California Vacations and Things to do in San Francisco By Debbie Turner At Isnare.com Ezine Articles

San Francisco and the Bay Area is a great city to explore. There are many things to do in San Francisco and you’ll find yourself running out to time to get it all in so planning will definitely be key. There’s no shortage of things to do and encompasses everything from fine dining, to theaters and entertainment of all varieties, Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39, attractions such as meeting 20,000 amazing marine animals as you walk through 300 feet of crystal clear tunnels at the Aquarium of the Bay, and of course, the Golden Gate Bridge.

The Golden Gate Bridge, which remains the iconic structure of the city, was built in the mid of 1930’s and it was the longest suspension bridge in the world. Stretching almost two miles to Marin County and towering 4,200 feet above the bay, the bridge is worth a walk across the unsteadiness inducing view alone surrounded by the green hills of Marin, San Francisco skyline, the Pacific running through the horizon.

Locals near the bridge love to bike or walk across, you can call the Bike Saddles if you want to rent a bike or if you want to learn more you can join the three hour Bike the Bridge Tour. This tour will take you through the Presidio, across the bridge and into Saulito. Go through with it up close and enjoy a totally exceptional perspective of San Francisco and the San Francisco Bay when you walk or take your bike across this national treasure. The Gate is close at 6:30pm and reopens at 5am. Truly, this bridge is one of the world’s most beautiful and scenic bridges.

You can’t get to Fisherman’s Wharf and not endulge in a sourdough bread bowl of Clam Chowder (or 2 or 3). And, speaking of sourdough bread, set in the heart of Fisherman's Wharf, is the new, two-story flagship building allows visitors to observe the 5,000 square-foot bakery in action. Learn the story of sourdough French bread, how it is made and why it cannot be baked anywhere else on earth. Complimentary trip to tasting room included with Museum & Bakery Tour.

Also down at Fisherman’s Wharf is the Submarine USS Pampanito. This authentic, World War II submarine - with near perfect restoration - offers visitors an unforgettable experience. Individuals and groups will feel history unfold, seeing how the crew of 80 men lived for weeks on end in amazingly tight quarters. Many original artifacts are on display. Exclusive iPod audio tour features Pampanito crewmen telling real-life war stories. The gift store is chock full of gifts, books, video/DVDs and memorabilia. This is a National Historic Landmark.

Alcatraz Island, one of San Francisco's top visitor attractions, is operated by the National Park Service. Cruises start at 9am and continue throughout the day. Ten to 14 daily departures depending on the time of year. Evening tours offered Th-M. All Alcatraz tours depart from Pier 33. Guaranteed lowest prices to Alcatraz Island. Purchase and print tickets online - save time and avoid lines.

There is something for everyone at PIER 39, one of San Francisco's premier Bay attractions: a festival marketplace with more than 110 stores, 14 Bay view restaurants and a variety of fun-filled attractions for all ages, including the world-renowned sea lions, street performers and live daily entertainment.

Published At: Isnare Free Articles Directory http://www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=267257&ca=Travel

Important Notice DISCLAIMER: All information, content, and data in this article are sole opinions and/or findings of the individual user or organization that registered and submitted this article at Isnare.com without any fee. The article is strictly for educational or entertainment purposes only and should not be used in any way, implemented or applied without consultation from a professional. We at Isnare.com do not, in anyway, contribute or include our own findings, facts and opinions in any articles presented in this site. Publishing this article does not constitute Isnare.com's support or sponsorship for this article. Isnare.com is an article publishing service. Please read our Terms of Service for more information.