Tour operator
Red and White Fleet
Red and White Fleet runs bay cruises from Pier 43½ at Fisherman's Wharf, including a one-hour Golden Gate Bay Cruise and an evening City Lights Cruise.
San Francisco City Guides
San Francisco City Guides is a non-profit that runs free history walking tours across the city, led by more than 300 trained volunteers.
At a glance
- Type
- Free walking tours
- Area
- Citywide, San Francisco, United States
- Official site
- sfcityguides.org
Good to know
- Free tours
- Volunteer guides
- Around 70 routes
- Private group tours
Why we recommend it
San Francisco City Guides has been leading walking tours since 1978, and its tours are always free. It is an independent non-profit organisation and a programme of the San Francisco Public Library, and more than 300 trained volunteers guide over 35,000 locals and visitors each year. For anyone who wants to understand the city's history, it is one of the best-value ways to spend a morning or afternoon.
The range is wide, with around 70 different routes. Neighbourhood walks cover areas such as Chinatown and the Mission, while themed tours explore Coit Tower, the Barbary Coast, the new Transit Center and even the locations of Alfred Hitchcock's San Francisco films. The newest tour, Architectural Treasures in Golden Gate Park, looks at the nature, art and science of the park's buildings. The organisation also runs free walking tours of the Golden Gate Bridge on Wednesdays and Saturdays, which the bridge district promotes on its own website.
Tours usually last between an hour and a half and two hours, at a steady walking pace with stops for stories. Guides are volunteers who have trained in the history of their routes, so expect plenty of detail and the chance to ask questions along the way. Private group tours are available too, some in languages other than English, which suits families, school groups and companies.
Use the tour finder on the website to see what is running today or near you, and reserve a place where the system allows; you can also change or modify a booking online. Because the tours are free, the organisation relies on donations to support its mission of keeping San Francisco's history accessible, so a contribution at the end is appreciated if you enjoyed the walk.
Practical tips: wear comfortable shoes, as several routes involve hills and stairs, and bring a layer for the changeable weather. Arrive a few minutes early at the meeting point given in the tour listing, and check the description for accessibility, since some walks are steeper than others. For questions, the office can be reached by phone or by email at [email protected]. City Guides suits curious travellers, history lovers, solo visitors and families with older children.
San Francisco City Guides FAQs
Are San Francisco City Guides tours free?
Yes. Tours are always free, although donations are welcome.
Who leads the tours?
More than 300 trained volunteer guides.
How long do tours last?
Usually between an hour and a half and two hours.
How many tours are there?
Around 70 different routes across the city.
Is there a Golden Gate Bridge tour?
Yes. Free bridge walking tours run on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Do you need to book?
Use the tour finder on the website to see upcoming tours and reserve where available.
Are private tours available?
Yes. Private group tours can be arranged, some in multiple languages.
How do you contact City Guides?
Call +1 415-375-0468 or email [email protected].