Plan Your Trip
To San Francisco

Tours - Self Guided

Self Guided Tours


Golden Gate Bridge
©Grayline San Francisco
 


Pier 39
©Pier 39

A self-guided tour gives you supreme freedom. Take as much time as you want, see only the sights that interest you, and stop whenever you're tired!

If you're an enterprising, adventurous soul, you can design your own sightseeing venture. Try a combination of walking, MUNI, and Cable Car for a uniquely personal experience. Select a guidebook from the MapWest.com Books and Guides store and construct a "Bestof" tour of your own.


 

Bike - Rentals

Bay City Bike Rentals
Discount:    5.00 off daily rental rate
Website URL: www.baycitybike.com   
Email: info@baycitybike.com
    
Rentals: See the City, See the Bay- On a bike is the only way! Hire a bike and see everything up close and personal. Our experts will carefully map out a ride to suit your individualtastes, from novice to pro! Families are always welcome, as we have lots of kids bikes, baby equipment, and the lowest hourly & daily rates in San Francisco.

Groups: Groups always get a slashed rate, and guides are available with advance reservation!

Tour Packages: Tickets available daily. Save money buying both bike & boat in a package! Bike and Alcatraz- See the city, see the bay, visit “The Rock” on another day! Bike and Bay Cruise- See it all, by land and by sea!

Multi Lingual: Our multi lingual staff is well trained to meet all needs, for the ride of your life!

SUGGESTED RIDES

BIKE OVER THE GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE / RETURN BY FERRY * 8 miles
Bike from our shop through Fisherman’s Wharf, Fort Mason, Crissy Field, the Presidio, and Fort Point. Cycle the bike path over the Golden Gate Bridge and take in the infamous Bay views! Coast two miles downhill into sunny Sausalito to catch a returning a ferry!

BIKE TO TIBURON / COME BACK ON A FERRY * 15 miles
Take the ride to Sausalito, then continue on bike path towards lovely Mill Valley. Ride the path that stretches through the Bothin Marsh and en route to Tiburon. From Blackie’s Pasture Park it’s pure waterfront path to charming seaside Tiburon. Return via ferry!

THE LOCAL FAVORITES TOUR *Tennessee Beach and Old Mill Park*20 miles
Once over the Bridge and through Sausalito, take a detour off the central bike path out through Tennessee Valley. Pass the horse stables and abundant wildflowers out to the black sands of Tennessee Beach. Double back through Mill Valley and out to the Redwood groves of Old Mill Park. Cafes abound in the town center, so you can refuel before riding to catch a ferry in either Sausalito or Tiburon.

BIKE ANGEL ISLAND * 8 mile loop
From Fisherman’s Wharf, hop on a ferry at Pier 41 to Angel Island. Ride the eight mile path around the island, taking in the glorious bay views. After resting, riders can either catch a ferry back to San Francisco, or to nearby Tiburon for more cycling!

BIKE THE CITY COAST TO GOLDEN GATE PARK * 25 miles
Bike through the Marina and Presidio, passing both the Palace of Fine Arts and the Legion of Honor museum. Head out to City Beach and down the coast into Golden Gate Park. Check out the museums of Natural Sciences, the Japanese Tea gardens, and the Conservatory before winding back on designated bike routes through the Presidio. This museum tour will satisfy both art and fitness lovers!

MT. TAMALPAIS * 30miles
Sure to satisfy the thirsty mountain biker! This ride includes Sausalito, redwoods, off road riding, and spectacular views from the 2571 foot vista! There are endless trails and views to enjoy around Mt. Tamalpais. After the journey, enjoy the ferry ride back from Sausalito or head back over the Bridge to catch a bay sunset!


Hours: Open 8 a.m. seven days a week!
Phone Number:  415-346-BIKE (2453)   Fax : 415-409-RENT(7368)
Address:  2661 Taylor Street, between North Point & Beach.
We are 1 ˝ blocks from Jefferson & Taylor Muni F-line stop -OR-
1 ˝ blocks from the Powell/Mason Car turnaround at Taylor & Bay.
Fishermans Wharf - San Francisco 1325 Columbus Ave.

