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  • Free Walking Tours

Free Walking Tours: Daily Walks by SF City Guides & the SF Public Library

Jill on a windy day at the Golden Gate Bridge

by Jill Loeffler   •

Updated: February 10, 2024

Every day of the week, SF City Guides (part of the SF Public Library) offers a number of free walking tours. They range from the famous Golden Gate Bridge tour to one dedicated to the impact of the 1906 Earthquake and Fire.

All guides are volunteers. Many of them have outstanding stories. They are typically either from San Francisco or have been in the city for a very long time. Because of this, they each know their tour and its route better than anyone else. 

I take these tours often as I learn something new every single time. They offer a wonderful look into SF's past as well as what the local communities are up to now. It's one of the best ways to get an "insider's look" at the real San Francisco.

Some of them offer you access into places that you would not be able to enter on your own. They also point out hidden gems and other lesser-known attractions or locations throughout the city.

An antique Chandalier inside an Alamo Square Victorian

Joining a Tour

First off, you will need to make reservations to join most of these free walking tours. You will find the times and dates on their website.

They will see that you signed up and put you on the list, or you can be put on a waitlist if the tour is already full. Your time and date tour will be blacked out if the waitlist is already full.

Therefore, you should plan your walk as far out as possible to get the exact one you want to go on. You should also show up about 10 to 15 minutes before they start.

The guide is usually there by this time. They are easy to find and are looking for tour participants. They often have a clipboard in their hands.

Check in with them so they know you are on the correct tour and have already reserved a spot. They also use this to measure each tour's success and determine what they should offer in the future.

All tours start on time, so please arrive on time, as they will not wait for you. If you find yourself running a little late, you are welcome to catch up and join the tour. However, do your best to not interrupt if it is already in progress.

Even though these tours are free, they do ask for a donation at the end. The donations do not go to the tour guide but to the SF Public Library to keep this operation running.

They have one full-time staff member who helps manage the volunteers, the website, and other organization details.

How much should you donate? That's up to you. According to the SF City Guides website, they suggest a donation of $15, so I always try to give that amount because these tours are so impressive. 

You are welcome to donate more or less depending on your experience with the tour and your personal budget. If you are low on money, please still go as it shows people are interested in these tours and they are essential.

A colorful mural in SF's Mission district

My Experience on These Tours

Since all guides are volunteers, you might be asking yourself about their reliability. Believe me when I tell you that these guides LOVE giving these tours and teaching others about the city. 

The SF Public Library has a strict policy for its volunteers. It's considered a privilege to be accepted as a tour volunteer. Each one has to go on several other walks before they are trained to give one of these free walking tours on their own.

Many of them have also had to develop and submit a new tour idea before they are able to give a tour. Simply stated: These are some of the most reliable volunteers you will find. They are super friendly and helpful, too!

I've done dozens of these tours and only one time has a guide not shown up. We later found out they had a family emergency and didn't have time to cancel the tour before we arrived. This is a rare occasion, and I doubt it will happen to you. 

chinatown temple

The only other issues I've had on these tours are when the group size is too large or when we walk down a really busy street and can't hear the guide as well (as they don't use sophisticated sound equipment).

If you are not enjoying the tour or it's something different than what you expected, you can quietly walk away in the middle of it. 

Disclaimer : I receive a small commission from some of the links on this page.

Most Popular Free Walking Tours

They try to keep a very consistent schedule for their free walking tours from one month to the next. They sometimes add or cancel these free walking tours, but this is rare.

The Public Library updates their list every Spring and Fall. In addition, they offer specialty tours in May and October as well as when they test out new tour ideas.

Here are just a few of their most popular tours.

Golden Gate Bridge Walking Tour

This tour will tell you all about one of our most famous attractions, the Golden Gate Bridge . This two-hour tour will teach you about its history and interesting facts (such as how long it took to build and how much it cost). You will also walk part of the way across the bridge to the southern tower, which is where the tour ends.

Tour Schedule : Every Thursday and Sunday at 11 am (plus a few other select dates throughout the month).  Visit their site to confirm your date

Meeting Location : Strauss Statue at the Golden Gate Bridge Visitors Plaza (the San Francisco south side of the bridge)

>> Cruise under the bridge on one of these cruises  

Chinatown is often known as a city within a city. It's the most densely populated portion of San Francisco. This two-hour tour will take you through this interesting community and the largest Chinatown outside of Asia. You will learn about its history and more about the daily lives of its current residents.

Tour Schedule : This tour is not consistent; it's offered on different days and times. You'll find them on most Mondays and Wednesdays. It's best to  visit their site to confirm your date . 

Meeting Location : Portsmouth Square in Chinatown at the parking garage elevators on the park level

>> More about visiting Chinatown

>> Other fun tours of this colorful district

Fisherman's Wharf, A Hidden History

The Fisherman's Wharf tour is another two-hour tour that starts at Ghirardelli Square. The tour begins with the history of this former chocolate factory. You will then walk through Aquatic Park and down to Jefferson Street.

Along the way, you will learn all about the original settlers in this part of San Francisco, what their life was like, and more about the fisherman that call this area home today.

Tour Schedule : This tour schedule changes quite often, so you'll want to check ahead. Some are on Mondays at 10:30 am. Others are on Fridays at 11 am. Visit their site to confirm your date

Meeting Location : Main courtyard of Ghirardelli Square at the Mermaid Fountain

>> 50 of the best things to do in Fisherman's Wharf

Castro, Tales of the Village

The Castro District is the heart of the LGBT community. It was the home to one of SF's most famous residents, Harvey Milk. On this two-hour tour, you will learn about Milk and how this district became a meeting place for the LGBT community.

Tour Schedule : Most Tuesday, Saturday, and Sunday mornings at 11 am. Visit their site to confirm your date

Meeting Location : The giant rainbow flag in Harvey Milk Plaza at Market & Castro Streets

>> Discover the best things to do in the Castro

Coit Tower Murals

Many visitors don't realize the extent of the murals inside Coit Tower and the history behind them. On this tour, you will walk along the tower's first floor to learn more about the murals and what San Francisco was like in the 1930s. You will also learn about why they were controversial at the time.

