Things to Do in San Francisco, CA

Union Square is the heart of San Francisco, and is surrounded by hotels and the main shopping areas. It is adjacent to the financial district and one of its skyline landmarks, the pyramid-shaped Transamerica building. Chinatown is just a few blocks away where visitors can explore small shops specializing in Chinese handicrafts and fashions, have lunch at a Chinese restaurant, and afternoon tea at a bakery. Try an almond biscuit or a piece of moon cake.

A "must do" is a ride on a cable car. Four lines operate and connect many of the tourist sites, such as Union Square and Fisherman's Wharf. The system operates via underground cables which pull the cars--some of which are original from the 1800s--over tracks on the streets, as the conductor rings the distinctive bell at street crossings. For a look into history, visit the free Cable Car Museum and Powerhouse located at Mason and Washington, and see the actual cables in operation.

Famous for fresh seafood, Fisherman's Wharf is a working fishing complex along the bay. Bay view restaurants line the waterfront, but a special treat is to sample shrimp and other seafood delicacies from their outside stalls, while strolling on the walkway. Pier 39 is also nearby, offering more restaurants and shops. Do not miss the area adjacent to the pier which has been designated a protected area for sea lions, where hundreds roost on platforms daily. The wharf is also the departure point for Alcatraz, the fortress prison in the middle of the bay that housed notorious criminals. A tour is operated by the National Park Service. Ghirardelli Square featuring the famous chocolate is also a short walk from the wharf.

For a respite from the city, Golden Gate Park offers greenery, gardens and several museums. A must see is the California Academy of Sciences which recently opened a new facility. The museum is actually three museums in one offering an aquarium, planetarium and rain forest. The M.H. de Young Museum contains art exhibits and is adjacent to a Japanese tea garden. The AIDS Memorial Garden remembers those who have suffered this disease, and offers areas for quiet reflection. It is maintained by volunteers.

For spectacular views of San Francisco, go to the top of Telegraph Hill. The Golden Gate, Alcatraz, Fisherman's Wharf and Oakland across the bay create the perfect opportunity for a photographic memory of the city. Coit Tower sits atop the hill. The 210 foot spire features art deco murals on the ground floor. Visitors may also take an elevator to the top for an even more expansive view of the surrounding area. Nearby is the city's Italian district where streets are lined with open air restaurants and shops.