| Chase Center Quick Guide | Details |
|---|---|
| Home Team | Golden State Warriors (NBA); also hosts Golden State Valkyries (WNBA), SF Dons (NCAA) |
| Opened | September 6, 2019 |
| Capacity | 18,064 (basketball); ~19,500 (concerts) |
| Best Value Seats | Sideline Club (100-level, good sightlines with club perks) |
| Premium Seating | Pepsi Club, Modelo Cantina, United Club, Ultra Club, Chase Club, J.P. Morgan Club, along with suites and courtside lounges |
| Top Arena Foods | Bay Area favorites by Levy & Bon Appétit; Gotta’s Roadside recommended by TripAdvisor |
| Nearby Bars | Mission Bay neighborhood bars, plus downtown SF hotspots—easy access for pre/post‑game |
| Closest Hotels | Hotel VIA (boutique with rooftop bar, <1 mi), plus Embarcadero and CalTrain area stays |
| Transit Access | UCSF/Chase Center Muni Metro (T Third Street), event ticket doubles as all-day Muni pass; nearby ferry & bike valet too |
🔍 Need a custom plan for your Warriors or concert gameday?
Use our Gameday Guides planning tool to get personalized tips on where to sit, what to eat, and where to stay near Chase Center.
Best Seats At the Chase Center
Chase Center opened in 2019 in San Francisco’s Mission Bay neighborhood as the Golden State Warriors’ $1.4 billion home, replacing Oracle Arena across the bay in Oakland. The arena seats 18,064 for Warriors games and has become one of the premier NBA venues in the country with stunning views of the San Francisco Bay, cutting-edge technology, and a food scene that actually competes with what’s outside the building. The surrounding Thrive City development features restaurants, bars, and a waterfront promenade that make this feel less like a stadium district and more like a neighborhood that happens to have an NBA arena. Mission Bay is still developing—lots of new construction, tech offices, and chain restaurants—but the bones are there for a solid pre/post-game experience.
Seating Overview
Chase Center uses a traditional NBA bowl layout with lower level (100s), club level (C sections and 200s), and upper level (400s). The Warriors bench is in front of sections 102-103; the visitor’s bench is in front of sections 116-117.
The Sweet Spot: Lower Level Sideline (Sections 103-104, 115-116): Sections 103-104 behind the Warriors bench and sections 115-116 behind the visitor’s bench are the best regular seats in the house—close enough to hear coaches yelling, see plays develop, and feel the energy without paying courtside prices. You’re at center court with perfect sightlines, and rows are numbered 1-20 with lower rows putting you right on top of the action. These are where i would start.
Pricing runs $250-$700+ depending on opponent and row. Lakers, Celtics, or playoff games hit the high end; weekday games against rebuilding teams go cheaper. These are the seats you want if you’re splurging on a Warriors game.
Best Value: Upper Level Center Court (Sections 201 to 203, 217 to 219): Upper level center court sections behind the baskets (201-203, 217-219) offer elevated views at budget-friendly prices. You’re high up but directly behind the action, which gives you a different perspective on how plays develop. Tickets often go for $60-$150 depending on opponent.
The catch: You’re far from the floor, and fast breaks toward the opposite basket can be hard to track. But the view of the entire court is solid, and you’ll save hundreds compared to lower bowl.
Corner Sections: Solid Views, Mid-Tier Pricing (Sections 106 to 108, 112 to 114): Corner sections on the lower level offer angled views of the court at prices between midcourt and upper deck. Sections 106-108 and 112-114 run $150-$400 depending on opponent and row. You’re not at center court, but you’re still in the lower bowl with padded seats and close enough to feel the game.
Good for fans who want proximity without paying $500+ per ticket. Just know that watching plays develop toward the opposite basket can be tricky from this angle.
What to Avoid: Deep Upper Corners: Upper level corner sections (sections 204-208, 214-220) are too far from the action and have awful angles. You’re watching from a mile away at an awkward diagonal. Only sit here if tickets are dirt cheap or you’re just trying to be in the building for a playoff atmosphere
Premium Seating Options
Chase Center’s premium clubs are legitimately elite—136 suites, 60 theatre boxes, and multiple club levels with all-inclusive food and drink.