In addition to seeing those open to the public on the first floor, you might also get a sneak peek at some very different looking murals in the private stairwells. These are closed to the public and will give you an even better idea of why this SF attraction is such an essential work of art.

Tour Schedule : Wednesdays and Saturdays at 10 am.  Visit their site to confirm the date of your tour

Meeting Location : At the entrance to Coit Tower

>> Pictures from my tour and what else there is to see at Coit Tower

Nob Hill sits high above the downtown area and features some of the city's most distinguished hotels. It was home to San Francisco's wealthiest families and the "Big Four" when it was first developed.

Learn about how this area was developed, why this was the first location where they installed cable cars, and what the district is like today. This two-hour tour starts at the Stanford Hotel entrance and includes some uphill walking (don't worry, you will walk slowly).

Tour Schedule : Thursdays and Sundays at 2 pm. Visit their site to confirm your dates .

Meeting Location : Outside the entrance of the Stanford Court Hotel at 905 California Street between Powell and Mason

>> More about visiting Nob Hill

North Beach

North Beach is another fascinating district to explore during your visit. On this tour, you will learn about the Beat Generation and the Italians that initially settled in this area. You will get some great recommendations on the best places to eat and some of the locals' favorite places to go. 

Tour Schedule : This tour is only offered a few days and times.  Visit their site to check the dates .

Meeting Location : Steps of  Saints Peter and Paul Church at 666 Filbert Street between Powell/Columbus and Stockton

>> Details on visiting North Beach

City Hall & Civic Center

San Francisco's City Hall is not only an important place of civic movement, but also an architectural marvel. Did you know that its iconic gold dome is the tallest in the country, even taller than the U.S. Capitol building?

For your tour of the Civic Center campus, you won't need to walk a ton to see and learn a lot about this institution. All within the same area, you'll get to admire the history and architecture of the War Memorial Opera House, the Asian Art Museum, and the State Building.

Tour Schedule : Tuesdays at 1:30 pm and Thursdays at 10:30 am.  Visit their site to check the dates .

Meeting Location : Steps of the Main Library on Fulton Street between Larkin and Hyde.

>> More about the Civic Center district

Full Schedule : You will find additional tours on the SFCityGuides website at www.sfcityguides.org . Also, please use this link to confirm that the tours above are still running on the day you plan to go. They don't cancel often, but it does happen sometimes, and I would hate for you to show up and have it cancelled that day.

Monthly Events in SF

Are you interested in finding additional events to attend during your stay? Click the links below to check out the fun events planned that month!

Comments? Questions? Suggestions?

I would love for you to join me in my private Facebook group ! 

It's a great place to interact with me and others who know the area well.

You can ask questions, get advice for your upcoming stay, and then share your photos and advice with others when you return home. It's a great community and the fastest way to get answers to those nagging questions about your visit!

Come join the fun here !

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San Francisco Walking Tours

walking tours san francisco library

Welcome to Free Tours by Foot, the premier name-your-own-price San Francisco walking tours - READ ABOUT ALL OUR WALKING TOURS

Our expert guides will help you plan your trip and find the best San Francisco attractions.

Sightseeing doesn’t have to be expensive or boring. Suited for any budget, our San Francisco walking tours will take you all over this amazing city, keeping you entertained, educated, and excited the entire way.

So come along and discover hidden neighborhoods, sample world class cuisine, and learn the incredible stories of the men and women who built the City by the Bay.

Can't join us on a guided tour? Don't worry, we offer self-guided GPS enabled Audio tours of San Francisco!  

WALKING TOURS

We offer guided walking tours all around San Francisco (and beyond!)

You could browse the tours that we have by clicking the links below or go straight to our booking page to see what we have available.

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Walking tours are a great way to meet fellow travelers and make new friends.

Our guests come from all over the world, and this means that many different perspectives are reflected in the questions asked of our tour guides and contribute to more enriching experiences for our guests.

We have over 700 reviews with a rating of  5 out of 5 stars .  Read the reviews  for yourself.  

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We run a reduced schedule in the winter but tours operate year-round.

Our Offered Tours (Public & Private)

  • The Original San Francisco Tour
  • Billionaire's Square & Nob Hill
  • Golden Gate Bridge
  • Wild West, Gold Rush & Early Years
  • Downtown San Francisco
  • Secrets, Scandals & Scoundrels
  • Fisherman's Wharf
  • Little Italy, Fisherman's Wharf and Lombard Street

walking tours san francisco library

Self-Guided San Francisco Tours

Don't see a tour that fits your schedule?

We also offer GPS-enabled audio tours as well as several  self-guided tours , which are totally free to take.

OTHER TOURS

There are a lot of ways to explore San Francisco - by bus, boat, or streetcar! Find out more about those options.

  • Self-Guided Golden Gate Bridge Walking Tour
  • Alcatraz Tour Prices | Which Alcatraz Tickets Should You Buy?
  • San Francisco Bay Cruises and Boat Tours
  • San Francisco Night Tours
  • The Best San Francisco Bike Tours
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  • Self Guided Tours of San Francisco

And much, much more

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The 13 Best San Francisco Walking Tours

Explore the beauty of San Francisco on two feet with these informative jaunts.

Best San Francisco Walking Tours

Getty Images

Strolls by San Francisco's classic Victorian homes is a must-do activity in the city.

Note: Some tour providers on this list may have limited or ceased operations due to COVID-19. Check with your tour operator about availability before you book.

Despite its famous hills, San Francisco is full of leisurely (and occasionally flat) strolls. To get in a workout while on vacation and see some of San Francisco's top attractions , consider signing up for a walking tour. Local guides lead participants to some of the most interesting areas of the city, sharing history, hauntings and delicious food along the way. Here are 13 of the best San Francisco walking tours, analyzed by U.S. News using traveler opinion and expert input.

Victorian Home Walk

Stroll by more than 200 of San Francisco's colorful Victorian homes on this two-hour tour. The guided walk explores the Pacific Heights neighborhood, taking visitors past filming locations for "Mrs. Doubtfire," "The Princess Diaries," and other beloved movies and shows. Participants will also be shown the interior of a period Queen Anne Victorian. Reviewers say the guide provides interesting information. They also appreciate the leisurely pace of the walk, which doesn't include large hills. Tours are available Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 11 a.m., and tickets cost $25 paid in cash only. Reservations are required.