 

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Bike and Roll Rentals & Tours
Discount: 5.00 off daily rental   
Website URL: www.bikerental.com/    www.bicyclerentals.com/
Email: sfc@bikeandroll.com
    
There are many great rides in the Bay Area, including rides for all levels and interests. Fortunately you need not be a regular rider to enjoy many of the fabulous attractions in and around San Francisco on a bicycle. Here are a few, which we recommend and you will find featured in our Bike Ride Display Center.

The Wharf to the Bridge Features a ride along the bay, Maritime Museum, Fort Mason, Crissy Field, Marina Green, Palace of Fine Arts, surfers, and Golden Gate Bridge views at Fort Point. Time: You are never more than 20 minutes from our shop.

Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito, return by boat The most popular ride includes the bike path over the bridge, beautiful bay and city views, shopping or touring Sausalito and a return trip by ferry. Time: 40 minutes cycling, 2-4 hours round trip.

Pier Cruise Features the Embarcadero, Bay Bridge, Ferry Building, Fisherman's Wharf, Pier 39, The Cannery, Ghiradelli Square, fishing boats, seals, shopping.

Bay Trail to Tiburon Ferry Extension of Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito, includes scenic Belvedere Island and outdoor dining on the water in Tiburon while waiting for the ferry. 60 minutes cycling, 3-5 hours roundtrip.

A ride in the Parks The Presidio, Lincoln Park, Legion of Honor, Sutro Park, the beaches, Cliff House, Seal Rock, Golden Gate Park. 90 minutes cycling, 2-6 hours roundtrip.

Angel Island Ferry ride back and forth, spectacular views of bay, city skyline, and Alcatraz. 60 minutes cycling, 4-6 hours roundtrip.

Marin Headlands Cross Golden Gate Bridge and climb to spectacular views of city, bay and Pacific Ocean. Continue along Pacific Coast or venture off on trails where mountain biking began. 2.5 hours cycling, 3-5 hours round trip.

Muir Woods - The Worlds Tallest Trees Ride to and walk through famous redwood grove or follow trails to Muir Beach. 25 mile ride, 4 hours cycling, 4-6 hours roundtrip.

Mt. Tamalpais Incredible views over looking Pacific Ocean, bay and the city. 38 mile ride, 2500 ft. climb. 4 hours cycling, 4-6 hours roundtrip. Bicycles: Featuring TREK and GARY FISHER
From "Comfort Bikes" to "Mountain Bikes", we offer a wide selection to choose from. Hybrids, Mountain bikes, Racing bikes and Tandems. Based on your needs, our staff will assist you with selecting and correctly sizing your bicycle.
Hours: Open 7 Days
Summer: 8:00 am - 7:00 pm
Wharf Location: 9:00am - 7:00 pm
Winter: Nov. - Feb. 9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Phone Number:  415.229.2000   Toll-Free: 888.544.2453  
Address:  Location 1: Fishermans Wharf:
The Anchorage - 353 Jefferson at Jones St.
Location 2: 899 Columbus @ Lombard St. Location 3: 2800 Leavenworth St.

 

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Blazing Saddles Bicycle Rental & Touring Centers
Discount: $ 5.00 off Day Rate   
Website URL: www.bikethebridge.com   
    
THE FIVE BEST RIDES OF SAN FRANCISCO

#1 BIKE THE BY TRAIL TO SAUSALITO This relatively easy 9-mile ride hugs the coast of San Francisco Bay, winds you through the Presidio, and then leads you across the spectacular 1.7 mile Golden Gate Bridge on dedicated bike paths and sidewalks. After coasting down the hill into Sausalito you can board a ferry to return to San Francisco. This ride is perfect for everyone and is the #1 “must-do” activity for visitors. Feeling energetic? After a lunch in Sausalito, it’s a scenic 9-mile bike path ride on to Tiburon where again, a ferry will be waiting to bring you back for a sunset ride across the bay.

