San Francisco is an incredible city with so much to offer. San Francisco garners a rich history of prosperity while proving to be triumphant during disaster. This one of the kind city is the place to be. The adventures, the culture, the culinary scene, it is all part of the glamour of living in the "City by the Bay."
Of course San Francisco does not come at a cheap cost. In fact, San Francisco has some of the highest living prices in the country and exists as one of the most competitive real estate markets out there. So, what if you are a college student already paying the steep SF rent prices on top of your college tuition? Well here are thirteen things to do in the city of San Francisco on a budget... you do not need to shell out that much to explore the city's offerings:
1. Lyon Street Steps
The Lyon Street Steps are nestled within where many of the rich and famous of SF call home. These steps have a beautiful view of the bay and the Palace of Fine Arts dome. Climb the stairs and watch the rest of the city as it expands in front of your eyes. The beauty of this area is incredible, and the peaceful quiet is invaluable.
2. Pier 14
Obviously there are a lot of piers in San Francisco, however, Pier 14 is overlooked. This is a great spot to grab some great views of the Bay Bridge while also avoiding the mess of crowds found at Pier 39 and Fisherman's Wharf.
3. MOMA
The Museum of Modern Art is a thought-provoking place to be. MOMA has some works that will leave you pondering for days. The best part? If you are 18 or younger you get in for free.
4. Cable Cars
The City is well known for the classic cable cars that run up and down the steep streets. The lines are long at the start and end of the route, but if you find a stop along the path you will surpass those lengthy lines and experience an SF classic adventure!
5. Ghirardelli Square
Clearly you can indulge in tasty chocolate in Ghirardelli Square, but there are also other activities for those lacking the sweet tooth. Play some bocci ball, ping pong or even corn hole! It is especially nice at night when the accent lights are on, an excellent place to hang out.
6. Off the Grid
Off the Grid is basically a giant food fest of all the city's food truck and pop-up food vendors. Grab some ethnic, indulgent or tasty food, listen to some tunes, and then head out to Chrissy Fields and set up a blanket. Take in that great view of the bridge and also eat some yummy bites!
7. Battery Spencer
Battery Spencer is across the Golden Gate Bridge and is a wonderful viewpoint for watching the sunset or just staring at the vast views. Keep walking until you hit the peak's plateau and take a deep breath while you indulge in the astounding views.
8. Lands End
This is a great location to head if you are in need of some sea breeze and fresh air. Right next to the famous Cliff House restaurant, this rocky, windswept coast has trails that will lead you into the Presidio and beyond. Also check out the Sutro Bath remains nestled in the shoreline. Great place to photograph the sunset.
9. Kevin's Noodle House
If you like Vietnamese food head to Kevin's Noodle House past Golden Gate Park for some wonderful pho. There will undoubtedly be a long line because everyone knows that it is good, but the wait moves quickly. Also, this will be one of the most well-priced meals you will ever eat in San Francisco.
11. Ferry to Sausalito
Taking the ferry to Sausalito is easy and inexpensive. You can get there shortly and escape the chaos of the big city for a moment. Sausalito offers lots of great food such as A Taste of Rome. Split a pizza and sit by the water, maybe grab some ice cream from Lappert's after dinner.
12. Coit Tower
Coit Tower has some great views of the city and is also a piece of art within itself. You can choose to head instead and check out the murals, or you can just venture around the exterior and check the area out.
13. Lombard Street
It may be touristy, be it is fun (and free)! Lombard Street is the most crooked street in San Francisco and everyone with a car loves driving down the hill. It is beautifully landscaped and as most areas in SF, there are some great views!
