Explore the Beauty of the 49-Mile Scenic Drive
Discover San Francisco's iconic landmarks and breathtaking vistas along the 49-Mile Scenic Drive, a picturesque route showcasing the city's unique beauty.
The 49-Mile Scenic Drive in San Francisco offers tourists a breathtaking journey through the city's most iconic landmarks, parks, and stunning vistas. Ideal for both leisurely drives and adventurous explorations, this route showcases the rich cultural and natural beauty of the Bay Area.
A brief summary to 49-Mile Scenic Drive
- San Francisco, Civic Center, California, US
Local tips
- Start early in the morning to avoid traffic and enjoy the sunrise over the Golden Gate Bridge.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic parks along the route, such as Crissy Field or Golden Gate Park.
- Bring a camera, as there are numerous photo opportunities at various viewpoints and landmarks.
- Consider using public transportation or bike rentals for a more eco-friendly and immersive experience.
- Check local maps for specific scenic stops and hidden gems that may not be on the main tourist path.
Getting There
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Public Transit
Start at the Castro Valley BART station located on Castro Valley Blvd. Take the Fremont-bound train and ride for about 25 minutes. Disembark at the Civic Center/UN Plaza station in San Francisco. After exiting the station, walk north on Larkin St towards McAllister St. Turn left onto McAllister St, then right onto Polk St. Continue walking until you reach the intersection of Polk St and Broadway. The 49-Mile Scenic Drive begins at the Civic Center area, which is just a few blocks away.
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Walking
If you're close to the Castro Valley BART station, start your journey on foot by heading northwest on Castro Valley Blvd and then take a left onto Redwood Rd. Continue walking until you reach the intersection with Lake Chabot Rd. Follow Lake Chabot Rd until you reach the BART station. Once at the station, take a train to Civic Center/UN Plaza in San Francisco. From there, follow the public transit guidance to reach the 49-Mile Scenic Drive.
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Rideshare
You can use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to travel from Castro Valley to San Francisco. Open the app and enter 'San Francisco, CA 94102' as your destination. The driver will take you directly to the Civic Center area, which is the starting point of the 49-Mile Scenic Drive. Ensure that you inform the driver to drop you off at the Civic Center Plaza for easy access to the scenic drive.
Discover more about 49-Mile Scenic Drive
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of Abraham Lincoln
0.0 km
Discover the inspiring Statue of Abraham Lincoln in San Francisco's Civic Center, a must-visit for history lovers and art enthusiasts alike.
San Francisco City Hall
0.1 km
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of San Francisco City Hall, a stunning landmark in the heart of the city.
Pioneer Monument
0.2 km
Explore the Pioneer Monument in San Francisco - a tribute to early California pioneers, adorned with intricate sculptures and rich history.
The Shortest Street in San Francisco
0.4 km
Explore the whimsical Ash Street, the shortest street in San Francisco, where quirky charm meets vibrant urban life in the Fillmore District.
Film exchange
0.4 km
Explore the Film Exchange, a historical landmark in San Francisco's Tenderloin district, and uncover the city’s cinematic past.
United Nations Plaza Fountain
0.5 km
Discover tranquility at the United Nations Plaza Fountain in San Francisco, a vibrant cultural hub and a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection.
Rothschild House
0.6 km
Explore Rothschild House in San Francisco's Fillmore District, a historical gem showcasing the city's rich architectural heritage and captivating stories.
Sarcophagus of Thomas Starr King
0.8 km
Discover the Sarcophagus of Thomas Starr King, a captivating historical landmark in San Francisco's Fillmore District, honoring a pivotal figure in American history.
California Historical Landmark 454: Site of Woodward's Gardens
1.0 km
Explore the historic site of Woodward's Gardens in San Francisco's Mission District, where nature and history intertwine in a vibrant cultural experience.
The San Francisco Mint
1.1 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of the San Francisco Mint, a historic landmark that embodies the spirit of the Gold Rush era.
Cable Car Turnaround Powell St.
1.1 km
Explore the historic Cable Car Turnaround at Powell Street, a symbol of San Francisco's rich transportation heritage and vibrant city life.
Victorian Home Walk
1.2 km
Explore the enchanting Victorian Home Walk in San Francisco, where history and architectural beauty come alive in a unique guided tour experience.
Flood Building
1.2 km
Discover the Flood Building in San Francisco, a stunning Beaux-Arts landmark that blends history with modern culture at the heart of Union Square.