#2 BIKE THE BAY TRAIL TO TOUR THE PARKS This exciting tour visits some of San Francisco's best known attractions, historic sights and museums. Offering spectacular vistas, it avoids the city's steep hills and traffic congestion on a coastal 21-mile ramble through the Presidio, Lincoln and Golden Gate Parks. The ride passes The Palace of Fine Arts, The Cliff House, the M H deYoung Museum and The Japanese Tea Garden before returning to the Golden Gate Bridge and crossing into Sausalito (or taking a shortcut back). Return by ferry.

#3 BIKE THE BAY TRAIL TO THE CONZELMAN LOOP An excellent road ride, this 21-mile route climbs the rolling hills of the Marin Headlands with incredible views back to San Francisco and out over the Pacific. Referred to locally as the Conzelman Loop, you will ride twisting back roads and steep descents through an abandoned military base and past old concrete gun batteries dug into the hills. From this route you can access the Point Bonita Lighthouse and Rodeo Beach.

#4 BIKE THE BAY TRAIL TO TENNESSEE VALLEY After crossing the GG Bridge and pedaling through Sausalito you turn west through the Eucalyptus tree lined Tennessee Valley. This ride descends to a black sand beach, where just off the coast lies the shipwrecked S.S. Tennessee. In the springtime, the hills explode with colorful ildflowers. Explore the trails and bluffs and you may spot a bush rabbit or bobcat. On your return, re-energize with a quick bite at the popular Dipsea Cafe.

#5 BIKE THE BAY TRAIL TO THE TOP OF MT. TAMALPAIS This 38-mile ride takes you on the dirt trails that were the birthplace of the mountain bike. Turning onto Old Railroad Grade you will climb a twisting 2,500' in 8-miles through groves of Redwood and Douglas Fir opening up to spectacular views on your way to the top of Mt. Tam. The workout, the views and the quality of the land itself are all incredible. Stop at the West Point Inn, an historic railroad tavern, to catch your breath and enjoy the incredible views back to San Francisco and out over the Pacific.
Hours: Hours: April through October, 8am to 7pm, November through March, 9am to 6pm.
Phone Number:  415-202-8888  
Address:  Main Location: Locations:
1095 Columbus Ave. @ Francisco St.
Pier 41 @ Blue and Gold Ferry Terminal.
Pier 43 1/2 at Red and White Fleet Dock.
2715 Hyde @ Beach Str
465 Jefferson @ Argonaut Hotel

 

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Tours - Self Guided

Go Car Rentals
Discount:    $5 Off with Web Ad
Website URL: www.gocarsf.com   
    
Take a tour in the world's first talking tour car! Our GPS System will tell you where to go, while telling you the stories of San Francisco. USA Today called us the nation's next tourist sensation! The little yellow cars are fun and easy to drive and only require a standard driver's license and credit card to rent. GO ON. Take the tour in a GoCar!!
Hours: 8am until Sundown
Phone Number:  415.441.5695   Toll-Free: 1.800.91.GOCAR   Fax : 415.276.2889
Address:  2715 Hyde Street between Beach and North Point (FISHERMANS WHARF) and Union Square (DOWNTOWN)321 Mason Street @ Ofarrel
 

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Go San Francisco Card
Website URL: www.gosanfranciscocard.com   
   
The Go San Francisco Card is an all-inclusive ticket to over 45 of the Bay Area's top attractions. Each card also includes significant discounts at shops, restaurants and addtional tour services. Prices from $20.00 a day, based on 7-day adult card.
Hours: Purchase 24 hours, 7 days a week online! Call 9pm to 5pm PST Monday - Friday for live help.
Phone Number:  415.462.1597   Fax : 415.391.3999
Address:  Please purchase tickets online!
 