[ View & Book Tickets .]

San Francisco City Guides – Golden Gate Park: East End

On this two-hour tour, participants will meander through San Francisco's famous Golden Gate Park . Sticking to the east side of the park, guides take tourgoers to landmarks like the National AIDS Memorial Grove and the Music Concourse, while sharing information about the park's past and present. The walking tour does involve climbing stairs and small hills. Reviewers describe the tour as wonderful and praise the friendly, insightful guides. The tour, which is offered two Sundays per month at 1 p.m., is free but donations are welcome. San Francisco City Guides also offers tours focused on Alfred Hitchcock's famous San Francisco filming locations, the 1906 earthquake and architecture in Chinatown , among other themes.

Wild SF Walking Tours – Haunted San Francisco Ghost Tour

Delve into San Francisco's seedy past with tales of true crime, hauntings, unexplained deaths and even the Black Plague on this 90-minute ghost tour. Guides regale participants with stories about historic sites throughout the city that are believed to be haunted, including the Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square , a former brothel, underground speakeasies and a church associated with cult leader Jim Jones. Reviewers say the tour is informative and the stories, while tragic, are not too scary. Tickets cost approximately $25 per person, though the tour is not advised for children younger than 10. Tours depart most evenings at 7 and 9 p.m. Wild SF also offers tours of San Francisco's street art, a food crawl through Chinatown and Little Italy, and a free tour of the city.

Free Tours by Foot – All-in-One Tour

See the best of the city in five hours on this free tour. During the excursion, you'll take an iconic cable car ride , visit Chinatown, learn about the buried sunken ships from the Gold Rush era, pass historic Nob Hill mansions and visit the biggest cathedral in the city. You'll also stop for a lunch break. Reviewers recommend the tour, explaining they learn a lot about San Francisco. Tickets start at $7, which cover the cost of the cable car ride, though the company asks that you name your own price at the end of the tour. Tours are scheduled on varying days, departing at 10 a.m. Free Tours by Foot offers tours of Lombard Street and downtown, among other areas of the city.

San Francisco Native Tours – Original Tour

Nosh on more than a dozen food samples, including dim sum, pizza and Ghirardelli chocolate, as you explore neighborhoods like Chinatown, North Beach and downtown on this four-hour tour. Reviewers, who highly recommend the tour, say the food is amazing and the guide informative. Tickets start at $65 per person, including the cost of the food. Tours, which are limited to 10 participants, are available Monday through Friday at noon. San Francisco Native Tours also offers private tours, as well as a version of the original tour that includes alcoholic drinks.

Urban Trek USA – Urban Trek 4

History buffs interested in 19th-century San Francisco will want to book this small group tour. Limited to seven participants, the tour explores Chinatown, North Beach, Coit Tower , the Ferry Building Marketplace , Union Square and more, emphasizing the historical events that shaped these popular neighborhoods. Reviewers highly recommend the tour and praise guides for their great customer service. Tours depart at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and conclude around 2 p.m. Ticket prices range from $39 to $69, depending on the number of people on the tour, and must be paid in cash on the day of the tour; you'll need extra cash for the tour's single bus ride to the top of Telegraph Hill. Reservations are required. Urban Trek USA also offers tours of Russian Hill, Pacific Heights and the Marina District, among other neighborhoods.

Free SF Tour

For a budget-friendly look at all San Francisco has to offer, join the daily 2 1/2-hour Free SF Tour, which takes visitors through the city's downtown. The tour visits a variety of neighborhoods, including Chinatown, the Embarcadero, the Financial District and more, providing an overview of the city's history, current affairs, as well as tips for making the most of your visit. Reviewers report learning lots of interesting facts and highly recommend the tour. Tours depart daily from Union Square at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.; tickets are free. Reservations are not required – just join the tour at its designated meeting place. The company also offers this tour in Spanish, as well as a fee-based evening tour of Chinatown in both languages.

Best San Francisco Walking Tours

Courtesy of All About Chinatown

All About Chinatown takes travelers through the company's namesake neighborhood for a fun history lesson.

All About Chinatown Tours – Daily Tour

Discover the gems of San Francisco's Chinatown on this daily two-hour walking tour. Participants see many historic and architecturally significant buildings, stop at a fortune cookie factory, visit the Stockton Street food markets and see an authentic Buddhist temple, among other sights. Tourists also have the option to stay for a dim sum luncheon at the conclusion of the tour. Reviewers describe the tour as interesting and worth the cost. Many also advise staying for lunch Tickets for the tour start at $35 for adults and $25 for children ages 6 to 17; children 5 and younger tour for free. You'll want to budget an additional $30 per person if you opt for lunch. Tours leave at 10 a.m. from Old St. Mary's Cathedral, and reservations are required. The company also offers private culinary tours and scavenger hunts.

San Francisco Architecture Walking Tour

Architecture buffs can get an in-depth look at significant structures in the city's Financial District on this roughly 2 1/2-hour tour, which is led by a local historian. The guided tour takes participants to various buildings in downtown San Francisco, as well as to rooftop gardens, open spaces and historic landmarks. Because of the lecture-style delivery of the tour, it's not recommended for young children. Reviewers applaud the guide for his expertise and say it's a must-do activity for those interested in architecture. Tickets cost approximately $40 per person. Tours run on select days at 2 p.m.

Cruisin' the Castro – Historical LGBTQ Tour

Hear the history of San Francisco's first gay community, the creation of the rainbow flag and the "Summer of Love" on this two-hour tour through the Castro district. As you listen to the guides' stories, you'll visit sites like Harvey Milk Plaza, the GLBT Historical Society Museum, Pink Triangle Park and more. Reviewers applaud the well-informed guides, who they describe as passionate and entertaining. Tickets start at $28 per person and are free for children younger than 5. However, the company does not recommend the tour for young children as some of the stories may be deemed inappropriate. Tours depart most days, except Sunday and Monday, at 10 a.m. The company also offers private tours.

