Top 10 Architecture Tours in San Francisco

Destination: San Francisco.
The Painted Ladies are known worldwide from photos, guidebooks, film and TV shows such as "Full House". For locals, they are a cherished symbol of our city and our history. These are all private homes and are rarely open for viewing. The blue painted lady is one of the most original and preserved of the seven homes in this row. The interior reflects almost 174 years of this family's history in the city. It is not a recreation of an 1890s home, nor is it the tour meant as an inspiration for home décor or design. We hope guests find the period furnishings and paintings harmonious and the stories engaging.
Known For: San Francisco Historical Tours, San Francisco Excellent Quality, San Francisco Walking Tours, San Francisco Architecture Tours.
Duration: Around 1 hour and a half.

Destination: San Francisco.
Explore San Francisco’s Central Business District on a 2.5 hour walking tour that showcases its stunning architecture, captivating public art, and vibrant public spaces. Discover the diverse architectural styles from historic buildings like the London Paris National Bank to sleek glass towers like the JP Morgan Chase Building. Learn about the city’s commitment to public art, with works by artists such as George Rickey, Jenny Holzer, and Frank Stella. Experience urban oases like plazas and parks, including Salesforce Park with its 5½ acres of greenery and spectacular views. End at the entrance of the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA). Perfect for architecture and art enthusiasts, this tour offers a fresh perspective on the city’s dynamic landscape. Recently featured on the 99% Invisible podcast.
Known For: San Francisco Best Conversion, San Francisco Walking Tours, San Francisco Excellent Quality, San Francisco New Product, San Francisco City Tours, San Francisco Architecture Tours, San Francisco Art Tours.
Duration: Around 2 hours and a half.

Destination: San Francisco.
Get ready to explore the rich architectural tapestry of San Francisco! I am thrilled to announce the return of my popular group walking tours for the summer months of July, August, and September. $40.00 per person. Immerse yourself in a 2.5-hour journey through the city’s vibrant Financial District, discovering iconic landmark buildings, unique contemporary designs, and hidden architectural gems. Whether you’re a local or a curious traveler, this tour is perfect for enjoying a fun and informative outdoor experience unveiling San Francisco’s Architectural Heritage All participants will receive at the end of the tour a detailed listing of the buildings discussed on the tour which includes not only a description and name of the buildings but addresses, dates built, and the names of the architects.
Known For: San Francisco Architecture Tours, San Francisco Small Group, San Francisco Historical Tours, San Francisco Seasonal, San Francisco Cultural Tours, San Francisco Walking Tours.
Duration: Around 2 hours and a half.

Destination: San Francisco.
Step into the heart of San Francisco's historic waterfront with our engaging walking tour. Wander through the city’s legendary wharfs, piers, and docks while uncovering its maritime past and indulging in its diverse culinary offerings. From the fresh flavors of Fisherman’s Wharf to the sweet delights of Ghirardelli Square, this tour blends history, food, and iconic sights into an unforgettable adventure. Highlights: + Full meal provided + Intimate group settings + Discover the salty tales of San Francisco’s maritime past + Taste San Francisco’s iconic sourdough bread + Meet the lively sea lions in their natural habitat + Marvel at the infamous island prison of Alcatraz + Sample the sweet richness of Ghirardelli chocolate + Visit a hidden fisherman’s chapel steeped in history Join us for an unforgettable journey that blends culture, cuisine, and iconic landmarks!
Known For: San Francisco Food & Drink, San Francisco Private and Luxury, San Francisco Valentine's Day Events, San Francisco Half-day Tours, San Francisco Culinary Tours, San Francisco City Tours, San Francisco Lunch, San Francisco National Holidays, San Francisco Historical Tours, San Francisco Walking Tours, San Francisco New Product, San Francisco Restaurants, San Francisco Private Sightseeing Tours, San Francisco Monuments and Memorials, San Francisco Culture, San Francisco Wildlife Watching, San Francisco Cultural Tours, San Francisco Architecture Tours, San Francisco Layover Tours , San Francisco Mother's Day, San Francisco Father's Day, San Francisco Crime Tours, San Francisco On the Water, San Francisco Dessert Tours, San Francisco Chocolate Tours , San Francisco Nature and Wildlife Tours, San Francisco Street Food Tours .
Duration: Around 3 hours.

Destination: San Francisco.
Journey off the beaten path and into one of the most breathtakingly beautiful neighborhoods in the world. We'll meet in the old-monied Pacific Heights, home to tech moguls, political leaders, and even the princess of Genovia. I'll point out some of the mansions of "Billionaire Row" and take you down one of SF's signature, secret stairways. We’ll traverse the remains of the 1915 World's Fair and end at Marina Yacht Harbor. Learn the history of San Francisco's most exclusive neighborhood, it's residents, and the lasting impact of the Gold Rush and 1906 Earthquake and Fire. This tour is perfect for the photographer in all of us - with intricate Victorian architecture, manicured gardens, and magical views. San Francisco's weather can be unpredictable, so layers are always recommended. We run rain or shine! Our route is mostly downhill but does include 332 steps, so not ideal for large strollers or walkers.
Known For: San Francisco Walking Tours, San Francisco Architecture Tours, San Francisco Small Group, San Francisco Seasonal, San Francisco Historical Tours.
Duration: Around 2 hours.