Courtside Lounge Suites (12-16 Guests)
The most exclusive option at Chase Center—private suites at court level with direct sightline to the floor. Each suite includes 16 VIP tickets (12 with lower-row seating directly outside the lounge), 2 VIP parking passes with private entrance, all-inclusive gourmet dining with full bar, private butler service, oversized media wall, Napa-inspired vaulted ceiling design, and upscale private restrooms.
Pricing runs $15,000-$25,000+ per suite for Warriors games. This is the ultimate white-glove experience—you’re watching from a luxury lounge with unlimited food and drinks, then stepping out to courtside seats when you want to be in the action.
Who it’s for: High-end corporate entertainment, special occasions, or groups splitting costs who want the absolute best Chase Center experience.
Club Suites (16-30 Guests)
Located in a ring between the upper and lower bowl, Club Suites offer private lounge areas with plush seating, high-top tables, TVs, in-suite catering options, dedicated suite attendant, and club access to premium lounges. Pricing runs $8,000-$20,000 depending on suite size and opponent.
Great for corporate groups or splitting costs with 15-20 friends. You get all the suite perks—private space, catering, attendant service—without the courtside price tag.
Theatre Boxes (4 Guests)
Theatre Boxes are the small-group premium option—4 premium seats in a semi-private box with VIP parking and entry, gourmet dining, private lounge table with dedicated table service, and club access. Pricing runs up to $4,000 for Warriors games.
Perfect for couples or small VIP groups who want premium amenities without renting a full suite.
VIP Courtside Club (Sections AA & BB)
VIP Courtside Club seats are just behind the lower bowl with access to the JP Morgan Club featuring gourmet dining, private bars, lounge seating, comfortable padded chairs with extra legroom, and private restrooms. Pricing runs $300-$800+ per seat.
Who it’s for: Fans who want club access, upscale food and drink, and great sightlines without going full suite. This is the sweet spot for premium seating if you’re attending solo or with one other person.
Sideline Club (Sections 126-129)
Sideline Club includes access to the Pepsi Club with energetic vibe, craft cocktails, elevated concessions, and padded seats in the lower bowl. Pricing runs $200-$500 per seat.
Mid-tier premium option—you get club perks and better food/drink than general concessions, but you’re not quite at the VIP Courtside level.
Check out the Chase Center Website for contact information about premium seating options and a fuller up to date overview of the amenities.
Chase Center Seating Chart
The Chase Center has a seating capacity of approximately 18,064 for basketball games, making it an intimate yet vibrant venue for Golden State Warriors games and various events. For a detailed seating chart to help you choose your seats and plan your visit, you can refer to the official Chase Center website: Chase Center Seating Chart.
Tickets to Golden State Warriors Games
To purchase tickets for Warriors games and other Chase Center events, here are your options:
- Get Golden State Warriors Tickets Here! Buy the best tickets to the Warriors or any event at Chase Center through the link provided.
- Official Chase Center Website: Visit chasecenter.com/ticketinfo to buy tickets. You can also join the Dub Club for access to exclusive presale opportunities.
- Golden State Warriors Website: Explore single game ticket options and browse 100% verified authentic resale tickets at nba.com/warriors/tickets. Additionally, consider becoming a Season Ticket Member for premium seating and exclusive benefits.
- Warriors + Chase Center Mobile App: Download the Warriors + Chase Center Mobile App to conveniently access and manage your tickets for Warriors games and other Chase Center events.
- Advance Ticket Purchase Recommended: If you plan to buy tickets at the stadium gate for a same-day game, be aware that availability may be limited. It is highly recommended to purchase your tickets in advance.
Chase Center Bag Policy
Bags 14 x 6 x 14 inches maximum. Backpacks of any size are prohibited. All bags over 4 x 6 inches must be scanned by x-ray before entry.
Bag check available for $10 donation to the Warriors Community Foundation. Located near the East Entrance on the corner of Terry A Francois Blvd and 16th Street. This is rare for major arenas—most don’t offer bag check at all.