Haight Ashbury Flower Power Walking Tour

The Haight Ashbury Flower Power Walking Tour explores the history, fashion and architecture of this iconic neighborhood as well as modern-day happenings. You'll hear stories about music icons like the Grateful Dead and Janis Joplin as you weave your way through 12 blocks in about 2 1/2 hours. Reviewers say they enjoy their guide and learn a lot about the neighborhood. Tours run Tuesday and Saturday at 10:30 a.m. or Friday at 2 p.m. Tickets cost approximately $20 and are free for children 9 and younger.

Local Taste of the City Tours – Chinatown and North Beach Night Walking Tour

Stop for tasty food samples in two of San Francisco's most famous neighborhoods on this three-hour tour. As guides share information about Chinatown and North Beach, you'll enjoy samples from the oldest Chinese bakery in the city, chocolate from Z. Cioccolato, cannoli from a North Beach pastry shop and more. Reviewers highly recommend the tour and say the food is great. Tickets start at $59 for adults, $39 for youth ages 12 to 16 and $15 for children ages 2 to 11; infants younger than 2 tour for free. The price includes drinks and food, and tours are available daily at 6 p.m. The company also offers daytime food walking tours of Chinatown only and a combo tour of North Beach and Little Italy.

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Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District

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Visiting the Bridge

What to do during your visit to the golden gate bridge.

Visiting the world famous Golden Gate Bridge is a unique experience for everyone. Whether you hike, walk, bike, shop, take a guided tour, or just sit back and take it all in, there is something for everyone.

ggb-visitor-center

The Bridge's Welcome Center offers merchandise and historical information. Open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., the Welcome Center is the first on-site center dedicated to telling the stories of the Golden Gate Bridge. The Center welcomes visitors, provides orientation and information services, houses exhibits, and offers high-quality commemorative and interpretive merchandise, and also showcases the original 12-foot stainless steel Bridge "test tower" used in 1933. Be sure to also check out the Golden Gate Parks Conservancy online store for one-of-a-kind gifts and collectibles. Contact the Welcome Center at 415-426-5220 or [email protected] .

Onsite Exhibits

Learn about the history, science, and engineering of the Bridge's construction through interactive and stationery exhibits. Wander through the Plaza just outside the Welcome Center and follow the pathway into an old bunker that houses some of the exhibits.

For a virtual version of these exhibits, go to the Exhibits section of our website. 

GGB-Tour

Free Walking Tours

If you're interested in the history of the Golden Gate Bridge, twice-weekly (Thursdays and Sundays) free walking Bridge tours are offered by San Francisco City Guides, a non-profit organization associated with the San Francisco Public Library. For more information and a schedule of their walks, visit the San Francisco City Guides website . 

Equator Coffee now at the Round House

The Round House is now Equator Coffee . Enjoy a steaming cup of coffee with beautiful views!

Hike and Explore

Both ends of the Bridge touch the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Enjoy picturesque trails and vista points in one of the world’s largest national parks in an urban area. Visit the Parks Conservancy website or National Park Service-GGNRA website  to begin your adventure.

Also, be sure to check out the new Golden Gate and Pacific Overlooks near the Bridge.

An incredible free resource few San Franciscans know about

walking tours san francisco library

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There’s been a lot of doomsaying lately about the economic collapse of Downtown San Francisco. But this city has long been known as a place of booms and busts, going all the way back to the Gold Rush. 

Turns out, you don’t need Google to learn more about the San Franciscans who have ridden a roller coaster of fortunes over the past couple of centuries. You need only sign up for City Guides' free “Boom and Bust” tour of the Financial District , offered on select afternoons throughout September. 

“This has been a place where you could strike it rich, but it’s also been a place where you could lose it all,” reads the blurb for the tour, which is just one of a rotating array of organized guided walks that explore the city’s neighborhoods and history.  

But many seasoned locals don’t know about this free resource at their feet, provided by a nearly half-century-old nonprofit that reveals the city in new ways. 

“This is the real San Francisco,” said City Guides Executive Director Demetri Rizos. He touted the expert knowledge of the some 300 volunteer tour guides who lead the informative walks rain or shine, every day of the year. 

“These are people who love this city,” he said. 

walking tours san francisco library

Once you’re paying attention, you’ll notice the signature red jackets of the City Guides volunteers crisscrossing the city, groups of rapt pedestrians in tow. Walkers learn about subjects ranging from the circa 1920s and ’30s Art Deco architecture of the Marina to the 19th century gangs that controlled Chinatown. 

Rory O’Connor trained to become a guide back in 2009 after catching the San Francisco history bug. “There’s so many really devoted and talented people,” O’Connor said. “With unique backgrounds and diverse interests.” 

He recalls giving a tour to a group of property managers to various landmark banks Downtown. 

“I couldn’t get them out of there, because they were so busy caressing the marble,” he said.   

The origins of City Guides date back to 1976, when officials from the Mayor’s Office contacted librarian Gladys Hansen to request a tour of City Hall. The tour Hansen crafted was such a success that she began training additional volunteers to lead it, and two years later, City Guides was officially founded as a partner with the San Francisco Public Library. 

What began with a single tour by a single guide has grown into today’s organization, with 300 volunteers who lead 70 unique excursions on everything from the birth of the Inner Sunset to secret spots in Golden Gate Park. The organization has continued its partnership with the library, which provides the group and its two paid staff members with office space. 

walking tours san francisco library

Tours of the Haight, the Golden Gate Bridge and Chinatown are some of the most popular excursions, especially among tourists. But you’ll find many locals on the walks, too, in particular on more specialized neighborhood tours. 

The organization is dynamic, constantly creating new tours and tweaking existing ones. Recent additions include " Climate Change at Crissy Field " and a cable car tour put together in honor of the 150th anniversary of the city’s signature mode of transportation. 

The volunteer tour guides are responsible for generating new tour ideas that must go through a strict process (it took a year for Rory O’Connor to get his "Silent Film San Francisco" tour approved). 

The training to lead the walks is also rigorous. Potential guides must attend and pay for a five-month training program and also agree to lead a set number of tours. 

“Everything is because of our wonderful guides,” Rizos said.  

Phil Bailey, who has been giving walking tours for two decades, met his wife on one 18 years ago. 

“The 'Gold Rush City' tour is very near and dear to my heart,” Bailey said. 

He’s had other memorable experiences, like meeting a group of drunken Australians who hadn’t been to bed for three days. 

