Get a Dose of San Francisco History

Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco © Kyle Simpson | Dreamstime

As the cultural, commercial and financial center of northern California, San Francisco has much to offer every type of traveler. The city was founded in 1776,when colonists from Spain established a fort at the Golden Gate and a nearby mission, which was named after St. Francis of Assisi.

Since its beginnings all those years ago, San Francisco evolved into a bustling, diverse city steeped in culture. To gain an understanding and appreciation for that history and culture, consider taking a walking tour with the San Francisco Museum and Historical Society. Tours last an average two hours, and are typically free and open to the public.

San Francisco City Guides also offers an array of tours for curious visitors. Their tours span the area’s multiple neighborhoods, and cover a broad swath of topics, such as 1850s San Francisco: Paris of the Pacific, Alfred Hitchcock’s San Francisco, Fisherman’s Wharf: A Hidden History and Ghosts, Sinners and Secret Places. San Francisco City Guides also offers private group tours for parties of eight or more.

Visit the San Francisco City Guides website for a current tour schedule.