Enjoy a Long Weekend in The City by the Bay
Written by MichaelZ on November 19, 2009 – 7:43 pm -When thinking of San Francisco, a big orange bridge and an island prison are probably the first things to cross your mind. Certainly, these icons are two of the most popular tourist attractions for people to see, but don’t let your tour of San Francisco begin and end there. The city has plenty of other sites and activities to offer that are unique to the city and will allow you to immerse yourself in the life of the city.
San Francisco is a perfect city for walking. The temperature is rarely too cold or too hot for wandering outdoors and the city is so beautiful; a stroll is the best transportation alternative to get an idea of all that “The City” (as it is known to the natives) has to offer. And, if your feet begin to feel a little cramped from all that walking, all you have to do is hitch a ride on one of San Francisco’s famous cable cars until you reach your next point of interest. The cable car is unique to San Francisco, the locale where the trolley originated, and is a perfect way to immerse yourself in San Francisco culture.
While in San Fran, Fisherman’s Wharf is a must see for your itinerary. Visit Pier 39 for a good time. Pier 39 offers great shopping center, which is filled with shops, arcades, and street artists. And if you’re feeling playful, salute the other residents of the docks—sea lions!—easily spotted just off the pier. Fisherman’s Wharf is also the place to be if you’re hungry for seafood. While there are plenty of great restaurants that will satisfy any craving, be sure to stop by Boudin’s and try their famous sourdough bread (you can see the chef in action!) and clam chowder. Fisherman’s Wharf is swimming with excitement; don’t overlook this landmark area!
The local neighborhoods of San Francisco are another must-see if you want to live the diversity of San Francisco culture. From North Beach to Chinatown, each neighborhood has an experience of its own that you won’t find in any other city. The neighborhood of Haight-Ashbury is an exciting neighborhood of San Francisco. Considered the Bohemian center of the city, this neighborhood is the artistic birthplace of such legendaries as Jefferson Airplane and Janis Joplin. The spirit of these artists and their music still continues in this district. Haight-Ashbury also has some small but great local restaurants, bars and shops, including Amoeba Music, a record store that was once a bowling alley. Here you can locate nearly any music you’re looking for, with a great variety of vinyl. And just a short distance from this district is also located the Golden Gate Park—a huge, gorgeous park that rivals New York City’s Central Park.
To experience some real variety, visit Chinatown, which is one of San Francisco’s truly interesting and thriving neighborhoods. A stroll down any of its narrow streets or alleys will bring enticing smells wafting from the many restaurants. Meanwhile, your ears can feast on the sounds of Chinese mixed with occasional English as you move past cluttered stores. It’s like a trip into an exotic culture within an exotic culture. Or take a friendly stroll through the Castro district, of the most famous gay destinations in this diverse city.
So when you plan your San Francisco vacation, be sure to not just do the tourist stuff. In San Fran you will find unique adventures everywhere you turn. Indulge in the culture of the city; it’s the only way to explore San Francisco!
Virtually any online travel company can assist you with your San Francisco travel plans. You could also use a specialized site, such as one that specializes in gay gay hotel accommodations.
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