San Francisco Travel Guide |
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Welcome to the city of rolling hills and cable car rides. San Francisco is a wonderful city to visit almost any time of year.
Fisherman's Wharf: A trip down to this pier area is worth it for the whole family. It is from here where you can do many of San Francisco's attractions so plan about a day for this area. Probably one of the biggest tourist spots, Fisherman's Wharf offers everything from attractions to shopping to restaurants. Many tour boats leave from this area for tours of the bay or a trip to Alcatraz. Pier 39: Although Pier 39 is a popular tourist site, there really is not much to do there besides shopping. Probably the best attraction is the sea lions on K-dock. You will find a crowd on most days watching the many sea lions who hang out on floating docks in the water. They are fun to watch for a few minutes then its off to something else. At Pier 39 you can also visit the Aquarium of the Bay or take a ride on the San Francisco Carousel. Muse Atinque- old arcade games and items you would find in a fair. Free to walk in and enjoy. Pay to play. Just as you walk near the Pier 39 area you will find street performers charming you with various acts. Alcatraz: "The Rock" is a historic, fascinating and mysterious place to visit. However, it is also an educational and grand experience for your child. Alcatraz sits on a large rock in the middle of the bay and is only accessible by boat. Once you arrive on the island you see a grand fortress of concrete and metal. It looks a bit spooky but really it's very facinating. Not only is this the most famous prison but it is a place to learn history of all kinds from Native American to criminal history. You will also see a multitude of wildlife. It might not be the perfect place for your two year old but the older kids will enjoy it. We recommend the audio tour. As we were leaving we saw a large group of middle/high school aged children coming to the island for an overnight educational trip! No vacation to San Francisco is complete without a trip to Alcatraz. Get your tickets in advance to secure your spot.Ghirardelli Square: If you love to shop, then the Ghirardelli Square is the perfect place for you. There really is not much to do for children except to visit the famous Ghirardelli Chocolate shop. Watch as they make chocolate delicacies right before your eyes. You can't resist buying something in this shop, even if it's the ice cream sundae. Golden Gate Park: South of the bridge running along the ocean side is a large park that has just about everything. View beautiful plants and flowers from around the world at the Conservantory of Flowers or take in classic art at the de Young Museum of Art. Families can enjoy the various boat and bike rentals. Children will have a blast at the playground and fun carousel. A huge attraction to the park is the Japanese Tea Gardens, one of the oldest in the United States. Golden Gate Bridge: An engineering marvel, the Golden Gate Bridge is a magnificient structure and one of the world's largest bridges. Take a ride or a walk along the bridge to really get a feel of this enormous bridge. Lombard Street: Take a twisty, curvy ride on the "crookedest street in America." A visit to this street is worth the trip even if you do not have a car while visiting San Francisco. From the top of the street the views are amazing but the bottom of the street has the best view of how twisted this street really is. The street is beautifully lined with flowers and pavers. If you can't drive down, take a walk down.Cable Car: San Francisco has many hills and streets that allow for a thrilling ride on a cable car and of course a means of commuting throughout the city. Union Square has an excellent viewing area where you can watch the cable car turn around. Another excellent viewing spot is across from Ghirardelli Square. Watch the men turn the cable cars on a platform. Chinatown: To gain some cultural experience take a walk through Chinatown. They do not offer much activities when it comes to kids but the architecture is a unique experience. There is also plenty of shopping for Asian gifts and specialties. Museums:
Muir Woods: A visit to this breathtaking National Park is a must, especially with children. The redwoods here are immence and intriguing. Take a walking tour (various lengths) to see just how big these trees can be (some reaching 260 feet in height). The ages of the trees run between 500 and 1,000 years old. Visit the center for a map and visitors guide which provides a fascinating look into nature. Children under 15 years are FREE. Point Lobos State Reserve: Probably the most scenic park you will find in the state of California is the Point Lobos State Reserve. This amazing park is home to various wildlife, trails, caves, sea otters and seals, and wild flower historic areas. Plan to stay for the day to really get a grasp of the beauty and educational experience. The reserve is located about 2 hours south of San Francisco. Point Reyes National Seashore: Discover the cliffs and grasslands of this spectacular National Park. Be sure to visit between the months of July through September to see the tule elk in their mating season. Experience the abundant wildlife and flora as you hike along the earthquake rift. Many amenities are offered at Point Reyes from camping, boating, horseback riding, guided tours and more. Point Reyes National Seashore is located about 1 hour north of San Francisco along the coast. Marine Mammal Center: Just over Golden Gate Bridge in Rodeo Beach there is a marine mammal center dedicated to treating injured marine life. See the halfway house for rescued animals up close and personal. While at the Marine Mammal Center you may also want to spend a few relaxing hours on Rodeo Beach. A caution to parents that the waters might be a bit rough but great for surfing. Currently the Visitors center is closed to the public for construction. The center will open its brand new facility in spring 2009. Jelly Belly Factory- Located about one hour from San Francisco is a family fun factory tour of the Jelly Belly Factory. Everyone is invited to take this 40 minute tour to see how Jelly Belly's and other candies are made each day. Tours run daily every 15 mins. and there are free tastings at the end for all to enjoy. Be sure to take advantage of this fun and FREE tour. Strollers are welcome.
Finding a place to relax and have a meal is not hard in San Francisco. There are plenty of delicious eateries around town. Try not to get caught up in the very touristy areas because some of the food may not be the best. If in dought ask a local. They can always lend a hand on a good place to eat. Below we listed a few more well known kid-friendly establishments: Joe's Crab Shack: Sit back and enjoy the show at Joe's Crab Shack. After a long day of tours and shopping come relax and unwind while the waitstaff entertain your children. Enjoy the excitement of singing and dancing from your very own waiters. Your family will enjoy the fun and friendly atmosphere. Conveniently located at Fisherman's Wharf.
Shopping can be found almost everywhere you go. It may even seem as if you are not on a tour then you are shopping. Here are just a few more popular shopping districts: Union Square: The main objective for visiting this part of town is to shop. There are several kid friendly shops from the large Disney store to GAP kids. You will also find a multitude of dining establishments but really not much for the entire family.
Argonaut Hotel: If you are looking to be in the center of all the action you have come to the right place. Located near Fisherman's Wharf, the Argonaut Hotel is an amazing hotel with spectacular views and stunning nautical theme room decor. The staff accommodates each guest with superior and friendly service. The best feature of the hotel is how it treats families with young children. Not only does this hotel provide kids with a welcome gift, access to stroller rentals, in room high chairs but they also provide you with in room child safety kits that include outlet covers, toilet latches and nightlights. The Argonaut Hotel also practices Green Living.
San Francisco is filled with family friendly activities throughout the year. Here are just a few we found:
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