Fun Facts: San Francisco

15 Fun and Quirky Facts About San Francisco You Probably Didn’t Know

San Francisco is a city that’s full of surprises—whether it’s a hidden staircase, an unusual microclimate, or a slice of history hiding in plain sight. Here are some of the most fascinating and quirky facts about the City by the Bay!

1. Karl the Fog Is a Local Celebrity

Yes, San Francisco’s ever-present fog has a name: Karl! Locals affectionately refer to the misty weather as if it were a person, and you can even follow Karl on Twitter (@KarlTheFog) for some moody commentary.

2. It’s Home to the World’s Crookedest Street (Sort of)

Lombard Street is famous for its eight sharp turns in just one block, but it’s actually NOT the most crooked street in San Francisco. That title belongs to Vermont Street in Potrero Hill, which has even sharper turns! And a bonus, that’s where the annual Easter Big Wheel race is held!

3. The Golden Gate Bridge Was Almost Black and Yellow

The original plan for the Golden Gate Bridge was to paint it black with yellow stripes to make it more visible to ships. Luckily, its now-iconic International Orange color won out, complementing the foggy skyline perfectly. The Navy suggested that the bridge be painted in black and yellow stripes. The Army Air Corps wanted candy cane red and white stripes. The signature International Orange hue was actually the color of the primer.

4. San Francisco’s Cable Cars Are the Only Moving National Historic Landmark

These vintage streetcars are more than just a charming way to get around—they’re also officially designated as a moving National Historic Landmark, making them a must-experience piece of history.

5. The City Was Almost Called “Yerba Buena”

Before being named San Francisco in 1847, the city was called "Yerba Buena," which means "Good Herb" in Spanish. It was named after a local plant that grew in abundance.

6. Alcatraz Was the First U.S. Lighthouse on the West Coast

Before it became the infamous prison that housed criminals like Al Capone, Alcatraz was home to the very first lighthouse on the West Coast, guiding ships safely through the Bay.

7. The Fortune Cookie Was Invented Here (Not in China!)

Despite being associated with Chinese culture, the modern fortune cookie was actually created in San Francisco in the early 1900s. A Japanese immigrant named Makoto Hagiwara first served them at the Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park.

8. The Transamerica Pyramid Has a Secret “Ghost”

Legend has it that on certain nights, the shadow of the Transamerica Pyramid resembles the outline of a hooded figure—spooky!

9. The City Has More Dogs Than Children

San Francisco is known for being a dog-lover’s paradise. In fact, statistics show that the city has more registered dogs than children under 18!

10. The Painted Ladies Survived the 1906 Earthquake

These iconic Victorian homes, often photographed with the San Francisco skyline in the background, miraculously survived the devastating 1906 earthquake and fire that destroyed much of the city.

11. There’s a Hidden Prison Beneath the Ferry Building

During the early 1900s, the basement of the Ferry Building was used as a holding cell for criminals before they were transported to Alcatraz. Most people walk past it every day without realizing the eerie history beneath their feet!

12. You Can Still See a Piece of the Gold Rush Era

One of the few remaining Gold Rush-era ships, the "Niantic," is buried beneath the city streets near the Transamerica Pyramid. San Francisco’s shoreline has moved so much over time that old ships were repurposed as foundations for buildings.

13. San Francisco’s Weather Changes in a Blink

Mark Twain (allegedly) once said, "The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco." The microclimates here are wild—you can be sweating in the Mission District and freezing in the foggy Sunset neighborhood within the same hour!

14. The City Has an “Open-Air” Billionaire’s Club

One of the most expensive streets in the U.S., Billionaire’s Row, is found in San Francisco’s Pacific Heights neighborhood. It boasts breathtaking views and is home to tech moguls, famous athletes, and industry leaders.

15. You Can Slide Down a Hidden Street Slide

Seward Street in the Castro district has a set of concrete slides hidden in a small neighborhood park. Designed by a 14-year-old in the 1970s, they’re free to ride—just bring some cardboard for extra speed!

Final Thoughts

San Francisco is a city full of surprises, rich history, and quirky charm. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there’s always something new to discover!

Which fun fact surprised you the most? Let us know in the comments!