Though you might be spending the limit when it comes to your accommodations, keep in mind that there are plenty of ways to stretch your dollar while visiting San Francisco. You can experience the beautiful sights, the cool sounds, and the great eats for not that an outrageous a price. You just need to know where to go and what to look for. In some cases, you can experience it for free or at least, less than you thought. Always a welcomed surprise.
1. Budget Tips
Photo © SFCVB.
Five ideas on how to save while in town, from where to go to where to eat to how to get there. When visiting San Francisco, it’s not necessary to spend a lot. Though a pricey city, it’s possible to stretch your budget and even save. While planning your trip, keep these tips in mind. You just might find that you have more to spend than you think. And then comes the fun challenge of how to best spend it. (Hint: not souvenirs. Just take a photo of them instead.)
2. Free Things
Photo © Shu-Hwei Alpeche.
A look at "free things to do" in the city, which will help you see S.F. without spending a lot. Places to go/see include the Victorian homes of Postcard Row, the always busy Embarcadero waterfront, and the lush and expansive Golden Gate Park.
3. Outdoor Concerts
Artwork © Stern Grove Festival.
The summer has some great offerings for outdoor diversion, including the fine concerts of Stern Grove, Golden Gate Park, and Union Square. From now until early October, definitely check out one or two (or more) during your stay. They're great ways to experience the city, its people and vibe -- while saving on budget.
4. Walking Tours
Photo © Jim M. Goldstein.
S.F. City Guides offers free tours year-round; you can also take your own self-guided tour with a trusty guidebook or podcast. Indeed, though perhaps small in square miles (49), San Francisco is definitely not lacking when it comes to things-to-see and do, and to help you get the most out of your trip to S.F., you’ll find many San Francisco tours to take/get you there.
5. Attractions Pass
Artwork © CityPass.
Save with a discount card, such as CityPass or a Go Card. Both offer their pros (and cons depending on your plans) though, so take a look at each and compare (and save). Probably the best part of the CityPass for instance is the Muni Passport included with purchase. With this pass, you can ride the city's public transportation (Muni, metro, cable cars) for free. (No worries about exact fares.)
6. What's more, check out:
- Mark Kahler (Guide to Budget Travel) offers tips on how to survive in San Francisco without spending a bunch.
- Dining on a Budget: If you must, some ideas on how to turn $30 into good eats. This city has wonderful choices to tempt you to spend; it's not known for its fine/inventive cuisine for no reason.
- Golden Gate Park: An oasis of greenery transformed from land once covered in sand dunes. There are so many things to do here and all for under $10.
