Posts Tagged ‘destination guide’

“If You’re Goin’ to San Francisco… Be Sure to” Explore It All

Written by MichaelZ on August 18, 2009 – 11:48 pm -

San Francisco is one of America’s genuine masterpieces of man and nature, a prime gay travel destination, a promised land to all who enjoy sipping fine wine and a true spectacle for all who appreciate geographic contrasts.

 

When you think of San Francisco, a big orange bridge and an island prison are often the first things to come to mind. Certainly, these things are two of the key tourist attractions for people to see, but don’t let your exploration of this wonderful city begin and end there. The city has lots of other things to offer that are unique to the city and will let you catch a glimpse the lives of San Franciscans.

 

 

San Francisco is great for exploring by foot. The climate is never too cold or too hot for being outdoors and the city is so beautiful; a nice walk is a great method to get an idea of all that “The City” (as it is known to the natives) has to offer. And, if your legs begin to feel a little tired from all that walking, all you have to do is jump on one of San Francisco’s famous cable cars and let them take you to your next destination. The cable car is unique to San Francisco, the city where the trolley originated, and is a perfect way to start getting acquainted with San Francisco culture.

 

While in San Fran, Fisherman’s Wharf is a must see for your itinerary. Stop by Pier 39 for a good time. Pier 39 is famous for its great shopping center, which is filled with shops, arcades, and street performers. And if you’re feeling adventurous, salute the other local inhabitants of the docks—sea lions!—easily glimpsed just off the pier. Fisherman’s Wharf is also the place for great seafood. While there are dozens of great restaurants to be found, be sure to grab a meal at Boudin’s restaurant and try their famous sourdough bread (you can even see the chef in action!) and clam chowder. Fisherman’s Wharf is simply swimming with excitement; don’t miss this must-see!

 

The local neighborhoods of San Francisco are another great stop if you want to experience the diversity of San Francisco culture. From North Beach to Chinatown, each neighborhood has a life of its own that you won’t find anywhere else. The neighborhood of Haight-Ashbury is an extremely exciting neighborhood of San Francisco. Considered the Bohemian center of the city, this neighborhood is the birthplace of such legendaries as the Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane, and Janis Joplin. These artists have left a remarkable and lasting influence on 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 will find nearly any music you’re looking for, with an enormous variety of vinyl. And just a short distance from this district you will find the Golden Gate Park—a large, gorgeous park that resembles New York City’s Central Park.

 

Also near Haight-Ashbury and the downtown area, you will find Castro, the gay mecca of San Francisco. This district is the place for great restaurants, clubs, bars, and shops as well as the the best of San Francisco nightlife. Don’t forget to catch a flick at the historic Castro theatre and take it easy at one of the great bed and breakfasts the district has to offer. And if you plan your visit carefully, you can catch one of the great San Fran festivals such as the Castro Street Fair in October, or Pink Saturday in June.

Lesbian and gay vacationers exploring San Francisco may be primarily attracted to the Castro district to visit the historic sites and enjoy the camaraderie, but you will find the whole of the city is accepting of all orientations of people. Enjoy the complete experience of the city!

 

So while planning your San Francisco get-away, make sure your itinerary takes you off the beaten path. In San Fran you will find unique adventures everywhere you turn. Immerse yourself in the culture of the city; it’s the only way to enjoy San Francisco!

 

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