San Francisco’s historic Presidio boasts 1,491 acres of land and some of the best vistas in the city. Adjacent to the Golden Gate Bridge, the former military outpost was repurposed as public land with many budget-friendly things to do. Check out the Presidio’s Visitor Center to orient yourself and learn about its history, or get a more in-depth look at the Presidio Officer’s Club (admission is free). The Presidio also has numerous scenic trails and perfect picnic spots, including Baker Beach and Crissy Field. 5 THE PRESIDIO San Francisco Murals San Francisco Travel Association/@riot90; San Francisco Travel Association As one of the most photographed structures in the world, the Golden Gate Bridge also provides great views of the city as you cross. If you’re driving across the bridge, there is a toll (electronic); however, crossing the iconic landmark is free to cyclists and pedestrians. In addition to your camera, bring a jacket because it can get chilly, even in the summer. 6 GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE Eureka , among others. Self-guided tours of the ships cost $10 for adults and are free for kids ages 15 and younger. mechanical barbershop quartet – for spare change! Get a behind-the-scenes look at how some notable local products are made. you’ll likely score some free samples along the way, too. Explore the delicious history of sourdough bread in San Francisco with a museum and bakery tour at Boudin. Guided tours are $5 per person or free to tour at your leisure. In Chinatown, see how fortune cookies are made at the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory. The free tour ends with a sweet sample. 7 LOCAL TOURS Take a trip back in time at the Musée Mécanique near Fisherman’s Wharf. Admission is free to this antique arcade; games range in price from a penny to a dollar. Arm wrestle a robot or be serenaded by a 9 FUN AND ARCADE GAMES 10 SAN FRANCISCO MUSEUM OF MODERN ART (SFMOMA) Take advantage of the 45,000-square-foot ground floor galleries at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA). Entrance via the Roman steps off Howard St. is free to the public. Admission to the entire museum for visitors 18 and younger is also free. Dive into San Francisco’s seafaring history on a trip to Fisherman’s Wharf and the Maritime National Historical Park. The park’s historic ships include 19th century vessels like the square-rigger Balchutha , and an early steamboat, 8 MARITIME NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK Golden Gate Bridge Budget . 63