San Francisco takes its place among the most popular tourist destinations for gay couples and singles. You get it all: like-minded people, beautiful views, and non-stop entertainment. Some say you need a lot of cash to go there, but it's a misconception. Although you should not expect anything fancy, you will get access to free activities, many of which are just as good as the ones provided by more luxurious destinations. So, hide your money and card, and prepare to get the most out of your trip to Frisco.
Free Entertainment Options for LGBT Tourists in San Francisco
Not all entertainment requires payment. There are many options to explore that are completely free, so in theory, you can have a ton of fun without spending a dime on your credit. Museums, galleries, sightseeing, gambling, and other opportunities await — just read on to learn more.
GLBT Historical Society Museum
The gay rights movement began in San Francisco, and nowadays, the city is one of the most community-friendly in the world. The museum shows how society came to this point with photographs and documents about the culture, everyday life, and challenges of LGBT+ people. The organization has been working since 1985, engaging in educational activities and fighting for equality. The museum opened in 2011 in the Castro District's centre.
Great news — you can visit the museum for free! Ensure you're in town on the first Wednesday of the month when the Bob Ross Foundation pays for all tickets.
Queer-Friendly Online Casinos
This one is not quite the expected entertainment, but a worthy one. Usually, on sites like this, you need just a few clicks to register your card and get a free spins bonus. As a rule, operators provide cash or free spins for specific games as a prize. Once you meet the wagering requirements, you can play slots or card games at the casino's expense.
How to get a no deposit bonus? First of all, choose a reliable casino with a license. Go to the official platform, click "Register," and complete the form. After that, you will be able to log in to your account and go through verification by entering your card number. The only thing left is to open the Bonuses section and check the details. Now you know how to fix the situation when bored in the hotel room.
Presidio National Park
Nature, beauty, and affection without judgment? Give us two. One day is not enough for a walk here with such entertainment included:
• Beaches, picnic spots, bike paths, hiking
• Art center dedicated to Star Wars
• Historical museums
• Open festivals (if you're lucky enough to get to them)
• Golden Gate Bridge
The territory is 1,491 acres, with many good cafes, food fairs, and coffee shops. Enjoying the fresh air is more pleasant with a full stomach. But you can also take food with you and have an aesthetic picnic.
Grace Cathedral
Hozier's 'Take Me To Church' becomes a reality. Bring your gay co-travelers and see the neo-Gothic architecture. Inside, you will also find ancient frescoes, monuments, and icons that are almost impossible to look away from. You can attend the service and hear the choir singing for free, feeling like you are in a movie.
Leave your worries behind, as it will be as comfortable here as on the streets of San Francisco. In 1964, the Cathedral's representative declared the need for accessible religion for homosexual people. Some conservatives protested, but that didn't stop the church from creating a local Council on Religion and Homosexuality and nowadays marrying same-sex couples.
More Museums
Don't stop when there is so much to explore, especially for free. Visiting numerous museums if probably one of the best things to do in San Francisco. The best places include The Wells Fargo History Museum, Musée Mécanique (Classic Arcade), The Cable Car Museum, San Francisco Maritime Park, and The Japanese Tea Garden. You'll find even more just by walking around the city.
Paid institutions also organize free days, usually on the first Tuesday or Wednesday of the month. For details, check the museums' official websites when planning your trip. Many also offer a discount for students, so take this opportunity if relevant.
The Wave Organ
If the usual sound of waves is not enough for you, give this exposure a chance. The organ is located on the shore of the bay and amplifies the sound of the Pacific Ocean. It is beneficial if you come for these sounds and the ocean is calm, as its name suggests. The creators managed to transmit the sound through many pipes, volumizing it so you won't be disappointed.
The Bottom Line
If you have never been to the US West Coast, there's one thing for you to know: hanging out in Frisco is a completely different experience than, say, chilling at a European LGBT resort. We hope you've already packed your bags, as all those free spots can't wait any longer. San Francisco is worth a visit just because of the ocean — come to the beach to experience complete enjoyment. But the above activities will add more emotions and stories to share later. And all this in an LGBTQ+-friendly community!