“They bought me a beer at the end because they felt so bad about their ancestors burning down the city,” Bailey said, referring to the arson of the criminal gang from Australia known as the Sydney Ducks , which was blamed for setting a fire in 1849 that nearly destroyed the heart of San Francisco.

Tour guide Roger Hooson specializes in the "Gold Rush City" tour, which he’s been leading for 30 years. On a recent Wednesday, 16 people, a mix of locals and tourists, showed up for his afternoon walk. 

Hooson pointed out spots that were once sand dunes and shared images of long-gone buildings from a binder of protective vinyl sheets. Participants also had the opportunity to inspect real-life objects when they ducked into a 1920s-era skyscraper at 343 Sansome St. 

Gold Rush artifacts—unearthed during the development of the building next door—were on display in the lobby: brass weights with Chinese characters, daguerrotypes, ceramic ink bottles. Walkers learn the saying: “I’ve seen the elephant,” an expression 19th century gold-seeking hopefuls learned to mean they’d come home with empty hands but full of stories. 

“The history of San Francisco is fascinating, and it continues to evolve,” said Tam Tran, who has been a City Guides tour leader for 20 years. 

Tran started with the Mission Dolores tour, but her favorite is the tour of the Salesforce Transit Center.

“It’s very forward-thinking, about what’s happening Downtown,” Tran said, who is constantly updating her tour. “I thought I knew the city, but I’ve learned so much.” 

Julie Zigoris can be reached at [email protected]

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Walking Tours in San Francisco

There’s no better way to get to know the city than to take of the many San Francisco walking tours. These specialized and localized tours let visitors get up front and close to the city’s most amazing sights and landmarks, putting them in contact with locals who are the lifeblood of the city and who can tell visitors exactly the type of excitement that awaits for them. Whether it’s the historical sights downtown or the miles of beach along the coast, walking tours are the only way to make a personalized acquaintance with the city.

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walking tours san francisco library

These Free Walking Tours Are Some Of The Best In SF

If you want to learn about San Francisco's colorful history from expert tour guides, nothing beats SF City Guides.

Grant MacHamer

There are plenty of exceptional walking tours to take in SF, but SF City Guides is one of the best and most respected groups in the city. For 45 years, the non-profit tour group has led gaggles of tourists and history-loving San Franciscans on unforgettable walking tours across the city , free of charge.

Each of their 80+ walking tours typically takes 1.5-2 hours and ranges from “1850s San Francisco: The Paris of the Pacific” to “Mission Murals” which explores this beautiful and ever-evolving street art, and everything in between.

SF City Guides tour in Chinatown

Don’t let the price tag fool you , these tour guides are some of the best in the business and go through a rigorous training program to guide. Each guide has to attend at least eight training sessions, six tours, and study with numerous subject matter experts . By the time they’re finally leading the tour, these guides have logged some serious hours and have a passion for what they do.

On a given Saturday, they lead up to 24 walking tours per day in every corner of SF. Their tours can be searched by date, location, or topic, with categories like neighborhoods , architectural/art , social history , Landmarks , Uniquely SF , and more.

Considering the wide range of topics and locations covered by the group, it’s fair to say that there’s a tour for everyone . Even though the walking tours are 100% free, a $20 suggested donation helps them to keep offering these incredible tours. Guides do not accept personal tips, and all money collected will go back to the non-profit.

Explore SF City Guides’ full tour schedule on their website .

walking tours san francisco library

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About Our Walks | Private Tours | Our Organization

About Our Walks

What are your walks like? Our mission is to share the history, lore, characters, and stories of our city in a fun, informative and engaging way. You’ll see the places that made San Francisco unique and hear about the people and events that shaped the city you see today. Because you’re walking with enthusiastic experts, you’ll have an experience that you just can’t get anywhere else.

What do your tours cost? Our walks are always free, but we are supported almost entirely by walker donations. You will be given the opportunity when you register to make  a suggested $20 per person donation online .  If you missed the opportunity to make a donation when registering, our Guides will pass around our recognized “yellow envelope” at the end of the tour. Our Guides do not accept personal tips. We hope that you’ll consider making a donation so we can keep walking!

Do I need to sign up ?  Yes, walker s should register in advance on our website. It’s pretty easy and you will receive a confirmation email with details on where to meet for the tour.

How will I find my guide? Your guide will be wearing a name badge bearing the City Guides logo and often our distinctive red jacket. 

Are your walks strenuous? We do our best to design most of our walks to be suitable for the average walker. But remember that San Francisco is famous for its many hills, so some tours do require you to walk up or down some inclines. A few are more strenuous and are less well suited to those who don’t want to do much climbing. We note that in the tour descriptions.

Are your tours accessible for wheelchairs or for people with limited mobility? The hills and staircases of San Francisco’s streets can be a challenge to navigate. We do our best to create walking routes that can accommodate wheelchairs but it’s not always possible to avoid relatively steep inclines or steps. Please check the tour descriptions for more information. If you still have questions, please call or email us.

Do you give tours on holidays? We give tours every day of the year, but on some major holidays our schedule is relatively limited. Please check our website a few days before a major holiday to see what we are offering that day.

What happens if it rains? We walk rain or shine. (We don’t have a snow policy, but it hasn’t snowed in San Francisco for decades.) We do, however, cancel walks should the air quality index be dangerously high as a result of wildfire smoke. Please check our website the day of your planned walk. If there is a cancellation for any reason, you’ll find that information there.

I’m at the starting point but there’s no guide. Now what? It’s extremely rare, but sometimes due to personal emergencies a guide is unable to make it to the starting point. We do our best to find another guide to fill that spot, but as an all-volunteer organization that’s not always possible. So in the highly unlikely event that you have no guide, please call the City Guides office at 415-375-0468 , or send an email to 2:=E@iE@FCDoD74:EJ8F:56D]@C8');"> gro.sediugyticfs@sruot .

I have a large group, can we all join a public tour? In order to ensure a great experience for all our walkers, we don’t allow groups of eight or more individuals to join our public walks and unfortunately, our guide will need to turn your group away. But don’t worry: We’d love for your group to walk with us by scheduling a private group tour instead (please note there is a charge for private group tours – see below).

