By Lauren Wise
San Francisco has been seen as a tourist destination for decades. It is known for its architecture, seaside atmosphere, culture, cuisine and art. It could even be considered the
New York of the West Coast. When visiting San Francisco, it is smart to know the main attractions that you want to see in the city to make your trip as easy, educational and entertaining as possible.
Aquarium By the Bay
This aquarium his located right on the water and has over 20,000 marine species that you can view through clear tunnels and walls. This is a great attraction for families or couples, and the entry fee is not very expensive. It is located among a variety of great restaurants and street entertainment, so it is a good thing to schedule for an entire day. The aquarium is open daily except on Christmas.
Aquarium By the Bay
Pier 39
The Embarcadero at beach Street
San Francisco, CA 94133
Pier 39
Pier 39 is where the aquarium is located, and as stated before, this is a great way to spend half a day besides visiting the aquarium. Between the street entertainers, the people watching, live sea lion watching, a marketplace, over 110 stores, numerous restaurants with seaside views and fresh seafood, there is something for everyone. This is an ideal area to hang out in for couples, families, and anyone who wants to experience the energetic lifestyle of San Francisco.
Pier 39
P.O. Box 193730
San Francisco, CA 94119-3730
Alcatraz Cruises
Located out of Fisherman's Wharf beginning at 9 a.m., these cruise boats bring groups of visitors to Alcatraz Island to experience the famous prison which is one of San Francisco's top attractions. This prison held famous inmates such as Al Capone, and you can walk through the cells, the old library, and all the areas that inmates had to work and play. Don't worry about not catching the boat; there are ten to fifteen daily cruises that depart from the pier. Booking these cruises helps you get a discount on entrance to Alcatraz, and access to specialty tours of the prison.
Alcatraz Cruises
Pier 33, Alcatraz Landing
San Francisco, CA 94111
Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park is a legendary attraction that is larger than Central Park in New York City; over a thousand acres. It includes Botanical Gardens, a display of California redwoods, a Japanese Tea Garden, a playground and area for children, restaurants, the Asian Art Museum and an aquarium, to name a few things within the park. There are also horse stables, tennis and polo courts, a golf course, fishing, bowling and baseball fields. This is an ideal place to spend a day with a picnic and outside activities as a family or couple.
Ghirardelli Square
This square is famous for its shopping and waterfront dining in historic San Francisco Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory in the Fisherman's Wharf. This square holds the annual Chocolate Festival in the Fall, and some of the tastiest chocolate can be found here.
Ghirardelli Square
900 North Point St
San Francisco, CA 94109
Golden Gate Bridge
This two-mile long landmark suspension bridge is a beautiful sight to see that connects Marin County and San Francisco. You can experience it by walking across it, riding bikes, driving, or viewing it from underneath where there is Baker's Beach with tide pools and outside activities.
Golden Gate Bridge
US Hwy 101 San Francisco CA
Conservatory of Flowers
This flower conservatory has been renovated and resembles a Victoria era building. Located in Golden Gate Park, it houses four rooms with different plant environments, including lowland tropics, highland tropics, aquatics and potted plants. View the six feet wide water lilies and other plant wonders as a family in under an hour.
Conservatory of Flowers
JFK Drive
Golden Gate Park
San Francisco, CA
About the Author:
Lauren Wise has more than eight years' experience as a writer, editor, copywriter and columnist. She specializes in food, wine, music and pop culture. Her writing has appeared in various magazines, including "Runway," "A2Z," "Scottsdale Luxury Living" and "True West." Wise holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from Arizona State University.
