Jump to : Lombard Street The Presidio Golden Gate Bridge Golden Gate Park Union Square Union Street Fisherman's Wharf Pier 39 Alcatraz Angel Island State Park Fort Mason Aquarium of the Bay Moscone Convention Center Twin Peaks San Francisco Zoo Metreon-A Sony Entertainment Center San Francisco Museum of Modern Art The Asian Art Museum Bay Area Discovery Museum Six Flags Marine World Bay Model Visitor Center Bolinas Lagoon Preserve Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Coit Tower Palace of Fine Arts Exploratorium Ghirardelli Square Orpheum Theater Grace Cathedral Monterey Monterey Bay Monterey Bay Aquarium Muir Woods Carmel Santa Cruz Boardwalk Point Reyes Lighthouse Pinnacles National Monument Yosemite National Park San Francisco Seaplane Tours Wine Country San Francisco Neighborhoods San Francisco Sports San Francisco Golf Courses

From the orange towers of the Golden Gate Bridge to the famous Cable Cars, San Francisco is vibrant international destination booming with attractions, museums, art galleries, nightclubs, restaurants, festivals, entertainment, Victorian homes and riveting city tours. You will be captivated by San Francisco 's extraordinary culture, history and character illuminated by ethnic neighborhoods, cultural diversity and dramatic ocean scenery. Experience the essence of San Francisco at Fisherman's Wharf, Twin Peaks, Pier 39, the San Francisco Zoo, Alcatraz, Union Square, Lombard Street, The Presidio, Telegraph Hill, North Beach, Chinatown and the diversity of nearby restaurants, cafés, clubs and shops that line the lively streets of the Marina district.

The Buena Vista Motor Inn can arrange San Francisco tours and provide directions and maps for your city adventure.

Attractions

Lombard Street - Lombard Street is "The Crookedest Street in the World" because of its eight sharp turns on a treacherous 40-degree slope. Lombard Street goes all the way east, up Telegraph Hill to Coit Tower , and continues west down through the Marina , to the Golden Gate Bridge . A walk in either direction is a pleasant hike. The best place to photograph Lomabard is from the bottom of Leavenworth St. looking up.  Some of the most expensive real estate in the city exists on Lombard Street . This Russian Hill neighborhood possesses stately mansions, condos and townhouses. In the spring and summer, Lombard Street is alive with color, as the chrysanthemums are in full bloom.

The Presidio - The Presidio preserves an astonishingly complex cultural and natural heritage within its 1,480 acres just south of the Golden Gate . As a U.S. Army post, the Presidio played a logistical role in every major U.S. military conflict from 1848 until closure. World and national events - from military campaigns to World Fairs to natural disasters - left their mark here. Part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, the Presidio offers visitors history and beauty with more than 500 historic buildings, a collection of coastal defense fortifications, a national cemetery, an historic airfield, a saltwater marsh, forests, beaches, native plant habitats, coastal bluffs, miles of hiking and biking trails, and spectacular vistas. Presidio Trust Special Events Office: (415) 561-5444; email: events@presidiotrust.gov .

Golden Gate Bridge - One of the most breathtaking structures in the world, the Golden Gate Bridge offers magical views of the San Francisco Bay Area, connecting San Francisco and Marin Headlands. The iconic, orange towers of the Golden Gate Bridge , are visible from almost every high point in the city. The bridge, which spans 4,200 ft, had taken only 52 months to design and build when it opened in 1937. Driving or biking across is a thrill, but the half-hour walk across allows you to absorb its enormous size and wonderful views.

Golden Gate Park - Golden Gate Park is the largest and most beautiful of San Francisco 's green space and parks. Spreading more than three miles west from the Haight as far as the Pacific, the park attracts throngs of joggers, polo players, roller-bladers, cyclists and strollers. There's also many places for solitude.

Union Square - A landmark park in the heart of San Francisco , Union Square boasts the city's best shopping, an active theater district and high-end hotels. Surrounding the park square are major department stores - Nordstrom, Macy's, and Emporium - luxury boutiques and superstores. Sporting new granite plazas, a new terraced stage on Post Street , light sculptures designed by artist R.M. Fischer, a new café and four grand entrance corner plazas bordered by the park's signature palms, the remodeled square pays captures the unique history and beauty of San Francisco . The Cable Cars and SF's best personalized walking tours (only $20) depart right from Union Square .