Can I bring my pet dog/cat/monkey/goldfish along on a walk? As much as we love our animal companions, not everyone does – so for the health, safety and comfort of our walkers we don’t allow animals on our walks . In addition, some of the buildings included on our walks don’t allow you to bring animals inside. Of course, service dogs as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) are always permitted on our tours.

Do you offer any online resources? City Guides is delighted to offer a selection of tours of people and places that shaped San Francisco as online experiences. Our knowledgeable guides will lead you on an online tour of the people, places and events that make San Francisco a unique and cosmopolitan city.

Our online tours are live, interactive, narrations throughout the history of San Francisco. Using historical and contemporary images as well as documents and discussion, our guides will lead you through a live discussion. These presentations run around 60 to 90 minutes with the presentation and live Q&A. They are presented via Zoom and can be enjoyed from anywhere around the globe.

For a current schedule of online tours, click here .

Back to the top.

Private Group Tours

How do I arrange for a private group tour? Private tours are available for large groups or organizations by prior arrangement. There is a charge for private tours of $30 per person. There is a minimum charge that must be paid in advance. Click here for more details , or call the City Guides office at 415-375-0468 , or send an email to 2:=E@iE@FCDoD74:EJ8F:56D]@C8');"> gro.sediugyticfs@sruot .

Can I choose any walk for my group? You may ask for any tour of interest and we will do our best to identify a guide who is qualified to lead that walk and is available the day and time you request. Because we are an all-volunteer organization, however, it may not be possible for us to meet your specific request. In that case we’ll discuss options with you for other tours or times.

Our Organization

Who runs City Guides? City Guides is a non-profit, volunteer organization founded in 1978. We are a program of the San Francisco Public Library. We have more than 300 active volunteer guides who lead all our walks and do most of the work of running the organization, developing our tours, training new guides, and organizing special events and continuing educational opportunities for our guides. A nine-member Board of Directors oversees City Guides. We employ two full-time staff members: An executive director and a program manager.

What is your relationship to the San Francisco Public Library? City Guides has always had a special relationship with the library since we were founded by the library’s City Historian, the late Gladys Hansen. In our early years, we were funded as a project of the Friends of the San Francisco Public Library. Our office space, in a library annex building, is generously provided by the San Francisco Public Library. Our historic affiliation with the library and its mission is why we provide our walks to the public without charge, but we do not receive direct funding from the library, which is why we encourage (but don’t require) donations from our walkers.

Where do you get your funding? The majority of our funding comes from the voluntary donations made by those who take our tours, from individual sponsorships, and from a few generous corporate and foundation sponsors. We also receive funding from the Grants for the Arts, which is supported by the San Francisco Hotel Tax Fund.

walking tours san francisco library

2:=E@iE@FCDoD74:EJ8F:56D]@C8');"> gro.sediugyticfs@sruot

415-375-0468

Mailing Address San Francisco City Guides c/o SF Public Library 100 Larkin Street San Francisco, CA 94102

EIN: 85-3688709

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walking tours san francisco library

walking tours san francisco library

6 Best Places for Walking in San Francisco

S an Francisco is a city best explored on foot. From the historic streets of Chinatown to the beautiful landscapes of Golden Gate Park, walking through San Francisco provides a unique and immersive experience.

In this article, we'll explore the best places to see San Francisco on foot, uncover exciting places to visit, and embrace the city's rich culture and history one step at a time.

So, lace up your comfortable shoes and get ready for a journey through the heart and soul of San Francisco.

Where To Walk in San Francisco

1. the embarcadero.

The Embarcadero is a scenic waterfront area along San Francisco's eastern shoreline. Walking here provides stunning views of the San Francisco Bay, Bay Bridge, and Treasure Island. Free walking tours in San Francisco allow you to take in these picturesque sights leisurely, allowing for a more immersive experience.

Walking along the waterfront, you'll encounter iconic landmarks such as the Ferry Building, with its clock tower and vibrant marketplace. You can better appreciate these landmarks' architectural details and historical significance on foot.

The Embarcadero features public art installations and sculptures, adding a creative and cultural dimension to your walk. You can engage with these artistic expressions at your own pace.

2. Fisherman's Wharf

Fisherman's Wharf is a famous waterfront area along the northern shore of San Francisco.

If the weather is clear, walking around the Wharf will afford attractive views of the San Francisco Bay, Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz Island . The picturesque waterfront provides a serene and captivating backdrop for your stroll.

Fisherman's Wharf is home to several historic landmarks, including Ghirardelli Square and the USS Pampanito, a WWII-era submarine turned museum. The lively atmosphere at Fisherman's Wharf includes street performers, musicians, and entertainers.

The Wharf is renowned for its fresh seafood offerings. Walking will allow you to explore the various seafood stalls and restaurants, indulging in delicious clam chowder, Dungeness crab, and other local specialties.

3. Telegraph Hill

The ascent to Telegraph Hill, west of the Embarcadero, provides breathtaking panoramic views of San Francisco. At the summit of Telegraph Hill stands Coit Tower, a historic landmark with a distinctive design.

Walking allows you to appreciate the Tower's intricate details up close and offers the chance to explore its murals and observation deck, showcasing the city from different perspectives.

Telegraph Hill is also known for its secret staircases that wind through residential neighborhoods. Walking provides opportunities to discover them, often surrounded by lush gardens and historic homes, providing an intimate and authentic glimpse into the local community.

En route to Coit Tower, Pioneer Park is a tranquil green space with benches and picnic areas.

Walking through the park, surrounded by nature, provides a peaceful break before reaching the Tower. Telegraph Hill boasts a mix of architectural styles, from lovely cottages to grand mansions.

Exploring Telegraph Hill on foot also provides opportunities to check out local cafes, shops, and boutiques.

4. North Beach

North Beach is a San Francisco neighborhood west of Telegraph Hill and south of Fisherman's Wharf. It's a vibrant and culturally rich area, and walking there immerses you in its historic charm.

The neighborhood is known for its Italian heritage and was once the center of the city's Beat Generation. Strolling through its streets allows you to appreciate the well-preserved architecture and feel the energy of its history.

North Beach is known for its diverse culinary scene. You can explore the local cafes, authentic Italian restaurants, and bakeries that line the streets. From espresso in traditional coffee shops to delicious pasta dishes, walking allows you to savor the flavors and aromas of North Beach.