Destination: San Francisco.
Explore the stunning architecture and rich history of Grace Cathedral, San Francisco's premier Gothic structure, on a Guided Highlights tour. Marvel at intricate stained-glass windows and renowned artworks, including Ghiberti’s "Gates of Paradise" and Keith Haring's alter piece. Delve into the cathedral's significant role in social justice and reflect on the city's resilience following the 1906 earthquake. Complete your tour with a serene walk through one of the cathedral's labyrinths, offering a moment of contemplation amidst the historic beauty. - Discover the architectural splendor of Grace Cathedral in San Francisco - View iconic artworks, including Ghiberti’s Gates of Paradise - Learn about the cathedral's history and social justice initiatives - Enjoy a peaceful walk through one of the labyrinths at the end of the tour
Known For: San Francisco Walking Tours, San Francisco Architecture Tours, San Francisco New Product, San Francisco Religious Sites, San Francisco Private and Luxury, San Francisco Historical Tours.
Duration: Around 1 hour.

Destination: San Francisco.
Come on our History Walking Tour of San Francisco! Travel back in time to the San Francisco of the late 1840s and early 1850s with this Gold Rush History Tour. You'll visit sites important to the early history of San Francisco, and by extension, all of California. From Portsmouth Square, to Sydney Town, to Pier 7, explore the locations, people, and legends that make up some of the darker side of San Francisco's early history, replete with tales of greed, discrimination, feuds, and lawless violence.
Known For: San Francisco Likely To Sell Out, San Francisco Architecture Tours, San Francisco Walking Tours, San Francisco Historical Tours, San Francisco Likely to Sell Out.
Duration: Around 2 hours.

Destination: San Francisco.
Explore the nocturnal side of the Academy at NightLife and see what's revealed. Enjoy an amplified evening with access to a private exhibit area with two free drinks and light bites surrounded by dazzling geology specimens. Receive expedited entry to some of the Academy's most popular exhibits, treat yourself with discounts on dining and shopping, and sit back and relax in a planetarium show. From 6pm to 10pm, Ages 21+ with valid, physical photo ID.
Known For: San Francisco National Holidays, San Francisco Historical Tours, San Francisco Nightlife, San Francisco Art Tours, San Francisco Independence Day, San Francisco Planetarium, San Francisco Packages & Special Events, San Francisco Zoos & Wildlife Parks, San Francisco Dining Experiences, San Francisco Pub Tours, San Francisco Romantic Tours, San Francisco Small Group, San Francisco Christmas, San Francisco Nature and Wildlife Tours, San Francisco Disco Dance Shows, San Francisco Food & Drink, San Francisco Bird Watching, San Francisco Culture, San Francisco Sustainable Tours, San Francisco Wine Tastings, San Francisco Chinese New Year, San Francisco Architecture Tours, San Francisco Eco Tours, San Francisco Mother's Day, San Francisco Museum Tickets & Passes, San Francisco Aquariums, San Francisco Night Tours, San Francisco Bar Tours, San Francisco Father's Day, San Francisco Dinner, San Francisco Shows, San Francisco Music Tours, San Francisco Parks, San Francisco Zoo Tickets, San Francisco Dessert Tours, San Francisco Valentine's Day Events, San Francisco New Years , San Francisco Museums, San Francisco Wildlife Encounters, San Francisco Archaeology Tours, San Francisco Attractions & Museums.
Duration: Around 4 hours.

Destination: San Francisco.
When Robert Louis Stevenson visited San Francisco in 1879, he declared, "Nob Hill, the Hill of Palaces, must certainly be counted the best part of San Francisco. It is here that millionaires gathered together, vying with each other in display". My Nob Hill tour is a 2-hour walking photo-shoot tour that starts with a Cable Car ride and a visit to a French Gothic Cathedral and ends at the Top of the Mark on the 19th floor of the InterContinental Mark Hopkins Hotel for photographs and beverages at sunset. The eclectic history of Nob Hill includes: * The Gold Rush (not the San Francisco 49r cheerleaders) * The Silver Bonanza (not including Ben Cartwright, Ben, Hoss or Little Joe) * The Transcontinental Railroad * The 1906 Earthquake and Fire, and * A spectacular French-Gothic design Episcopal Cathedral that took nearly 40 years to build. The opportunities for photography are endless on Nob Hill!
Known For: San Francisco Architecture Tours, San Francisco Trolley Tours , San Francisco Private Sightseeing Tours, San Francisco Photography Tours, San Francisco Private and Luxury, San Francisco Cable Car Tours.
Duration: Around 2 hours.

Destination: San Francisco.
Take in the Financial District at your own pace with this affordable walking tour created by the San Francisco Chronicle. • See the neighborhood's often overlooked sites including an ornate office building that's only 20 feet wide, and hidden gargoyles and walruses • Hear from John King, the San Francisco Chronicle's urban design critic, as he guides you around the Financial District • Do it all in an hour or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish • Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it • Use the virtual tour option at home Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code. The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just pop in your headphones and tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.
Known For: San Francisco Historical Tours, San Francisco Architecture Tours, San Francisco Audio Guides, San Francisco City Tours, San Francisco Walking Tours, San Francisco Private Sightseeing Tours.