Thinking about doing some sightseeing in San Francisco? Want to see what the city looks like at night?
San Francisco is a fascinating place after dark. Whether you’re into bar hopping or ghost hunting, the city has something for everyone!
If you’re ready for after-dark sightseeing, check out this list of 7 fun things to do in San Francisco at night.
Sightseeing in San Francisco: 7 Fun Things to Do at Night
1. St. Francis Hotel
Did you know that San Francisco is one of the most haunted cities in the United States?
Walking around the streets at night can get a bit spooky…
If your mind is set on sightseeing at night (and are not afraid of running into a ghost or two), there’s no better place to start than the site of the former St. Francis Hotel (now Westin St. Francis).
According to local legend, the hotel is haunted by not one, but three of its former guests.
Guests often report waking up in the middle of the night after having horrible nightmares.
If you want to check it out for yourself, we recommend staying in Rooms 1219-1221.
That’s the suite where most of the hauntings have occurred so far.
Address: Westin St. Francis, 335 Powell St, San Francisco, CA 94102
Contact: 415-397-7000
Website: St. Francis Hotel.
2. Tessie Wall’s notorious brothel
Speaking of haunted locations, have you heard of Tessie Wall’s notorious brothels?
Located in the middle of then-fashionable Tenderloin District, her most famous brothel was the epitome of class and elegance.
As her business took off, Tessie Wall, a former market street “dancehall girl” quickly rose through the ranks of San Francisco society.
Men fawned over her, their wives plotted against her… And, despite her occupation, the police force crowned her the unofficial Queen of the annual Policeman Ball.
Talk about influence!
Rumor has it, Tessie’s spirit has never left the premises of her very first brothel.
If you are on a sightseeing mission, you can drop by the site of the formel brothel yourself to see if her spirit remains!
Just be careful walking through the Tenderloin District alone after dark.
Where to find it: The corner of O’Farell and Powell Streets in San Francisco, CA
3. Bourbon & Branch
A modern speakeasy mixed with 1920s jazz vibes, Bourbon & Branch is one of the most elite bars in San Francisco.
You’ll need a reservation and a password to get in, so do your research before you go!
Address: 501 Jones Street, San Francisco, CA 94102
Open Hours: 6 pm to 2 am
Contact: 415-931-7292
Website: Bourbon & Branch
4. The Clock Bar
If speakeasy vibes are not your thing, check out The Clock Bar – a modern, sophisticated cocktail bar located in Westin St. Francis.
The Clock Bar’s central location (right in the middle of Union Square) is perfect for going out afterward.
Address: 335 Powell Street, San Francisco, CA 94102
Open Hours: 4 pm to 2 am
Contact: 415-397-9222
Website: Clock Bar
5. Cheaper Than Therapy
Not into bar hopping (and don’t want to get too spooked exploring San Francisco’s most haunted locations)?
Check out Cheaper Than Therapy–San Francisco’s premier stand-up comedy club, which will have you in stitches by the time the night is over.
Address: Shelton Theater, 533 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA 94102
Open Hours: Thursday to Saturday: 9 pm to 11:30 pm, Sunday: 6 pm to 8:30 pm, closed from Mondays to Wednesdays
Contact: 512-586-4401
Website: Cheaper Than Therapy
6. The View
Want to see nighttime San Francisco from above?
Check out The View–a rooftop bar open until 1:30 in the morning.
Their menu may not be the greatest… But the views are truly breathtaking.
There are windows all around the perimeter of the bar, so you’ll get plenty of chances to enjoy San Francisco lights as you drink and socialize.
Address: Marriott Hotel, 780 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94103
Open Hours: Thursday to Saturday: 4 pm to 1:30 am, Sunday to Wednesday: 4 pm to 1 am
Contact: 415-442-6003
Website: The View
7. Game rooms
Want to play arcade games while enjoying a great slice of pizza?
Then the Coin-Op Game Room, open until 2 am, is the spot for you.
The chill atmosphere and inexpensive menu make it a great place to kick back and relax with your friends–without spending $20 on a cocktail.
The arcade game machines take quarters, so bring change!
Address: 508 4th Street, San Francisco, CA 94107
Open Hours: Monday to Friday: 4 pm to 2 am, Saturday & Sunday: 12 noon to 2 am
Contact: 628-444-3277
Website: Coin-Op Game Room
The Haunt Experience
Want to do some sightseeing in San Francisco at night?
Make sure to check out our Haunted San Francisco Ghost Tour.
Led by experienced San Francisco locals – Mary, Sebastian, and Iris – it will show you a different side of our beloved city… One that you are not likely to forget anytime soon.
Ready to discover the dark side of San Francisco?