Pack light if possible. Security lines move faster without bags.
Chase Center Policies
Chase Center is entirely cashless. Credit cards, debit cards, and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) accepted everywhere. Cash-to-Card kiosks convert cash into prepaid debit cards usable anywhere in the venue. Locations: Main Concourse (Portal 10 and 22), Upper Concourse (Portal 46 and 55), and by the Chase Center Box Office.
To stay updated on all policies at the Chase Center click here.
Getting to the Chase Center
If you’re considering public transportation to reach the Chase Center you’re smart, here are some useful tips:
Best move: MUNI Metro T-Line. Your event ticket is a free all-day MUNI pass, so you can ride anywhere in the city before and after the game. The T-Line stops directly at Chase Center—you walk off the train and you’re at the arena gates. No parking fees, no traffic, no hassle.
From downtown SF or BART: Take the Central Subway to the new Union Square/Market Street Station, then transfer to the T-Line toward Sunnydale. The Central Subway cuts 20 minutes off your commute on event days compared to old routes.
From East Bay (BART): Get off at Powell Station or 16th Street Mission Station, then hop on the 78X or 79X Arena Express buses that run direct shuttle service to Chase Center during events. Free with your event ticket.
From Peninsula (Caltrain): Take Caltrain to San Francisco 4th & King Station, then transfer to the T-Line at the platform on 4th Street between King and Berry. Ride to UCSF/Chase Center (16th Street stop).
From Oakland/Alameda (Ferry): Ferry service runs from Pier 48½ in SF to Oakland and Alameda on Warriors home game days. Scenic route across the bay, then a short walk to the arena.
If you’re biking: Free bike valet opens 1 hour before tip-off along 16th Street on the south side of the arena. Bay Wheels bike share stations are all over Mission Bay if you don’t have your own bike.
If you must drive: Expect to pay $40-$60 for parking in nearby garages. Traffic getting out after games is brutal. Seriously, just take MUNI
Parking and Rideshare Options
If you’re driving (though I still recommend MUNI), here are the best garages with realistic pricing and walking times:
150 Warriors Way Garage – Directly adjacent to Chase Center, 3-minute walk across the street. Prepaid parking runs $50-$60 for events. This is the premium convenience option—park, walk across the street, you’re in. Exit traffic is brutal after games, but location can’t be beat. ADA parking available first-come, first-served.
Mercedes-Benz Garage (99 Warriors Way) – Literally at Chase Center (Level P3), 1-3 minute walk. Event day rates vary but typically $50. You can prepay via SpotHero or grab a parking stub on arrival. Same exit traffic issues as 150 Warriors Way, but you’re parked under the arena which is convenient. ADA spaces available.
Lot A / Pier 48 – About 4-5 blocks from Chase Center along the waterfront. SpotHero rates around $40. Longer walk but cheaper, and you avoid some of the worst exit congestion since you’re not directly in the Mission Bay cluster. Good compromise between price and convenience.
Lot C (3rd & Mission Rock Street) – 4-8 blocks from Chase Center. Runs $40-$50 and fills up early. Surface lot, so expect to walk a bit but you’ll save $10-$20 versus the garages right at the arena.
China Basin Garage (920 3rd Street) – 14-minute walk from Chase Center. Around $25. Best budget option if you don’t mind the walk. You’re farther out but easier exit after games and way cheaper.
Pro tip: Book parking ahead via SpotHero or ParkWhiz. Day-of parking fills up fast and costs more. If there’s a concurrent Giants game at Oracle Park, Mission Bay turns into absolute gridlock—park north of Oracle Park instead and walk/MUNI over.
Rideshare & Waymo
Uber/Lyft drop-off: Easy before the game—drivers drop you along Terry A Francois Blvd near the arena entrances.
Uber/Lyft pickup after games: Designated rideshare pickup is on Terry A Francois Blvd (southbound side). Surge pricing hits hard after Warriors games—expect $50-$100+ for rides back to downtown SF or across the bay. Wait times can exceed 30 minutes as thousands of fans flood the pickup zone.