Union Street - Just three blocks from the hotel is Union Street, the first neighborhood in San Francisco to convert its Victorians into popular boutiques, art galleries and restaurants. Union Street 's distinct turn-of-the-century atmosphere makes a walk along its streets a delightful journey back in time, at least from an architectural perspective. Fascinating art stores and galleries are scattered throughout Union Street . The annual Union Street Spring Festival adds to the fun. This is where some of The City's most fashionable and upscale citizens live and play.

Fisherman's Wharf - A historic waterfront, Fisherman's Wharf, which is 10 minutes walk away from the hotel, is famous for seafood restaurants, unique shopping, street performers, live music and breathtaking views. Waterfront marketplaces include: The Anchorage, The Cannery, Ghirardelli Square and Pier 39. The Wharf's Fish Alley sells tons of sole, shrimp, salmon, sea bass, squid and fresh crab. See a fleet of historic ships at Hyde Street Pier, a component of the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park that includes the Maritime Museum . The USS Pampanito, a WWII fleet submarine, may be boarded at Pier 45. Visit the museums of Fort Mason , and enjoy the expanse of parkland along the Marina District , which affords terrific views of the Golden Gate Bridge . Bay cruises depart from piers 39 and 41. Visit www.fishermanswharf.org .

Pier 39 - Pier 39 is a year-round festival marketplace located right on San Francisco Bay . After an up-close look at a California sea lion, check out a street performance, more than 110 shops and get a bite to eat at one of the pier's many restaurants. For more information, visit www.pier39.com .

Alcatraz - The rocky island of Alcatraz was America 's most dreaded high-security prison until it closed in 1963. Surrounded by the freezing, impassable waters of San Francisco Bay , Alcatraz held the nation's most wanted criminals - such as Al Capone and Machine Gun Kelly. Take the ferry to Alcatraz Island and experience the hour-long, self-guided audio tours of the abandoned prison, which include sharp anecdotal commentary, tours of the historic cell blocks and the chance to spend a minute locked in a darkened cell. Boats to Alcatraz leave from Pier 41. For reservations, call (415) 705-5555.

Angel Island State Park - A historic state park on San Francisco Bay , Angel Island offers tram tours, bike rentals, camping, and sea kayaking. Angel Island is a microcosm of U.S. history spanning from the Miwok Indian times through the Cold War. Open daily from 8:00 a.m. to sunset, year-round. For more information, call (415) 897-0715 or visit www.angelisland.com .

Fort Mason - Fort Mason is a former military enclave now protected under the auspices of the Golden Gate National Parks Association. The lower buildings and piers, officially know as Fort Mason Center, provides cultural and educational societies, museums and nonprofits, including the San Francisco African American Historical and Cultural Society, the Museum of Craft and Folk Art and the Museu ItaloAmericano. Fort Mason hosts numerous performances, festivals and exhibits throughout the year, so be sure to check the calendar at http://www.fortmason.org/ www.fortmason.org or call (415) 441-3400.

Aquarium of the Bay - The Aquarium of the Bay is a unique educational and entertainment facility dedicated to the rich and diverse aquatic life of the San Francisco Bay and surrounding waters. The Aquarium provides a window to the Bay that focuses on its distinctive ecosystems and seeks to entertain, educate and inspire preservation of this natural resource. The four parts to your exciting journey - Discover the Bay, Under the Bay, Touch the Bay and Save the Bay - play a role in the Aquarium's ultimate mission to inspire the conservation of San Francisco Bay and all marine environments. For more information, visit www.aquariumofthebay.org .

Moscone Convention Center - The Moscone Center , San Francisco 's premier meeting and exhibition facility, anchors the City's commitment to a vital tourism industry. More than 2 million square feet of building area includes 700,000 square feet of exhibit space, 106 meeting rooms, and 123,000 square feet of pre-function lobbies. With the completion of Moscone West, today's Moscone Center is a collection of facilities covering 20 acres on three adjacent blocks. It anchors the 87-acre Yerba Buena Center redevelopment district in a vibrant downtown neighborhood of hotels, theaters, restaurants, museums, galleries, housing, parks and urban recreation centers. Visit www.moscone.com .

