Places to Visit in San Francisco
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Lombard Street
Between Hyde & Leavenworth on Russian Hill, this famous zig-zag road is worth a look.
Alcatraz
Also known as "The Rock." Where some of the most notorious felons, including Al Capone, "Machine Gun" Kelly and Robert Stroud, the "Birdman of Alcatraz," were incarcerated from 1934 until 1963. Only specific island tours are allowed to land at Alcatraz.
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Alcatraz Cruises - official government concessioner for Alcatraz tours.
Harbor Tours
A host of companies offer tours of the harbor, providing marvelous views of the bay, the bridges, the island of Alcatraz and the city. Most tours leave from docks at Fisherman's Wharf near Pier 39.
Golden Gate Bridge
One of the most famous bridges in the world, the Golden Gate Bridge, spanning the Golden Gate, has been called one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. The center is over 200 feet above the water and the bridge's towers rise almost 300 feet above the water.
Golden Gate Park
An urban oasis with windmills, bison, museums, a carousel and much more hidden among its charms. The park contains the antique palatial greenhouse of the Conservatory of Flowers, the modern and ethnic art focused de Young Museum, the large Japanese Tea Garden, and the new California Academy of Sciences building designed by Renzo Piano, which showcases the region's natural treasures and history, including 38,000 types of fish, an albino alligator, an earthquake exhibit and much more.
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Fisherman's Wharf
The historic heart of the city's fishing community, and where you'll find some great seafood restaurants and souvenir shops.
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Ghirardelli Square
Near to Fisherman's Wharf is Ghirardelli Square, home to restaurants, shops and the Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop.
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Twin Peaks
Near the physical center of the city is the Twin Peaks, one of San Francisco's highest points (875' above sea level); providing spectacular views in all directions. Tour buses can get backed up here during the day, but it's a great place to really appreciate the city from above, especially at and after sunset. Temperatures up there can be quite a bit lower than in the rest of the city, so bring a jacket.
Chinatown
Chinatown is centered around Grant Street from Bush to Columbus and offers many great restaurants and specialty shops.
San Francisco Zoo
Located in the Lake Merced area is this large and well maintained zoo, featuring the usual selection of animals.
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