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HomeTopics...Us Vacation SpotsSan Francisco
San Francisco Tourism: Enjoying Tourism in San FranciscoWind through Lombard's curves and the maze of hills and one-way streets; dine at distinguished restaurants like Scoma's at Fisherman's Wharf and shop at some of America's finest stores in Union Square. San Francisco has it all, from shopping and dining to sightseeing and taking pleasure in green spaces and waterways.
While visiting San Francisco, keep in mind that San Francisco's weather is mild, but the characteristic fog that hangs over the peninsula and sea breezes can dramatically change the temperature. Layering is an important concept for the San Francisco traveler. Bridges are an important aspect of transportation in the city by the bay. Be prepared for bridge traffic during rush hour and bridge tolls enforced for bridge maintenance and upkeep. Bridge tolls can run from three to five dollars. If you'd rather not drive, you can take the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit), a train system that also runs underground like a subway. The cost depends on the distance traveled, but be prepared for a pricey ticket.
The Golden Gate Bridge and Recreation AreaThe forty-eight square mile peninsula houses great landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, one of the longest single-span suspension bridges ever built. For many years the Golden Gate Bridge has been a symbolic entry into the city. Bordering the Golden Gate Bridge is the Golden Gate Recreation area, a stunning green space for hikers and cyclists or anyone looking for a break from the big city skyline.
The Golden Gate National Recreation Area is home to the legendary Alcatraz Island, a maximum-security federal prison that once held notorious criminals like Al Capone and Machine Gun Kelly. Alcatraz is no longer a working penitentiary but offers guided tours to visitors. Ferries cross the harbor, offering breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the city's skyline. While in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, look for the Presidio, San Francisco's Army post, recently closed in 1994. Military enthusiasts might also enjoy Fort Point, the West Coast's main military stronghold in the 1800s. Hiking trails abound in the area. Take the opportunity to visit the Cliff House, established in 1863. The Cliff House, originally built as a viewing area for sea lions and other sea life, also offers stunning sunsets and fine dining.
San Francisco Parks and MuseumsSan Francisco boasts other famous parks and activities. For garden hobbyists, the Japanese Tea Garden and Strybing Arboretum located in Golden Gate Park offer a variety of plant designs and textures. Golden Gate Park is also home to other worthwhile sites including the Morrison Planetarium, the Natural History Museum and the famous Steinhart Aquarium.
Shopping in San FranciscoShopping is one of the mainstays of San Francisco tourism. Union Square, located in the heart of San Francisco's shopping district, is a collection of upscale stores that include names like Cartier, Armani, Saks Fifth Avenue, and others.
If your taste leans away from the ultra elegant, try shopping at the famous Ghirardelli Square, a collection of specialty stores that occupy the old Ghirardelli Chocolate Company. Also, within walking distance of Ghirardelli Square is the old Del Monte fruit cannery whose warehouse has been converted into shops, art galleries and restaurants. The Cannery, as it is now known, is a popular place for street vendors and people watching.
Fisherman's WharfFisherman's Wharf is another of the great mainstays of San Francisco tourism. Its close proximity to the Golden Gate Bridge, commuter ferries and cable cars make Fisherman's Wharf the most visited destination in San Francisco.
Fisherman's Wharf is a collection of shops, restaurants, import houses and museums. Fresh crabs are boiled in large pots the way they were in the early years when fisherman came back with their catch. Today, the smell of crabs and sourdough bread beckons visitors walking past market vendors.
Riding San Francisco's Cable CarsA one-way ride for three dollars is a wonderful opportunity to ride into the history of old San Francisco. The cable car system, established in 1873 by Andrew Smith Hallidie, still provides local transportation to San Francisco residents and offers visitors a glimpse of the local neighborhoods of San Francisco.
Tourism in San Francisco's Diverse NeighborhoodsPart of the charm of San Francisco is the local flair, from fashionable to funky. The diversity is apparent as one travels from San Francisco's Financial District, to the downtown shopping district, Chinatown and the famous Haight-Ashbury. Each district illustrates a unique identity with specialty shops, restaurants, bars and people.
Other Sites in San FranciscoHere are some other famous places worth visiting while in the City by the Bay:
Tourism Spots Near San FranciscoTravelers to San Francisco might also be interested in other local spots. Visit Berkeley, home to the famous University of California, Berkeley and lively shops, restaurants and bars. Or, take a ferry to Sausalito, a small artist community at the tip of Marin County. You can also travel east to Niles Canyon (near Fremont) where many of the early westerns were filmed with some of the great silent screen actors like Charlie Chaplin.
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