TOP 10 THINGS NOT TO MISS IN SAN FRANCISCO

Golden Gate Bridge

One of the nicest things about visiting San Francisco is that, although the city is “big” in terms of attractions and amenities, it is geographically small – only 49 square miles. That make it very easy to see and do a great many things in a short period of time.

You could also spend weeks in San Francisco and still not experience everything the city has to offer. Here is a suggested list of the top 28 things not to miss in San Francisco, according to the San Francisco Travel Association:

1) Walk Over the Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge, the most famous bridge in the world, manages to impress even the most experienced travelers with its stunning 1.7-mile span. Approximately 120,000 automobiles drive across it every day. A pedestrian walkway also allows crossing on foot, and bikes are allowed on the western side. The Golden Gate Bridge is said to be one of the most photographed things on Earth, so ready your camera of choice and be sure to share with #AlwaysSF.

2) Ride a Cable Car

Cable Car

Cable cars have been transporting people around San Francisco since the late 19th century. The cars run on tracks and are moved by an underground cable along three routes. Their familiar bells can be heard ringing from blocks away. Tickets ($7) may be purchased at the cable car turnarounds at the ends of each route. Each one-way ride will provide spectacular views of the city’s celebrated hills, as well as an exhilarating ride.
RIDE THE CABLE CAR WITH SAN FRANCISCO CITYPASS

3) Visit the Rock

Alcatraz, the notorious former prison, is located on an island of the same name in the middle of San Francisco Bay. Some of the United States’ most notorious criminals were incarcerated there. Though several tried, no inmate ever made a successful escape from “The Rock.” The prison was closed in the 1960s and stories about Alcatraz are legendary. A visit to Alcatraz today is fascinating. Recorded cell-house tours are available, allowing visitors to learn about the prison as they explore the buildings and grounds. To reach the island, take an Alcatraz Cruises ferry from Pier 33. Advance reservations are recommended, 415-981-ROCK (7625). www.alcatrazcruises.com
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Sea Lions

4) See the Sea Lions

Fisherman’s Wharf is also home to PIER 39, a festive waterfront marketplace that is one of the city’s most popular attractions. A community of California sea lions has taken up residence on the docks in the PIER 39 Marina and visitors line the nearby railing to watch their antics. From there, it’s a short walk to the San Francisco Dungeon and Madame Tussauds, Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, historic Boudin Bakery, and multiple favorite food options, including crab vendors selling walk-away crab and shrimp cocktails.

5) Have a Picnic in a Park

It's always a great idea to picnic in the park before Karl the Fog rolls in. Dolores Park is the perfect place to enjoy sunny afternoons. With nearly 16 acres of grassy areas, you can play, lounge, and people watch, all with a gorgeous view of the city. The Presidio is another San Francisco favorite. There are so many places within its more than 2 square miles to lay down a blanket and enjoy a meal. You can also picnic in the iconic Golden Gate Park, where you'll find scenic spots at the Conservatory of Flowers and outside the California Academy of Sciences. Here are some other best places to have a picnic in San Francisco.

6) Go to an Outdoor Festival

 Stern Grove Festival

Outdoor festivals have been a popular San Francisco activity for people of all ages. The Yerba Buena Gardens Festival takes place during the summer months of May-October, hosting dining, shopping and cultural activities for the whole family. The Stern Grove Festival, a San Francisco tradition since 1938, is a free outdoor music festival that has welcomed performers like The Doobie Brothers, Talib Kweli, and others. Visit Golden Gate Park for the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass music festival, which happens every October.
MORE OUTDOOR EVENTS IN SF

7) Go on a Walking Tour

The best way to see and experience San Francisco is on foot. Wild SF Walking Tours offers a food crawl, a tour of the Castro & Mission District, and a Haunted San Francisco Ghost Tour. Go Behind the Scenes at AT&T Park, the home of the San Francisco Giants. You'll have access to the player's dugout, luxury suites, and more. There are walking tours for foodies, too! Local Tastes of the City Tours lets you learn about the food history and culture in neighborhoods such as North Beach, Chinatown, and others. You'll make stops along the way to taste all of the unique foods originating from different cultures.
MORE WALKING TOURS

8) See a Show

The Warfield Theater

From rock and pop to hip hop and jazz, San Francisco is a hub for every music genre. Venues like The Fillmore, The Warfield Theater, and The Masonic are some of San Francisco's most legendary music halls, welcoming musicians from all over the world. Past musical acts at these historic venues include MGMT, Jimi Hendrix, Prince, and many more. SFJAZZ Center hosts concerts as well as classes and workshops designed for aspiring musicians.

MORE PLACES TO SEE CONCERTS

9) Experience Illuminate SF

Want to know what's glowing on in San Francisco? Illuminate SF is an ongoing festival of light art that showcases over 30 installations scattered throughout 17 neighborhoods of San Francisco. Admire light art on buildings, sidewalks, restaurants, cars, and more.

10) Visit the historic Presidio

The Walt Disney Family Museum

What was a former military base is now a national park and a National Historic Landmark District, widely known for its natural beauty, art and culture, and much more. If you're visiting with kids, don't pass on a visit to The Walt Disney Family Museum, which is full of interactive exhibits and Disney artifacts.
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Well, what are you waiting for? There are tons of things to do and discover in San Francisco, whether it's your first or tenth time visiting.

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