Better move: Walk 5-10 minutes away from Chase Center toward 3rd Street or King Street, then request your Uber/Lyft. You’ll skip the surge zone and save money.
Yes, Waymo is available at Chase Center. The autonomous robotaxis pick up and drop off at a designated area one block west of the arena. Over 12,000 Waymo rides have ended in the Mission Bay census tract during Warriors games and concerts, making it one of the busiest Waymo zones in SF.
How it works: Download the Waymo One app, request a ride, and the driverless car picks you up. No driver, no awkward small talk, no surge pricing drama (Waymo pricing is generally fixed). Friday and Saturday night games see the highest Waymo demand.
Why it’s better than Uber/Lyft for Chase Center: Fixed pricing (no surge), pickup zone is less chaotic than the main rideshare area, and you’re not competing with 18,000 other fans for a human driver. The novelty of riding in an autonomous car is a bonus.
Strategy: Use Waymo for pickups after games. The designated Waymo zone one block west avoids the worst of the Terry A Francois Blvd rideshare chaos, and you’ll likely get picked up faster than waiting for an Uber with 4.9x surge pricing.
Chase Center Insider Tips
Chase Center sits in Mission Bay, which is still being built out with new apartments, offices, and restaurants. The immediate area is Thrive City—the development around the arena with bars, restaurants, and a waterfront promenade . MUNI T-line drops you right at the arena, and parking is available but expensive.
Food inside Chase Center
Chase Center’s food game is legitimately good—local SF vendors, fresh ingredients, and actual thought put into the menu.
Sam’s Chowder House Lobster Roll – Generous portions of fresh lobster from the Half Moon Bay restaurant’s food truck. Steep at $22, but worth it for quality seafood. Order via the Chase Center app for instant pickup.
Señor Sisig Filipino-Mexican Fusion – SF-born burrito with sisig pork belly, chicken, or tofu spiced with garlic, onions, chiles, and jalapeños, plus garlic adobo rice, beans, lettuce, pico de gallo, and cilantro cream sauce. Pair with calamansi ginger limeade for the full San Francisco experience.
Old Skool Cafe African Peanut Stew – Rich, flavorful peanut stew served with rice and optional toppings like cheese and cherry tomatoes. $10 vegetarian, $16 with chicken. Go light on the cheese—it gets salty.
Big Nate’s BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich – Sweet, tangy, and filling barbecue sandwich. $15 and messy, so don’t order this if you’re in nice seats. Also features pay-by-face kiosks powered by J.P. Morgan Payments—facial scan to pay without pulling out your phone or card.
Yvonne’s Southern Sweets Mixed Popcorn – Sweet and savory popcorn mix. Great snack option.
No outside food allowed. Unlike some venues, Chase Center doesn’t let you bring in your own snacks.
Random Arena Hacks
Early entry for Chase cardholders: Chase card members can enter 30 minutes before general doors open through a dedicated entrance on the bay side (second floor). This gives you time to grab food, explore the arena, and settle into your seats before the crowds arrive.
Chase Experiences discounts: Chase cardholders get $5 off concessions and $20 off merchandise at Chase Center. Access to Chase Preferred Seating and exclusive presale ticket access for high-demand games and concerts. Flash your Chase card at participating vendors to activate discounts.
Download the Chase Center app before you go and set up mobile ordering. You can order from Sam’s Chowder House, Big Nate’s BBQ, and other vendors for instant pickup without waiting in line. Order while walking to your seat and skip the concession stand chaos.
Secret Entrance Through Miller & Lux Restaurant
There’s a secret entrance to Chase Center through Miller & Lux restaurant in Thrive City. If you’re eating at Miller & Lux before the game, you can walk directly into the arena without dealing with the main entrance crowds. This is a local insider move that most tourists don’t know about.
Explore the Warriors Practice Facility (If You Can Get Access)
The Biofreeze Performance Center is the Warriors’ practice facility attached to Chase Center. It includes players’ weight room, barber shop with two chairs, coaches’ offices with balconies overlooking the court, and state-of-the-art training equipment.
