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Top Things to Do in San Francisco

When one hears the mention of San Francisco, the first thing that comes to mind is the abundantly rich architecture of the place and the cultural delights that the place holds.

However, San Francisco is more than just a beautiful piece of human civilization. It holds a lot more surprises for a visiting traveler. Here are some of the places that you should certainly not miss out on if you are here.

Walk or Drive on the Golden Gate Bridge

You must have heard about it, read about it and checked its pictures (the Golden Gate Bridge is the most-photographed beach of the world), but the experience of walking or driving on the Golden Gate Bridge is something that you have to acquire. The bridge is 220 feet off the sea it is on. Check the ships go below you like they were tiny matchboxes. The whole bridge spans 1.7 miles, one of the largest and most-satisfying!

Go to the Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz was a prison site in historical times. Named for the pelicans that abound the island – even today – the island is a must-visit. You can leave from Pier 33 on the Fisherman’s Wharf and spend a whole day here if you wanted. You won’t find most of the buildings as they were in the times of the Native American imprisonment, but you will still be awed by their ruins.

Ride High in the Cable Cars

This is not a tourist destination, but it is a thing you need to experience. Cable cars ride high atop San Francisco in most of its main routes and you would really have a great view of the city from up there. There are three routes here – the Powell-Hyde, the Powell-Mason and the California Street – make sure that you have traveled on them all.

Hike on Lombard Street

Go walking on the most crooked street of the world! The street has a slope of 40 degrees, which means you have to put some effort in hiking on it, but that’s part of the fun. Check the traffic going in interesting curves on the street.

Fisherman’s Wharf

The Fisherman’s Wharf is located between Powell and Hyde on the Jefferson Street. The most popular thing about this wharf is that it is the starting point for visiting Alcatraz. But do take some time to experience the hustle and bustle of this place too.

Check out the indigenous fisherpersons bringing their hauls on the shore and take delight in the seafood that this place has perennially on offer. Shopping for souvenirs is a fun experience here as well.