Top 5 Attractions To Visit In San Francisco
The city of San Francisco has a lot to offer both visitors and residents, especially from nearby areas of Newark and Fremont among others. Whether you are in the mood for a bit of adventure, a learning experience, or simply some chill time, this city has you covered. When it comes to daytime attractions, there are 5 that should definitely feature high on your San Francisco bucket list.
They are the perfect combination of fun and relaxing, yet educational trips. This makes these attractions ideal whether you are going alone, with your mate, or with family. Here is a little more about each of them, and what you should expect.
1. Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz has been different things over the years, from a personal island estate to a maximum security prison. The best thing about this island is that it has retained something from each of the iconic eras in its history. However, it is not the 100+ year old lighthouse or remnants of the military base that bring people here. What is probably the number one reason for Alcatraz’s popularity as an attraction is the prison tour.
The prison tour allows you to truly appreciate the rich history of this island, mainly during its years as a prison. You get to see where the inmates were held and the facilities made available to them. You also get a tour of where the staff lived, including the iconic Warden’s House.
Famous prisoners of Alcatraz included Al Capone, George Kelly (known as “Machine Gun” Kelly), Robert Stroud (known as the “Birdman of Alcatraz”), Frank Morris, and others. The prison is said to be haunted by different prisoners, including Capone and Stroud. With all this and so much more to look forward to, Alcatraz is, without a doubt, worth dedicating an afternoon to.
2. Pier 39
If your idea of daytime fun and adventure is a little retail therapy, then Pier 39 is the spot for you. It is essentially a shopping center with numerous different stores for you to browse and shop in. You can pretty much find anything here, from clothes and books to groceries and travel souvenirs.
In addition to all the shops, there are many quaint little restaurants and bars on the pier. These are ideal for that much needed refuel that allows you to keep shopping all day long. The shopping hub rests on a pier with breathtaking waterfront views of the ocean.
You also have a view of some of San Francisco’s most recognizable sites including Alcatraz Island, the Bay Bridge and the Golden Gate Bridge. There are multiple restaurants and other rest spots along the edge, built to allow you to soak up all the beautiful scenery. For some, there is truly no better way to end a day of shopping and restaurant hopping, than with a view of the sunset from Pier 39.
3. The Presidio
The Presidio is yet another popular day attraction in San Francisco that has gone through a lot of change through the years. In the mid 1800s, it served as a military fort, as well as a training base for soldiers. Today, it is a multi-functional park with numerous facilities that make it ideal for family outings.
You and your companions may choose to explore the park on your own, either by walking or biking through the the bike trail. This allows you to take in all the natural beauty, with the Golden Gate Bridge being your reward at the end of the journey.
One thing that’s extra special about this trail is the weekly Off the Grid Picnic that happens every Sunday from March to November. This comes as a fun surprise in the middle of your walk or bike route, with many food vendors and food trucks for you to choose from.
You may choose to eat where the vendors set up, or carry your food to the picnic site on Crissy Field. This incredibly popular spot is at the edge of the water, right next to the bridge. It used to be the air field when the park served as a military base.
4. San Francisco Zoo
The San Francisco Zoo is not like many other zoos. It is home to some of the most unique animal species in the world. Its themed exhibits allow you to make your rounds a lot more organized. You get to see exotic animals from all over the world, with everything from exotic and rare South American birds to big and powerful African cats.
The zoo is also active in numerous species conservation projects. This makes it an amazing learning experience for children and adults alike. If you want a break from all the fur and feathers, there are numerous shops and food vendors in the zoo. This allows you to get a little shopping and eating done before you go on with more exploring.
5. Union Square
Last, but not least, is Union Square, a commercial hub that’s located in downtown San Francisco. It allows you to enjoy the city by fully immersing yourself in one of its busiest spots. There are many shops, restaurants, cinemas, theatres, galleries and so much more for you to enjoy all around. You could also simply get some juice or ice cream and do some people-watching, or building-watching from the steps on the square.
There are also many events that are held in Union Square throughout the year. They include live music, cooking classes, fashion shows, glass sculpting, and much more. There is truly something for everyone!