Known for the Golden Gate bridge, foggy summers, steep hills, colorful Victorian houses and cable cars, San Francisco is one of America's most beloved and beautiful cities. San Francisco's reputation for world-class art, unrivaled attractions and colorful neighborhoods are fueled by a rich diversity of ethnicities and sub-cultures that energize the city.

The delicacies the city is known for include excellent seafood and chocolate which attracts millions to Ghirardelli Square each year. And one cannot miss experiencing fresh sourdough bread by the Wharf. Catch a ride on one of the city's famous cable cars and snap off a picture of historic Lombard Street or step into history during a tour of Alcatraz. Whichever you choose, this "City by the Bay" remains one of the country's—and the world's—favorite American cities.

Places to Explore

• Fisherman's Wharf
  Host to classic seafood restaurants and an abundance of souvenir shops in the historic heart of the city's fishing community. Ghirardelli Square and the Cannery nearby are bustling shopping, and entertainment centers.
• Alcatraz (a.k.a. the Rock)
  Where some of the most notorious felons were sent from 1934 until 1963. Former prisoners include Al Capone, "Machine Gun" Kelly and Robert Stroud, the "Birdman of Alcatraz."
• Golden Gate Bridge
  It's beautiful to look at and fun to drive over or walk across. The center rises 200 feet over the water with the towers rising almost 300 feet.
• Lombard Street
  The road that zigzags it's way up to Russian Hill is often referred to as the "crookedest street" in America. If you're on foot, you can walk down (or up) the sidewalks.
• Chinatown
  Discover the hidden treasures of one of the largest Chinese communities outside of Asia. Explore Chinese markets, restaurants, theaters, herb shops, temples and more.
• California Academy of Sciences
  The museum showcases the region's natural treasures and history, including 38,000 types of fish, an earthquake exhibit and more.

Visitor Information

• Language
  English is universally spoken.
• Money
  U.S. currency is accepted, as are all major credit cards.
• How to Get Around
  
  • San Francisco Municipal Railway (Muni), travels over 80 routes and operates the Historic streetcars, modern light rail vehicles, city buses and the world famous cable cars. It is recommended to buy a Muni Passport if planning to use public transportation.
  • City buses go everywhere including the Golden Gate Bridge, Golden Gate Park and the beaches.
  • Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) is a regional transportation system that covers much of the Bay area.
  • Taxis are available, however getting a cab can be a problem at peak times, so Guests should plan accordingly.