Twin Peaks - Twin Peaks offers breathtaking panoramic vistas of San Francisco , Oakland and Berkeley . See awe-inspiring views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Downtown San Francisco, Angel Island , Alcatraz, the Pacific Ocean , and the hilltops of Yerba Buena Island. At the most-traveled point, there is a direct view down Market Street into downtown. San Francisco glows in the dark, so pick a clear evening to watch it illuminate up the night sky. Look through the coin-operated binoculars for a closer view.

San Francisco Zoo - The San Francisco Zoo is Northern California 's largest zoological park and conservation center. Nestled against the Pacific Ocean , this urban oasis provides a comfortable climate for 250 different animal species in naturalistic surroundings, Zoo activities and events. The historic San Francisco Zoo is being transformed into the New Zoo, a conservation zoo dedicated to the preservation of wild places and wildlife. The new conservation zoo seeks to foster respect and appreciation of wildlife and to provide enlightening and awe-inspiring experiences. You'll find a new entrance, a restored carousel, beautiful artwork, and an incredible new animal exhibit at the Lipman Family Lemur Forest .

Metreon-A Sony Entertainment Center - The Metreon is an innovative entertainment and technology marketplace with 15 movie theatres, an IMAX theatre, three interactive attractions, nine restaurants, world-class shopping, and special events. Located on the third floor, the 15-screen Loews Metreon is San Francisco 's largest movie complex with a panoramic view of the Yerba Buena Gardens Esplanade and the San Francisco skyline. Every auditorium features huge screens, state-of-the-art projection technology, and advanced digital cinema sound systems. Metreon's IMAX Theatre features an 80' x 100' screen for 2-D and 3-D capabilities. Visit www.metreon.com .

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art - Designed by Swiss architect Mario Botta, the SFMOMA houses an extensive collection of 20 th Century art - painting, sculpture, photography, architecture and design, and the media arts. On the first floor, with its large atrium lobby, are a 299-seat theater, an interactive Education Center , the museum shop, and CaffË Museo. Art galleries occupy the top four floors. Selections from the permanent collection of art, sculpture, furniture, and photographs are displayed along with changing special exhibits. Across from SFMOMA, the Center for the Arts provides performance/exhibition space for artists to reflect San Francisco 's cultural diversity.

The Asian Art Museum - One of the largest museums in the world, the Asian Art Museum is devoted to Asian art with a collection of 15,000 objects spanning 6,000 years of history. The museum - reopened in March 2003 at its expanded Civic Center facility - is one of the greatest public learning centers in the country and one of the most technologically advanced in the world. Over a million books, 400 electronic work stations, a children's discovery center, and special rooms on African-American, Chinese, Filipino-American, and gay/lesbian works surround the light-filled atrium.

Bay Area Discovery Museum - L ocated under the north tower of the Golden Gate Bridge , the Discovery Museum was conceived, designed and constructed solely for children. The Discovery Museum is a fantastic place where children of all ages and their families find limitless opportunities for discoveries in art, science, and media. Dozens of entertaining exhibits include crewing on a boat and exploring San Francisco Bay . For more information, (call) 415-487-4398 or visit www.badm.org .

Six Flags Marine World - Just 30 miles northeast of San Francisco , Six Flags Marine World is the only combination wildlife park and oceanarium in the country. Animals of land, sea and air are showcased in spectacular shows and innovative attractions. The Gentle Jungle has fun, hands-on contact and lucky youngsters can always hope for a kiss from a killer whale.

Bay Model Visitor Center - The Bay Model is a three-dimensional hydraulic model of the San Francisco and Delta areas capable of simulating tides, currents and river inflows. The model is over 1.5 acres in size and represents an area from the Pacific Ocean to Sacramento and Stockton , including San Francisco , San Pablo and Suisun Bays , and a portion of the San Joaquin Delta. Self-guided tours in five languages are available. For information, call (415) 332-3871 or visit www.spn.usace.army.mil/bmvc .

Bolinas Lagoon Preserve - Great egrets and great blue herons nest here each spring. Harbor Seals are also inhabitants of Bolinas Lagoon. They may be watched from a distance, but approaching the seals or harassing them in any way is a violation of federal law and is strictly enforced.

Yerba Buena Center for the Arts - This $44 million entertainment and arts complex, located at 701 Mission Street , features performances and exhibits that showcase San Francisco 's artistic diversity.

Coit Tower - Atop Telegraph Hill in North Beach , Coit Tower offers incredible views. Murals on its ground floor walls were painted in 1933 by some 30 local artists, each piece depicting a different aspect of the Great Depression.

