LANDMARKS

The city of San Francisco has such a long and storied history that regardless of where you might be, all you have to do is hear the word San Francisco, and practically everyone has a picture in their mind. You can also be sure that one or more of these landmarks will encompass those mental images.

Pier 39. Pier 39 is the spot if you want to get a good look at everything from sea lions to incredible sunsets. In the meantime, however, you can also enjoy huge and delicious chowder bowls, California wines, and much more. Pier 39 is located on the historic San Francisco waterfront, which provides a perfect backdrop with postcard views of so many sites that make the city what it is.

Golden Gate Park. Stretching more than three miles on the western edge of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Park is one of the largest urban parks in the world with more than 1,017 acres of pristine comfort for both mind and body. You can also find two major museums, gardens, and facilities for more than 20 different sports that confirm that this is one of the most unique parks to be found anywhere.

Lombard Street. It’s been called the “most crooked” street in the world. Regardless, you would pay yourself to take your turn going down this street with beautiful painted ladies on either side, not to mention the bay, Alcatraz, and other sights along the way.

Alcatraz. Once a lighthouse station, then a military outpost to protect San Francisco Bay, and finally a military prison, Alcatraz is best known as a federal penitentiary from 1934 to 1963. It housed such famous convicts as Al Capone, George “Machine Gun” Kelly and Robert “The Birdman” Stroud. Only one-and-a-half mile by boat from Fisherman’s Wharf, it is today one of the most popular attractions in the area. Visiting the island includes a tour of practically everything that remains, from the cell house to the chow hall and much more.

California Academy of Sciences. Home to an aquarium, natural history museum, research and educational facilities, the California Academy of Sciences is one of a kind. Here you can find splashing penguins, wildflowers on the roof, coral reefs, and much more, all within its boundaries. There are even a four-story living rainforest and a planetarium. There are a wealth of opportunities here.

The Cable Car Museum. Located in the Washington-Mason powerhouse, the Cable Car Museum is on Nob Hill and overlooks the huge engines as well as the winding wheels for the cables of San Francisco’s famous trams. The museum houses many unique displays and a wonderful gift shop.

The Exploratorium. Now open on Pier 15, on the Embarcadero, the Exploratorium is a hands-on experience for everyone who visits. Explore the more than 6,000 exhibits, including the more than 150 new displays and breathtaking views of the City by the Bay. There’s also a spectacular glass-and-steel Bay Observatory.

Legion of Honor. Located in Golden Gate Park, The Legion of Honor was built to commemorate the many sacrifices made by those who died in World War I.

died in World War I.