Public tours are typically by guided tour only—not open for walk-ins. If you can get on a tour (check Chase Center website for availability), it’s worth it to see where the Warriors actually train.
Best Photo Ops Inside the Arena
Take time to walk the concourses and snap photos of:
- Warriors championship banners and retired jerseys
- Historic Warriors posters and memorabilia throughout the arena
- Bay views from the upper concourse
- Thrive City waterfront promenade at sunset
Arrive 90+ Minutes Early for Maximum Experience
Doors open 90 minutes before tip-off (Chase cardholders get in at 2 hours before). Show up early to:
- Walk the waterfront promenade and take photos with the bay views
- Check out Warriors memorabilia and posters throughout the arena
- Grab food from Sam’s Chowder House or Señor Sisig before lines get long
- Explore Thrive City events—there’s often live music, activations, or sponsor events outside before games
Hotels Near The Chase Center in San Francisco
When attending events at San Francisco’s Chase Center, you’ll find accommodation options ranging from luxurious stays to budget-friendly picks across several key neighborhoods. The most convenient choices are in SoMa (South of Market), where hotels like LUMA and Hotel VIA put you within walking distance of the venue. For a more classic San Francisco experience, Union Square hotels offer easy access via short taxi rides while placing you in the heart of the city’s shopping and dining scene. Whether you’re seeking waterfront views, boutique charm, or eco-conscious amenities, the city’s diverse hotel landscape ensures you’ll find the perfect base for your Chase Center experience.
Premium & Luxury Hotels near the Chase Center
- LUMA Hotel: Located in the vibrant SoMa neighborhood, LUMA Hotel places you within easy walking distance of the Chase Center. Discover the allure of modernity in our well-appointed rooms, and don’t miss the chance to unwind at our rooftop bar, offering breathtaking vistas of San Francisco.
- The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square: This luxury hotel has a timeless yet modern European style, with oak-paneled restaurants and a stately grandeur lobby. The Landmark Building guest rooms have been recently renovated with a $45 million reinvention. The hotel is the only one directly located on Union Square, with cable cars stopping just outside its doors.
- Hotel VIA: In the heart of SoMa, Hotel VIA is your boutique haven, located less than a mile from the Chase Center. Enjoy seamless connectivity to Muni lines, the scenic Embarcadero, and the CalTrain Station as you revel in the stylish comfort of our establishment.
- The St. Regis: Experience opulence at its finest at The St. Regis, a luxury hotel nestled in the Yerba Buena neighborhood. While a short drive or taxi ride away from the Chase Center, our hotel offers exquisite rooms and a rejuvenating spa, ensuring an indulgent retreat during your visit.
- Hotel Emblem San Francisco: Located in the center of San Francisco’s vibrant Union Square neighborhood, Hotel Emblem invites you to experience its unique blend of style and comfort. Immerse yourself in the allure of our thoughtfully designed rooms, each adorned with distinctive decor. Located just steps away from iconic attractions such as the legendary cable cars and the cultural tapestry of Chinatown, our hotel offers the perfect starting point for your San Francisco adventure.
- Cornell Hotel de France: Tucked away in the Union Square district, the Cornell Hotel de France exudes charm and sophistication. Our intimate hotel boasts cozy rooms adorned with French-inspired decor, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Situated within walking distance of renowned landmarks like the Powell Street cable car and the renowned San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, our establishment is your gateway to an unforgettable San Francisco experience.
- Orchard Garden Hotel: Located in the Financial District, Orchard Garden Hotel is your eco-conscious oasis in the heart of San Francisco. Our modern rooms are designed with sustainability in mind, offering eco-friendly amenities for a guilt-free stay. Explore the city’s finest attractions, including the historic Ferry Building and the Embarcadero Center, all conveniently within walking distance from our green haven.
- Harbor Court Hotel: Right in the heart of San Francisco’s Financial District, Harbor Court Hotel is conveniently within walking distance of the Chase Center. Experience a restful stay in our comfortable rooms and take advantage of our well-equipped fitness center for a rejuvenating experience.
