Discover our locals' 156 hidden gems in San Francisco
Let's uncover San Francisco’s hidden gems with Spotted by Locals! From local coffee shops to secret viewpoints, our Spotters bring you the city's best-kept secrets. Discover San Francisco through the eyes of true locals.
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Things to do in San Francisco
Cantata Coffee – Coffee Break Heaven
The coffee drinks all have cool names like Audrey Hepburn, Frank Sinatra, Madonna, John Lennon, and James Joyce. Are you sensing a theme here?
By
Kathleen
Messmer
The Palace of Fine Arts – Afternoon with the Gods
The "Palace of Fine Arts" in San Francisco comprises the only surviving structure from the Pan Pacific Exhibition in 1915. Such beauty, available for free!
By
Kathleen
Messmer
Home Coffee Roasters – Friendly vibes all around
"Home Coffee Roasters" in San Francisco isn't like other coffee shops. Where else are you sure to get an inviting "welcome in" when you go inside?
By
Brooke
Ekdahl
Portrero Hill Community Garden – Green thumbs
The "Portrero Hill Community Garden" in San Francisco is an unexpected surprise when you walk around the neighborhood. It reminds me of my grandpa...
By
Brooke
Ekdahl
Stanyan Tree – Unexpected and wonderful
This beautiful strong tree between two apartment buildings in San Francisco just stopped me in my tracks when I saw it. It's beauty in the little things...
By
Brooke
Ekdahl
Balloon Alley – Interactive murals
"Balloon Alley" (or Umbrella Alley) in San Francisco is easy to miss - come see the interactive Instagrammable murals from up close. Fun place to visit!
By
Kathleen
Messmer
The Crepevine – Best Spot Ever
The Crepevine is a family-owned crêpery in the Inner Sunset that is just what the doctor ordered. Grab a great breakfast at a reasonable price & hang out.
By
Kathleen
Messmer
Foggy Notion – Find your vibe here
"Foggy Notion" in San Francisco is a small woman-owned shop that's a calming oasis. Find your favorite ceramics, eco-friendly home goods, candles & more!
By
Brooke
Ekdahl
Damnfine Pizza – Best Pizza West of Divis
The name of the business, for once, is no lie, it is pretty dang fine. A personal favorite is the Pig in the Woods: pancetta, enoki, garlic, fresh mozzarella, and truffle.
By
Byron
Beach
Maison Nico – Pâté en croûte en SF
Right in the shadow of the TransAmerica Pyramid, Maison Nico is a must stop for me when I am downtown and need either a perfect pastry or want to bring something home that is special.
By
Byron
Beach
Pier Market – Another great one!
"Pier Market" in San Francisco's Pier 39 specializes in mesquite-grilled seafood. You should try the Mixed Grill and the lobster with drawn butter...
By
Kathleen
Messmer
Blazing Saddles – Bike rental shop
"Blazing Saddles" is the most extensive bike rental establishment in San Francisco. Are YOU ready to bike the bridge? If so, you should come here...
By
Kathleen
Messmer
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Our local Spotters share personal tips and secrets about their city. Nothing sponsored! These unique insights can’t be found in traditional guidebooks. Discover the city through the eyes of a local!
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We are Spotted by Locals. An online travel community publishing city guides in 80+ cities. Our hand-picked local writers and photographers create all the content.
Our 488 Spotters (and counting) live in the cities they write about, speak the local language, and regularly update their tips. Their insights help around 1.4 million travelers each year discover the hidden gems of cities.
With insider advice from locals, we offer a unique, sustainable travel experience, allowing travelers to slow down and immerse themselves in the local culture, beyond the tourist hotspots.