sfo tourist season

The Golden Gate Bridge and The Tourist Sights of SFO

Built during the Great Depression and a symbol of America's innovation and resolve, The Golden Gate Bridge is now a major transportation marvel as well as San Francisco's most beloved tourist attraction.  I've photographed the bridge from afar numerous times, but was in my glory on the trip we actually walked across, from one side to the other.  The views of the bridge, itself, up close and personal are incredible but the views of the city, from such great heights, was what made this trip so memorable.  

Another monumental way to see the bridge is to view it from the namesake green space, Golden Gate Park.  With endless gardens and attractions, the park is, however, so much more than just the view over the sound.  We enjoyed our time in the Japanese Tea Garden, the Garden of Shakespeare's Flowers, and my ever favorite, the Botanical Garden.  In the Spring, another favored garden is the Queen Wilhelmia Tulip Garden.  If you're looking for the best views of the Bridge, we are partial to the lookout points in the Presidio.  From the Officer's Club and Korean War Memorial to the sandy beaches and open lawns, the Presidio is a recreation area, historical site, and scenic overlook all rolled into one.  There are numerous places to take in the water views but stay to learn the history of the Presidio and enjoy all of it's activities and attractions.  

No vacation to San Fran is complete without a stop at Fisherman's Wharf.  Tourists love the sun bathing seals at pier 39, In N Out Burger, and the glimpse of Alcatraz in the distance.  Plan your trip around Fisherman's Wharf with these fun itineraries created by San Francisco locals.  

Full House (and architect) fans will not miss a trip to the distinguished Victorian homes of Alamo Square.  The Postcard Row or Painted Ladies are one of the most photographed places in San Francisco thanks to the multi colored houses and downtown San Fran juxtaposition.  While the panorama is stunning alone, I'd love to take a tour inside one of the houses someday.  Danny Tanner need not be home.  

Other top tourist sites we enjoy, include Lombard Street, the crookedest street in America, Coit Tower, and my favorite American Chinatown.  Don't forget to ride a SF Cable Car as you walk around the varied neighborhoods and the downtown business district.  Visit The Palace of Fine Arts, a structure built for an International Exposition, that was too beautiful to ever remove.  Wander Haight-Ashbury and take a Mission District Street Art walking tour.  As one of America's most famous food cities, eating and drinking take up most of our time on these trips out west.  Chinese food is king in the largest Chinatown in North America but Asian food abounds throughout the city.  San Francisco is home to 46 Michelin Star restaurants but The French Laundry will always be at the top of my list.  Maybe some day!

With numerous friends living in the area and Matt's tech company roots, San Francisco will, forever be, our most visited US city.