- Hyatt Place San Francisco Downtown: Embrace the modern charm of Hyatt Place San Francisco Downtown, located in the dynamic SoMa neighborhood. Just a short drive or taxi ride from the Chase Center, our hotel offers contemporary rooms and a rooftop bar, providing stunning city views to enhance your stay.
- The Inn at Union Square: Discover the warmth of The Inn at Union Square, ideally located in the Union Square neighborhood. A brief drive or taxi ride away from the Chase Center, our hotel offers inviting and cozy rooms. In the evenings, indulge in our delightful complimentary wine and cheese reception as part of your unforgettable stay.
Budget Hotels near the Chase Center
- Comfort Inn By the Bay: Located near the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf, Comfort Inn By the Bay provides a comfortable and affordable stay. Just a short drive or taxi ride away from the Chase Center, our hotel offers cozy rooms at budget-friendly rates.
- Holiday Inn Golden Gateway: Set in the charming Nob Hill neighborhood, Holiday Inn Golden Gateway provides a modern and convenient base for your stay. With easy access to the Chase Center via a short drive or taxi ride, our hotel offers contemporary rooms and a well-equipped fitness center for your enjoyment.
- Hotel Zephyr: This nautical-themed hotel on Fisherman’s Wharf offers playful décor and waterfront views at reasonable rates. Families especially love the unique ship-cabin style rooms and proximity to Pier 39 attractions. A taxi or rideshare to Chase Center takes about 15 minutes, making it a fun base for those wanting the full San Francisco experience.
- HI San Francisco Downtown Hostel: Perfect for solo travelers and budget-conscious visitors, this modern hostel in Union Square offers both dormitory and private rooms. With 24-hour front desk service, free Wi-Fi, and a central location just minutes from public transportation, it’s an excellent choice for young travelers attending concerts or games.
Neighborhood Considerations:
- SoMa: Closest to venue, modern hotels, but can be quiet after business hours
- Union Square: Best shopping and dining, classic SF experience, 10-15 minute commute to venue
- Financial District: Great value on weekends, walking distance to Chase Center, limited evening dining
- Fisherman’s Wharf: Tourist attractions nearby, family-friendly, longer commute to venue
Bars/Restaurants Near The Chase Center
When it comes to dining near Chase Center, you have several distinct areas to choose from, each offering different vibes and price points. The dining scene has evolved significantly since the arena opened, with Thrive City finally hitting its stride as a legitimate food destination rather than just convenient pregame fuel.
Thrive City: The Heart of Chase Center Dining
Thrive City is a brand new 11-acre community gathering space that has transformed into Mission Bay’s dining hub. The development is experiencing major growth in 2025 with new businesses opening before February’s NBA All-Star Weekend, making it worth exploring beyond just game days.
Currently Open:
- Che Fico Pizzeria – Sourdough crust pizzas with a slice window for busy nights, plus daily churned soft serve gelato
- Gott’s Roadside – The local burger chain with a prime patio overlooking the plaza
- Kayah by Burma Love – The newest addition to the Burma Superstar family with tea leaf salad and premium cocktails on two spacious patios
- Harmonic Brewing – Craft brewery with a patio overlooking the recently opened Bayfront Park
- Dumpling Time – Modern Chinese dining with both indoor and outdoor seating
- Tyler Florence’s Miller & Lux – Upscale steakhouse experience
- Philz Coffee and Cupcakin’ Bake Shop for quick bites
Recently opened
- Splash – A massive 30,000 square foot two-level sports bar from the Pacific Cocktail Haven team
- Señor Sisig – Filipino-Mexican fusion featuring sisig burritos and nachos, opening February 2025
- Fikscue Craft Barbecue – Halal Texas-style BBQ with Indonesian influences
- The Baked Bear – Customizable ice cream sandwiches with fresh cookies
Mission Bay & Waterfront Options
Beyond Thrive City, Mission Bay offers some of San Francisco’s best waterfront dining experiences. These spots provide a more relaxed atmosphere away from event crowds while still being conveniently close to Chase Center.
