San Francisco, California
41 915
As the shimmering "City by the Bay," San Francisco's distinctive terrain, water on one side, hills on the other, leads to spectacular views and experiences that could only happen here. The city's wide array of attractions, activities, and personality-infused neighborhoods appeal to visitors of all ages. Here's a list of the best options:
Alcatraz
In the heart of San Francisco Bay is located Alcatraz or "The Rock". Once just an old prison, Alcatraz is enjoying a makeover as a native plant conservatory and historical "must-see." Here you can learn the history of the penitentiary, see how prisoners lived, and marvel at the many failed escape attempts. Tours of the island focus largely on the desolate prison itself, including cell blocks, the cafeteria and the prison yard.
Golden Gate Bridge
One of San Francisco's most recognized landmark, the Golden Gate Bridge was built in 1937 and has dominated the city's skyline ever since. With its tremendous towers, sweeping main cables, signature International Orange color, and Art Deco styling, it is a sensory experience featuring color, light, and sound. Million visitors annually cross the 1.7-mile bridge in cars, by bike, or on foot.
City Lights bookstore
The City Lights bookstore , was founded in 1953 by poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti and Peter D. Martin. One of the few truly great independent bookstores in the United States is a place where booklovers from across the country and around the world come to browse, read, and just soak in the ambiance of alternative culture's only "Literary Landmark." It's a completely unique San Francisco experience, and a must for anyone who appreciates good books.
Mission Dolores
Founded in 1776, the Misión San Francisco de Asís (better known as Mission Dolores) has withstood two major earthquakes to become the oldest standing building in San Francisco. Today, besides being a destination for hundreds of thousands of San Francisco visitors, Mission Dolores is an important part of the community, the center of a vibrant and diverse parish.