The Samuels Clock
1.2 km
Explore The Samuels Clock, a historical landmark in Union Square, San Francisco, where history meets vibrant urban culture.
Bush Street Temple (Soto Mission)
1.3 km
Discover the historical and cultural significance of Bush Street Temple in San Francisco's Japantown, a serene site rich in Japanese Buddhist heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Civic Center Plaza
0.1 km
Discover Civic Center Plaza, a cultural hub in San Francisco, surrounded by iconic architecture, vibrant events, and lush green spaces.
War Memorial Opera House
0.2 km
Explore the War Memorial Opera House, San Francisco's iconic venue for world-class opera and ballet performances in a stunning architectural masterpiece.
Heart of the City Farmers' Market
0.2 km
Discover fresh produce, local flavors, and a vibrant community spirit at San Francisco's Heart of the City Farmers' Market, a culinary gem in the Civic Center.
Civic Center
0.2 km
Explore Civic Center, San Francisco's architectural marvel with stunning landmarks, vibrant parks, and rich cultural experiences waiting to be discovered.
Davies Symphony Hall
0.2 km
Experience the architectural wonder and cultural richness of Davies Symphony Hall, the heart of San Francisco's vibrant music scene.
Asian Art Museum
0.2 km
Explore the vast and intricate world of Asian art at the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco, where history and culture come alive.
Orpheum Theatre
0.3 km
Experience the enchanting Orpheum Theatre, a historic jewel of San Francisco's performing arts scene, offering unforgettable shows in a stunning architectural setting.
Saint Boniface Catholic Church
0.6 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Saint Boniface Catholic Church, a serene retreat in the heart of San Francisco's Tenderloin district.
Sidewalk Food Tours of San Francisco
0.6 km
Discover the flavors of San Francisco with Sidewalk Food Tours, where every bite tells a story in the city's vibrant culinary scene.
Tenderloin Museum
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant history and cultural stories of San Francisco's Tenderloin district at the Tenderloin Museum.
Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption
0.8 km
Explore the stunning Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption, a modern architectural marvel and serene spiritual haven in San Francisco.
Essential places to dine
Kiln
0.4 km
Discover Kiln: A premier fine dining destination in San Francisco offering innovative cuisine and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Absinthe Brasserie & Bar
0.4 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine and vibrant atmosphere at Absinthe Brasserie & Bar in San Francisco's Civic Center.
Brenda's French Soul Food
0.4 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Brenda's French Soul Food in San Francisco—where every bite tells a story of rich culinary tradition.
Monsieur Benjamin
0.5 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Monsieur Benjamin in Hayes Valley - where modern flavors meet timeless tradition.
Chez Maman West
0.5 km
Savor authentic French cuisine at Chez Maman West in Hayes Valley - where culinary passion meets inviting ambiance.
Nightbird
0.5 km
Experience exquisite Californian cuisine at Nightbird, San Francisco's premier fine dining destination known for its innovative dishes and elegant atmosphere.
Son and Garden
0.5 km
Discover Son and Garden: A delightful New American dining experience in San Francisco's Tenderloin with fresh flavors and seasonal menus.
a Mano
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at a Mano in Hayes Valley - where fresh ingredients meet culinary creativity.
Rich Table
0.6 km
Discover Rich Table: A top-rated New American restaurant in San Francisco’s Lower Haight serving innovative dishes crafted from local ingredients.
AsiaSF
0.7 km
Discover AsiaSF: where delicious Asian fusion cuisine meets spectacular cabaret performances in the heart of San Francisco.
Birdsong
0.7 km
Discover Birdsong: A premier fine dining restaurant in San Francisco offering innovative American cuisine and an unforgettable culinary experience.
Suppenküche
0.8 km
Experience authentic German cuisine at Suppenküche in San Francisco's Hayes Valley - where every dish tells a story.
Petit Crenn
0.8 km
Discover the artful blend of tradition and innovation at Petit Crenn, a premier French restaurant in San Francisco's Hayes Valley.
1601 Bar & Kitchen
0.8 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at 1601 Bar & Kitchen - where tradition meets modern fine dining in San Francisco's SoMa district.
Californios
1.0 km
Experience innovative Mexican cuisine at Calfornios in San Francisco—where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cha May Ching Museum Boutique
0.3 km
Discover unique Asian art and cultural gifts at Cha May Ching Museum Boutique in San Francisco's Civic Center.
minimal
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish furniture, and exquisite jewelry at Minimal in San Francisco's Civic Center. A treasure for every taste!