Mission Rock Resort stands out as San Francisco’s premier waterfront dining destination, perched on the sunny shores with spectacular bay views from every seat. They’re famous for having the city’s best oyster happy hour and serve simply prepared, sustainably sourced seafood.
The Ramp features one of the city’s best patios – huge and overlooking the Bay, making it perfect for group meetups before heading to Chase Center. They offer live music on Fridays and Saturdays, weekend brunch, and a menu featuring house-smoked ribs, al pastor tacos, and seafood risotto.
Flour + Water Pizzeria at Mission Rock serves thick-crusted pepperoni pizza with garlic fries that come with cacio e pepe dipping sauce – an exclusive offering at this location that could salvage even the saddest fries.
Casey’s Pizza in Mission Bay is a neighborhood gem making excellent Neapolitan-style pies. Start with their burrata served with crostini and lemony arugula salad, then move on to pizzas ranging from margherita to a funghi loaded with mushrooms and fresh thyme.
Dogpatch & Nearby Neighborhoods
About a 20-minute walk or short Uber ride from Chase Center, Dogpatch offers more intimate neighborhood dining experiences. This area has become a foodie destination in its own right, with several breweries and acclaimed restaurants that provide better value than the immediate Chase Center area.
Downtown San Francisco Classics
For visitors wanting the full San Francisco dining experience, these downtown restaurants represent the city’s world class culinary excellence:
Current Standouts:
- Prelude in SoMa – The 2024 best new restaurant overall, featuring elevated Southern cuisine in an eight-course tasting menu with dishes like smoked catfish dumplings and fried chicken wing stuffed with dirty rice
- Elena’s in the Mission – An upscale Mexican spot perfect for showing off your outfit while sipping spicy margaritas and devouring cheesy shrimp gobernador tacos
- Z & Y Peking Duck in Chinatown – Authentic Beijing-style Peking duck that opened in 2024, serving only 30 ducks daily (reservations required)
- Mister Jiu’s in Chinatown – The Michelin-starred Chinese-American restaurant that’s considered a pilgrimage site for Chinese Americans who care about food
- State Bird Provisions and The Progress in Fillmore – Nationally acclaimed innovative dining experiences
Fun Things To Do In San Francisco
If you’re coming in from out of town to see an event at the Chase Center, here are just a sliver of some can’t miss iconic SF destinations.
- Golden Gate Bridge: No trip to San Francisco is complete without marveling at the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. You can walk or bike across it for stunning views, or simply admire it from various vantage points like Crissy Field or Battery Spencer.
- Alcatraz Island: Explore the history of Alcatraz Island by taking a ferry to this former prison. The Alcatraz tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of inmates and provides captivating views of the city skyline.
- Fisherman’s Wharf: Discover the bustling waterfront area of Fisherman’s Wharf, known for its seafood restaurants, shops, and attractions like Pier 39 with its sea lions. Don’t miss the chance to sample clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl.
- Chinatown: San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest and one of the most vibrant in North America. Stroll along Grant Avenue, explore hidden alleys, and savor authentic Chinese cuisine. Don’t forget to visit the beautiful Tin How Temple.
- Golden Gate Park: Spend a day in the expansive Golden Gate Park, where you can explore gardens, visit museums like the de Young Museum and California Academy of Sciences, and enjoy outdoor activities such as paddle boating and picnicking.
Chase Center is one of the best NBA arenas in the league—stunning bay views, legitimately great food, and a location in Mission Bay that’s still developing but has solid bones. Sit in lower level sideline sections 103-104 or 115-116 for the best views, hit Mission Rock Resort for waterfront oysters and drinks before the game, and take MUNI T-line to avoid parking hassles. The premium clubs are elite if you can afford them, and the general concessions are way better than typical arena food. The Warriors are back to contending, and Chase Center is buzzing with Silicon Valley money and Dub Nation energy. Don’t sleep on SF.
Here some other west coast sports journeys worth checking out
Crypto.com Arena in LA (formerly the Staples Center)
Written by Brad Richards, Founder of Gameday Guides. This guide includes insights from personal visits as well as updated info from team sources, fan forums, and stadium policies. We aim to help you plan with confidence — enjoy your gameday.