Romantic Things to Do in San Francisco for Memorable First Date
Forget the coffee shop and skip the movie – let San Francisco's creative spirit inspire your next first date adventure and make a real impression. Discover romantic things to do in San Francisco all over the city, from leisurely rowboat rides in Golden Gate Park to wine tastings on Treasure Island. Plan a first date that feels just a special as the city of San Francisco itself.
See San Francisco from a New Perspective: Epic Views from Lofty Heights
San Francisco's many hills and watery environs set the stage for incredible views when you climb to the top of the skyline. From the graceful Victorian homes known as the Painted Ladies to the sweeping curves of the Golden Gate Bridges, there's a romantic view for everyone in San Francisco. Here are some of the best places to fill your eyes with the beautiful cityscape and beyond:
- de Young Museum at Golden Gate Park
- Coit Tower on Telegraph Hill
- Twin Peaks Hilltop Hike
- Mission Dolores Park in the Mission
- Hawk Hill at the Marin Headlands
- Corona Heights Park at Museum Way
- Alamo Square at Steiner Street
Embark on a Romantic Boat Ride or Sightseeing Cruise in San Francisco
There's just something about being on the water that feels romantic, from the shimmering ripples to the open space and picturesque views. You'll find numerous options for San Francisco Bay sightseeing cruises, starting with a one-hour cruise under the Golden Gate Bridge and around Alcatraz from Pier 39. Step up your game with a sailing cruise at sunset, a whale watching adventure, or a dinner cruise with a sparkling skyline backdrop. For an old-fashioned boat ride, head to Stow Lake at Golden Gate Park where you can rent a rowboat or paddleboat. The lake's fairytale wooden bridges, island, and waterfall create an idyllic scene for a romantic first date.
Catch an Intimate Show Together at Feinstein's Nightclub
Elegant and unique, this 140-seat venue is not your average nightclub. It's a sleek, sophisticated hotspot for national and local stars to perform jazz, cabaret, Broadway, and American songbook hits. Guest enjoy an up-close-and-personal experience with the performer along with upscale Asian-fusion cuisine and artisan cocktails. Get cozy and relax.
Go on a Self-Guided Foodie Tour of San Francisco's Ferry Building
You don't need to be on an official food tour to discover the epicurean delights found within the halls of San Francisco's famous Ferry Building. This historic structure on the Embarcadero is home to numerous full-service restaurants where you can sit down and linger over dinner. But it's even more interesting to explore the food merchant stalls, hopping from one tasty treat to the next. Start by sharing a customized cheese plate at Cowgirl Sidekick and then split a dozen fresh oysters at Hog Island Oyster Company. Try the Ahi poke taco at Gott's Roadside and the sweet stuffed croissants at Vive La Tarte. Wash it all down with a local craft brew at Point Beer Company.
Wander Through the Roses & Lilies at the Shakespeare Garden
Located in Golden Gate Park, this whimsical garden is planted with various blooms mentioned by the Bard in his poetry: poppies, mandrakes, violets, daisies, roses, and lilies. Follow the quaint brick pathway, which leads from the charming iron gate entrance through the dreamlike garden. Nearby you can explore other cool attractions like the California Academy of Sciences and the Japanese Tea Garden.
Sip Fine California Wines in an Elegant Tasting Room
While a Napa or Sonoma excursion may be a little too much for a first date, you can sample many of the same wines right here in the city. Inviting tasting rooms can be found everywhere from Fisherman's Wharf and Treasure Island to the SOMA and Dogpatch neighborhoods. Pop in and discover your new favorite California wine:
- Wattle Creek Tasting Room: Cabernet Sauvignon, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc Malbec, and Shiraz (Fisherman's Wharf)
- Bluxome Street Winery: Pinot Noir, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay (SOMA)
- The Winery: Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay (Treasure Island)
- Tank18: Zinfandel, Chardonnay, Syrah, Pinot Noir, Tempranillo, and Pinot Blanc (SOMA)
- Treasure Island Winery: Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay (Treasure Island)
- Cultivar: Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Bordeaux Varietals (Marina District)
Share an Adventurous Dinner at ANZU & Try Something New
Go beyond sushi and sake at ANZU and discover an immaculate culinary experience that blends Eastern and Western cooking. Savor imaginative dishes like Misoyaki Black Cod, Sea Urchin Carbonara, and 48 Hour Smoked Short Rib – all made with the freshest, sustainable California ingredients. Everything at ANZU is cooked by the seasons, and you'll find an ever-changing menu of new chef creations. Start (or finish) the evening over handcrafted cocktails next door at Kanpai Lounge, a gracious hangout with bold colors and a brilliant menu of libations.
Escape to San Francisco on a Romantic Getaway at Hotel Nikko
Discover the ultimate urban retreat at our Asian-inspired boutique hotel, an oasis of style and sophistication near Union Square. We're surrounded by restaurants, bars, and theaters – the perfect playground to discover all the romantic things to do in San Francisco. Whether you're on your first date or your fiftieth, our neighborhood is an exhilarating place for new adventures and moments to remember. And with exquisite dining at ANZU plus live entertainment at Feinstein's, you'll find everything you need for an unforgettable night in the city. Seize the day – and the first date – and plan your romantic rendezvous in San Francisco today.