These 18 Places In San Francisco Are AMAZING - And The Best Part? They Don't Cost Anything
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Stephanie Garr
Author
Oh, yeah, San Francisco is expensive. We know. But the good news? There are tons of incredible things to do here that don’t require a dime — just a little bit of time and adventure. Here are some of our favorite free things to do in San Francisco. They’ll help you save up for a trip to one of these incredible restaurants.
It’s a breezy (in all forms of the word) 0.8-mile trip that spans the area where bay meets ocean. Breathtaking views abound.
The San Francisco Giants offer a small viewing area near McCovey Cove, where you can watch the game from behind the fence. But not a bad view, right? Standing room only, and each group of people gets switched out after the third, six, and ninth innings.
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Hello, free samples! For the most free stuff, come during the Saturday Farmers Market.
Intricate, gorgeous, and provocative murals are scattered throughout the city. Start with the ones in the Mission (including Clarion Alley and Balmy Street), as well as those at Coit Tower.
See the bridge from a whole different angle, below and beside it at this grassy (and sandy) urban refuge.
This Exploratorium pumps out water at high pressure through more than 800 nozzles lining the bridge, to create an immersive environment where you're shrouded in mist.
Sample wine and bourbon, take in spectacular city views, then sit back for movie night. See more info here.
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Frolic amongst the colorful tulips, too, at the Queen Wilhelmina Garden.
Head on into the bay between Wednesday and Sunday to sample a (very large) selection of local, sulfite-free red wines.
OK, it’s not technically free, but you’re bound to find some pennies lying around, right? It’s worth it to play with the mechanical musical instruments and antique arcade machines.
Learn about the intricate processes of beer brewing, but more importantly, get free samples! Tour reservations required.
...or do yoga right on top of it every Tuesday evening.
And while you’re at it, explore these other beautiful beaches in and around San Francisco.
See the cable cars’ central nervous system at the Cable Car Museum, meet native animals at the Randall Museum, learn about the city’s streetcars at the Railway Museum, wander an old bathhouse at the Maritime Museum, and learn how to drive a stagecoach at the Wells Fargo History Museum.
Get your comprehensive guide here. We absolutely love the mosaic ones!
16. Just remember to grab a piece of cardboard for a faster ride down (there’s usually some right there for ya).
And don’t forget the annual Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival, plus free shows at Amoeba Records.
Follow our guide to the 10 best.
Have you experienced any of these free things to do in San Francisco? What else do you like to do when you’re feeling a bit penniless?
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