You can also visit Washington Square Park, a central gathering spot in North Beach. Cafes surround the park and offer a tranquil space to rest, people-watch, and soak in the atmosphere. This area is home to vibrant street art and murals that tell stories of the neighborhood's culture and history.

In summary, visiting North Beach on foot can create lasting memories of exploring this iconic San Francisco district.

5. Chinatown

Exploring Chinatown on foot offers a unique and immersive experience beyond the typical tourist itinerary. Walking allows you to absorb the lively and bustling atmosphere of Chinatown.

You can witness the vibrant colors, hear the sounds of local businesses, and engage with the dynamic street life that characterizes this cultural enclave.

By strolling through Chinatown, you can interact with locals, experience authentic cultural practices, and sample traditional cuisine.

Walking allows you to discover local markets and authentic eateries that may be missed when using other modes of transportation.

Chinatown has many small shops, art galleries, and cultural institutions. You're more likely to stumble upon these hidden treasures when exploring on foot, providing a more personalized experience.

6. Union Square

Walk south of Chinatown, and you'll arrive at Union Square in the heart of San Francisco. Hotels and high-end shops surround the city park.

The cultural epicenter of The City by the Bay features theaters, galleries, and museums. Walking allows you to explore these cultural offerings at your own pace, whether taking in an art exhibition, catching a live performance, or visiting a museum.

Union Square is known for its upscale shopping, offering flagship stores of famous brands. You can window-shop or indulge in a retail therapy session by exploring the luxury boutiques and department stores lining the streets.

San Francisco is a culinary hotspot, and Union Square reflects this with its diverse dining options. You'll find it all here, from cocktail bars and cafes to world-class restaurants.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, San Francisco's lively neighborhoods, each with a distinctive character, are best explored on foot. From the waterfront allure of the Embarcadero and Fisherman's Wharf to the history of Telegraph Hill and the cultural vibrancy of North Beach and Chinatown, each step reveals a little more of the city.

Walking through San Francisco is more than just a journey; it's an experience that captures the essence of the city's spirit, history, and beauty. With every corner turned, a discovery awaits, making San Francisco a walker's paradise and an unforgettable adventure.

This story is published in partnership with FreeTour.com.

The post 6 Best Places for Walking in San Francisco appeared first on Go Backpacking .

Ferry Building (photo: Dave Lee)

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100 Larkin Street San Francisco , CA 94102 United States

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Bernal Heights

500 Cortland Avenue San Francisco , CA 94110 United States

1135 Powell Street San Francisco , CA 94108 United States

Eureka Valley

1 Jose Sarria Court San Francisco , CA 94114 United States

4400 Mission Street San Francisco , CA 94112 United States

2825 Diamond Street San Francisco , CA 94131 United States

Golden Gate Valley

1801 Green Street San Francisco , CA 94123 United States

1298 Ocean Avenue San Francisco , CA 94112 United States

1890 Chestnut Street San Francisco , CA 94123 United States

155 Winston Drive San Francisco , CA 94132 United States

1234 Valencia Street San Francisco , CA 94110 United States

Mission Bay

960 4th Street San Francisco , CA 94158 United States

451 Jersey Street San Francisco , CA 94114 United States

North Beach

850 Columbus Avenue San Francisco , CA 94133 United States

345 Randolph Street San Francisco , CA 94132 United States

3223 Ortega Street San Francisco CA , CA 94122 United States

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1200 Taraval Street San Francisco , CA 94116 United States

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351 9th Avenue San Francisco , CA 94118 United States

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800 Avenue H San Francisco , CA 94130 United States

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Chinese American Interest

Activity: Chinatown Walking Tour

In this guided walking tour, you will learn about the history of Chinatown, hidden alleys, temples and local food which all contribute to the vibrancy of SF's Chinatown. The tour is an hour and half (90 minutes) in length and a mile in distance. There are slight hills and uneven surfaces. Meet in front of the Chinatown Branch Library, 1135 Powell Street (at Jackson St.).

Space is limited. Reservations required: (415) 355-2888 (starting July 1). THIS PROGRAM IS FULLY BOOKED. 

Learn more about local history.

Chinese American Interest

Connect to engaging discussions and performances related to the Chinese American community.

This program is sponsored by Friends of the San Francisco Public Library.

Attending Programs

For questions about the program or help registering, contact  [email protected] .  All programs are drop-in (no registration necessary) unless otherwise noted.  All SFPL locations are wheelchair accessible. For accommodations (such as ASL or language interpretation), call (415) 557-4557 or contact  [email protected] . Requesting at least 3 business days in advance will help ensure availability.

Notice: This event may be filmed or photographed. By participating in this event, you consent to have your likeness used for the Library’s archival purposes and promotional materials. If you do not want to be photographed, please inform a staff person or the photographer. A sticker will be provided to help identify you so that we can avoid capturing your image.

Public Notice and Disclaimer

This program uses a third-party website link. By clicking on the third-party website link, you will leave SFPL's website and enter a website not operated by SFPL. This service may collect personally identifying information about you, such as name, username, email address, and password. This service will treat the information it collects about you pursuant to its own privacy policy. We encourage you to review the privacy policies of each third-party website or service that you visit or use, including those third parties with whom you interact through our Library services. For more information about these third-party links, please see the section of SFPL’s Privacy Policy describing Links to Other Sites .

The views and opinions expressed in programs presented by groups unaffiliated with SFPL do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of SFPL or the City.

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  2. Main Library Tour Tour- San Francisco City Guides

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  3. Walking Around in San Francisco

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  4. The Ultimate Self-Guided Walking Tour of San Francisco: A Local's Guide

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  5. Main Library Tour Tour- San Francisco City Guides

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  6. Walking Tours

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COMMENTS

  1. San Francisco City Guides

    City Guides, founded in 1978, is an independent 501c3 non-profit organization with more than 300 trained volunteers who lead FREE historical and architectural walking tours in San Francisco for over 35,000 locals and visitors each year. We are a program of the San Francisco Public Library. Join us for a walk along the streets, sidewalks, and ...

