If you're looking to find things to do and places to explore outside of your typical touristy San Francisco landmarks, make sure to adventure down to the Sunset District. Just a bit south of Golden Gate Park and within a couple miles away from USF, you can find everything from inexpensive, yet tasty places to eat, stunning views of the entire city, and beautiful artwork. These local spots in the city are truly one of a kind.
1. 16th Avenue Tiled Steps
On 16th and Moraga lies the 16th Avenue Tiled Steps, an art project that was completed by a group of neighbors. What makes this project so special is that the art on the steps was all done by hand. Upon climbing over 100 steps to get to the top, you get an amazing view of the city getting as well as your daily workout.
If the classic San Francisco fog isn’t getting in the way, it's one of the best city views you can get. Once you’re done, take a walk through the neighborhood towards a local coffee shop called Home SF on Noriega Street and grab a cup of their famous birthday cake latte and a slice of toast.
2. 9th Avenue, Sunset District
On the south side of Golden Gate Park lies the Inner Sunset District. Its major streets include Irving, Judah, and my all-time favorite, 9th Avenue. 9th Avenue, between Irving and Judah, is home to your local coffee shops, sweet dessert spots, local shops, the best of sit down restaurants where you really get that neighborhood feel with the Muni trains going through the streets.
My personal favorite spots are Kogi Gogi Korean BBQ, Easy Breezy Frozen Yogurt, Snowbird Coffee, and Jamba Juice. If you’re looking to do a bit of shopping, check out Oriental Art Gallery, where you can find inexpensive pins, patches, and keychains. For the book lovers, check out Green Apple Books, where a variety of new and used books are offered at affordable prices.
On Sunday mornings at 9 a.m. between 9th and Irving street is home to the Inner Sunset Farmers Market, which offers a variety of local, fresh, and organic produce, snacks, and juices. If you’re looking for that residential, not so touristy vibe, be sure to check out 9th Avenue.
3. San Francisco Botanical Gardens
Grab your lunch, dinner, coffee, or a snack and head over to the San Francisco Botanical Gardens located within Golden Gate Park. Although there is a fee to get inside, I can promise you that it’s totally worth it. Here one will find the most beautiful, locally grown plants, as well as an incredible, green scenery. On a sunny day, bring your blanket and grab a spot on the grass and enjoy the fresh smelling flowers, or take a walk through the gardens.
