25 San Francisco Wheelchair Accessible Travel Attractions

San Francisco, California is known for its steep hills and iconic landmarks, but many of its best experiences are surprisingly accessible to wheelchair users. This curated list ranks the city’s top 25 wheelchair-accessible attractions—from waterfront promenades and world-class museums to scenic overlooks and historic sites—based on overall accessibility, amenities, and enjoyment. Start with the most accessible and discover what’s possible.

🌉 Iconic Sights & Waterfront Wonders

1. Golden Gate Bridge (Suspension Bridge & Landmark)

Get an unforgettable view of the bay from this world-famous bridge. The eastern pedestrian walkway is fully wheelchair accessible from both ends.

• Accessibility: Smooth pavement, gradual incline, wide paths, no steps.
• Tips: Free entry for pedestrians. Arrive early for best views without crowds.

2. Ferry Building Marketplace (Historic Terminal & Food Hall)

A foodie’s paradise with artisanal goods, restaurants, and scenic waterfront views.

• Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators.
• Tips: The Farmers Market (Tues/Thurs/Sat) is lively but can get crowded.

3. Pier 39 (Shopping & Entertainment Complex)

Home to sea lions, street performers, eateries, and souvenir shops.

• Accessibility: Smooth paths, ramped access, ADA restrooms.
• Tips: Accessible parking is available nearby; watch out for uneven wooden planks on some walkways.

4. Aquarium of the Bay (Interactive Marine Center)

Explore local marine life through touch pools and tunnel tanks.

• Accessibility: Elevator access throughout, accessible restrooms, service animal friendly.
• Tips: Entry is discounted for disabled visitors and one companion.

🏛️ Museums & Culture

5. San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)

A multi-floor treasure trove of contemporary art.

• Accessibility: Elevators, wide walkways, ADA restrooms, assistive listening devices.
• Tips: Free for caregivers; request a sensory-friendly visit in advance.

6. de Young Museum (Fine Arts Museum)

Located in Golden Gate Park, this museum features American and global art.

• Accessibility: Paved entrances, elevators, ADA bathrooms, wheelchairs available on loan.
• Tips: The Hamon Observation Tower has elevator access and great skyline views.

7. California Academy of Sciences (Science & Nature Museum)

Includes an aquarium, planetarium, and rainforest dome—all under one roof.

• Accessibility: Fully accessible, with visual and auditory aids available.
• Tips: Skip-the-line tickets recommended on weekends.

8. Asian Art Museum

One of the largest collections of Asian art in the world.

• Accessibility: Automatic doors, elevators, ADA restrooms, free wheelchair loans.
• Tips: Discounted entry for disabled guests and companions.

9. Contemporary Jewish Museum

Features rotating exhibits on Jewish culture and history.

• Accessibility: Flat access, elevators, accessible theater spaces.
• Tips: Centrally located near other museums and Yerba Buena Gardens.

10. Cable Car Museum (Transportation History Museum)

See historic cable cars and the live mechanical system that powers them.

• Accessibility: Entry is level from the street; accessible exhibit areas.
• Tips: Admission is free.

🌳 Outdoor Escapes

11. Golden Gate Park (Urban Park)

Spanning over 1,000 acres, this park includes trails, gardens, and cultural institutions.

• Accessibility: Mostly paved paths, accessible gardens, restrooms throughout.
• Tips: Rent a wheelchair at the de Young Museum or bring your own for extended exploration.

12. Crissy Field (Beachfront Park)

This flat, former airfield offers a stunning view of the Golden Gate Bridge.

• Accessibility: Paved trails, accessible picnic areas, beach wheelchair rentals available.
• Tips: Visit the Warming Hut café, which is also accessible.

13. Presidio Tunnel Tops (Elevated Park & Nature Play Area)

A new public park with skyline views, seating, and native landscaping.

• Accessibility: Designed with universal access in mind; ADA paths and features throughout.
• Tips: Great for families and picnics.

14. San Francisco Botanical Garden

Explore plant species from across the globe.

• Accessibility: Most paths paved or hard-packed dirt; accessible restrooms.
• Tips: Free early entry for SF residents.

15. Yerba Buena Gardens

Urban oasis with fountains, lawns, and public art.

• Accessibility: Smooth paved paths, elevators, accessible restrooms nearby.
• Tips: Adjacent to the Jewish Museum and Children’s Creativity Museum.

🎭 Entertainment & Themed Attractions

16. Exploratorium (Hands-On Science Museum)

Interactive exhibits on science, perception, and movement.

• Accessibility: Fully ADA accessible with assistive tech and sensory tools.
• Tips: Best visited on weekdays to avoid large school groups.

17. Children’s Creativity Museum (Interactive Learning Center)

Art, tech, and imagination come alive for kids and families.

• Accessibility: Wheelchair access, inclusive programming, adaptive equipment.
• Tips: Discounted tickets for people with disabilities.

18. Chase Center (Sports & Entertainment Arena)

Home to the Golden State Warriors and major concert events.

• Accessibility: Designated wheelchair seating, accessible parking, elevators.
• Tips: Book accessible seating well in advance for big events.

19. Oracle Park (MLB Stadium – Giants)

Baseball stadium with stunning bay views.

• Accessibility: Ramps, elevators, wide concourses, accessible seating.
• Tips: There are also accessible ferries to get here on game day.

🛍️ Shopping & Local Flavor

20. Ghirardelli Square (Historic Plaza & Shops)

Chocolate, shopping, and bay views all in one place.

• Accessibility: Ramped walkways, elevators inside buildings, accessible restrooms.
• Tips: Ice cream shop often has long lines—go early.

21. Union Square (Retail & Theater District)

The city’s premier shopping and hotel area.

• Accessibility: Sidewalks with curb cuts, elevators in buildings, transit access.
• Tips: Be aware of uneven brickwork in certain areas.

🚍 Transportation & Scenic Routes

22. Embarcadero Promenade (Waterfront Pathway)

Stroll (or roll) along the edge of the bay, from the Ferry Building to Fisherman’s Wharf.

• Accessibility: Wide, smooth pavement the entire length.
• Tips: Great for sunsets and photography.

23. Muni Metro & F-Market Historic Streetcar Line

Public transit options with many accessible routes.

• Accessibility: Most metro stations have elevators or ramps; some historic streetcars are accessible.
• Tips: Use the MuniAccess app to plan your route in real time.

🕊️ Peaceful Places

24. Mission Dolores Park

A favorite hangout with panoramic city views.

• Accessibility: Flat entry on 19th Street; designated accessible picnic areas.
• Tips: Bathrooms are located at the 19th & Dolores corner and are ADA-compliant.

25. Palace of Fine Arts (Historic Landmark & Park)

Elegant Greco-Roman rotunda set around a reflecting lagoon.

• Accessibility: Paved paths, ramps, accessible restrooms nearby.
• Tips: A quiet spot ideal for reflection, photos, and a break from the bustle.