Discover San Francisco at your own pace with City Guides, offering a diverse range of free walking tours. With 70 unique tours led by 300 passionate volunteers over 47 years, City Guides provides an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the heart and soul of San Francisco. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, our tours offer fresh perspectives and captivating stories around every corner.
Explore San Francisco’s Unique Neighborhoods and History
San Francisco is a city of vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character and history. City Guides walking tours are meticulously crafted to showcase this diversity, from the bustling streets of Downtown to the historic charm of neighborhoods like North Beach and the iconic landmarks dotting the cityscape. Our expert-led tours ensure you experience the authentic San Francisco, going beyond the typical tourist trails.
February in San Francisco: A Month of Exploration
February is an exceptional time to explore San Francisco. Celebrate Presidents Day and Black History Month by joining our specially curated tours.
Black History Month at City Guides: Discover the significant contributions of Black Americans to San Francisco’s rich tapestry with our dedicated tours throughout February.
Uncover Downtown San Francisco: A City Within a City
Downtown San Francisco is a dynamic hub of culture, commerce, and history. City Guides presents over twenty different tours focusing on Downtown, each revealing a unique facet of this energetic urban center.
Discover Downtown San Francisco: From architectural marvels to hidden alleyways, explore the multifaceted Downtown area with our diverse tour offerings.
Introducing the Beat Generation Tour: Rebels, Writers, and Visionaries
Step back in time and explore the era of literary rebellion and artistic innovation with our newest tour:
Beat Generation: Rebels, Writers, and Visionaries: Immerse yourself in the world of iconic writers and thinkers who shaped the Beat Generation in San Francisco.
Find Your Perfect Tour or View All Tours to start your San Francisco adventure today.
Why Choose City Guides for Your San Francisco Tour?
City Guides stands apart by offering free, high-quality walking tours led by extensively trained volunteers who are passionate about San Francisco. We are dedicated to making the city’s rich history accessible to everyone.
No-Cost, High-Value Tours
Our 1.5 to 2-hour tours are completely free, allowing you to experience San Francisco without budget constraints. Donations are always appreciated and support our non-profit mission.
Expertly Trained and Engaging Guides
Our volunteer guides undergo rigorous training, ensuring they possess deep knowledge of San Francisco’s history, architecture, and culture. They are skilled storytellers, bringing the city’s past and present to life.
A Tour for Every Interest
With over 80 distinct tours, City Guides caters to a wide range of interests. Whether you are fascinated by architecture, drawn to historical narratives, or seeking to explore specific neighborhoods, we have a tour designed for you.
About City Guides: Your Trusted Source for San Francisco Exploration
Founded in 1978, City Guides is an independent 501(c)3 non-profit organization committed to providing free historical and architectural walking tours of San Francisco. As a program of the San Francisco Public Library, we operate with over 300 trained volunteers, serving over 35,000 locals and visitors annually. Join us and discover why San Francisco is known as “America’s most beautiful – and fascinating – city!”
What People Are Saying About City Guides
Our commitment to quality and engaging tours is reflected in the positive feedback from our tour participants:
“Truly one of the greatest treasures of San Francisco! City Guide tours never disappoint, always full of interesting stories, anecdotes, and fun- facts!” – Google Review, Jan ’24
“The guides are well trained and enthusiastic to share their knowledge and love of the greatest city on earth! I have done numerous tours and am always delighted!” – Google Review, Jan ’24
“The tour was fabulous! I’ve lived in SF for over 40 years but learned so much! And I saw so many places that I now can appreciate their significance. I can’t wait to do more.” – Google Review, Jan ’24
“One of the best ways to see San Francisco on the cheap!” – SF.FunCheap.com
“Our guide was warm, friendly, funny, and full of interesting facts and stories. What a great way to get to know The City by the Bay!” – Google Review, Jan ’24
