14 Worst Tourist Traps in San Francisco and Where to Go Instead

There’s a reason why San Francisco is a city that tops many travel bucket lists. Its ‘must see’ iconic landmarks, stunning waterfront, and eclectic neighborhoods make it undeniably enticing. However, as with any major tourist destination, you can be overwhelmed with overrated places that might leave you wondering why you even bothered in the first place. From a quick guide to San Francisco’s must­-do spots to some of the city’s worst tourist traps, we’ve got you covered.

If you want to bypass the overpriced, overcrowded, and underwhelming stops, we will you save time and money by highlighting the 14 worst tourist traps and where to go instead, so you can experience the charm that makes San Francisco a beloved city.

Ghirardelli Square 

The famed chocolate square is well-noted, but it’s a long wait for overpriced desserts in a highly commercialized area. Head to Dandelion Chocolate in the Mission, a much more laid-back setting that offers tours, tastings, and high-quality treats.

The Painted Ladies from Alamo Square

Alamo Square usually has tourists fighting it out for the perfect photo of the Painted Ladies. It is pretty, but it’s more of an experience than a photo op. Instead, check out the less-crowded but equally charming Victorian homes in the Noe Valley or Inner Sunset neighborhoods.

Chinatown Souvenir Shops

San Francisco’s iconic Chinatown is filled with tourists, but the shops are notorious for selling cheap trinkets that don’t reflect the culture. To get a truly local experience, there’s R&G Lounge or the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory.

Fisherman’s Wharf Wax Museum

The collection of wax figures you’ll find at this museum is more creepy than captivating, and the price is pretty steep. Spend your time in the Exploratorium. This is a fun interactive science museum for all ages and it’s genuinely educational.

Pier 39

Pier 39 is a tourist haven with neon lights, packed with chain stores, kitschy souvenirs, and grossly overpriced food. The sea lions are a draw, but the experience feels more like a carnival than an authentic experience. Head to Crissy Field with fewer crowds, stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, and plenty of room to walk. It’s a majestic place to access the waterfront. Plus, you can still see some sea lions!

Cable Car Gift Shops

Riding the cable cars is an iconic experience, but the gift shops nearby are overpriced with generic items in the shops. Instead, go for a walk through the Cable Car Museum. It’s fascinating, free, and helps you develop a genuine appreciation for this historical form of travel.

Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center

The Golden Gate Bridge is a must-see, but the welcome center is crowded and chaotic. Cross the bridge on foot or bike to enjoy the view from Vista Point on the Marin side. Arguably, the views are better, and it’s quieter.

Coit Tower Overpriced Admission

The view from Coit Tower is great, but you have to pay an exorbitant amount to get to the top, and it’s packed with crowds. At Twin Peaks, you’ll get a panoramic view of the city without spending a dime.

Haight-Ashbury’s Tourist T-Shirts

There’s a storied history behind the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood. Some stores are replete with overpriced tie-dye shirts and cliché memorabilia that would appeal to tourists. Check out the eclectic shops and vintage stores along Valencia Street. It captures the countercultural spirit of San Francisco without the gimmicks.

Aquarium of the Bay

Although it’s tempting to visit this aquarium, it’s small, expensive, and a pittance compared to larger aquariums like Monterey Bay. Visit the California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park. It’s a much better value, with an aquarium, planetarium, and natural history museum all in one.

Lombard Street

The so-called ‘most crooked street in the world,’ Lombard Street, is a traffic jam nightmare. The charm of the winding, flower-lined path is lost in the chaos of tourists crowding the sidewalks and road. Take a walk through Telegraph Hill’s streets. Without the throngs of selfie-stick-wielding tourists, you’ll find scenic views, historic homes, and even wild parrots.

Fisherman’s Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf is quaint and nostalgic, but it’s difficult to enjoy when you’re shoulder-to-shoulder with crowds, the food is overpriced, and it feels more like a theme park than an actual city. If you’re seeking a more authentic seafood experience, visit Swan Oyster Depot. Serving fresh seafood since 1912, this family-run spot, while still hugely popular, is worth the wait.

Alcatraz Island Gift Shop

Alcatraz has a fascinating history, but the gift shop is a classic tourist trap of gimmick memorabilia that only cheapens your experience. To better understand San Francisco’s history head to the Presidio or the Wave Organ. Both offer history and scenic beauty without the over commercialization.

Union Square Shopping

Marketed as a shopper’s paradise, Union Square is more accurately presented as a generic collection of chain stores that you’ll find in any major city. It’s also crowded with tourists and has no local flavour. Visit the boutiques or vintage shops along the Mission District (on Valencia Street), or Hayes Valley (Octavia Street). They’re the real find with a more authentic San Francisco vibe.

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