San Francisco is the commercial, cultural and financial hub of Northern California. The densely populated city is strategically perched on the northern edge of the San Francisco Peninsula. The history of San Francisco can be traced back to the Spanish rule. Today, San Francisco has a distinct influence on the state of California and the US in general. According to the History Channel, the city started out as a Spanish outpost before the US conquest in 1846. The city turned into a metropolis in 1848 following the discovery of gold.
However, a catastrophe engulfed the city in 1906 after a massive earthquake and fire breakout. Over the 20th century, San Francisco made huge leaps that soon transformed it into a modern center of wealth, technology and progressive ideals. The city is also home to numerous attractions and amenities that draws millions of tourists from other parts of the US and the world. According to the San Francisco Travel blog, the top 5 things to do in San Francisco include: walking over the Golden Gate Bridge, riding a cable car, watching the sea lions and shopping at the union square.
Union Square is a must visit place for shoppers coming to the Bay Area. The famous square is lined with major department stores and designer boutiques offering exclusive fashion items and accessories. Some of the largest Nordstrom and Bloomingdale stores in the country are stationed here. Being the most photographed bridge, the Golden Gate Bridge is undoubtedly the most famous bridge in the world. Built in 1937, the bridge stretches some 1.7 mile. Over 120,000 car pass over the bridge on a daily basis. The Golden Gate Bridge also features a pedestrian walkway and bike lane.
Mark Alvarado San Francisco Travel Insights
Mark Alvarado is a distinguished travel expert and commentator. Mark Alvarado San Francisco uses his travel blog to offer insightful guides and tips to ensure travelers get the most out of their itinerary. For its relatively small size, San Francisco offers a lot of attractions and activities for people of all ages. Besides the spectacular attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge and the Fisherman’s Wharf, Mark Alvarado San Francisco travel expert recommends the following must see places to every traveler:
1. Visit the Alcatraz Prison – steep in a rich history, Alcatraz used to be a federal prison. One of the most famous prisoners to be housed here was Al Capone, a famous mob boss. The building at one time served as a lighthouse and military installation. Alcatraz is located on a small, rocky Island at the center of San Francisco Bay.
2. Muir Woods National Monument – if you love nature, take time off to visit the Mui Woods National Monument. The dramatic forest is enriched with overreaching redwood trees that bring to light the beautiful California woodlands. The attraction is located about 16 miles from downtown San Francisco.
3. Chinatown – this is one of the most interesting places to visit in San Francisco. The neighborhood plays host to one of the largest communities of Southeast Asians in the US. The top attractions include souvenir stalls, traditional Chinese herbal clinics, old Chinese temples and restaurants.
4. Baker Beach – away from the fast rising skyline, San Francisco is fast becoming a beach holiday destination. The Baker Beach in the northwestern area of Presidio ranks as one of the most popular beach areas in California. The beach is popular with activities like sunbathing. It also offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