Palace of Fine Arts -Created as the landmark building for the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition, the Palace of Fine Arts is indisputably the Marina 's and San Francisco 's architectural grand dame. Though the structure was specifically designed to honor the completion of the Panama Canal - and was intended to be temporary - its construction and the exposition itself were symbols to the world that San Francisco had risen above the 1906 earthquake and its consuming fire. Today the Palace of Fine Arts is home to San Francisco 's beloved museum, the Exploratorium, which hosts more than 600 science and art exhibits and special events. For more information, call (415) 397-5673.

Exploratorium - The Exploratorium is a cutting-edge, hands-on museum of science, art and human perception that is fun, experimental and awe inspiring. Artists and scientists create unique, interactive exhibits exploring phenomena of the natural world. Located in the Palace of Fine Arts , the Exploratorium features hundreds of exhibits to touch, look through, pick up, and tinker with. The Tactile Dome offers a sensory journey in total darkness. The Exploratorium also offers a gift store and café. The Exploratorium is open Tues.-Sun. and select Monday holidays 10am -5pm . For more information, call (415) 561-0308 or visit www.exploratorium.edu .

Ghirardelli Square - Although its oldest building - the Woolen Mill - dates back to 1864, Ghirardelli Square is famous for its years as a chocolate factory, from 1893 until the 1960s. In 1964, Ghirardelli Square became the country's first manufacturing complex renovated into a festival marketplace. In addition to fabulous views of San Francisco Bay , landscaped gardens and a self-guided historic walking tour, it boasts great shops and restaurants. For information, call (415) 775-5500 or visit www.ghirardellisquare.com .

Orpheum Theater - Since the magnificent carved doors of San Francisco 's Orpheum Theater opened more than 75 years ago, the Orpheum has presented an illustrious array of American theatrical entertainment across its stage and screen. From vaudeville, to movies, to musical comedy, this historical landmark has intrigued patrons with its visual and architectural beauty and performances. In 2005, the Orpheum will host the Pre-Broadway engagement of London 's latest smash Jerry Springer - The Opera . The Best of Broadway series will continue to play as Orpheum Theatre lights shine bright. Visit www.bestofbroadway-saf.com .

Grace Cathedral - Located atop Nob Hill, Grace Cathedral is the daughter of historic Grace Church. Designed in French Gothic style by Lewis Hobart, it was completed in 1964 as the third largest Episcopal cathedral in the nation. Famed for its Ghiberti doors -"The Gates of Paradise" - labyrinths, beautiful stained glass, medieval and contemporary furnishings, carillon, organs, and choir, Grace Cathedral is an international pilgrimage center. For more information, call (415) 749-6300.

Monterey - Monterey 's dramatic ocean scenery, pristine pine forests and historic communities entice adventure seekers, artists and vacationers. With miles of breathtaking coastline, Monterey is paradise for recreation, water sports, festivals, fine dining, arts, wine tasting, and attractions, such as the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row. The Monterey Peninsula is popular for its natural beauty, golf courses and the Point Pinos Lighthouse (1855). Monterey 's history and heritage is written in its adobes, mission bells, gardens and lighthouses. Discover historic landmarks like Custom House, Cooper-Molera Adobe, and The House of the Blue Gate as you walk Monterey 's Path of History . Go tide-pooling along the rocky shore, horseback riding over open meadows or hike towering cliffs in Pinnacles National Monument . Learn about wildlife at the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, or check out the scenery on Pebble Beach 's 17-Mile Drive .

Monterey Bay - Monterey Bay is a lively port for fun and exploration of both sea and land life. Venture into the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, the world's largest protected ocean habitat. Dive lush kelp forests, watch sea otters, kayak waterways shared with dolphins and sea lions, sail indigo waters, and glide with gray whales migrating through the sanctuary in winter and spring. Touch a starfish and marvel at an 87-foot whale skeleton while exploring underworld mysteries at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center . Monterey Bay is one of the world's prime whale watching zones, attracting visitors to the beaches and boats for a glimpse of the whales as they migrate to their winter breeding grounds in Baja California . As evening falls, watch the last orange streak of sunset fade into the resting waters.

