When it comes to wooing that special someone, you've got plenty of options in San Francisco. In fact, you can embrace every cliché in the book here, from a romantic sunset walk on the beach, to a culturally stimulating jaunt through a fine arts museum, to a fruity drink atop a fancy hotel. You can even visit sculptures in the shape of hearts and a cupid's bow, for crying out loud. Here are 16 romantic things to do in San Francisco — have fun and good luck out there.
1. Take a ride on a cable car.
2. Walk or bike across the Golden Gate Bridge.
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3. Sip on drinks at the Top of the Mark.
4. Enjoy a sunset dinner at the Cliff House.
5. Take a stroll through Lovers' Lane.
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6. Hike along the Lands End Trail to Baker Beach.
7. Comb through the vinyl section at Amoeba Music.
8. Take in a concert at The Fillmore.
9. Explore the Conservatory of Flowers.
10. Skip and hop through the Garden of Shakespeare's Flowers.
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11. Tour the Palace of Fine Arts.
12. Discuss fine art at the Legion of Honor.
13. Race each other on the Seward Street Slides.
14. Go for a swing at Billy Goat Hill.
15. Tour all the hearts in downtown.
16. Snap a selfie at Cupid's Span on the Embarcadero.
If you don't have any luck at any of these places, well, sorry: We just can't help you then. Or maybe we're just missing out on some other romantic things to do in San Francisco. Let us know where you like to woo that special someone.
If you love the city by the Bay as much as I do, you know there's much to explore. Aside from walking along Land's End, I love wandering through Golden Gate Park, browsing the shops in Hayes Valley, and grabbing a bite to eat in Chinatown. Even on a rainy day, there's also a lot of nature to check out. To see what I mean, plan to visit the following indoor gardens in San Francisco.
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1. Conservatory of Flowers
These indoor gardens in San Francisco opened to the public in 1879, so this place has a strong historical power. The Conservatory of Flowers oldest public conservatory in North America. Once you enter, we're sure you'll understand why the dreamy setting here has fascinated people for more than a century.
2. Foundry Square III
The Foundry building is one-of-a-kind because of its living space and walls. You won't find this in many places around the city. Enjoy the sculptures and the living walls in one of the best gardens in San Francisco the next time you're in the Downtown area.
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3. Flora Grubb Gardens
When you're in San Francisco and question, "Where can I find indoor gardens near me?", head to Flora Grubb Gardens. This is a unique place that includes an indoor and outdoor garden and green area. This nursery houses some of the prettiest flowers in the city along with Ritual Coffee to give you another reason to visit. Get wired and hang out here.
4. 101 Second Street Public Space
An indoor green space mixed with art. 101 Second Street may appear like an office building, but you have a place to sit, eat, and enjoy these indoor gardens in San Francisco.
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5. Citigroup Center Atrium
These botanical gardens in San Francisco are a secret spot unless you work in the Financial District. This indoor area has palms, a garden, and tables. Enjoy the indoor sunlight through the glass roof. We think it's the perfect spot to take a break from the work day.
6. California Academy of Sciences
The Academy of Sciences is one of the more sophisticated places to enjoy some greenery and even a rainforest. There's so much to see and you'll have to pay an admission price unless you're here on a free museum day. This is one of the most fascinating spots to enjoy so much more than just the best gardens in San Francisco.
Now that you know where to find indoor gardens near me when you're in San Francisco, what are you waiting for? After you've had a chance to see them, let us know which ones were your favorite in the following comment section. In addition to visiting these best gardens, I also suggest checking out these lesser-known SF parks.
Along with exploring these indoor gardens in San Francisco, how about spending some time in nature when you're in the Bay Area? To help you plan, take a look at AllTrails for ideas of where to hike.
Union Square San Francisco is the unofficial heart of this exquisite city. The lively square is full of shops, attractions, thrills, and more. Explore Union Square and visit some of the best hidden gems in California.
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1. Heart Sculpture
You need to visit Tony Bennett's heart sculpture, America's Greatest City By The Bay at Union Square. This sculpture and heart theme was inspired by the Tony Bennett song "I Left My Heart in San Francisco". Discover more about the hearts on the San Francisco General Hospital Foundation website.
2. Powell Street Cable Car
The cable car turnaround at Powell Street is a short walk from Union Square. The cable car goes through Union Square and passes all the main streets, including California Street and other hidden gems in San Francisco. Read the schedule on the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency website.
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3. Holiday Ice Rink
From Nov. 1, 2023, through Jan. 15, 2024, the Safeway Holiday Ice Rink allows daily ice skating for all ages.
Adult admission is $20 and for children ages 8 and under it is $15, which includes skate rental. To purchase tickets online, visit the Union Square Ice Rink website.
4. Sears Fine Food
Grab a bite to eat at a San Francisco institution. Sears has been a favorite among tourists and locals alike for over 75 years. Check out the menu on the Sears Fine Food website.
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We enjoy the house-made breakfast offerings of wholesome pancakes and eggs benedict at one of the best San Francisco hidden gems.
The crunchy hashbrowns are always a hit.
5. San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
This impactful space is within walking distance of Union Square, offering seven exciting floors of extraordinary, world-class art, and fantastic city views from from outdoor gardens and terraces.
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6. Nespresso Boutique Cafe
Grab a cup of coffee from Nespresso, the fine purveyors of quality and style. Read more on the Nespresso website.
This cutting-edge boutique bar is an urban and modern cafe with food, coffee, and Nespresso products.
7. Mechanics' Institute Library and Chess Room
The Mechanics' Institute Library and Chess Room is a historic building located in the heart of San Francisco near Union Square. This is a quiet refuge from the city. Uncover more history on the Mechanics' Institute Library website.
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8. Free SF Tour
The free tour is also the best-guided tour of the city. This route starts at Union Square and goes through Chinatown, FiDi, and Embarcadero. It's fun and insightful if you want to know some curious facts about the city.
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9. San Francisco Centre
Located just two blocks from Union Square, Westfield San Francisco Centre has become one of the most enticing downtown shopping spots. If you're in need of nourishment, then visit the food court or simply stroll around the mall. Find out more on the San Francisco Centre Facebook page.
10. The Cheesecake Factory
This Cheesecake Factory location is on the top floor of Macy's which overlooks Union Square. Grab a dessert or a drink and enjoy the spectacular view.