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Bay City Bike Rentals
Discount:    5.00 off daily rental rate
Website URL: www.baycitybike.com   
Email: info@baycitybike.com
    
Rentals: See the City, See the Bay- On a bike is the only way! Hire a bike and see everything up close and personal. Our experts will carefully map out a ride to suit your individualtastes, from novice to pro! Families are always welcome, as we have lots of kids bikes, baby equipment, and the lowest hourly & daily rates in San Francisco.

Groups: Groups always get a slashed rate, and guides are available with advance reservation!

Tour Packages: Tickets available daily. Save money buying both bike & boat in a package! Bike and Alcatraz- See the city, see the bay, visit “The Rock” on another day! Bike and Bay Cruise- See it all, by land and by sea!

Multi Lingual: Our multi lingual staff is well trained to meet all needs, for the ride of your life!

SUGGESTED RIDES

BIKE OVER THE GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE / RETURN BY FERRY * 8 miles
Bike from our shop through Fisherman’s Wharf, Fort Mason, Crissy Field, the Presidio, and Fort Point. Cycle the bike path over the Golden Gate Bridge and take in the infamous Bay views! Coast two miles downhill into sunny Sausalito to catch a returning a ferry!

BIKE TO TIBURON / COME BACK ON A FERRY * 15 miles
Take the ride to Sausalito, then continue on bike path towards lovely Mill Valley. Ride the path that stretches through the Bothin Marsh and en route to Tiburon. From Blackie’s Pasture Park it’s pure waterfront path to charming seaside Tiburon. Return via ferry!

THE LOCAL FAVORITES TOUR *Tennessee Beach and Old Mill Park*20 miles
Once over the Bridge and through Sausalito, take a detour off the central bike path out through Tennessee Valley. Pass the horse stables and abundant wildflowers out to the black sands of Tennessee Beach. Double back through Mill Valley and out to the Redwood groves of Old Mill Park. Cafes abound in the town center, so you can refuel before riding to catch a ferry in either Sausalito or Tiburon.

BIKE ANGEL ISLAND * 8 mile loop
From Fisherman’s Wharf, hop on a ferry at Pier 41 to Angel Island. Ride the eight mile path around the island, taking in the glorious bay views. After resting, riders can either catch a ferry back to San Francisco, or to nearby Tiburon for more cycling!

BIKE THE CITY COAST TO GOLDEN GATE PARK * 25 miles
Bike through the Marina and Presidio, passing both the Palace of Fine Arts and the Legion of Honor museum. Head out to City Beach and down the coast into Golden Gate Park. Check out the museums of Natural Sciences, the Japanese Tea gardens, and the Conservatory before winding back on designated bike routes through the Presidio. This museum tour will satisfy both art and fitness lovers!

MT. TAMALPAIS * 30miles
Sure to satisfy the thirsty mountain biker! This ride includes Sausalito, redwoods, off road riding, and spectacular views from the 2571 foot vista! There are endless trails and views to enjoy around Mt. Tamalpais. After the journey, enjoy the ferry ride back from Sausalito or head back over the Bridge to catch a bay sunset!


Hours: Open 8 a.m. seven days a week!
Phone Number:  415-346-BIKE (2453)   Fax : 415-409-RENT(7368)
Address:  2661 Taylor Street, between North Point & Beach.
We are 1 ˝ blocks from Jefferson & Taylor Muni F-line stop -OR-
1 ˝ blocks from the Powell/Mason Car turnaround at Taylor & Bay.
Fishermans Wharf - San Francisco 1325 Columbus Ave.

 

TOP


Blazing Saddles Bicycle Rental & Touring Centers
Discount: $ 5.00 off Day Rate   
Website URL: www.bikethebridge.com   
    
THE FIVE BEST RIDES OF SAN FRANCISCO

#1 BIKE THE BY TRAIL TO SAUSALITO This relatively easy 9-mile ride hugs the coast of San Francisco Bay, winds you through the Presidio, and then leads you across the spectacular 1.7 mile Golden Gate Bridge on dedicated bike paths and sidewalks. After coasting down the hill into Sausalito you can board a ferry to return to San Francisco. This ride is perfect for everyone and is the #1 “must-do” activity for visitors. Feeling energetic? After a lunch in Sausalito, it’s a scenic 9-mile bike path ride on to Tiburon where again, a ferry will be waiting to bring you back for a sunset ride across the bay.

