Everyone knows about the crowded tourist attractions in San Francisco’s eastern neighborhoods. The next time you head to San Francisco, consider exploring its best-kept secret: the western neighborhoods.
The western neighborhoods in San Francisco are split into two districts: The Sunset District and the Richmond District. Both the Sunset District and Richmond District were originally covered in sand dunes in the 1800s. Now, both districts boast a variety of attractions and delicious dining spots in the lesser-known western neighborhoods of San Francisco.
Let’s take a closer look at these two up-and-coming Western neighborhoods:
The Richmond District
This district is the neighbor of the Sunset District and offers visitors convenient access to many of San Francisco’s urban parks. The Richmond District also hosts a thriving Chinese-American community and offers some of the most delicious and authentic Chinese restaurants in all of San Francisco.
Top Attraction in The Richmond District
- Lands End Trail
Located in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Lands End offers beautiful hikingtrails and stunning views of the Northern California coast. Adventurers can also check out the iconic ruins of the Sutro Baths and explore a labyrinth that’s also located inside of the park.
If you’re looking for the best view of the Golden Gate Bridge, most believe Lands End provides that ideal view.
Top Dining Spots in The Richmond District
Here’s an easy list of the top dining spots in Richmond District:
- Chili House SF: For the best Beijing-style Dim Sum in San Francisco, you’ll want to head to Chili House SF to enjoy delicious Dim Sum dishes.
- Cliff House: Enjoy striking views of the Pacific Ocean while savoring delicious, California cuisine.
The Sunset District
As you can see, the Sunset District is a beautiful neighborhood in San Francisco that boasts one of the more interesting microclimates in the city. The district has become well-known for the blanket of fog that rolls into the area each evening to offer an incredible aesthetic.
The Sunset District offers the most affordable and diverse dining in the entire city. Also, the neighborhood is actually the largest district in all of San Francisco. The district is divided into three different sections: Inner Sunset, Central Sunset, and Outer Sunset.
This district in western San Francisco offers visitors convenient access to the Pacific Ocean, Golden Gate Park, and is perfect for families visiting their childwho goes to school at the University of San Francisco.
Top Attraction in The Sunset
- Golden Gate Park
Tourists heading to the Sunset District have to visit Golden Gate Park and go to the Hamon Observation Tower which is located at the De Young Museum.
The observation tower offers guests breathtaking 360-degree views of San Francisco and is free admission. From the tower, guests are offered a unique vantage point to view the Pacific Ocean, downtown San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, and more.
Top Dining Spots in The Sunset
Here’s a quick rundown of delicious dining spots, cafes, and bars for visitors to check out in the Sunset District:
- Outerlands: A 20-minute wait is worth it to taste their delicious Dutch pancakes
- Saiwaii: Delicious ramen
- Nopalito: Amazing Mexican food
- Trouble Coffee: Great hipster joint for coffee and toast
- Social Kitchen & Brewery: Fine selection of beer
Whether you choose to explore the Sunset District, Richmond District, or both, you’re sure to enjoy the best of San Francisco’s lesser-known western neighborhoods.