Apr 26, 2010

Port of Call: San Francisco, California



San Francisco (CA) is a tourist destination city for thousands of people each month. It goes without saying that the city has a lot to offer and it should have something for everyone. As with visiting any large metropolis, when visiting San Francisco be prepared to spend time in lines, in traffic, running into people and wondering how to get from point A to point B in the most direct way possible.



According to city-data.com, San Francisco is a city of 808,976 residents all living in an area that is only 46.7 square miles. Most of these residents live right on top of each other in tall high rise apartments. Due to the heavy population density, parking is sparse and when available, it can be quite costly. Looking at the more positive aspects of the city, when visiting San Francisco there is always a lot do and take in. There are plenty of museums, theaters, pubs, bars, dance clubs and various other entertainment venues.

One such must see venue is located in beautiful Golden Gate Park. It is known as "The San Francisco Conservatory Of Flowers" (100 John F. Kennedy Drive, San Francisco, CA). A mere $7 for an adult ticket will get you in front door where the Conservatory boasts rooms devoted to: Special Exhibits, Potted Plants, Lowland Tropics, Highland Tropics and Aquatic Plants. Although the Conservatory is warm (and you will sweat) it is well worth the stroll. Not only is parking around the Conservatory free, after visiting you can relax in Golden Gate Park and take in all the interesting sites and people. Suggested equipment to bring: Camera capable of "macro" shots - a Frisbee - comfortable walking shoes - a blanket to sit down on and relax on and lots of water.



For a pretty much full day the San Francisco Zoo offers a large variety of animals to view. Since you are in San Francisco you can expect the weather to be great unless it is raining. The main entrance is located at (San Francisco Zoo, San Francisco, CA). Right now (April 2010) the zoo has a baby gorilla, which seems to draw quite a large crowd due to his juvenile antics. The layout of the Zoo was well thought out, allowing you to walk around and view every exhibit without have to back track once. Ages 4-14 can get in for $9 while 15-64 is only $15. If you take into account that visiting the zoo runs you a little more then a trip to the movies would, you realize it is well worth the experience: You are outside, learning, talking, enjoy other peoples company and walking around getting exercise for as long as you want (or until closing). For more information on the Zoo, please visit their web-site at: http://www.sfzoo.org/



Some other notable attractions to San Francisco are:

Pier 39 – If you have never been it is worth checking out at least once.
Coit Tower – A beautiful place to visit.
The Exploratorium – There is a lot to do and see here.
De Young Museum – Museums are always recommended, but call ahead first to see what is on display.

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