We captured so many pictures to remember this amazing day. Can't wait to come back for more adventures! Highly recommend it for a perfect family outing.

Took my family to the zoo yesterday. It had been years since we last visited this location, and we thought it would be fun to go back. We spent about 5 hours walking through the entire park, trying to find every exhibit and animal. Many of the exhibits were closed for renovations or due to new animals being introduced into their habitats (i.e. gorilla). There were still more than enough animals and exhibits to see. Overall, we had a great time and will definitely be back sooner!

If you’re into history or just love being by the water, the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park is a spot you shouldn’t miss. It’s right in the Fisherman’s Wharf area, so super easy to get to. First off, the historic ships are super cool. You can actually board them and see what life was like back in the day. The Balclutha, this big old sailing ship, was a favorite of mine. Then there’s the Eureka, an old-school steam ferryboat, which has such a unique vibe. The visitor center is packed with interesting info and a great place to start your visit. Just across the way is the Maritime Museum, in this awesome art deco building. It has all sorts of exhibits about shipbuilding, navigation, and life at sea – plenty to keep you entertained and informed. All in all, it’s a fantastic mix of history and scenic views. Definitely worth a visit next time you’re in San Francisco!

I had the pleasure of visiting the Opera House to see my very first ballet, and it was an absolutely unforgettable experience. The venue itself is stunning – grand, elegant, and beautifully maintained, offering the perfect backdrop for such a special performance. Adding to the charm was the festive, Christmassy decor, which made the evening feel even more magical and inviting. The ballet was mesmerizing, and the artistry of the dancers, combined with the ambiance, left me in awe. If you’re looking for a memorable way to celebrate the holiday season or simply enjoy an exceptional cultural experience, I highly recommend a visit to the Opera House.

What a beautiful historic church. As you step inside, you see pictures of the terrible devastation wrought by the earthquake of 1906. There are statues of saints and holy scenes throughout with the Pieta evoking an overwhelming feeling of humble gratitude, especially for mothers. Our Lady, Queen of the Universe, pray for us. Sacred heart of Jesus, have mercy on us.

This house is open from 12pm-3pm on Sunday. We have to park on the streets. The house tours are for every one hour that lasts an hour. This is the house that survived 1906 SF fires. Our tour guide,Mark, was awesome. He explained everything in detail. He told us, how it was during the Victorian era in SFO. The details were fascinating. The third floor of the house is closed for visitors. We have to enter through the accessibility entrance. There we can buy the tickets and wait for our tour to begin. I strongly recommend this house tour, if you are interested in early SF history and the architecture of its homes. Thank you Mark for explaining everything in detail and making our trip memorable.

This place is absolutely beautiful. It is a gem in the heart of San Fransisco perched atop a beautiful bus terminal and filled with exotic plants from all over the world. When I was there it was pretty empty, but I can see this place being packed on the weekends and holidays. Well worth the visit for a peaceful break from the busy city life. Check out the fountains that go off every time a bus drives by and the beautiful views of the surrounding area. Kudos to the maintenance staff and all the hardworking groundskeepers who keep that place perfect. 😊🙌🏼

Favorite music venue in the entire bay area. The size, acoustics and easy layout make it my favorite spot for live music. I just wish they booked more shows.

A Perfect Blend of Scenic Beauty, Architecture, and Relaxation Alamo Square Park is one of the most memorable spots in San Francisco and easily earns a perfect 5/5 in my book. It offers one of the most iconic views in the city — the famous "Painted Ladies" with the San Francisco skyline rising behind them. Seeing this view in person feels like stepping into a real-life postcard, especially around sunset when the golden light hits the Victorian facades just right. The park itself is clean, well-maintained, and spacious, with rolling green lawns ideal for a picnic, reading a book, or simply relaxing while enjoying the view. It’s elevated enough to offer breezes and sweeping views, and there are several benches strategically placed for you to take it all in. I noticed a good mix of both locals and tourists, and the atmosphere was friendly and peaceful. There’s a dedicated off-leash dog area, which adds a lively charm to the park without being disruptive. For those who enjoy walking, the surrounding neighborhood is a treasure trove of beautifully preserved Victorian architecture. Every corner reveals a house more picturesque than the last. Despite its popularity, the park doesn’t feel overcrowded. It’s a refreshing green space in the middle of the city with cultural, architectural, and visual appeal. Whether you're a photographer, a casual visitor, or just someone looking to unwind, Alamo Square Park delivers a memorable San Francisco experience. A must-visit, especially for first-timers to the city.

We lived in Millennium Tower for over two years, and the building is world-class. The units, services, staff, and overall living experience are top of the line. We got constant use out of the amenities, including the gym, lounge, daily coffee, pool / hot tub / steam room, and International Smoke restaurant. In particular, the staff are outstanding; Joel, Marianna, Koudous, Haddis, and Derrick all made MT feel like a home. The apartment building location is perfect, and we would have loved to live here longer if not for a move out of the city. To echo other reviews, if you get the chance to live here, do not think twice!