Top Tourist Attractions for the First Time Visitor in San Francisco
Planning a trip to San Francisco? Make the most of your vacation by planning ahead and deciding what you want to see before you arrive. There are plenty of sites, landmarks tours and events to keep you busy during your stay!
In case you are having a hard time deciding what to see, here are a few recommendations for the first time visitor.
1. Alcatraz Island- One of the top toursit attractions in San Francisco, with over 1.5 Million visitors every year, Alcatraz, also know as The Rock, is a truly unique site to see. The infamous prison was home to Al Capone, George “Machine Gun” Kelly and Robert Franklin Stroud (The “Birdman of Alcatraz”). Tours include a ferry ride to the island, an audio tour of the prison, which will let you see the cells of famous inmates, the Warden’s office, the dining hall and more.
2. Palace of Fine Arts- The last remaining structure from the Panama Pacific Exposition in 1915, the Place of Fine Arts is a beautiful piece of architecture located in the Marina District. The fully restored building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and includes a beautiful Lagoon with plenty of photo opportunities. If you are lucky, you may be able to take in a concert or comedy show during your visit.
3. Fisherman’s Wharf- Located right on the water in North San Francisco, Fisherman’s Wharf is always a busy spot for travelers. A great place for people watching, the Wharf has street performers, delicious street food, fresh dungeness crab, amazing restaurants and some great shopping. Highlights include Pier 39, the Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum, The Wax Museum and the Sea Lions by the water.
4. The Golden Gate Bridge- Perhaps the most iconic site in San Francisco, The Golden Gate Bridge is a truly beautiful structure. Officially opened in 1937, the bridge connects San Francisco with Marin County. There are many amazing places to view the bridge, but the best experience is to cross the bridge by bike, car or bus.
5. Golden Gate Park- This large park in the center of San Francisco is a great place to spend some time outdoors. With numerous trails, lakes, flowers, plants and even some buffalo, you can explore the park for a few hours to a few days. Highlights include the De Young Museum, Music Concourse Area, Academy of Sciences, Japanese Tea Garden and the Conservatory of Flowers.
