Most of us know the popular, “can’t miss” attractions, but San Francisco has a lot more to offer—more than you can find in any old guide book. In fact, there are plenty of unique places hidden in every neighborhood. Here are 10 of our favorites.
1. Yoda Statue: 1 Letterman Drive, San Francisco
Yoda sits outside the Letterman Digital Arts Center in the Presidio. The statue was installed in 2005, and sees plenty of Star War fans daily.
2. Holy Virgin Cathedral: 610 Geary Blvd, San Francisco
This Russian cathedral stands proud in the midst of the Richmond District. The domes are spectacular, but take a look inside to see some truly extravagant design. This cathedral is located in the relatively overlooked area of "Little Russia."
3. Golden Gate Park Vintage Carousel: Koret Children’s Quarter
Built in 1912, the vintage carousel in Golden Gate Park is one of only 100 of its kind still in operation.
4. Battery Chamberlin: North End of Baker Beach, San Francisco
Battery Chamberlin showcases a model 1905 6-inch rifled gun that is still operable. Only one other like this exists in the lower 48 states.
5. San Francisco Columbarium: 1 Loraine Court
The Columbarium is a remnant of an earlier era in San Francisco history. In 1895, The Columbarium was designed to be used as a crematorium.
6. San Francisco's Cable Car Museum: 1201 Mason Street
The museum is the hub and information center of the city's cable car system. This spot is crucial to the history and image of this great city—and it is free to visit!
7. Tonga Room: 950 Mason Street, San Francisco
Built in 1945, the Tonga Room is part of the luxurious Fairmont Hotel in Nob Hill. The restaurant's central lagoon was once a swimming pool. Now, it's the best spot in San Francisco to get a fancy drink with a little umbrella.
8. Murphy Windmill: Golden Gate Park, San Francisco
The Dutch Windmill was built in 1902. This is the bigger of two windmills in Golden Gate Park. There are Dutch culture celebrations and traditions that take place at this windmill as well.
9. Land's End Labyrinth: 680 Point Lobos Avenue
A true hidden and unique gem, the labyrinth is located just off the Coastal Trail near Eagle's Point. It was constructed by local artist Eduardo Aguilera, and it offers a truly unique view of the Golden Gate Bridge.
10. Tenderloin Museum: 398 Eddy Street
Unique and historical, the Tenderloin Museum showcases this misunderstood neighborhood in pictures, postcards, interactive media, scrapbooks and more. Once you've visited you'll realize how unique and special San Francisco is compared to other cities.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.