11 Most Fun and Unique Things to Do in San Francisco With Your Dog

Where Pups Rule the City

San Francisco isn’t just a playground for humans, it’s a paradise for our four-legged friends. The city’s 49 square miles offer unique experiences.

With some preparation, you’ll see why San Francisco is one of America’s most dog-friendly cities, home to about 120,000 dogs (14% of the population).

Discover Beautiful Staircases

San Francisco’s secret staircases are a dog walker’s dream come true.

Colorful mosaic steps connect different neighborhoods, like the Hidden Garden Steps showcase beautiful butterfly patterns, while 16th Avenue boasts ocean themes.

Nearby cafes welcome four-legged companions, adding extra convenience to your urban adventure. Some stairways even offer shaded spots for your furry friend to rest.

Lincoln Park Steps are especially peaceful during weekday mornings, making them ideal for dogs who get nervous around crowds.

Play at the Beach

Get ready for a tail-wagging beach experience.

Dogs love Fort Funston, where they can run free on sandy hills and check out old military buildings. Ocean Beach is also great for playing fetch, especially in the misty morning.

Just watch out for high tide, which can block some areas.

Want to help keep beaches clean? Join a beach cleanup with your dog. These events are popular and often end with fun get-togethers.

Many local pet shops even give out free poop bags.

Visit the Waterfront

Take your leashed dog to PIER 39 to watch sea lions and enjoy ocean views.

While you can’t go on Hyde Street Pier, your dog is welcome in other parts of the Maritime Park. Need a place for your dog to play? Head to Crissy Field’s beach area. Some spots allow dogs off-leash, but check the signs first.

Since the salty air makes dogs thirsty, bring water and a bowl.

Picnics & City Views

Both Twin Peaks and Corona Heights welcome dogs on leashes.

Bring a blanket and snacks to Twin Peaks for 360-degree views of the city, stretching from the Bay Bridge to the Marin Headlands.

If you want somewhere quieter, try Corona Heights for great bay views. Thanks to San Francisco’s cool winds, these spots stay comfortable even in September.

Walk Through the Presidio

The Presidio’s forest has over 60,000 trees planted by soldiers in the 1800s.

Out here, you can explore 16 miles of trails filled with interesting smells like blackberries and ferns. But keep your dog on a leash because of coyotes and birds.

Stop at Lobos Creek for fresh water. Planning to stay overnight? Both the Inn and Lodge at the Presidio take dogs for an extra fee.

Sail the Bay With Your Best Friend

Two boat companies, Blue & Gold Fleet and Red and White Fleet, let you bring leashed dogs on their bay tours.

Watch your dog enjoy the wind while sailing past Alcatraz and under the huge Golden Gate Bridge, which stands 220 feet high.

You might hear sea lions barking during the trip. Most rides last about an hour, perfect for dogs who don’t like sitting still too long.

Check Out Art Spots

The Wave Organ near the Marina makes cool sounds from its 25 pipes when the tide comes in, which dogs find interesting.

It sits on an old cemetery jetty, adding history to the art. Visit during high tide for the best sounds. And don’t forget to see the bright murals in the Mission’s Clarion Alley.

Explore Golden Gate Park

Dogs can run free in four areas of Golden Gate Park, including a sandy training spot and areas near Stanyan Street, Kezar Stadium, and the southwest part.

The park’s ecosystem evolves with the seasons, offering new experiences with every visit, from winter mushroom blooms to summer wildflower displays.

While dogs need leashes in most areas, you can have picnics at Peacock Meadow or climb Strawberry Hill, which circles Stow Lake 430 feet up.

Walk Through Historic Streets

Walk your leashed dog past the famous “Painted Ladies” houses near Alamo Square for great photos.

In the Financial District, you’ll see both old buildings like the 1909 Merchants Exchange and new ones like the TransAmerica Pyramid.

The smooth sidewalks work well for all dogs, and you can read about the buildings’ history on the corner plaques.

Join Dog Events

San Francisco is where dogs take center stage.

Watch costume shows at DogFest in Duboce Park, join a 5K at Treasure Island’s Strut Your Mutt, or see fancy dogs at The Westin St. Francis.

Even baseball fans can bring dogs to Oracle Park’s Dog Days of Summer, which helps local charities. Most event planners set up water stations and sell special treats.

Fun fact: the tradition dates back to the 1860s when Emperor Norton’s dogs, Bummer and Lazarus, became local legends.

Visit Military Sites

Take your leashed dog to explore old military buildings in the Marin Headlands.

The thick walls keep these places cool in summer. Many trails welcome dogs, especially around Rodeo Beach, though they must stay on leash.

These spots mix history with outdoor fun, perfect for a day trip with your dog.