Monterey Bay Aquarium - The largest aquarium in the U, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is internationally acclaimed for its interactive exhibits and ability to present marine life on a grand scale. Probe the deep wonders of Monterey Bay as you tour the Aquarium's matchless near-shore and coastal exhibits that explore the ecosystem of the tide-pools, and venture to the Outer Bay exhibit, showcasing hammerhead sharks, schools of sardines, enormous sun fish and green sea turtles. Kids love the Splash Zone, featuring South African penguins, and the bay ray pool where you can pet the fish. The Jellies: Living Art exhibit is a spectacular combination of rare and delicate jellies and fine art. Don't miss feeding time in the giant kelp forest exhibit or the sea otter tank. The incredible Sharks: Myth and Mystery exhibit features sharks and rays in two vast tanks and a shark touch pool. Visit www.mbayaq.org .

Muir Woods - Only 12 miles north of San Francisco 's Golden Gate Bridge , in an isolated canyon, grows the ancient coast redwood forest known as Muir Woods. Experience the tranquility of majestic coastal redwoods - some 500 years old - and canyon ferns as you follow a gentle scenic trail. Muir Woods offers numerous hiking trails, streams, and interpretive displays. Stroll through 1,000 year old giant redwoods towering 260 feet high and experience why naturalist John Muir called this " the best tree-lovers monument that could possibly be found in all the forests of the world." Commercial tours are available from San Francisco . Open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset. Entry fee: $3 per adult (17 and older). For more information, call (415) 388-2595 or visit www.nps.gov/muwo/home.htm .

Carmel - First settled by artists, Carmel is a cultured, quaint and artistic seaside community that features Tudor buildings that house art galleries, shops, restaurants and hotels - often tucked down courtyards. Enjoy pristine white beaches, golf courses and amazing coastal views. Carmel Plaza offers more than 50 shops and restaurants in an elegant courtyard with lovely landscaping and a beautiful fountain. Carmel Valley Village consists of unique shops, wine tasting rooms, restaurants, and interesting cafes.

Santa Cruz Boardwalk - Located on a mile-beach between Monterey and San Francisco , the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is your hot spot for beach vibes and lassic rides. The only major seaside amusement park on the West Coast, the Boardwalk offers carnival rides, games, arcades, miniature golf and laser tag. You'll have a thrilling time, from the heart-pounding rush of the Giant Dipper - one of the oldest wooden roller coasters in the country - to the family fun of Bulgy the Whale. The park's latest rides - Fireball and Cliff Hanger - are packed with ocean-view thrills. Other attractions include the Climb & Conquer climbing wall, the Venturer Simulator motion theater, Trampoline Thing, and the 3-D Fun House. The Boardwalk Grand Arcades, the Casino Arcade and Neptune 's Kingdom are open daily. Visit www.rwsplash.com .

Point Reyes Lighthouse - A 308 step walkway leads to this 1870 lighthouse, built high on a Point Reyes cliff at the Point Reyes National Seashore . Whale-watching is very popular here January through March. More than 70 miles of trails for hiking and biking weave through open pastures, rugged ridges, and coastal cliffs in this 70,000 acre wilderness area. Over 400 bird species have been seen at the Point Reyes Bird Observatory. More information is available at any of the three visitor's centers.

Pinnacles National Monument - Rising out of the chaparral-covered Gabilan Mountains , east of central California 's Salinas Valley , are the spectacular remains of an ancient volcano. Massive monoliths, spires, sheer-walled canyons and talus passages define millions of years of erosion, faulting and tectonic plate movement. Within the monument's boundaries lie 24,000 acres of diverse land for hiking, climbing, bird watching and sightseeing. The monument is renowned for the beauty and variety of its spring wildflowers and its diversity of wildlife. The rock formations of Pinnacles which divide the park are connected by miles of trails that access geological formations, spectacular vistas and wildlife communities. There are over 30 miles of trails - from easy loops to wilderness trails - challenging both the casual and experienced hiker. The Pinnacles' rock formations are popular for technical climbers. Pinnacles offers full moon hikes and dark sky astronomical observations led by ranger-interpreters. Visit www.nsp.gov/pinn .