Polk market&gift shop
0.4 km
Explore Polk Market & Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and local essentials in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Tenderloin district.
New Horizons gift shop
0.4 km
Explore New Horizons Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and trendy accessories in the heart of San Francisco's SoMa district.
Reliquary
0.7 km
Explore Reliquary, a boutique in San Francisco's Hayes Valley offering vintage clothing and unique jewelry reflecting the city's artistic spirit.
Metier
0.7 km
Discover unique, artisan-crafted jewelry at Metier in the heart of Hayes Valley, San Francisco's chic shopping destination.
Urban Outfitters
1.2 km
Discover Urban Outfitters in San Francisco's Union Square, a trendy hub for fashion-forward clothing, unique home decor, and stylish accessories.
Gift Shop
1.3 km
Explore a delightful gift shop in Union Square, San Francisco, offering unique souvenirs and local treasures perfect for every traveler.
Cuyana
1.3 km
Explore Cuyana in San Francisco's Union Square: where elegance meets sustainability in women's fashion.
COVE
1.3 km
Discover unique gifts at COVE, a charming shop in San Francisco's Lower Haight, showcasing local artisans and eclectic treasures.
Cali Gifts & More
1.3 km
Explore the charm of Cali Gifts & More in San Francisco's Nob Hill, your go-to destination for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
Louis Vuitton San Francisco Union Square
1.4 km
Explore the luxury of Louis Vuitton in San Francisco's Union Square, where timeless elegance meets modern sophistication in leather goods.
No Shop
1.4 km
Explore No Shop in San Francisco's Mission District for unique vintage finds and sustainable fashion at affordable prices.
Secret Shop
1.4 km
Explore the eclectic treasures of Secret Shop in San Francisco's Union Square for unique gifts and local art that perfectly capture the city's spirit.
Saks Fifth Avenue
1.4 km
Discover the ultimate luxury shopping experience at Saks Fifth Avenue in San Francisco's Union Square, featuring top designer brands and exquisite accessories.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Smuggler's Cove
0.4 km
Discover the enchanting atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Smuggler's Cove, San Francisco's premier cocktail bar and rum haven.
Bourbon & Branch
0.9 km
Discover the speakeasy charm of Bourbon & Branch, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a vibrant San Francisco atmosphere.
Sluts the wine bar
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant SoMa district with exquisite wines and a cozy atmosphere at Sluts the Wine Bar in San Francisco.
Rye Cocktail Bar
0.9 km
Discover Rye Cocktail Bar in San Francisco, a cocktail haven with expertly mixed drinks and a lively atmosphere perfect for any evening out.
Cityscape
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Cityscape, where stunning views and craft cocktails create an unforgettable bar experience in San Francisco.
The Majestic Butterfly Lounge
1.1 km
Experience the art of mixology at The Majestic Butterfly Lounge, a stylish cocktail bar in San Francisco's Cathedral Hill, perfect for a vibrant night out.
Owl Tree
1.1 km
Discover Owl Tree, San Francisco's cocktail gem known for its cozy ambiance and innovative drinks perfect for any night out.
Johnny Foley's Irish House
1.2 km
Discover the heart of Ireland in San Francisco at Johnny Foley's Irish House, where lively music and delicious food create unforgettable moments.
Dahlia SF
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Francisco at Dahlia SF, a bar known for its creative cocktails and lively atmosphere in the heart of the Mission District.
Persona
1.2 km
Discover Persona, San Francisco's stylish cocktail bar offering innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Lower Nob Hill.
Clock Bar
1.3 km
Discover Clock Bar in Union Square: A chic lounge and restaurant offering exquisite cocktails and delectable bites in the heart of San Francisco.
Noc Noc
1.4 km
Discover Noc Noc, a vibrant bar in San Francisco's Lower Haight, offering creative cocktails and a unique atmosphere perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Kozy Kar
1.4 km
Experience the unique charm of Kozy Kar, a vibrant bar in San Francisco's Polk Gulch, known for its water mattresses and friendly atmosphere.
Pacific Cocktail Haven
1.4 km
Discover San Francisco's premier cocktail experience at Pacific Cocktail Haven, where innovative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
Last Drop Tavern
1.5 km
Discover Last Drop Tavern in San Francisco's Union Square, where delicious New American cuisine meets creative cocktails in a vibrant atmosphere.
