1. Free Attractions

Of all the free things to do in San Francisco, walking across the 1.7-mile Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most popular attractions. It’s free, open to foot and bike traffic during daylight hours, and offers striking views of the Pacific and the city skyline. You could also take a free tour with San Francisco City Guides, exploring a number of historical buildings and neighborhoods. Ghirardelli Square costs nothing, and you might even get a free piece of chocolate. If you like history, visit the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, where you can see historical ships, or the Cable Car Museum where you can see antique cable cars, an important part of San Francisco’s transportation history.

2. Free Food and Drink

Well, it’s not 100% free; you usually have to buy something to get the bonus treats. But it’s still a great deal! For example, if you head to Palio (formerly Palio D’Asti) during happy hour, you can enjoy wood-fired pizzas with your drinks. While old favorites like Liverpool Lil’s and Maya’s have closed, you can find a similar old-school vibe and great deals at The Brazen Head or enjoy happy hour margaritas at The Matador. For wine lovers, check out the Winery Collective in Fisherman's Wharf, which often features local flights. You might spend a few dollars on a signature cocktail, but the complimentary snacks and atmosphere make it well worth the visit.

3. Free Art

If you arrive near the first Tuesday of the month, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) often has community days, and it is well worth the time. Exhibits include paintings by artists such as Frida Kahlo and Henri Matisse, along with photography and design. The Asian Art Museum is also open for free on the first Sunday of the month, and there you can see the oldest known Chinese Buddha. On the second Sunday of the month, visit the Oakland Museum of California for free. Along with California art, you can walk through 9 distinct ecosystems in the Natural Sciences Gallery.

Free Museum Days Quick Guide

4. Free Music

Watch the Golden Gate Park Band all summer for free at Spreckel’s Temple of Music, or visit one of the many free concerts offered by the San Francisco Chamber Orchestra. The director will lead talks about the music for a half-hour before each show. Throughout the summer, the Stern Grove Festival offers incredible free outdoor concerts featuring everything from symphony music to modern rock. It's the perfect way to spend a sunny Sunday afternoon in the city.

5. Free Theater

While some repertory companies like the San Francisco Free Civic Theatre have become dormant, the city still hums with live performance. Check out the SF LIVE series for free outdoor activations and concerts. Free plays courtesy of Shakespeare in the Park offer professional theater under the backdrop of the stars. These plays occur at parks all throughout the city, beginning in June and ending in late September. It’s a wonderful way to experience different San Francisco neighborhoods while enjoying high-quality art.

6. Free Gardens

Visit the San Francisco Botanical Garden for free and get acquainted with more than 16,000 plants over 55 acres. There are several interesting collections, including several areas focused on specific genera and others focused on certain environments. The tours are also complimentary and are offered seven days a week. The Yerba Buena Gardens is also free, and while it is much smaller, it is still awesome. At two-and-a-half acres, it features a waterfall, a memorial to Martin Luther King Jr., and—if you want to spend a little money—a carousel, a skating rink, and bowling.

7. Free Culture

If you’re looking to get a little culture for free, then San Francisco is your city. Here you’ll find the Chinatown Night Market Fair, offering authentic Chinese food, music, and entertainment on the second Friday of each month. The San Francisco Center for the Book lets you learn the history and art of bookmaking, and if you head off to the Museo ItaloAmericano, you’ll learn about the Italian contribution to society. Other free events include the Haight-Ashbury Street Fair and the San Francisco Free Folk Festival.

Budget Travel Tips for SF

Remember too that sightseeing on foot costs nothing. You can walk to Alamo Square to see the famous Painted Ladies, visit Chinatown for a taste of the Orient, and wander the vibrant Mission District. San Fran won’t let you down.

Did you imagine there’d be so many fabulous free things to do in San Francisco? Pack your layers and get ready for a budget-friendly adventure!