San Francisco is an area that is rich with historical sites and unique places to see. It is well known for its shopping areas, restaurants, and nightlife, but there are several museums, natural areas, and cultural landmarks that are worth visiting as well.
Bay Cruise
Image via Flickr by Bob Hall
One of the best ways to see the overall view of San Francisco is on a Bay Cruise, which takes passengers around Alcatraz and beneath the Golden Gate Bridge. It offers an option to take a break from walking around the city, where you can rest your feet and view the unique architecture that makes up this area of San Francisco. It can be chilly when the fog and breeze come in from the bay, so plan to wear layers.
The Exploratorium
Image via Flickr by Sonny Abesamis
Families traveling to San Francisco will enjoy a visit to the Exploratorium, a famous, hands-on museum for guests of all ages. It is home to more than 600 different exhibits, which teach children about science, the human body, outer space, and more. It is a great activity for a rainy day, which tends to happen approximately 73 days per year in this city.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Image via Flickr by Pedro Szekely
A popular spot for tourists in San Francisco is Fisherman’s Wharf, which includes Pier 39 and some popular art galleries and museums. It is also a great spot to relax at a waterfront restaurant and feast on a delicious bowl of fresh clam chowder in a homemade bread bowl.
Chinatown
Image via Flickr by army.arch
If you are looking for delicious and authentic Chinese dishes, make sure to pay a visit to this area of San Francisco. Many of these restaurants are family owned, each with their own delicious recipes and flavors. You can also shop for authentic Chinese teas at some of the tea shops, or sample pastries and fortune cookies at Chinese bakeries. If you want to have a true Chinatown experience, consider taking a food tour with a guide who can take you to the top restaurants.
AT&T Park
Image via Flickr by HarshLight
One of the favorite activities of locals and visitors to San Francisco is watching a Giants game at AT&T Park. You can sample delicious favorites, such as rock-cod tacos, fresh fruit and whipped cream, or bacon-topped hot dogs, in one of the foodie capitals of the country. Save on hotels close to the baseball stadium by visiting http://www.gogobot.com/.
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Image via Flickr by Jo Anslow
Art aficionados could spend several days taking in the more than 29,000 works of art housed in this museum. It has been part of the San Francisco landscape since 1935 and was the first museum on the West Coast to dedicate itself solely to 20th century art. It includes pieces from famous artists such as Henri Matisse, Jackson Pollock, and more.
San Francisco is a great vacation destination, whether you are traveling with children or with a significant other for a romantic getaway. Be sure to check out these attractions to help create a memorable and enjoyable vacation.