San Francisco is the commercial, financial, and cultural heart of Northern California. There are dozens of neighbourhoods in San Francisco, each one with its own personality. Here are seven things to do in San Francisco .
No trip to San Francisco would be complete without seeing its most famous landmark. The Golden Gate Bridge stretches across the entrance to San Francisco Bay and is particularly impressive when viewed from one of the city's many viewpoints.
For a classic photograph, head to Battery Spencer on the Marin County side of the bridge. Back in the city, Golden Gate Overlook and Crissy Field offer different perspectives, with the latter giving you a chance to combine bridge views with a stroll along the waterfront.
If you’re feeling energetic, you can also walk or cycle across the bridge. The pedestrian walkway is on the eastern side of the bridge and offers spectacular views of the city and bay.
Although the California Academy of Sciences is located inside Golden Gate Park, I have listed it separately. as it merits a special mention. This unique attraction features a planetarium, an aquarium, a natural history museum, and a rainforest. The four-story living rainforest is home to butterflies, birds, and tropical plants. The aquarium contains the world's deepest indoor living coral reef, and the tropical lagoon is home to a colony of African penguins.
Rising from San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz Island was once home to the notorious federal penitentiary that housed some of America's most infamous criminals. Today, it is one of San Francisco's most popular attractions. Visitors can explore the former prison, including the cell blocks, exercise yard and other parts of the complex. The audio tour, which features accounts from former inmates and prison staff, brings the history of Alcatraz to life. The boat journey across the bay is an added bonus, with excellent views of San Francisco's skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge.
Tip: Alcatraz tickets can sell out, particularly during busy periods, so booking ahead is a good idea.
The Walt Disney Family Museum was founded by Walt Disney's daughter, Diane, and pays tribute to his life and legacy. It contains 248 awards won by Disney, historic items that inspired him, and much more. A “Fantasia”-themed theatre screens Disney classics six days a week. This museum will give you insight into the man behind the mouse and is a must for all Disney fans.
San Francisco's cable cars are more than just public transport – they are one of the city's defining experiences. Climb aboard one of these historic vehicles and travel up and down some of San Francisco's famously steep streets.
The Powell-Hyde line is a popular choice because it passes through several scenic parts of the city before reaching the waterfront. You can also visit the Cable Car Museum to learn more about how the system works.
Be prepared for queues at the most popular stops, though. Walking a few stops further along the route can sometimes mean a shorter wait.
Fisherman's Wharf is one of San Francisco's busiest tourist areas, but it is worth visiting at least once. The waterfront is packed with restaurants, shops, attractions and views across the bay.
One of the highlights is Pier 39, where you can watch San Francisco's famous sea lions lounging on the docks. Their barking can usually be heard well before you spot them.
From the waterfront, you'll also have views of Alcatraz and, on a clear day, the Golden Gate Bridge.
San Francisco's Chinatown is one of the oldest and largest Chinatowns in North America and is a fascinating neighbourhood to explore on foot.
Enter through the distinctive Dragon Gate on Grant Avenue and wander through streets lined with shops, restaurants, bakeries and traditional businesses. Don't just stick to the main tourist street – some of the most interesting discoveries are found on the smaller side streets.
It's also a good place to stop for dim sum, Chinese pastries or a quick snack while exploring.
You've probably seen photographs of San Francisco's colourful Victorian houses without even realising it. The most famous group is the Painted Ladies, located along Steiner Street overlooking Alamo Square.
The row of beautifully restored Victorian and Edwardian homes, with the city's skyline behind them, has become one of San Francisco's most recognisable views.
After taking your photographs, spend some time in Alamo Square Park. It's a pleasant place to relax and enjoy the view.
Despite its name, Golden Gate Park isn't right beside the Golden Gate Bridge. This enormous urban park stretches for several kilometres through the western part of the city and is home to gardens, museums, lakes and walking trails.
You could easily spend several hours exploring it. Highlights include the Japanese Tea Garden, California Academy of Sciences and de Young Museum.
If you're travelling with children, the California Academy of Sciences is particularly appealing, combining an aquarium, planetarium, natural history museum and rainforest under one roof.
These are just some of the things to do in San Francisco . Visit the Golden City and experience them for yourself.
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This is a guest post.
Disclosure: 13
Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world on her blog "In Africa and Beyond". Although she has been to 53 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.
