The fourth most populous city in California and the fourteenth in the U.S., California’s exciting City By the Bay has everything an urban junkie could want, yet the city evokes enough natural beauty and charm to please even those who prefer a more placid lifestyle. Indeed, San Francisco has the whole lot - from quirky neighborhoods, unique cultural opportunities, and professional sporting events to scenery that will knock your socks off. Add to that the best in architecture, dining, and lodging and you’ll have a complete vacation package to suit a variety of tastes.
One of the best ways to take in this hilly city is by traversing its wonderful neighborhoods. Each is a bit different. Some are historic while others recently emerged. A handful are ethnic, while others contain a melting pot of individuals who’ve decided to make this beautiful city their home. Start with a visit to the nation’s largest Chinatown, where you can shop for Asian treasures, chow down on the best in Chinese cuisine, or even purchase a few remedies from an ancient “herb shop.” Guests can also learn more about the Chinese in San Francisco with a visit to the Chinese Cultural Center. For more ethnic pride, head to North Beach, also known as “Little Italy.” The perfect place to grab an espresso or gelato, North Beach is known for its vibrant nightlife and is also home to famous Telegraph Hill and the Coit Tower. The largely-Hispanic Mission District is the oldest neighborhood in the city and home to fine examples of early California architecture. On the other hand, SoMa (South of Market) and Yerba Buena are up-and-coming neighborhoods that are quickly becoming popular with the younger set. Also not to be missed are Union Square, Nob Mill, and the newly rejuvenated Embarcadero.
Of course, there are a number of famous landmarks that must be seen during any visit to exciting San Francisco. Many are accessible via the city’s famous Cable Car system while others are best reached on foot. Fisherman’s Wharf has always been one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. This area by the bay is home to numerous restaurants and food stalls peddling the town’s famous sourdough bread and scrumptious seafood. From vibrant Fisherman’s Wharf, visitors can also head to Ghirardelli Square, Cannery Row, Pier 39, and The Anchorage to do a little shopping. A visit to San Francisco wouldn’t be complete without a boat ride around San Francisco Bay and a stop at the famous Alcatraz prison. Located on a rock in the middle of the water, a trip to Alcatraz is fascinating but requires plenty of advance planning, as boats fill up months in advance during peak tourist season. You’ll also want to be sure to take a drive down the “Crookedest Street in the U.S.”, Lombard Street. For one block, this steep avenue consists of nail-biting hairpin turns winding through some of the prettiest Victorian homes in the city. Though you can admire it from a number of points throughout the city, most visitors make it a point of taking a drive across the famous Golden Gate Bridge. To truly appreciate the immensity of the bridge, travel its 8,991 feet and spend some time in pretty Marin County at the other end.
If you’ve had enough of the city, you’ll find that San Francisco also boasts a number of wonderful natural attractions, thanks to its ideal location on the Pacific. Head to rugged Ocean Beach for a chance to go surfing or kite flying, or travel to the top of Twin Peaks for a look at the city from 910 feet in the air. Enjoy a day at the Golden Gate National Recreation Area or travel to the nearby Napa or Sonoma Valley and explore Northern California’s prolific wine-making region.