#2 BIKE THE BAY TRAIL TO TOUR THE PARKS This exciting tour visits some of San Francisco's best known attractions, historic sights and museums. Offering spectacular vistas, it avoids the city's steep hills and traffic congestion on a coastal 21-mile ramble through the Presidio, Lincoln and Golden Gate Parks. The ride passes The Palace of Fine Arts, The Cliff House, the M H deYoung Museum and The Japanese Tea Garden before returning to the Golden Gate Bridge and crossing into Sausalito (or taking a shortcut back). Return by ferry.

#3 BIKE THE BAY TRAIL TO THE CONZELMAN LOOP An excellent road ride, this 21-mile route climbs the rolling hills of the Marin Headlands with incredible views back to San Francisco and out over the Pacific. Referred to locally as the Conzelman Loop, you will ride twisting back roads and steep descents through an abandoned military base and past old concrete gun batteries dug into the hills. From this route you can access the Point Bonita Lighthouse and Rodeo Beach.

#4 BIKE THE BAY TRAIL TO TENNESSEE VALLEY After crossing the GG Bridge and pedaling through Sausalito you turn west through the Eucalyptus tree lined Tennessee Valley. This ride descends to a black sand beach, where just off the coast lies the shipwrecked S.S. Tennessee. In the springtime, the hills explode with colorful ildflowers. Explore the trails and bluffs and you may spot a bush rabbit or bobcat. On your return, re-energize with a quick bite at the popular Dipsea Cafe.

#5 BIKE THE BAY TRAIL TO THE TOP OF MT. TAMALPAIS This 38-mile ride takes you on the dirt trails that were the birthplace of the mountain bike. Turning onto Old Railroad Grade you will climb a twisting 2,500' in 8-miles through groves of Redwood and Douglas Fir opening up to spectacular views on your way to the top of Mt. Tam. The workout, the views and the quality of the land itself are all incredible. Stop at the West Point Inn, an historic railroad tavern, to catch your breath and enjoy the incredible views back to San Francisco and out over the Pacific.
Hours: Hours: April through October, 8am to 7pm, November through March, 9am to 6pm.
Phone Number:  415-202-8888  
Address:  Main Location: Locations:
1095 Columbus Ave. @ Francisco St.
Pier 41 @ Blue and Gold Ferry Terminal.
Pier 43 1/2 at Red and White Fleet Dock.
2715 Hyde @ Beach Str
465 Jefferson @ Argonaut Hotel

 

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Buy San Francisco Tours
Website URL: www.buysanfranciscotours.com    www.buyalcatraztours.com
Email: tours@buysanfranciscotours.com
   
Online reservations for Tours and Activities all over the Bay Area. Alcatraz Tickets for Sold out dates.
Hours: Sightseeing Tours and Adventures 7 Days a week
Phone Number:  415-474-9855   Toll-Free: 877-474-3127  
Address:  165 Jefferson Street Ste 2F San Francisco, CA 94133
 

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CityPass
Website URL: www.citypass.net/cgi-bin/thatsanorder?id=mapwest   
Email: info@citypass.com
    
Five Famous Attractions, Unlimited Transportation One Low Price, No Ticket Lines! With the CityPass, you save 50\\\\% off regular ticket prices at the most popular attractions in San Francisco, including 7 Day unlimited use of cable car & Muni public transportation throughout the city! Ask for your CityPass at the first attraction you visit and save money and avoid waiting in ticket lines! Or you can buy the CityPass ticket book in advance and have it mailed to you.
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art • Blue & Gold Fleet Bay Cruise • Exploratorium • Palace of the Legion of Honor • California Academy of Science & Steinhart Aquarium • Muni & Cable Car 7-Day Passport


 

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