Yosemite National Park - One of the most beautiful places on earth, Yosemite National Park embraces 1,200 square miles of scenic wildlands set aside in 1890 to preserve the central Sierra Nevada that stretches along eastern California . From 2,000 feet above sea level to more than 13,000 feet, Yosemite encompasses an alpine wilderness, three groves of giant Sequoias and the glacially-carved Yosemite Valley with impressive waterfalls, cliffs and unusual rock formations. Hike, walk or wander through a spectacular tract of mountain-and-valley scenery, waterfalls, meadows, and forests. The 196 miles of roads and 840 miles of trails give access to these natural treasures by car, foot or free shuttle bus. The awesome, perpendicular face of Half Dome - a granite monolith sculptured by eons of glacier erosion - is one of America 's "Big Walls" and an extreme vertical challenge for climbers.

San Francisco Seaplane Tours - Fly directly out to the Pacific Coast and south to the Golden Gate Bridge . After flying over the bridge, you will continue your flight over the Financial District and Downtown San Francisco, along the waterfront, Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39, then north to Alcatraz, around Angel Island , and along the picturesque cities of Tiburon, Belvedere, and Sausalito . This tour lasts approximately 30 minutes and offers incredible sights from Marin to San Francisco . Call (415) 332-4843 or visit www.seaplane.com .

Wine Country – Just across the Golden Gate Bridge , is California 's wine countries: Napa and Sonoma Valleys. Experience 125 Sonoma County wineries, Napa Valley Train Tours, Cheese Factory Tours, the Sonoma County Wine and Visitors Center , Russian River Canoe Trips, delightful restaurants, and family adventure.

San Francisco Neighborhoods.

Fillmore - Near Pacific Heights on Fillmore Street south of Broadway are a number of intimate cafés, restaurants, and upscale clothing, kitchenware and home furnishing stores. Foreign films fascinate at the import film house on Fillmore near Clay. The 2000 to 2200 blocks offer a smorgasbord of vintage clothing shops. The Juneteenth Celebration is an outdoor event held in June to celebrate African American culture. Jazz And All That Art on Fillmore is a lively street fair during the July 4 weekend that celebrates the area's deep jazz roots.

Haight-Ashbury - The "Summer of Love" lives in stores and boutiques throughout this charming Victorian sector. Vintage clothing, books and records are abundant along Haight Street , the neighborhood's busiest stretch. Places of interest include 710 Ashbury Street , once home to the legendary musical group, the Grateful Dead; 112 Lyon Street, where famous singer Janis Joplin lived; Buena Vista Park, with its delightful views of San Francisco ; and, for architectural highlights, Masonic, Piedmont and Delmar Streets.

Nob Hill - Nob Hill boasts incredible views of San Francisco Bay , especially when observed from a California Street cable car, running from the foot of Market Street , over the hill and down to Van Ness Avenue . Nob Hill's noble tenants include Grace Cathedral, a replica of Notre Dame in Paris , Huntington Park , the site of art shows and graced by a replica of a 16 th -century Roman fountain, the Nob Hill Masonic Center , an architectural dazzler hosting various musical events, and the Cable Car Museum.

North Beach - North Beach cafés, restaurants and parks evoke an aura of romantic Italy . Enjoy sipping coffee in a romantic outdoor cafe or indulge in glass of local wine. North Beach features an active live music scene and world-renowned pizza. Washington Square , a grassy park in the center of the neighborhood, provides a focal point to enjoy the day. Don't miss City Lights, a world famous bookstore frequented by the "beat generation." Each October, the North Beach Festival , San Francisco 's oldest street fair - celebrates its Italian heritage with a series of traditional events that include the blessing of San Francisco 's fishing fleet, a fiesta in the wharf, and a grand parade.

Chinatown - Experience the culture and character of Asia at restaurants, shops, markets, and bakeries of historic Chinatown . Visit the elegant Chinese Presbyterian Church and the Pacific Renaissance Plaza , which houses shops, restaurants, and the Oakland Asian Cultural Center . San Francisco 's Chinatown begins at the dragon-crested gate at Grant Avenue and Bush Street , a gift from the Republic of China in 1969. Its 24-square blocks in the middle of San Francisco boasts culturally unique stores, open markets and facades, resembling shopping in Hong Kong . Try Dim Sum, a traditional Chinese breakfast.

Japantown - The heart of Japantown is Japan Center , a five-acre complex of hotels, shops, theaters, sushi bars and restaurants at Post and Buchanan Streets. It is crowned by a five-tiered pagoda, a symbol of eternal peace. More than 12,000 residents of Japanese descent call this neighborhood home, preserving a traditional slice of Japanese life. Each April, Japantown celebrates its famous Cherry Blossom Festival. Taiko drumming, martial arts, doll making and calligraphy demonstrations lead to a colorful parade.

