.svg)
The Late Checkout Guide to San Francisco
Where to eat, drink, stay and explore if you're heading to the Bay.
San Francisco is home to plenty of great attractions, like one of America’s oldest Chinatowns, a giant windmill that watches over the beach and, of course, Karl the Fog.
If you’re new to SF or visiting for the first time, these are the hotels, restaurants and activities to check out ASAP. Looking for some tips on what to pack? We've got you covered there too.
Every hotel recommendation on Late Checkout is independently selected by us. If you do book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Where To Stay
San Francisco Proper
For the design-inspired festival goer, this is The Proper’s flagship property designed by Kelly Wearstler. Charmaine’s, the hotel’s rooftop bar, is also a great hangout spot if you want easy access to your hotel room at the end of the night.
Hotel Drisco
One of the only truly “neighborhood” experiences you can get in the city, Hotel Drisco is a super cute, boutique hotel located in charming Pac Heights, and it boasts views of the Bay from its perch atop Pacific Ave. You’ll also be close to nearby parks and landmarks like The Presidio, Alta Plaza and the Lyon Street Steps, all of which you should should work into your itinerary during your visit.
Hotel Kabuki
A home base in the heart of the city, Hotel Kabuki is located in SF’s Japantown, with easy access to fun areas like Fillmore Street in Pac Heights, Union and Chestnut Streets in The Marina, and Polk St in Nob Hill.
Beacon Grand
If you’re looking to travel back in time a bit during your stay, may we suggest the Beacon Grand? Recently included in Travel + Leisure’s 100 Best New Hotels in the World, it’s our pick for a classic Union Square SF experience – complete with grand staircases and chandeliers in the lobby, and a long wooden bar in The Post Room where we’d recommend drinking something red or brown and having a deep chat or two.
The LINE SF
A convenient option located close to bus and MUNI transportation options, The Line is a newly opened, Mid-Market hotel. It’s within a half-mile radius of SFMOMA, Union Square and the Ferry Building, and it houses an Alfred coffee shop, plus its own restaurant and bar.
Where To Eat & Drink
Devil’s Teeth Baking Company
Devil’s Teeth, which is located right by Golden Gate Park, makes maybe the best breakfast sandwich in the city, which is piled high inside a freshly baked biscuit and will provide you with all the fuel you need for a long day of sightseeing. They also have a variety of non-biscuit pastries too because, ya know, balance.
Laundromat
Laundromat is a lot of things: a bagel shop, a wine bar and a great burger place just to name a few. And we recommend you spend as much time at this multi-purpose spot as you can. Stop by this Outer Richmond staple for a great bagel to start the day, or they also host a super popular Smashburger Night every Wednesday.
Toyose
This Korean spot stays open late and has plenty of space for you and whoever else you're traveling with, along with a long menu that includes everything you want after you've scaled approximately 75 hills over the course of the afternoon, like bulgogi, tonkatsu and kimchi-seafood pancakes.
Hockey Haven
Looking for cheap drinks and good vibes in the Outer Richmond? Well, let us introduce you to Hockey Haven. Everything at this dive is reasonably priced and overall it's just one of our favorite spots to hang out at in the neighborhood.
El Farolito
Visiting San Francisco and not eating a burrito should be considered a crime. While everyone you ask will have an opinion of where to go, El Farolito really is the move. This classic taqueria in the Mission is open late, makes burritos big enough for two and simply never disappoints. Check out some of the bars around Valencia and then grab some carne asada to take back to your hotel. Both late-night and next-morning you will be glad you did.
Where To Explore
What To Pack
Picnic in Delores Park
On a sunny day, there might be no better place in SF to hang out than Delores Park in the Mission. It's excellent for people watching, soaking up some rare San Fransisco sun and there a ton of great restaurants near by where you can order things to go for a nice little picnic.
Lands End Hike
The Lands End trail on the far northwest side of the city checks a lot of boxes, including some incredible views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Bay. Start your day off with some fresh air and photo ops before hitting the pavement around town.
Ocean Beach
A 3.5-mile stretch of white beach looking out over the Pacific Ocean. It's perfect for a gorgeous morning jog or long walk, or if you have a couple extra evenings to spare, it’s an amazing place for a bonfire with friends.
Bike Ride Through Golden Gate Park
After a weekend of Ubers, bus rides and accidentally traveling a mile out of the way on multiple walks, it’s time to hop on two wheels and experience the city right. Riding around on a Bay Wheels bike is one of the best ways to see the expansive park and avoid traffic.
Farmer’s Markets
The Clement Street and Outer Sunset farmers markets are both great options for snacking, sipping and potentially buying some handmade souvenirs to take home with you. If you make it to Clement Street, make sure to stop by Arsicault Bakery to try the best croissant in the city too.
