Golden Gate Bridge
San Francisco has a variety of places to explore. There are places for those wanting to experience different cultures, those who are foodies (had the best burger ever at Artisan Burgers), if you like seeing art and incredible structures, or simply want to enjoy the beauty of nature. It is four hours from Yosemite if you want to be blown away by the majesty of God's creation.
The iconic symbol of San Francisco, The Golden Gate bridge, is a must see. It might take some patience to get the perfect view though. My husband and I went in March and when we went to view it from the Mainlands, it was completed encompassed by clouds. Our willingness to wait was worth it and though I didn't get the perfect shot, I loved the photo effect that occurred from the Golden Gate Bridge emerging from the clouds. I recommend viewing it from different locations. There is no toll fees leaving San Francisco, but you have to pay to come back via the bridge. If you have a rental, make sure you either pay online or get a pass otherwise you will be responsible for some pretty hefty fees from the rental company on top of the tolls.
China Town
Chinatown is another popular destination. Honestly, it was more touristy than I was expecting. Lots of restaurant choices, but a lot of souvenir shops that were pretty much the same. It is more fun to just walk through and see the culture. Of course, I did grab some souvenirs at really great prices.
Japan Town
Then there is Japan town which was one of my favorite destinations and rightfully so since my husband and I are nearing going through the process to be missionaries in Japan. It was extremely organized and I would expect no less from hearing about Japan's culture. I loved seeing all the different shops, but most of all the food! They have a several restaurants inside the Japan Center and then when you are done, you can choose from ice cream, mochi, and pastries. Get a little taste of a different culture.
Lombard Street
If you want to drive along or walk down a really super windy road, this is your destination. Now I can say that I've walked along Lombard Street.
Japanese Tea Garden
For those that love looking at nature, The Golden Gate State Park is your location. Even if you don't consider yourself a nature person, it is a place to add to your travel list. And yes, I had a complete itinerary of places to go from food to tourist attractions. Wouldn't you if you've been dreaming of going for the last decade? It was serene with the koi pond laced with elegant plants and Japanese structures. If you arrive before 10 am, it is free. We got there 3 minutes prior and got in for free! There is free parking along the park if you can find a spot.
Palace of Fine Arts
Next is the Palace of Fine Arts. It was a quick walk through, but interesting nether the less. It was constructed for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition to display fine arts. Hmmm, I wonder why they named it Palace of Fine Arts?
Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 31
If you want to see seals fight, flop around, and make lots of noise, check out Pier 31. Well, seriously, it was entertaining!
This is a view from Alioto's Restaurant. It was good food, a great view, and romantic setting. The lunch menu was really reasonable. It was $20 a dish which for the area is great! You can get validated free parking at the restaurant before 6 pm for 2 hours and if you go 6 pm to midnight, you can get 3 hours of free parking.
Ghirardelli Square
Don't leave the Fisherman's Wharf without stopping at the Ghirardelli Square! There is an option where you get to choose 3 different chocolate squares and they make a milkshake with them. Warning, if you are lactose intolerant like me, you will suffer greatly. Is it worth it? Hard to say, but I did it so I could say I did it. Pretty valid reason, right?
Golden Gate Park Windmill and Tulips
And I will end with the dutch windmill and tulips. This is also in the Golden Gate State Park along with the Japanese Tea Garden. There are several places you can tour within the park so do a bit of googling if you plan on going. As a final traveling tip, when it comes to parking which is a huge factor, be sure to have a hefty parking budget. Parking can get pricey in San Francisco. We went right before the lock down for COVID-19 so we were able to locate free parking most of the trip. An additional tip, DO NOT use parking aps that have you pay in advance. They are scams and I'll leave it at that. I hope you enjoyed seeing the highlights of San Francisco and I hope you will get the chance to go some day. Like I said in the beginning, there are so many destinations that appeal to a variety of different preferences for what is a fun time. I tend to lean towards nature and food. I had a hefty list of places to go! Happy traveling.
