Top 11 things to do and see in Chinatown San Francisco

It’s not often one gets to visit the oldest Chinatown in North America and the largest outside of Asia. As such, this living breathing section of San Francisco is rife with history and is a magnificent way to spend a couple of days.

With 24 city blocks, Chinatown has been in the center of San Francisco since the 1850s, and is frequented by more people each year than even the Golden Gate Bridge. With so much ground to cover, both first-time and repeat visitors can easily get overwhelmed with choices.

 We’ll narrow it down for you. Here are the best ways to experience San Francisco’s famous Chinatown.

1. Dragon’s Gate

This is the iconic archway that welcomes you into Chinatown as you enter from the Union Square area. As you enter, be sure to stop briefly to admire the huge lion statues on either side.

Address: Grant Avenue at Bush St.

2. Historic Alleyways

Wander away from the main drag of Grant Street and explore the many historic alleyways alongside it. We recommend Waverly Place and Ross Alley– this is classic Chinese city life at its best and a great way to soak in life in China.

 3. Sing Chong Building

This classic Chinese building was the first to be rebuilt after the 1906 earthquake and fire. It is one of the most photographed buildings in all of San Francisco for its unique architecture.

Address: 601 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA 94108

 4. Sip Red Blossom Tea

Right on the main street of Grant, the tea house was originally named Yau Hing when it opened its doors 35 years ago as an apothecary. Today, at the Red Blossom Tea Company you can have a tasting and tutorial about Chinese teas and learn how to properly brew each style of tea.

Address: 831 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA 94108

5. Old St. Mary’s Cathedral

While it may seem a little out of place in this area of brightly colored Chinese lanterns and Asian architecture, this Gothic Revival cathedral dates back to 1854 and is a historical landmark not to be missed.

Address: 660 California St, San Francisco, CA 94108

6. Far East Café

Open for over a century since the 1920s, this is a unique piece of Chinatown’s history. You can enjoy an authentic Chinese meal here. While not inexpensive, the food is very good and a must-stop for a wonderful culinary experience.

Address: 631 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA 94108

7. Chong Qing Xiao Mian

If you crave authentic Chinese noodles, head to this Sichuan-style restaurant. Enjoy savory, tingly sauces over springy noodles garnished with a variety of meats and delicious flavors.

Address: 915 Kearny St, San Francisco, CA 94133

8. Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory

See how fortune cookies are made in this one-room factory. Write your own fortune and have it added to a cookie for just one dollar, or purchase a jumbo fortune cookie for a few bucks more.

Address: 56 Ross Alley, San Francisco, CA 94108

9. Golden Gate Bakery

If you have a sweet tooth, try an authentic Chinese egg custard tart. These pastries have a delicate egg custard filling and are sold alongside other traditional baked goods. Note: The bakery’s open days and hours have been limited since the pandemic. Call before visiting: (415) 781-2627

Address: 1029 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133

10. Tin How Temple

The oldest Buddhist/Taoist temple in the United States is located here at Waverly Place. For a small fee, you can walk upstairs to view it on open days. If it’s closed, admiring the beautiful façade from the outside is a good option.

Address: 125 Waverly Pl, San Francisco, CA 94108

11. Buddha Lounge, Mister Bing’s, Li Po

When it’s time for a drink, Chinatown’s storied bars are a great way to relax. These local dive bars are cozy and welcoming to tourists.

Buddha Lounge – 901 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA 94108

Mister Bing’s – 201 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133

Li Po Cocktail Lounge – 916 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA 94108

Want to explore San Francisco with your family on a private tour?

San Francisco Jeep Tours offers family-friendly private tours covering the must-see attractions, including Chinatown.

Book a San Francisco Jeep City Tour, a Sunset and City Lights Jeep Tour, or a Full-Day Combo City and Muir Woods Tour to explore San Francisco’s must-see and off-the-beaten-track locations.

Visit the San Francisco Jeep Tours website for more information on exploring Chinatown.