What are the first things you think of any time anyone says the word San Francisco? Maybe the hills. Or the cable cars. Or Alcatraz prison. However, you will discover the city offers more than you might even imagine. You’ll discover lot to see and do while you’re visiting this magnificent 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.
And while you’re exploring the city, take a trip down to Fisherman’s Wharf. Stop by Pier 39 and experience the culture and activities available there. Pier 39 is an exciting stop due to its great shopping center, which is filled with shops, arcades, and street artists. And if you’re feeling adventurous, salute the other residents of the docks—sea lions!—easily spotted just off the pier. Fisherman’s Wharf, as you may have guessed, is also the place to go if you’re looking for great seafood. While there are dozens of fun or elegant eateries that will satisfy any craving, be sure to stop by Boudin’s restaurant and try their famous sourdough bread (you can even see the chef in action!) and delicious clam chowder. The Wharf area is swimming with fun; don’t skip this must-see!
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.
Chinatown is one of the most bustling neighborhoods of San Francisco. A walk down any of its narrow streets will bring enticing smells wafting from home kitchens and the many restaurants. Meanwhile, your ears will be treated to the sounds of Chinese mixed with occasional English as you move past busy shops. It’s like a trip into an exotic culture within an exotic culture.
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!
Many travel websites welcome all travel enthusiasts, but some specialize in meeting the special, gay travel needs in San Francisco or anywhere for our friends with alternative sexual orientations.