Trying to catch all the Pokémon while you’re on vacation in San Francisco? Pokémon Go was actually developed by Niantic Labs right in San Francisco, so it’s no wonder that there are so many characters roaming around the city. Save yourself some time and catch up to all your friends by visiting some Pokémon hot spots. To efficiently catch Pokémon, take the Muni, which is the bus system in San Francisco. Here are our picks for the ten best places to catch Pokémon in San Francisco this year.

Find a vacation rental in San Francisco


Where To Catch Pokemon All Over San Francisco


1. Coit Tower

1 Telegraph Hills Boulevard

Catch Pokémon while getting a fantastic view of San Francisco from the top of Telegraph Hill. You can walk up the hill or take the 39 Coit bus. You could drive up but there is limited parking. Note that entering Coit Tower is free but if you are planning to ride the elevator to the top then you will need to pay a few dollars.


2. Yerba Buena Gardens

750 Howard Street

It’s free to explore the Yerba Buena Gardens as you frantically search for different species of Pokémon. The parks are open everyday from 6 AM to 10 PM.


3. San Francisco Zoo and Gardens

1 Zoo Road

See over 1,000 animals while you also find Pokémon species. Explore Eagle Island, Bear Country, and Insect Zoo while you’re there.


4. Golden Gate Park

501 Stanyan Street

Catch Dragonair at Stow Lake and Magnemite at the Beach and Park Chalet. Make sure to also enjoy the beautiful scenery as you search. You can rent a rowboat on Stow Lake between 10 AM and 4 PM every day of the week.


5. Lombard Street

At the top of Lombard Street is a gym. If you haven’t heard of Lombard Street before, you’ll soon find out that it’s one of the steepest streets in America. Luckily the way up is filled with beautiful flowers and mansions to keep your mind off the steep hill that you’re climbing.


6. Ocean Beach

1946 Abbott Street

After you go to Golden Gate Park, head over to nearby Ocean Beach. Ocean Beach is a scenic 3.5-mile stretch of San Francisco that is said to have three Pokémon gyms!


7. Crissy Field

Although Crissy Field used to be a military airfield, there are many Pokémon wandering around there these days. Walk along the trails to see beautiful views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay.


8. The Ferry Building

1 Ferry Building

You can ride the Line F Market trolley line to reach this Pokémon spot. While there, make sure to take advantage of the large selection at the popular farmer’s market.


9. Union Square

333 Post Street

Explore and catch Pokémon aboard a cable car, ferry, or bus as you travel through Union Square. After running around, relax at an outdoor café or go shopping.


10. Pier 39

2 Beach Street

You can find not only sea lions but also Pokémon at Pier 39, which is part of Fisherman’s Wharf. There are a multitude of dining and shopping options to enjoy at Pier 39 afterwards.

Find a vacation rental in San Francisco



Ready to explore? Find your perfect vacation rental now on Tripping.com.


Popular Destinations

Beach Destinations

Cabin Destinations

Lake Destinations

This article was written by Colleen Regan.