San Francisco Attractions

Alcatraz Island of Golden Gate National Recreation Area is yet another famous tourist spot where earlier people didn't like to go for recreation, especially because it housed the historic and infamous federal prison. But now, it has become one of San Francisco 's most popular tourist attractions. A trip to San Francisco won't be complete without a visit to the America 's most famous prison. This prison was used to detain some of America 's most feared criminals, yet there has never been any escape from this prison. Before visiting it, make sure that you have reserved your tickets in advance. Otherwise, you will be greatly disappointed.

For having a first hand experience of Asian culture and cuisine, you don't have to venture eastwards. Right there in San Francisco , you will find the ‘ Chinatown '. It is one of the most densely populated neighborhoods of San Francisco that has grown tremendously over the years. This place boasts of the presence of world's largest Chinese communities outside Asia . Chinatown is an apt expression of western interpretation of Chinese architecture. Soak yourself in the atmosphere, the history, and enlighten yourself on the contributions of this important ethnic group of San Francisco residents. You can also get a glimpse of the ‘real' Chinatown in its restaurants, shops, temples and street vendors. Among the prominent museums worth a visit are the Chinese Historical Society of America and Chinese Culture Center . Located in the neighborhood of Hotel Triton , the there are several art galleries, interior design studios, contemporary boutiques, outdoor cafes and wine bars. It offers a beautiful blend of art and commerce.

If you are interested in visiting yet another country within San Francisco , then head for North Beach , San Francisco 's ‘Little Italy'. This place also offers the most authentic Italian food. At night, this place transforms into a neon zone bustling with steamy nightlife, strip joints, bars, cafes and restaurants. Once here, don't forget to sample espresso and the cannoli sweet at Caffe Trieste. The century-old establishment, Molinari's deli pleases the hungriest of the souls. If you happen to be here in the month of August, you must see the North Beach Jazz Festival.

In case, you want to round up your San Francisco tour with some shopping, take a walk by the lanes of Union Square , the best place to shop. It is surrounded by a number of big stores, such as Macy's, Saks, Neiman Marcus, Nike Town and Levi's. Colorful flower stands and street performers will regale you throughout your shopping! There are also some big names like Virgin Megastore, FAO Schwarz, Gump's and Britex Fabrics along with boutiques for Coach, Bulgari, Cartier, Thomas Pink, Louis Vuitton, Emporio Armani, Diesel, Prada, and Gucci in its close neighborhood. All that you need is a big and heavy purse!

Your visit to San Francisco won't be complete without a joy ride in the Cable Cars. These cable cars operate seven days a week covering century-old routes. These are the only street railways where the cars do not require their own power to run around the city. For a unique joyride, board the California Street line that goes from the Financial District, through Chinatown , and over Nob Hill. Sprawling over more than thousand acres, Golden Gate Park comprises gardens, nine named lakes, a number of fly casting pools, a lily pond, bridal and walking paths, Strybing Arboretum, Botanical Gardens, M. H. de Young Memorial Museum, the Japanese Tea Garden and the Music Concourse esplanade. For those wishing to share the serene company of nature, this is the ultimate haven, far away from the maddening crowds.

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