Exploring SF: A Historical Peek Into Two Neighborhoods

If you and your family are looking to experience San Francisco through a different lens, skipping the usual tourist destinations for a walk through its storied streets is a must. 

These tours are designed to keep both parents and kids engaged—turning the city into a giant, open-air classroom where history feels more like a treasure hunt than a textbook. Whether you’re an architecture buff or a fan of "hidden history," these two routes offer a perfect Saturday outing for families who want to explore together while taking in some of the best views in the Bay.

Victorian Splendor in Pacific Heights

Our first stop is the Victorian Home Walk, which dives deep into the architecture that defines our skyline. This isn't just a stroll past the Mrs. Doubtfire house; it’s an easy, flat walk (delightfully hill-free!) through Pacific Heights that even includes a rare look inside a period-perfect Queen Anne Victorian.

Did you know? There are over 14,000 Victorian and Edwardian homes in San Francisco, but they weren't always so colorful. Originally, they were painted in somber, earth-toned colors like gray and brown to mimic stone. The "Painted Lady" trend didn't actually start until the 1960s, when a local artist began using bright colors to highlight the intricate wooden details, sparking a city-wide color revolution.

Local Pro Tip: After the tour, head to Roam Artisan Burgers on Fillmore. It’s a huge hit with kids and has a relaxed vibe that’s perfect for refueling after a walk.

Secrets Beneath the Streets

For a change of pace, transition from the hills to the shoreline with the Gold Rush City tour. Hosted by the legendary SF City Guides, this walk takes you through the Financial District to the original 1849 shoreline—which is now blocks inland.

The "Hidden" Fun Fact: During the Gold Rush, so many sailors abandoned their ships to hunt for gold that the harbor became a "forest of masts." With no one to sail them, the city simply built on top of them. Today, there are roughly 40 to 60 ships buried beneath the streets! In fact, if you’re standing at the corner of Clay and Sansome, you’re standing directly above the hull of the Niantic, a ship that once served as a warehouse, hotel, and jail before the city grew over it.

Local Pro Tip: You’ll end your tour near the Embarcadero. Walk over to Gott’s Roadside at the Ferry Building—their soft-serve shakes and outdoor seating are a guaranteed win for the family.

Plan Your Family Outing --  For Tour Information & Sign-Up Info, Contact:

Victorian Home Walk

Call or Text: 415-252-9485

Gold Rush City (Buried Ships)

Call: 415-375-0468 or Email: [email protected]