Published Sep 23, 2025
San Francisco is a city that knows how to charm.
From its iconic skyline to its eclectic neighborhoods, there’s something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re here for culture, food, or breathtaking views, you’ll quickly understand why people fall in love with the “City by the Bay” in California.
Just a short drive from Silicon Valley’s innovation hubs and world class universities, San Francisco is more than a weekend getaway – it’s a playground for curious minds. If you’re networking after a conference, grabbing coffee between meetings, or taking a break from the University campus, the city offers the perfect balance of inspiration and escape.
Here are the top 5 things you absolutely shouldn’t miss in San Francisco.
- Walk Across the Golden Gate Bridge
No trip is complete without this bucket-list moment. The Golden Gate Bridge is more than an engineering marvel — it’s a breathtaking vantage point over the Pacific, Marin Headlands, and the city itself. Morning fog rolling through the towers makes for a cinematic experience you’ll never forget. After your walk, head back to one of our hotels, where modern design meets cozy comfort, perfect for warming up after the Bay breeze.
- Explore Fisherman’s Wharf & Pier 39
Bustling, lively, and endlessly entertaining, Fisherman’s Wharf is home to seafood stalls, historic ships, and the famous sea lions lounging by the docks. Grab a bowl of clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl and soak up the harbor views.
Stay Smart – Unlike the busy waterfront, Leland Hotel offers a calm, stylish sanctuary nearby, giving you the best of both worlds.
- Ride a Historic Cable Car
The city’s beloved cable cars aren’t just transportation, they’re living history. Hop on at Powell Street and hang on as you glide past steep hills, Victorian houses, and sweeping views. It’s a ride that feels like stepping into old San Francisco.
- Stroll Through Golden Gate Park
Larger than New York’s Central Park, Golden Gate Park is an urban oasis of gardens, lakes, museums, and meadows. Don’t miss the Japanese Tea Garden or the de Young Museum, where art and architecture meet in spectacular style.
- Take a Day Trip to Yosemite Valley
While San Francisco offers endless delights, one of the greatest wonders lies just a few hours away. Yosemite Valley is a natural masterpiece with towering granite cliffs, waterfalls, and endless hiking trails. It’s an unforgettable escape that pairs perfectly with the buzz of city life.
Why Choose Mayfield Hotels
Travel is about more than ticking off sights. It’s about how you feel when you’re exploring, and where you come home to at the end of the day. With central locations to offer, and welcoming spirit, Mayfield Hotels® is the perfect base for your San Francisco adventure.
Book your stay in California and let the city work its magic, knowing you’ve got the ideal place as your home away from home.
