San Francisco is an iconic city known for its hilly terrain, diverse population, and attractions such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Fisherman’s Wharf. The city has a varied history dating back to 1835 when the first European settlers arrived. If you’re new to the city or a SF local, brush up on your trivia skills with these San Francisco fun facts.
1. The Golden Gate Bridge wasn’t intended to be a bright orange-red color
When consulting architect Irving F. Morrow saw the steel arrive painted in an orange-red primer, he decided this was much more striking and complementary to the bridge’s surroundings. One of the proposed color combinations for the bridge was black and gold, however, and the official color of the bridge is now International orange.
2. The fortune cookie was created in San Francisco in the late 1890s
It was invented by a Japanese immigrant, Makoto Hagiwara, and first served at the Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park.
3. The city’s infamous fog actually has its own name
It’s no secret that San Francisco is known for its foggy weather. While its origin is unclear, locals have been known to refer to the fog as Karl, who even has an Instagram account.
4. It’s home to the world’s most crooked street, Lombard Street
Whether you live in San Francisco or you’re a tourist visiting, you’ve likely taken a trip down Lombard Street. This winding road has eight hairpin turns and beautiful flower beds that give the road its famous postcard-worthy look.
5. San Francisco is one of the most densely populated major U.S. cities
San Francisco is only 47 square miles yet home to over 800,000 residents. As of 2022, it’s the second most densely populated city in the United States, right behind New York City.
6. The birth of the blue jean was in San Francisco
Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis invented denim jeans during the time of the Gold Rush, when they realized there was a need for durable yet comfortable clothes for miners.
7. You’ll find the country’s only moving National Historic Landmark here
San Francisco’s iconic cable cars are the world’s last manually operated cable car system with three remaining routes. These cable cars travel at just 9.5 miles per hour. So if you’re looking for a fun way to get back to your San Francisco apartment or a unique way to explore the city, consider hopping on a cable car.
8. Golden Gate Park is actually larger than Central Park
Believe it or not, Golden Gate Park actually has New York’s famous Central Park beat when it comes to size. With 1,017 acres, you’ll find sprawling green spaces, gardens, recreational sports facilities, the Japanese Tea Garden, Conservatory of Flowers, and much more.
9. San Francisco was originally called Yerba Buena
Named after a wild mint that grew in the area, the city was known as Yerba Buena, which means “good herb” in Spanish, until it was officially changed in 1847.
10. It’s home to the second-largest Chinatown outside of Asia, and the largest Japantown in the U.S.
In fact, there are only three remaining Japantowns in the United States, with the largest located in San Francisco. You’ll see stunning cherry blossoms here in the spring.
From colorful streets filled with karaoke bars and delicious dim sum spots, San Francisco’s sprawling Chinatown makes up 24 blocks.
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