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San Francisco is a beautiful and vibrant city. The city is full of many wonderful places to see and things to do. There is so much to do here that you may not have enough time to do it all. In fact, this city by the bay is a favorite place for many travelers who visit many times. Read on to learn the top reasons to visit San Francisco in 2022.
Top Reasons to Visit San Francisco
Cruise the Bay
A trip to San Francisco would not complete without a cruise on the famous San Francisco Bay. While cruising on the bay, you will pass under the iconic Golden Gate, see Alcatraz island, Pier 39, and see this beautiful city from a different perspective on the water. The Blue and Gold Fleet has bay tours that offer indoor and outdoor seating, plus a narration that details all the major landmarks of the city as you pass them.
Indulge Your Sweet Tooth
Chocolate lovers will be in heaven at Ghirardelli Square. The famous chocolatier still produces some of its decadent treats here. At the store, you can consume and purchase all types of deserts made from every variety of chocolate. Besides the chocolate, you can also indulge in other eateries including a steak at McCormick & Kuleto’s, or a refreshment at Palette Tea House. There are also several retail outlets in the square including Lola, Jackson & Polk, and YAP USA. The square is open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM.
Tour the Mission Murals
Take a walk or grab a bike and take a free tour of the city’s best artwork at the Mission Murals. There are over 1,000 colorful murals located here along Caledonia Alley, Horace Alley, Balmy Alley and Clarion Alley.
Discover Hidden Gems
If vintage items are your forte, shop at Treasure Island Flea. This market has everything including artisan products, clothing , antiques, and other unique items. While you shop, be sure to fill up from one of the many food trucks in the area.
See European Style Architecture
The Palace of Fine Arts was constructed in 1915 for the Panama-Pacific International Exposition. This iconic landmark definitely has the ‘wow’ factor with all its gorgeous scenery, but it still manages to remain a tranquil spot. When exploring the grounds, you will be awe-struck at the beautiful landscaping, the Greco-Roman rotunda and the ducks and fish swimming in the lagoon. Throughout the year, many events take place in the historic Palace of Fine Arts Theatre.
Dine in America’s Oldest and Largest Chinatown
San Francisco’s Chinatown neighborhood is a must see place. This 24 block area is full of many interesting alleys and streets, delicious Asian eateries, unique shops, and Chinese produce markets. Every Saturday you can watch the Lion Dancers perform to chase away evil spirits. For a special treat, visit the Golden Gate Cookie Factory, where you can get a tour of the factory and some handmade custom fortune cookies.
Take in Stunning Views from A Wild Trail
On Land’s End Trail, you can navigate the cliffs above the ocean and get a history lesson as well. This 3.4 mile trail is a popular pastime for locals and visitors alike. Many combine Land’s End Trail with the Presidio Loop in order to have a much longer hike. From this viewpoint, you can see spectacular views of the Golden Gate, the shore, and the headlands. Guests can explore the memorial to the USS San Francisco, West Fort Miley, the Cliff House, and Sutro Baths.
See the History of the Psychedelic Era
The Haight-Ashbury district commemorates the late 60’s Summer of Love and flower power. Many famous musicians such as the Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane, Janis Joplin, and Jimi Hendrix were here and helped cultivate the ‘San Francisco sound’. This area is full of funky shops such as Love on Haight and Amoeba Music. If you wish to partake in some hot nightlife action, stop into Molotov’s, the Peacock Lounge, or the artsy NOC NOC.
Get a 180-Degree Viewpoint of the City
Twin Peaks are the second highest hills in the city surrounded by coastal scrub and grasslands. Hike along the trail network at this 64 acre park and take in the remarkable views of the Bay area. While exploring the park, try to locate the mission blue butterfly, an endangered species located here that has survived in the city.
Ride the World Famous Cable Cars
Take a spin on a national landmark and see San Francisco from the seat of a cable car. Besides the Golden Gate Bridge, the cable cars are another San Francisco icon. Visitors can board any one of the three car lines including Powell/Mason, Powell/Hyde, or California cable car. On the Powell/Hyde line, you will see some of San Francisco’s greatest landmarks including Coit Tower, San Francisco Bay and Alcatraz Island before your ride concludes at Fisherman’s Wharf. Guests and residents can enjoy rides on the cable cars everyday from 7 AM to 10:30 PM.
Plan your trip to visit San Francisco in 2022!
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Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.