San Fransisco is a beautiful city full of hills in the northern part of California. There are so many iconic streets, buildings, and sites to see in this amazing city. If you are planning a trip and don’t know where to start, read up about some of the many must-sees in this California jewel.
Main Sites
Alcatraz Island
Although many people know the story of this maximum security prison, seeing it in the flesh is such a different experience. You can go inside the cells on the island and hear the recordings of actual prisoners. What is so unique about this experience is that you have to take the ferry there and entrance to the island is free.
Lombard Street
This infamous street is known for being completely crooked. If you have the time, try renting a car and driving down this crazy street. Or, if you’re feeling less ambitious, just walk down it. The great thing about this area of the city though is that the houses and gardens are so beautiful, it’s perfect to walk around during the day.
Golden Gate Bridge
You have to experience this iconic bridge at some point during your stay, and luckily, there are many ways to do so. You can either walk or bike across the bridge, which is one of the most fun and most thrilling ways to do it. You can also look at it from an array of outdoor spaces, such as Battery East Vista, or Baker Beach. No matter how you decide to experience it, you’ll be glad you did.
Mission District
This neighboorhood of San Fransisco is home to the oldest building in the city is a church called Alta California Mission, which is also the neighborhood’s namesake. Besides this, go to the Mission and visit Dolores Park, which is the biggest in the neighborhood. There are also some outstanding Mexican and other Latin American restaurants that you don’t want to miss out on.
Unusual Attractions
While there are some truly famous things to see in San Francisco, there are some places that are not as well known, especially at night. But if you are more of a day person who still likes to party, head over to the Starlight Room on a Sunday morning for brunch. This evening lounge transforms into a brunch joint that also serves up a complete drag show! Not at all what you would expect to come with your eggs benedict, but totally worth it.
Audium is a completely unique type of theater that only exists in San Francisco. In the small theater, you will be in pitch blackness while listening to sounds come out of 176 speakers. It is truly an experience you can’t find anywhere else.
Museums
For a more regular trip to San Francisco, check out its many lovely museums scattered all over the city. Some of the best include the de Young museum featuring contemporary art, the California Acadamy of Sciences which makes science come alive, and the Museum of the African Diaspora which shows all aspects of the African diaspora.
