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Best Adventurous Things to Do in San Francisco

THE 10 BEST Adventurous Things to Do in San Francisco

Best Adventurous Things to Do in San Francisco

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Travellers' Choice Awards winners (including the "Best of the Best" title) are among the top 10% of listings on Tripadvisor, according to the reviews and opinions of travellers across the globe.
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30 results sorted by traveller favourites
  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.

What travellers are saying

  • Chris B
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    It was a very unique and good experience to visit Alcatraz Island. I saw a lot of quite interesting stuff and had a good time .
    Written 15 January 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • johnhossack
    Gold Coast, Australia19 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    During my trip to California, one of the most delightful experiences was riding the iconic San Francisco cable cars. These historic cars are not just a mode of transportation but a moving piece of history, offering an incredible way to explore the city and its stunning surroundings.

    The cable cars took me up and down San Francisco’s famous steep streets, offering breathtaking views of the bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the city’s unique skyline. The clang of the bell, the open-air ride, and the thrill of climbing those steep inclines made for an exhilarating and unforgettable experience. Every turn revealed a new perspective of the vibrant city, from colorful Victorian houses to bustling waterfront areas.

    The history of the cable cars added an extra layer of appreciation. Learning about their origin in the late 19th century and their significance as a National Historic Landmark gave me a deeper connection to the experience. They’re a testament to innovation and perseverance, surviving earthquakes and modernization efforts.

    Whether it was hanging onto the side for a classic photo or just soaking in the views, riding the cable cars was pure joy. It’s a must-do for anyone visiting San Francisco and wanting to experience the city’s charm in a unique and fun way.
    Written 15 January 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • MikeSolo
    1 contribution
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    I would love to give 5 stars but the seat just stay at the same position with only shaking. I would recommend to make a moving seat like a floating seat as that will definitely give the best experience. So far, I am happy with the ride.
    Written 16 December 2019
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • lindadP447YB
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Wonderful evening of intimate and amazing magic! Mr Alexander is very engaging and a great entertainer. There were lots of surprises and we thoroughly enjoyed the evening. Highly recommend.
    Written 4 January 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Denise G
    Kitchener, Canada51 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Slides are on a nice quiet street. Great attraction for kids. The slides are fast and kids were sliding on piece of cardboard. Friendly neighbours on the street.
    Written 12 July 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Geoffrey L
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Fantastic escape room. We did the Roosevelt Room, and it was challenge after challenge, which got us all working together and collaborating. Super fun. Difficult. And each challenge was unique from the last. Highly recommend.
    Written 15 January 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • robertrC591BO
    Sacramento, CA264 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We did it!!! We escaped Alcatraz!! Family teamwork. Really had to use our brains. Needed 2 hints. Was so much fun. Thank you Phil!!
    Written 8 August 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Lina L
    3 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We had a great time, Nicole was great, kept us informed of site information. Unfortunately the whales were talking a day off. We will definitely book again

    A suggestion- stock flavored/unflavored sparkling water in your little store.
    Thank you for an enjoyable day.
    Written 8 December 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Nat M
    Guatemala City, Guatemala33 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    It's the only official tour to Alcatraz even if you get offer from many other companies. We boarded ahead of time, we barely waited. It takes about 10 mins to get to the island. In each boat you'll find food and beverages to purchase. You are not supposed to eat the island. There's a tram (if you need) which will take you up the hill with very kind people who will give you a hand.
    Written 7 January 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Belinda
    Caloundra, Australia31 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    It was an awesome way to see the city. Two cars for four of us was excellent. Easy to ride and the audio was a great benefit. If we had more time would definitely have hired these longer. It was part of our go city card. So worth doing for the half hour.
    Written 11 December 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • susanrC1505SN
    Wellington, New Zealand10 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The promo material for this tour sounded good but only touches the surface of how much of San Fran you can see. We were on an 830 a.m. departure so we avoided any traffic issues which means you see more.
    Tara had great banter, good information on city history (current and past), and a good musical soundtrack. Nice to get some reviews on hidden food gems as we travel past or shops not to miss.
    This is an excellent tour to get the vibe of the city and see some of the more remote locations while the compact city highlights are easily accessed through public transport, including the cable car.
    Great vans, a slice of history and definitely turns heads, especially on Lombard st!
    Written 27 September 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Lisaplug
    Barnsley, UK81 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    4 day sierra nevada 4 day tour. What a fantastic trip. Filled so much in in 4 days lake tahoe yosemite mammoth lakes bodie town. Jay our tour guide was brilliant. Went above and beyond. Definitely would go again.
    Written 7 October 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • J0es0phie
    Worcester, UK84 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A fantastic experience I won’t forget. Susan and Michael were so knowledgeable and answered lots of questions. We saw lots of humpbacks, a couple of blue whales and fin whales, an albatross and many other creatures. It’s a long day and the sea is quite choppy especially on the way out. I took Dramamine as advised and did not get sick. It is very cold once you get out into open ocean, I wore thermal top and leggings under 2 thick layers plus waterproof trousers and pac a mac - I was still a bit chilly. We learned lots about the wildlife we were seeing, the captain kept us informed of what was below us, and we were shown some of the sonar printouts. It was a really excellent day and knowing the fee for the trip was supporting the work of the Oceanic Society made it more special - this was not for profit venture, it was run by people who genuinely cared about their work. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it, just follow the pre-expedition instructions and go prepared !
    Written 14 October 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Janet L
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    An absolutely fabulous experience! We had hoped to see the Blue Angels, but the sky was too overcast for them to safely fly. Instead of a disappointing day we had a thrilling trip. Captain Jason took us out beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, along the SF waterfront, and under the Bay Bridge. He provided knowledgeable and interesting historic information. And, where safe to do so, gave us a very fast ride that was more exciting than anything at Disneyland! We were in the 6-person boat, and we filled all the seats with family and friends. It was a truly special day. I highly recommend this trip and Captain Jason - we all felt totally safe with him! We will definitely be going again.
    Written 13 October 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • RangerR-Blue
    USA12 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Super fun activity. Challenging but not impossible. Unique experience with cool technologies. Really friendly staff. Went with a group from work, and would be just as (if not more) fun with group of friends. Highly recommend it.
    Written 2 October 2019
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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