Exploring The Magical City That Is San Francisco
If you are in San Francisco, you will quickly find there is an endless list of things to do
. Whether you are with the family or on a romantic retreat, you can find fun around every corner.
Many of us who've landed in this enclave known as the Bay Area instantly recognize the good fortune of living on a landscape so diverse and beautiful. Even then, it's possible to get mired in the pragmatic aspects of life -- and forget just how spectacular even the most common, overly-photographed, and touristy destinations appear to those who arrive on our shores for the first time.
It's a San Francisco no-brainer, but some people don't actually walk the Golden Gate Bridge during their visit. Walk or bike, no matter the weather.
Fog affords its own mystical trip from the Fort Point end -- to Fort Baker on the north side of the bridge. Eat oysters, chowder, chocolate and cheese at the San Francisco Ferry Building.
Check out the food wares from local vendors throughout the Marketplace. Ride the Cable Car.
Hop off at the Top of the Mark on Nob Hill for a sunset cocktail. Then hop on again to the Buena Vista Cafe for an Irish Coffee -- the first Irish Coffee ever stirred in the United States.
Take a San Francisco Bay cruise and a trip to Alcatraz -- night tour especially recommended. Hang out in North Beach and appreciate a genuine taste of Italy in San Francisco.
Take an organized walking tour (free or paid) -- including some incredible gourmet food or chocolate walks. You can also opt for a self-guided tour of the old Barbary Coast Trail which takes you through many neighborhoods of the city -- and up to Coit Tower.
The base of the tower has a panorama of WPA murals. The top of the tower offers an endless view across San Francisco and the Bay.
Visit the San Francisco Presidio and see what becomes of a military installation gone natural. Also in the Presidio, if you haven't done the bike ride through Crissy Field to the Golden Gate Bridge, rent a bike and do it -- or walk from Crissy Field Center to the Warming Hut at the base of the Bridge.
Check out the characteristic art of the park souvenirs. It is an unbelievable vista to the bridge.
And as you walk past the base of the bridge towers, you can explore Fort Point farther down the line, and watch passing container ships. Or hike/bike up a short hill to get an even better view of the Golden Gate from above.
Visit the Legion of Honor and its Rodin collection. Then drop down to the Coastal Trail toward Lands End, planning to arrive near sunset for amazing photo opportunities.
At certain times of the year, Brown Pelicans fly over the Lands End lookout just as the sun goes down. It's an awesome vision -- their pterodactyl shadows swooping just overhead.
On a calm night, the lights of the Cliff House reflect in the still waters of the Sutro Baths. It's magical.
If you happen to reach the Cliff House earlier in the day, be sure to pay the small fee to see the Camera Obscura. It's one of about 20 such cameras remaining in the world -- an example early photographic technology.
You'll see a gorgeous, dynamic panorama of Ocean Beach inside. Check out Fisherman's Wharf -- and say hello to the sea lions at Pier 39.
But break the tourist mold and stay closer to downtown. It's worth a visit to the Wharf see some of San Francisco's recognizable icons.
One disclaimer: Anyone who's been land-bound may enjoy the waterfront ambiance of Fisherman's Wharf. Just be aware that it's definitely a tourist destination with a seaside resort atmosphere.
While you're at the Wharf, here are some of our favorite things to see: Boudin Sourdough Bakery Museum, Pier 39 sea lions, Musee Mecanique, Maritime National Historical Park, and take a Self-Guided Port Walk. With these tips, you are sure to lose yourself for days and even weeks in this gorgeous seaside city.
After all, you may find a place you will want to return to over and over. Book a trip today!
by: Terry Daniels
San Francisco 49ers Tickets - 49ers Have Group Of Intriguing Fantasy Options Cabinet Refacing San Francisco Isn't it About Time Cabinet Refacing San Francisco, Everyone's Doing It Siding in San Francisco Forever Experience Nature in San Francisco San Francisco: Something for Everyone Do you need a tent in the San Francisco area?? Protect Your Assets with Siding in San Francisco Choosing a Siding Company in San Francisco Siding in San Francisco, Siding Everywhere Some of the Basics of Siding in San Francisco Types of Siding in San Francisco What Makes a Good Siding in San Francisco Contractor?