San Francisco is full of an assortment of incredible and iconic attractions, however there are some places that are off the beaten path. There are many fascinating spots that are tucked away in nature. These off the beaten path attractions in the city are worth your time and effort.
1. The Labyrinth: Land's End
You need to hike the Land's End Trail to find the Labyrinth, so start your journey near the beginning of the trail near Sutro Baths. Follow the Lands End trail, and then you'll find the maze near Mile Rock Beach. This may be tricky for first time visitors!
2. Ina Coolbrith Park: Russian Hill
If you head to Russian Hill specifically to Taylor & Vallejo Streets, you'll find this fascinating park of solitude. Near North Beach, Ina Coolbrith Park is full of incredible panoramic views of the 415. You will be forced to climb at least one steep hill to get to this 0.8-acre park, but it’s worth it!
3. Seward Street Slides: Castro
The Seward Mini Park and slides are under the radar. If you look on a map you'll discover that the Slides are tucked away in a residential part of the Castro neighborhood on 30 Seward Street. This place is hardly ever crowded, and it will definitely bring out the kid in anyone!
4. Hopper's Hands: Fort Point National Historic Site
The small plaque of Hopper's hands is located at the end of the roadway/parking area at Fort Point. The hands are just outside the entrance to Fort Point and as close to the base of the Golden Gate Bridge. This plaque was made initially for runners, but now appreciated by all!
5. Wave Organ (Crissy Field/Marina Harbor)
The Wave Organ is located at 1 Yacht Road in between Crissy Field and the Marina harbor just off of Mason Street. These gurgling pipes use surging water to make a bunch of really fascinating noises. You'll just have to see it to believe it, but finding it could be tricky.
6. Clipper Cove: Treasure Island
A quick ferry ride away from downtown, this hidden stretch of beach to the south of Treasure Island’s yacht harbor offers great views of San Francisco and the Golden Gate and Bay Bridges. Bring your pet too!
7. Marshall’s Beach
This is a beach that is hard to find, so be prepared. Star your journey at the parking lot at Lincoln on Langdon Ct. Once you start hiking down to the beach, you'll have to climb over some rocks to get close to the Golden Gate Bridge, but the view is worth it!
8. Sutro Cave: Sutro Baths
When you visit the Sutro Baths and ruins make sure to take time to explore the Sutro cave as well. This cave is nearby the main baths area. However, it may be closed due to weather as well.
9. Presidio Pet Cemetery: The Presidio
Hidden in a forgotten corner of the old Presidio is a pet cemetery with eclectic, tiny grave markers. The fog often hangs over everything at the overlooked cemetery. Purported to be haunted, so walking among the remains of dogs, lizards and parakeets buried here may scare you.
10. Clarion Alley: Mission District
Clarion Alley is located between Mission and Valencia St., and 17th and 18th Street. Clarion Alley is street art at it's best. You'll see murals with several different artistic styles that address cultural and political issues within the art as well.
11. Albion Castle: Hunters Point
A 140 year old castle with underground caves hidden in San Francisco. Incredible and truly off the beaten path. Most residents of San Francisco, even those that drive by it daily, have no idea that Albion Castle exists!
Have you been to any of these fascinating places in San Francisco? Let us know your experiences. If you're curious about obscure and interesting spots in the city then check out 10 Retro Places In San Francisco That Will Take You Back In Time.
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