What to Do in Chinatown San Francisco: 14 Things Beyond the Usual Food Tour

Well, if you truly want to explore San Francisco’s Chinatown beyond the tourist trail, this is the way to do it. 

This interactive scavenger hunt allows you and your friends, family or even coworkers to explore the neighborhood through a blend of local trivia, storytelling, and urban exploration. 

You’ll uncover hidden alleys, stories of resilience, and a side of Chinatown many miss, all while unravelling puzzles and following cryptic clues sent through WhatsApp.

I know what you’re thinking: a museum isn’t as delicious as dim sum. Well, maybe not: but your brain will thank you for it. 

Located in a historic Julia Morgan building, the CHSA Museum documents the journey of Chinese Americans through art, photos, and immersive exhibits. 

You’ll also get to learn about the lives of early Chinese-Americans and how Asians helped shape the San Francisco we know and love today. Worth it, for sure!

The second thing that might spring to mind when I say “Chinatown” is pagoda roofs, dragon emblems and distinctive architecture, but did you know that Chinatown in San Francisco was mostly designed by two European men?

After the awful earthquake that decimated the city, the Chinese community were left alone to rebuild their lives. A local businessman called Look Tin Eli hired two men who had never even stepped foot in China to redesign the area, and the result is a mish-mash of American ideas of what China looked like in centuries’ past and how they thought it might look in the early 20th century. Cool story, right? 

Make sure you begin your Chinatown journey at Bush and Grant. The iconic Dragon Gate, flanked by guardian lions, marks the southern entrance and is a perfect introduction to the cultural richness that lies ahead.

Taoism is one of the oldest religions in the world (the core texts were written between 400 and 350 BCE) and of course it’s represented here in Chinatown, San Francisco.

Tin How Temple is actually one of the oldest Taoist temples in the U.S, and it sits above Waverly Place. It’s dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu (she’s also the goddess of sea travel, fittingly) and filled with incense, golden statues, and quiet reverence.

Speaking of Waverly Place, this charming alleyway is a must-visit. 

Expect to see colorful facades, vintage signage, and spiritual landmarks, all of which make it one of the most picturesque streets in Chinatown.

If you’re into art, you’ve got to check out this place. 

Perched above the Hilton Hotel, the Chinese Culture Center showcases contemporary Chinese American artists and often highlights issues of identity and community through powerful exhibits.

Take your time wandering through Ross Alley and beyond to spot striking murals that tell stories of migration, labor, activism, and cultural pride.

Once upon a time there was even a Banksy here: it was on Grant Street and named “Peaceful Hearts”, but it’s since been painted over. 

If you’re looking to get hold of fresh produce, head over to Stockton. Make sure you check out the west side of the street if you want seafood! 

Bustling with activity, Stockton Street is where locals shop for fresh groceries and traditional ingredients.

It’s no secret that I love tea, and if you’re a fellow tea-lover, you’ve got to get over to Red Blossom Tea.

This place offers premium loose-leaf Chinese teas in a peaceful, minimalist space, and it's a great spot to learn about oolongs, pu-erhs, and the heritage of Chinese tea culture. 

If you have tea questions, this is where you’ll get the answers you’re looking for!

This is one of the classic places that many tourists in San Francisco’s Chinatown miss, which is all the better for you (it’s way less touristy than other nearby sites). 

Tucked above Stockton Street, this Taoist temple is dedicated to Guan Di, the god of loyalty and righteousness. It’s peaceful, way more interesting than it looks from the outside, and so refreshing after the hustle and bustle of the city.

If you’re looking to meet locals or just do some people-watching, this is where to go. 

Known as the “Heart of Chinatown,” Portsmouth Square is a gathering place for locals. You’ll find people playing mahjong, doing tai chi, or catching up with friends, and it’s a great place to get your bearings while exploring.

I know, I know, this list isn’t supposed to contain tourist stuff. 

But honestly, I really do feel this is one of the things you should do at least once while visiting Chinatown, because the fortune cookie is one of the most iconic inventions that has spread all over the world (not China, though!). 

This iconic factory on Ross Alley still makes fortune cookies by hand. Watch the process, try samples, and even create your own personalized cookie. What’s not to love about that?

If you’re in town during Lunar New Year or the Autumn Moon Festival, you’re in for a real treat. 

During holidays, Chinatown transforms itself and becomes alive with lion dances, music, firecrackers, and floating lanterns. Try and time your visit, if you can!

Finally, an admission. Although this particular idea involves food, it’s worth including for its heritage. 

Hang Ah Tea Room is America’s oldest dim sum restaurant, hidden in a quiet alley since 1920. It’s the OG, if you like, and for that reason, it just cannot be left off the list. Sorry not sorry!