East Bay - The East Bay communities - Oakland , Berkeley and Alameda - offer a fascinating mix of culture and history across the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge. Jack London Square is a captivating collection of shops and restaurants on Oakland 's western waterfront. Lake Merritt in the downtown corridor is ideal for jogging and midday daydreaming. Berkeley , a well-known liberal stronghold and home to the University of California , offers unique shopping, trendy restaurants and world-renowned performing arts.

San Francisco Sports

San Francisco Giants - Catch Giant fever! Spend a day enjoying America 's favorite pastime with the defending National League West champions . For tickets, call BASS Tickets at (408) 998-BASS, or order online at www.sfgiants.com .

San Jose Sharks - The exciting San Jose Sharks play 41 season games. Having taken San Jose by storm, the game of hockey and the hometown team combine for the ultimate "powerplay." Join Sharkie, the team mascot, and the rest of the Sharks franchise for a hot day on ice! For ticket and schedule information, call (408) 999-5757 or order online at www.sj-sharks.com .

3Com Park - SBC Park - formerly Candlestick Park - is one of the county's top ballparks and is the home of the San Francisco 49ers Football team. 3Com Park is located in the southeast corner San Francisco at Candlestick Point. Ticket Office: ( 415) 656-4900.

Pacific Bell Park - The splashy home of the San Francisco Giants, PacBell Park offers guided tours daily at 10:30 am and 12:30 pm . Kids will love sitting in the dugout, experiencing a big league clubhouse, walking on the field, and visiting other places in the park only players and staff get to see. The first privately-financed ballpark in Major League Baseball since Dodger Stadium (1962), the Giants' home features an inspiring nine-foot statue of Hall of Famer Willie Mays at the public entrance, Portuguese water dogs who fetch home runs that splash into McCovey Cove, an 80-foot Coca-Cola bottle with playground slides and a miniature SBC Park behind left field for kids, and mass public transit . For tour reservations, please call (415) 972-2212 Monday through Friday between 8:30 am and 5:30 pm, or order tickets online.

San Francisco Golf Courses

Presidio Golf Course - Located on the grounds of The Presidio, the 18-hole Presidio Golf Course is a Bay Area favorite. Players are challenged by narrow fairways, hilly terrain, numerous fairway and greenside bunkers, and the sweeping Bay winds. This full-service golf club features a driving range, two putting greens, golf carts with GPS, a stocked pro shop and a nice-sized clubhouse and restaurant. Built in 1896, this historic course offers fantastic vistas. For information and reservations, call (415) 561-4653.

Lincoln Park Golf Course - Lincoln Park is the most scenic golf course in the San Francisco Bay Area. This 18-hole, Par 68 course, established in 1902, has been host to some of the greatest golfers in the world including Bobby Jones, Johnny Miller, Tom Watson, and Babe Zaharias. While the course is very hilly, players can enjoy spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge , San Francisco and the Pacific Ocean . For more information, call (415) 221-9911.

Harding Park Golf Course - A must-play for visiting golfers, the historic 18-hole Harding Park Golf Course opened in 1925 as one of the nation's premier public layouts. William Watson's original design took maximum advantage of the course's location along the shores of Lake Merced , emphasizing parkland features while capturing the presence of the Pacific Ocean . A renovation in 2002-2003 under the direction of PGA Tour Design Services enhanced the character and playing experience of this notable venue. The Harding Park complex also includes the 9-hole Fleming Course. Both courses feature Monterey Cypress trees lining the fairways and artfully placed bunkers. Harding is available for daily play, tournaments and group outings. For information and tee times, call (415) 661-1865 or visit www.harding-park.com .

Olympic Club - The Olympic Club is a private golf and athletics club in San Francisco that features three challenging 18-hole PGA courses - the Cliffs Course, Lakes Course and the Ocean Course. The Olympic Club has been the site of some of the most dramatic final-round comebacks in U.S. Open history. In 1955, unheralded Jack Fleck rallied to beat Ben Hogan in a playoff, thus denying him a record fifth Open title. Eleven years later, Arnold Palmer blew a seven-stroke lead over the last nine holes to Billy Casper, and lost in an 18-hole playoff. For information and reservations, call (415) 775-4400.

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