Around Town
Alcatraz (more info) (more info on ferry to park)
Alcatraz and history go hand in hand. Once home to some of America's most notorious criminals, the federal penitentiary that operated here from 1934 to 1963 brought a dark mystique to the Rock. The presence of infamous inmates like Al "Scarface" Capone, and the "Birdman" Robert Stroud helped to establish the island's notoriety. To this day, Alcatraz is best known as one of the world's most legendary prisons.
Many people, though, are unaware of the wealth of other stories to be learned on the island. Alcatraz is now home to rare flowers and plants, marine wildlife, and thousands of roosting and nesting sea birds. Civil War-era buildings dotting the island give insight into the 19th century when the island served as both a harbor defense fort and a military prison. You can also see visible reminders of the American Indian Occupation that started in 1969 after the prison closed, highlighting an important milestone in the American Indian rights movement.
Aquarium by the Bay (more info)
Opened in 1996 and enhanced in 1991, Aquarium of the Bay is a unique educational entertainment facility dedicated to the rich and diverse aquatic life of the San Francisco Bay and its surrounding waters. The aquarium provides a window to the Bay that focuses on its distinctive ecosystems and seeks to entertain, educate and inspire preservation of this wonderful, natural resource.
Botanical Garden Society at Strybing Arboretum (more info)
There is always something new at San Francisco’s Botanical Garden. Stroll through New Zealand, the Mediterranean or Central American rain forests. The garden is a beautiful, calm oasis.
Fisherman’s Wharf (more info)
Welcome to Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco’s most popular destination. Known for its historic waterfront, delicious seafood, spectacular sights and unique shopping, Fisherman’s Wharf offers a wide array of things to do for everyone. Our fabulous location in the 'City by the Bay', puts you within minutes of the Maritime Museum, Alcatraz, Coit Tower and everyone’s favorite, the world famous San Francisco Cable Car lines. Fisherman’s Wharf offers some of the most incredible views of the San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge and the cityscape.
Golden Gate Bridge (more info)
Arguably the world's most beautiful bridge, the mammoth rust-red deco San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge connects San Francisco with Marin County and can be experienced from near countless angles. Drive, bike, or walk across the two-mile long suspension bridge or get down to the base and look up from the tide pools at Baker's Beach or from a Frisbee toss at Crissy fields, both in the adjoining Presidio.
Metreon (more info)
Metreon is the first-of-its-kind entertainment center located at Fourth and Mission streets in the heart of downtown San Francisco. This 350,000 square-foot complex features an eclectic mix of the Bay Area's best restaurants, shopping venues, theatres, and entertainment destinations, including the West Coast's largest IMAX theatre.
Pier 39 (more info)
Among the City's most visited attractions. Watch hundreds of splashy sea lions lounge out on PIER 39's K-dock. Take a journey on Turbo Ride, play to win at Riptide Arcade or enjoy a performance of Menopause The Musical. Street performers add to the festivities.
San Francisco 49ers (more info)
The 49ers of the National Football Conference play their home games at Monster Park. Express bus service available from downtown. Call 673-MUNI for information on game days. Regular season September to December.
San Francisco Giants (more info)
Behind the scenes look at Pacific Bell Park; press box, visitor's clubhouse, luxury suite, AAA club level, ballpark features, the dugout for groups and individuals with tours everyday baseball schedule permitting. Tours last approximately one hour.
San Francisco Zoo (more info)
Northern California's largest zoological park features approximately 1,000 exotic and endangered animals. Visit the African Savanna habitat; see lemurs up-close . Ride the historic Dentzel Carousel and Little Puffer miniature steam train. Experience the wonders of the Children's Zoo and visit other favorites such as Gorilla Preserve, Penguin Island, Koala Crossing and the Australian Walk About. Be sure to see the 2pm (daily except Monday) big cat feeding in the Lion House.
Wax Museum at Fisherman’s Wharf (more info)
For almost 45 years, 15 million visitors have enjoyed more than 270 wax portraits of entertainers, heroes, scoundrels and more in 50 expertly crafted settings, enhanced with artistic lighting, props and informative narrations.