  2. Free Walking Tours: Schedule of Daily Walks by the SF Public Library

    Updated: February 10, 2024. Every day of the week, SF City Guides (part of the SF Public Library) offers a number of free walking tours. They range from the famous Golden Gate Bridge tour to one dedicated to the impact of the 1906 Earthquake and Fire. All guides are volunteers. Many of them have outstanding stories.

  3. (FULL) Activity: North Beach Walking Tour

    Join us for a 1.5-hour walking tour of the North Beach neighborhood. Learn about the food, culture and history of San Francisco's Little Italy, where early immigrants in the 1910s established the authentic Italian character that remains its defining quality. Discover famous landmarks, buildings and spectacular views of downtown and the unique charm of this vibrant neighborhood.

  4. 11 Best Walking Tours in San Francisco [Free & Guided]

    Here is a list of the best San Francisco walking tours that will help you uncover all the hidden gems in the city. 1. San Francisco: Evening Ghost Tour. This tour is perfect for everyone interested in ghost stories and ancient secrets. Discover ancient relics in haunted hotels and streets that have a scary meaning.

  5. Connect to San Francisco with Free Walking Tours

    San Francisco City Guides has been around since the 1970's and is sponsored by the San Francisco Public Library. Every year they give 4,000 tours to more than 55,000 people, according to Executive Director Michael Cushing. ... A walking tour of San Francisco will take you throughout the city (San Francisco City Guides).

  6. San Francisco Walking Tours

    5 Best Segway Tours San Francisco. Blue and Gold Fleet San Francisco. Red & White Fleet San Francisco. Self Guided Tours of San Francisco. Free Tours by Foot offers great San Francisco walking tours for every budget. Name your own price for our tours and discover what SF has to offer!

  7. The 13 Best San Francisco Walking Tours

    Tours depart at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and conclude around 2 p.m. Ticket prices range from $39 to $69, depending on the number of people on the tour, and must be paid in ...

  8. Visiting the Bridge

    If you're interested in the history of the Golden Gate Bridge, twice-weekly (Thursdays and Sundays) free walking Bridge tours are offered by San Francisco City Guides, a non-profit organization associated with the San Francisco Public Library. For more information and a schedule of their walks, visit the San Francisco City Guides website.

  9. San Francisco City Guides

    All proceeds benefit City Guides, providing free walking tours in San Francisco since 1978! Your gift ensures San Francisco history is accessible to all. ... Donate 100% - Add 3% so that 100% of the donation goes to San Francisco City Guides. Donate 97% - I understand Network for Good will deduct 3% to cover transaction costs.

  10. San Francisco Walking Tours

    The Full San Francisco Walking Tour Self-Guided Route Details Full Walking Tour Part 1 - Knob Hill to Fisherman's Wharf (3 miles, 1:05) This San Francisco walk starts at the Powell Street Station, more or less at the top of Knob Hill.Time permitting, you would consider crossing Market Street to see the museums and check out Folsom Street.Instead, you pop over to take some iconic shots of ...

  11. San Francisco City Guides

    Donate (415) 557-4266 [email protected] About In 1976, San Francisco librarian Gladys Hansen, was contacted by local officials looking for someone to give tours of City Hall. Gladys began training volunteers, and two years later, San Francisco City Guides was formally established. As City Guides grew, the

  12. An Incredible Free Resource Few San Franciscans Know About

    But many seasoned locals don't know about this free resource at their feet, provided by a nearly half-century-old nonprofit that reveals the city in new ways. "This is the real San Francisco," said City Guides Executive Director Demetri Rizos. He touted the expert knowledge of the some 300 volunteer tour guides who lead the informative ...

  13. San Francisco Walking Tours : The Official San Francisco Guide

    Walking Tours in San Francisco. There's no better way to get to know the city than to take of the many San Francisco walking tours. These specialized and localized tours let visitors get up front and close to the city's most amazing sights and landmarks, putting them in contact with locals who are the lifeblood of the city and who can tell ...

  14. These Free Walking Tours Are Some Of The Best In SF

    There are plenty of exceptional walking tours to take in SF, but SF City Guides is one of the best and most respected groups in the city. For 45 years, the non-profit tour group has led gaggles of tourists and history-loving San Franciscans on unforgettable walking tours across the city, free of charge. Each of their 80+ walking tours typically ...

  15. Activity: Chinatown Walking Tour

    In this guided walking tour you will learn about the history of Chinatown, hidden alleys, temples and local food which all contribute to the vibrancy of SF's Chinatown. The tour is an hour and half (or 90 minutes) in length and a mile in distance. There are slight hills and uneven surfaces. Meet in front of the Chinatown Branch Library, 1035 Powell Street (at Jackson St.).

  16. FAQs

    Private tours are available for large groups or organizations by prior arrangement. There is a charge for private tours of $30 per person. There is a minimum charge that must be paid in advance. Click here for more details, or call the City Guides office at 415-375-0468, or send an email to gro.sediugyticfs@sruot.

  17. 6 Best Places for Walking in San Francisco

    Discover San Francisco's culture and history on foot! Explore the best places for walking in San Francisco, from Chinatown to Embarcadero. The post 6 Best Places for Walking in San Francisco ...

  18. Activity: North Beach Walking Tour (FULL)

    Join us for a 1.5-hour walking tour of the North Beach neighborhood. Learn about the food, culture and history of San Francisco's Little Italy, where early immigrants in the 1910s established the authentic Italian character that remains its defining quality. Discover famous landmarks, buildings and spectacular view of downtown and the unique charm of this vibrant neighborhood.

  19. Social: Walking Tour of Noe Valley

    Learn about the history of Noe Valley through a guided walking tour, the focus of which is the neighborhood's earliest Victorian homes. After the tour there will be a presentation, accompanied by photographs of Noe Valley from its inception until the 1920s. The program will occur rain or shine. Please note the tour is a repeat of the Noe Valley walking tour given in March 2023.

  20. Activity: Chinatown Walking Tour

    In this guided walking tour, you will learn about the history of Chinatown, hidden alleys, temples and local food which all contribute to the vibrancy of SF's Chinatown. The tour is an hour and half (90 minutes) in length and a mile in distance. There are slight hills and uneven surfaces. Meet in front of the Chinatown Branch Library, 1135 Powell Street (at Jackson St.).