San Francisco CA historic,low-rise architecture and its walkable,intimate neighborhoods are well known. The city is also well-known for its vibrant improv scene and many original shows head to Broadway in New York after starting their runs here.
It is a cultural hub for people of all nationalities,ethnicities and sexual orientations. Most residents are immigrants,making it easy to start a conversation.
1. Golden Gate Bridge
The famous Golden Gate Bridge,at 1.7 miles in length,is one of the greatest engineering feats ever created. The deep-orange Art Deco suspension bridge crosses a namesake strait between San Francisco and Marin County.
Though ferry service had been the primary method of transport across the strait,city officials wanted to speed up growth. Michael O’Shaughnessy,an engineer,proposed a new bridge. He hired Joseph Strauss to design the structure.
2. Fisherman’s Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf,San Francisco’s most famous tourist destination,is a long row of seafood restaurants and quirky attractions. This is a great place to stop for a quick bite,photos and souvenirs.
Tourists and locals alike enjoy watching sea lions fight,lounge around on wooden floating barges or flop about. Another attraction is the classic two-story Carousel!
3. Alamo Square
This verdant hilltop offers breathtaking views. Kids love the dual-level playground and tennis court,while dogs enjoy off-leash time in the sprawling grassy area.
The neighborhood’s food renaissance also makes it a top dining destination. Enjoy a thick bread toast with a cup of coffee at Four Barrel,or try the signature pastas from Che Fico.
4. Chinatown
One of the largest Chinatowns outside of Asia,this historic area oozes with food,culture and heritage. Discover the Street of Painted Balconies where you will find family-run temples and restaurants.
Once upon a time,prostitution was rampant in the alleys (see Bartlett Alley). St. Mary’s Church,at California and Grant survived the earthquake of 1906. This Catholic church offers daily mass and welcomes all.
5. Golden Gate Park
With miles of green lawns,bridle paths and lakes,Golden Gate Park is an outdoor escape that offers a variety of attractions. There are many things to do,from top museums to botanical gardens and Dutch windmills to a bison paddock.
The entire park is free,though some of its attractions charge admission (de Young Museum,California Academy of Sciences). Spreckels Lake is dotted with mature Monterey Cypress trees. You can ride a bicycle or take a stroll around the lake.
6. Haight-Ashbury
Haight-Ashbury was a popular destination for a variety of people during the Summer of Love. The Summer of Love brought together young college students who had no intention to drop out,as well as spiritual groups and former military personnel.
In June 1967,the psychedelic era reached its peak when Haight-area bands were given their first big break by the Monterey Pop Festival. In the area,you can still find tie-dyed T-shirts and love bead necklaces.
7. Alamo Square Theater
Alamo Square has a lot to offer,whether you’re looking to see real-life Painted Ladies and Keanu Reeves favorite juice bar. The charming neighborhood is also home to a number of Instagram-worthy photo opportunities.
Do The Bay and SF Parks Alliance host Sundown Cinema,an awesome free outdoor movie series at iconic San Francisco parks. Enjoy local music,food and entertainment prior to the film. The films will celebrate San Francisco’s neighborhoods.
8. Golden Gate Park Zoo
The zoo in San Francisco is my favorite attraction. The zoo has a great selection of natural exhibits,and many amazing animals who are ambassadors of their species.
9. Haight-Ashbury District
Haight-Ashbury’s heart is located at the intersection between Haight and Ashbury Streets. This is where 1960s flower power blossomed,a counterculture movement that reached its height during the Summer of Love in 1967.
10. Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park is home to top museums,a botanical gardens and bison herds. Golden Gate Park’s scenic landscape includes grassy meadows and bridle trails,as well as lakes.