San Francisco is one of the hilliest cities in the USA, and it’s still accessible for wheelchair travel! Of course, power wheelchairs and scooters will have more freedom to explore the inner neighborhoods of San Francisco, but those using manual chairs may need to be pushed occasionally. However, a few areas in San Francisco are flat or relatively flat, making it easier for some to explore San Francisco. Otherwise, visitors can rely on multiple accessible public transportation options, like buses, taxis, and the light rail. Below you will find an overview with many links on ways to access San Francisco with a wheelchair.
ACCESSIBLE ATTRACTIONS, ACTIVITIES + TRAVEL INFO
MUSEUMS
San Francisco boasts a diverse array of museums, many of which are accessible. In Golden Gate Park, visitors can explore the de Young Museum and the California Academy of Sciences, both offering accessible facilities and exhibits. The de Young Museum features a variety of art collections and offers accessible paths throughout the building. The California Academy of Sciences includes a planetarium, aquarium, and natural history museum, all accessible with ramps and elevators.
Nearby, the San Francisco Zoo provides a fun day out for families, with accessible paths and facilities. It’s located along the Pacific Ocean, offering scenic views and educational exhibits.
In downtown San Francisco, explore the Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) and nearby Yerba Buena Gardens. SFMOMA features modern and contemporary art with accessible galleries and facilities. Yerba Buena Gardens offers serene outdoor spaces and a tea house, accessible for wheelchair users.
PARKS, GARDENS, BEACHES, AND MORE
San Francisco’s outdoor spaces are also accessible-friendly. The Embarcadero, a nearly level waterfront promenade, stretches from Pier 39 to Fort Point, passing through attractions like Fisherman’s Wharf and Crissy Field. Visitors can enjoy accessible dining, shopping, and attractions along this scenic route. Crissy Field and Fort Point offer panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and accessible paths.
Other accessible outdoor destinations include:
- Alcatraz Island: While the historic site itself has challenges due to its terrain, the ferries and visitor center are wheelchair accessible.
- Golden Gate Park: This expansive park features paved paths, accessible restrooms, and attractions like the Japanese Tea Garden and Conservatory of Flowers.
- Lands End Trail: A scenic trail with accessible sections offering views of the Pacific Ocean and Golden Gate Bridge.
- Ocean Beach: Accessible paths and stunning ocean views, although some areas may have soft sand.
- The Presidio: Historic military post with accessible trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks.
- Baker Beach: Provides accessible paths and iconic views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
ENTERTAINMENT
- Pier 39: A popular tourist spot with accessible dining, shopping, and attractions like the Aquarium of the Bay.
- Ghirardelli Square: Offers accessible shops, restaurants, Aquatic Cover Park, and the famous Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop.
- San Francisco Zoo: Beyond exhibits, it features accessible paths and animal encounters.
SHOPPING
- Union Square: Accessible via ramps, Union Square offers high-end shopping, dining, and seasonal entertainment like ice skating.
- Westfield San Francisco Centre: Located on Market Street, it features a variety of accessible shops and dining options.
- Chestnut Street: In the Marina District, known for its trendy boutiques and accessible sidewalks.
- Haight-Ashbury: Known for its hippie culture and eclectic shops, though accessibility may vary.
DINING AND NIGHTLIFE
San Francisco’s dining scene includes a wide range of accessible options:
- The Westin St. Francis Hotel: Offers accessible dining options and High Tea in the historic Oak Room.
- Restaurants in Union Square: Many eateries offer accessible seating and facilities.
- Dining at Pier 39 and Ghirardelli Square: Accessible options with waterfront views and local cuisine.
- Embarcadero and Fisherman’s Wharf: Accessible seafood restaurants and waterfront dining options.
Tour operators and travel writers always forget the Victorians, but they are one of the most famous sights of San Francisco that are a favorite for locals. They deserve to get World Heritage listing.
I wrote a book about the coded Victorians of Haight Ashbury with a real Holy Grail in America twist.
http://www.codedhaightashbury.com
Blog http://decodedhistory.blogspot.com
Deborah Hodgson
Investigative Writer and Art Historian
Doing some searching for a bus tour in San Francisco to see the sights and be able to hop off, hop on a tour. Here are some responses I received from 3 bus tour lines (Keep in mind I have indicated I use a manual wheelchair for travelling but I cannot stand nor take steps). Gray Line of San Francisco: Their coaches do not have wheelchair ramps, they have four to five steps to walk up onto the coach with hand railings. ‘The Big Bus Tour’ have a few wheelchair ramps buses for their city tour only. Tower Tours: We… Read more »
Good Afternoon, What hotel is your favorite in San Francisco and why for accessible travel?
Hi Sandi! I would really say it depends on your plans. Are you visiting someone or are just looking for a central area? Happy to help.
We are considering the easiest accessible area in San Francisco then do a trip to Napa Valley. The hotels at Fisherman’s Wharf are extremely expensive. Our dates are July 26, 2021 to July 30, 2021. There are 5 adults.
One gentleman in a wheelchair who will share a accessible room with his wife and son and my husband and me who will have a second room. We are trying to plan based on what’s easier for our friends from England.
Sandi: That’s a popular time to visit, so of course hotels will be more expensive then. Have you looked at the budget hotel chains Travelodge or Motel 6? There is also a nice hostel at Fort Mason that has wheelchair access. Even though you share some spaces with others it’s a killer location and very affordable. What do you think?