A great way to start off your California vacation is at one of San Francisco’s most visited destinations, Fisherman’s Wharf. Locals and tourists mingle here to enjoy delicious seafood, unique shopping and incredible views of the San Francisco Bay. The wharf has several restaurants and vendors with the biggest king crabs you will ever encounter. This is one of the favorite destinations for children as they can play and run around the beach after visiting the wharf. You could take a ferry at Fisherman's Wharf for a tour of one of the most infamous prisons in the country, Alcatraz. Also known as “The Rock,” it was a federal prison for notorious criminals like Al Capone or George “Machine Gun” Kelly. It is currently a historical landmark open for tours with exhibitions of objects, photographs and documents about the inmates that were there from 1934 to 1963. 

 

From Alcatraz you can learn why San Francisco acquired the nickname, the Golden Gate City. Considered the largest suspension bridge in the world for many years, the Golden Gate Bridge is an internationally recognized landmark and the gateway to the city. The bridge is painted all year long to avoid corrosion from the high salt content of the ocean water. 

 

For a different attraction, explore the upscale boutiques and hip restaurants in the trendy Haight-Ashbury neighborhood. The area still exhibits many reminders from the hippie culture of the 1960s. A great way to experience all that the stylish neighborhood has to offer is by attending their famous Street Fair in June. The San Francisco Symphony has long been an integral part of the city’s cultural heritage. Through its history, the symphony has had some of the greatest musicians, singers and conductors as its guests, including George Gershwin, Igor Stravinsky, Aaron Copland and Maurice Ravel. It is best to get tickets in advance and arrive early to enjoy great food and cocktails before the show. Finally, a favorite of locals and tourists alike is the famous Lombard Street. Known for its one-block section filled with steep twists and turns, this street is as unique as you will ever see. It features beautifully decorated houses around it with a brick-paved street worthy of a picture. Walk or drive, you will never forget your “crooked trip” down Lombard. 

 

There is so much to see and do in the Golden Gate City that you will need to come back again to encounter it all. For affordable accommodations and a wonderful vacation, book now with Choice Hotels in San Francisco.