It’s not hard to figure out how San Francisco acquired its nickname, the Golden Gate City. The Golden Gate Bridge, at one time the largest suspension bridge in the world (now the second in the U.S.), is an internationally recognized landmark and the gateway to San Fran.

Yes it’s a bit touristy, but Fisherman's Wharf is perhaps San Francisco’s most-visited destination. Enjoy delicious seafood, unique shopping and incredible views of the San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge while wandering around Fisherman’s Wharf.

Take a ferry from Fisherman’s Wharf across San Francisco Bay for a tour of one of the most infamous prisons in the country, Alcatraz Island (aka, The Rock). Once a lighthouse, then a federal prison for notorious criminals, Alcatraz Island is now a historic site that is open to the public for tours.

Famed for its one-block section filled with steep twists and turns, Lombard Street features houses, flora and a brick-paved street that are photo worthy. Walk or drive, you’ll never forget your “crooked trip” down Lombard Street.

Explore upscale boutiques, Internet cafes and hip restaurants in the trendy Haight-Ashbury neighborhood. The Haight-Ashbury neighborhood still exhibits many reminders from the hippie culture of the 1960s. A great way to experience all that the Haight-Ashbury district has to offer is by attending the Haight-Ashbury Street Fair in June.

Nob Hill is one of San Francisco’s signature swanky neighborhoods featuring vintage barber shops, old corner coffee shops, specialty shops and cocktail lounges. In addition to its upscale atmosphere, Nob Hill is influenced by the various personalities of the surrounding downtown neighborhoods.

San Francisco doesn’t fall short for sports fans. Cheer on the San Francisco 49ers football team at Monster Park, or catch a home run at a San Francisco Giants baseball game at AT&T Park.

The San Francisco Symphony has long been an integral part of city’s cultural life in San Francisco. Throughout its history the San Francisco Symphony has had some of the greatest conductors, musicians and singers as its guests, including George Gershwin, Igor Stravinsky, Aaron Copland and Maurice Ravel.

The largest Chinatown within the United States is located right here in San Francisco. Experience the culture firsthand, indulge in authentic cuisine and find unique souvenirs as you leisurely walk through the streets of San Francisco’s renowned Chinatown.

There’s so much to see and do in San Francisco, CA, that you’ll need to come back again and again to encounter it all. And, Choice Hotels has affordable accommodations to make multiple or extended-stay vacations possible. You can leave your heart but take the memories with you when you go.   << Hide