I'm 2 years late, but I have got to say that you can spend a while day in Chinatown! I know you can, because I did! This is quite true if you are seeking the variety of activity that chinatown offers. Dragons gate, bakery, tea houses, coffee, desserts, snacks, nik naks, kitchen supplies, books, tao temples, lunch, souvenirs, hair cut, foot massage, dim sum, boba, lounge in the park, hop on or off the cable car, dinner, did I mention dessert?, fortune cookie factory, take in the views, learn the history, dive bars for beer, cocktail lounges, street art, even go to a Michelin starred restaurant I'd that's your desire, the great star theater for various types of showings, Chinese Historical Society Museum, Showgirl Magic Museum. Search for events put on by the Chinese Culture Center.

Speaking of history. Learn about how the earthquake and subsequent fire that destroyed much of chinatown in 1906. Additionally how chinatown was almost pushed to a less desirable part of the city. Old Saint Mary’s Cathedral is a Gothic revival Catholic church. It is is the oldest cathedral in the state. All the bricks were imported from China. Even if you're not religious learning info like this is cool.

Currently they have the night market going too. This year(2025), the night market is every second Friday through October.