Romantic Things to Do in San Francisco
From fine dining to picnics in the park to sailing the bay at sunset, San Francisco offers romantic experiences to help couples feel the love.
Plenty of people have left their hearts in San Francisco, but we'd rather you give it to that special someone in your life while you're here.
No matter how you and your sweetheart like to spend your time, we've got a lot of great ideas to add to your itinerary.
Here are our picks for romantic things to do in San Francisco.
Romantic Experiences
For Those Looking to Wine and Dine
Cocktails with A View at Top of the Mark
Known for its signature martinis and magnificent views of San Francisco, Top of the Mark is the perfect place for a romantic evening. Arrive for pre-dinner drinks and experience the sun setting on the San Francisco skyline, or linger for a nightcap with the twinkling lights of the city below.
Taste Your Way Through the World of Wine
San Francisco is a wine lover's town! With plenty of wine bars to choose from, you'll find the right wine to fit your palate. Explore the intimate Etcetera Wine Bar in the Mission, with live music and perfect pairings, or maybe the cosmopolitan Press Club in SoMa, with its extensive selection of wine from all over the world.
Romantic Experiences
For Art Lovers
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Stroll through SFMOMA's 170,000 square feet of gallery space to find art that makes your heart flutter. Find pop art by Roy Lichtenstein, intimate portraits by Matisse, and photography by Ansel Adams. You can spend the whole day at SFMOMA, so don't forget to stop by their cafe, Steps Coffee, for a pick-me-up.
Illuminate Your Night
Permanent light art installations can be found all across San Francisco. Go for a stroll on a clear evening and be dazzled by the luminous creations that artists from around the world have created to brighten San Francisco's nights.
Romantic Experiences
For Adventure Seekers
Cross the Golden Gate Bridge
Take a romantic stroll on San Francisco's most famous bridge. Or, for more adventurous couples, rent a bicycle built for two with Blazing Saddles or Bay City Bike. Ride over the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco to Sausalito and enjoy a quaint, waterfront lunch. Too tired to bike back? Take the ferry from Sausalito to San Francisco.
Sail the Bay with Your Sweetheart
San Francisco Sunset Tour
Witness a remarkable sunset with your special someone. No matter the occasion, this sunset cruise around San Francisco Bay is sure to spark romance and passion. See the sights, bathed in a warm glow, as you sail toward the Golden Gate Bridge and back.
Romantic Dinner Cruise
Go overboard for your partner and embark on an opulent evening cruise of romantic bliss. Get lost in each other’s eyes as you indulge in a gourmet dinner at an intimate table for two. Enjoy your favorite cocktails at the premium bar and hit the dance floor. Share a kiss under the twinkling stars and watch the city lights disappear behind you.
Best Ideas
For A Daytime Date in San Francisco
Take a Stroll on Lover’s Lane
Take your date off the beaten path and hike through San Francisco’s historic Presidio. Open spaces, trails, and inspiring vistas provide plenty of opportunities to be alone with your loved one while enjoying the quiet beauty that can only be found at the Presidio. Steal a kiss on Lover’s Lane and experience the sunset from Baker Beach. Guided tours are available through Urban Hiker SF, or explore on your own.
Ferry Building Marketplace
Sample artisan cheeses, sip Blue Bottle Coffee, and feast on Tomales Bay oysters. The Ferry Building Marketplace is the perfect day-date destination.
Picnic in Golden Gate Park
For the budget-minded, bring a picnic lunch, rent a boat, and go for a romantic ride around the beautiful, 12-acre Blue Heron Lake. Also in Golden Gate Park: share the love by making a handmade, pressed flower card at the Conservatory of Flowers and watch as the penguins build their nests out of heart-shaped valentines at the California Academy of Sciences.
Best Ideas
For A Saturday Night Date in San Francisco
Dance The Night Away
San Francisco's nightlife has bounced back in a big way. New concert series, clubs, and festivals are being announced all the time. From Club Darc's EDM shows on Pier 48 to the Downtown First Thursday block parties, you can boogie down on your next visit. Local stalwarts like The Warfield, Bill Graham Auditorium, and The Fillmore are always booked with today's top acts, as well.
Take It Slow In The Richmond
If a quiet night together is more your speed, plan to spend your Saturday night in San Francisco's Richmond neighborhood. You can dine at great restaurants (without breaking the bank), enjoy a drink at a cozy local bar, and even see a show or take in a movie at one of its storied independent theaters. If you're looking for a dose of small-town charm in the big city, head for the Richmond.
Savor the Meal of A Lifetime
For the true foodie couples, there may be no better way to spend a Saturday night than working your way through multiple courses together at one of San Francisco's outstanding Michelin-honored restaurants. Play it safe with five courses at 7 Adams or go all in with 20—yes, 20!—courses at Kiln.
Romantic Places to Stay in San Francisco
After your special San Francisco date night, you'll need a place to rest your head. Keep the mood alive by staying at some of these romantic San Francisco hotels.
Why San Francisco Is Great for Solo Travelers
San Francisco isn't just for lovers. The city is a fantastic place to explore on your own. Who knows? Maybe you'll meet someone special during your solo stay.
Aaron is the Manager of Digital & Social Media Marketing at San Francisco Travel. He has lived in San Francisco for over 10 years and has worked in Travel & Tourism for over 8 of those. He is usually exploring the Bay Area hunting for that new and unique experience and good food too!
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