Jackson Square Travel Guide
San Francisco
Visit Jackson Square
Popular places to visit
Golden Gate Park
This beloved park offers relaxation among trees, flowers and wildlife, right in San Francisco’s backyard.
Pier 39
This waterfront attraction offers thrilling rides, innovative street performers and colorful souvenir shops, but it’s the sea lions that win the day.
Oracle Park
Whether or not you’re a baseball fan, this charming ballpark with outstanding views should be on your San Francisco sightseeing list.
Golden Gate Bridge
Cars trundle across it and ships sail under it, but the best way to experience this iconic bridge is on foot.
Moscone Convention Center
During your trip, find out what's happening in Moscone Convention Center, a top convention centre in San Francisco. Discover the fascinating museums and shops in this vibrant area.
Alcatraz Island
Escape to “The Rock,” home of the infamous and abandoned island prison, and discover how it earned a reputation as a cold and unforgiving place.
Things to do
California Sunset Cruise (2-hours)
California Academy of Sciences Daytime Admission
San Francisco, Muir Woods, Sausalito and Optional Alcatraz Tour
Go City: San Francisco All-Inclusive Pass with 30+ Attractions
SKIP THE LINE: Exploratorium Daytime Admission
Top hotels in Jackson Square
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
"All good. Good location, amazing view of SF skyline from the room, helpful staff, clean room, parking was in the property which was great. Wish I stayed longer..."
Reviewed on 31 May 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
"Great place. Convenient and near everything!"
Reviewed on 31 May 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
"nice hotel like the old section"
Reviewed on 31 May 2026
Hilton San Francisco Union Square
"This was a very busy and lovely hotel which actually made me feel comfortable as someone travelling alone. I liked the bar in the main lobby, the bartenders were very friendly! The pool and hot tub area were pretty quiet which was nice. My room had a really nice view on floor 36, and was basic but ..."
Reviewed on 31 May 2026
Parc 55 San Francisco - A Hilton Hotel
"Love everything. Will definitely be back"
Reviewed on 30 May 2026
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
Other neighbourhoods around Jackson Square
Chinatown
Enjoy the popular shops in Chinatown. Dragon's Gate is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Chinatown-Rose Pak Stop or Powell St & Clay St Stop to see more of San Francisco.
Financial District
Gourmet restaurants Chinatown and top sights from Embarcadero Center to Market Street Railway Museum – discover Financial District, a destination also famous for its shopping.
North Beach
Travellers love North Beach for its popular shops, and you can see more of San Francisco by jumping on the metro at Columbus Ave & Lombard St Stop or Columbus Ave & Chestnut St Stop. You might spend time checking out top sights like Pier 39 and San Francisco Bay.
Union Square
Known for its charming cafes and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Union Square. Check out top attractions like Westin St Francis Hotel Glass Elevators and Union Square, and jump on the metro at Powell St & Geary Blvd Stop or Powell St & Post St Stop to see more of the city.
Nob Hill
Gourmet restaurants Chinatown and top sights from SF Masonic Auditorium to Cable Car Museum – discover Nob Hill, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Russian Hill
Travellers choose Russian Hill for its pristine beaches. Hop aboard the metro at Hyde St & Filbert St Stop or Hyde St & Union St Stop and check out top sights like Van Ness Avenue.
