San Francisco, California Attractions

Lombard Street North Beach San Francisco Zoo Alcatraz

Fisherman’s Wharf. Known for its historic waterfront, Fisherman’s Wharf has something for everyone. Wander along the seemingly never-ending piers and enjoy breathtaking views of San Francisco Bay and Golden Gate Bridge along with fresh crab, clam chowder and sourdough bread. Pier 39 beckons with shops, restaurants, street performers and sunbathing seals. For more information, visit www.fishermanswharf.org.

Golden Gate Park. San Francisco’s Golden Park offers a relaxing refuge from the hustle and bustle of city life. Highlights include the Japanese Tea Garden, the de Young Museum, the Conservatory of Flowers, Stow Lake (paddle boat rides, anyone?) and plenty of trails that are perfect for taking a leisurely stroll. For more information, visit www.sfgov.org/site/recpark_page.asp?id=17796.

Lombard Street. There is one section of Lombard Street in San Francisco that has to be seen to be believed. Located not far from Fisherman’s Wharf, this steep, wildly curved portion has become known as the “crookedest street in the world.” Travel east and you’ll encounter Telegraph Hill to Coit Tower while going west will take you through the Marina District, where it becomes the main artery to Golden Gate Bridge. For more information, visit www.sftravel.com/lomabardcrookedstreet.html.

Ghirardelli Square. Treat yourself to a veritable San Francisco landmark, Ghirardelli Square, home of the Ghirardelli Chocolate Company’s flagship store. Savor premium chocolates and out-of-this-world hot fudge sundaes. What’s more, Ghirardelli Square features some of the finest views, galleries, boutiques, culinary treats and special events in the City by the Bay. For more information, visit www.ghirardellisq.com/ghirardellisq/.  [Top]

North Beach. San Francisco’s Little Italy and home of the Beat Generation, North Beach is nestled between Fisherman’s Wharf and Chinatown. Savor authentic Italian meals. Soak up the neighborhood’s history via walking tours. Relax with a cappuccino in one of the many inviting cafés. In short, experience la dolce vita (the sweet life). For more information, visit www.sfnorthbeach.org/.

Chinatown. Rebuilt after the devastating 1906 earthquake, Chinatown is one of San Francisco’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Explore the bustling markets, mysterious alleys, hidden temples and a most popular tourist stop, the Golden Gate Cookie Factory. Established in 1962, the factory still makes 20,000 fortune cookies a day the old-fashioned way-by hand. For more information, visit www.sftravel.com/china.html.  [Top]

San Francisco Zoo. Encounter 250 species of animals at the ever-evolving San Francisco Zoo. Explore the spacious African Savanna exhibit where giraffes, zebras, kudus, ostriches and other African wildlife co-exist in a verdant three-acre habitat. Experience the Lipman Family Lemur Forest, home to five different species of these precious primates from Madagascar. Discover the new Hearst Grizzly Gulch where two female grizzly bears, Kachina and Kiona, reside. For more information, visit www.sfzoo.org/.

Union Square. Expansive malls with name-brand stores like Nordstrom and Bloomingdales. Classic antique stores. Cozy art galleries. World-class restaurants. Major theatres. Inviting cafés. The renowned cable cars. Add them all together and you’ve got Union Square. For more information, visit www.unionsquareshop.com/.  [Top]

Alcatraz. This former federal prison was once home to the infamous “Birdman” (made famous by Burt Lancaster in the film, “The Birdman of Alcatraz”). Today, Alcatraz Island, located in the middle of San Francisco Bay, is a top-notch tourist attraction. Explore the prison (what’s left of it) that also housed Al Capone and discover the West Coast’s first-and oldest-working lighthouse. For more information, visit www.nps.gov/alcatraz.

Asian Art Museum. One of the largest museums in the western world devoted exclusively to Asian art, the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco features more than 17,000 pieces in its storied collection. Experience 6,000 years of history that includes seven major regions and the cultures of numerous countries. For more information, visit www.asianart.org/.  [Top]