SAN FRANCISCO TOURISM: TOP INSIDER TIPS FROM A SAN The Unofficial Guide to San Francisco Tourisminsider tips from a local. San Francisco has a mystique all its own. The pretty Victorians climbing its steep hills, the clang of the cable cars, the fresh sea air and the swirling fogthere's magic afoot! SAN FRANCISCO CRIME: IS SF SAFE FOR TOURISTS? TIPS FROM A San Francisco Crime Is San Francisco safe? Many visitors read about crime in San Francisco and wonder just how safe it is to travel here. There are many opinions on this, and I have my own after living here for many years, but I also wanted to give a more objective and balanced view of this subject. THE SAN FRANCISCO PIERS: BY THE NUMBERS The piers in San Francisco run along the Embarcadero, the street that follows the curve of the northeastern edge of the city. The numbering starts at the Ferry Building at the end of Market Street; to the left are the odd-numbered piers, and to the right, the even-numbered piers.. The waterfront tourism activity mostly happens between the Ferry Building and Fisherman's Wharf to the north and west. MARSHALL'S BEACH: SAN FRANCISCO'S BEST SECRET BEACH! Marshall's Beach is a hidden San Francisco beach with spectacular views. This beach is the closest one to the Golden Gate Bridge, but few people make the trek down, or even know it's there. The beach requires some effort to get to, however. The path down to the beach from the bluffs above is long; coming back up is a real workout! GETTING AROUND SAN FRANCISCO. TRANSPORTATION WITHOUT TEARS! The good news. San Francisco is one of the better cities in the U.S. for getting around without a car. Not so good: the San Francisco public transportation system can seem very confusing and complicated. But there are ways to make it easier and to save money while doing so. ALCATRAZ SOLD OUT? A LOCAL'S TIPS FOR LAST MINUTE ALCATRAZ For years, visitors could line up super early at the ticket office to get a ticket for one of that day's Day Tours. It was a little desperate, but a great way to get a ticket when Alcatraz was sold out for weeks or months in advance. HOW TO RIDE A CABLE CAR IN SAN FRANCISCO. INSIDER TIPS Powell/Hyde line: 6:00 am to 12:20 am. Powell/Mason line: 6:30 am to 12:20 am. California Line: 6:20 am to 11:30 pm. The cable cars run about every 10 minutes, on average. A little closer together in the morning and a bit farther apart in the evening, but generally within an 8 to 12 minute time span. BIKE THE GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE. READ MY TIPS BEFORE YOU BOOK Get a local's advice on the best deals on renting the bikes, which tours to take, what the ride is like, and tips for taking the ferry. Experience the Golden Gate Bridge up close and enjoy spectacular views of the city, the bay and Alcatraz. Explore charming Sausalito. SAN FRANCISCO TOURISM: TOP INSIDER TIPS FROM A SAN The Unofficial Guide to San Francisco Tourisminsider tips from a local. San Francisco has a mystique all its own. The pretty Victorians climbing its steep hills, the clang of the cable cars, the fresh sea air and the swirling fogthere's magic afoot! SAN FRANCISCO CRIME: IS SF SAFE FOR TOURISTS? TIPS FROM A San Francisco Crime Is San Francisco safe? Many visitors read about crime in San Francisco and wonder just how safe it is to travel here. There are many opinions on this, and I have my own after living here for many years, but I also wanted to give a more objective and balanced view of this subject. THE SAN FRANCISCO PIERS: BY THE NUMBERS The piers in San Francisco run along the Embarcadero, the street that follows the curve of the northeastern edge of the city. The numbering starts at the Ferry Building at the end of Market Street; to the left are the odd-numbered piers, and to the right, the even-numbered piers.. The waterfront tourism activity mostly happens between the Ferry Building and Fisherman's Wharf to the north and west. MARSHALL'S BEACH: SAN FRANCISCO'S BEST SECRET BEACH! Marshall's Beach is a hidden San Francisco beach with spectacular views. This beach is the closest one to the Golden Gate Bridge, but few people make the trek down, or even know it's there. The beach requires some effort to get to, however. The path down to the beach from the bluffs above is long; coming back up is a real workout! GETTING AROUND SAN FRANCISCO. TRANSPORTATION WITHOUT TEARS! The good news. San Francisco is one of the better cities in the U.S. for getting around without a car. Not so good: the San Francisco public transportation system can seem very confusing and complicated. But there are ways to make it easier and to save money while doing so. ALCATRAZ SOLD OUT? A LOCAL'S TIPS FOR LAST MINUTE ALCATRAZ For years, visitors could line up super early at the ticket office to get a ticket for one of that day's Day Tours. It was a little desperate, but a great way to get a ticket when Alcatraz was sold out for weeks or months in advance. HOW TO RIDE A CABLE CAR IN SAN FRANCISCO. INSIDER TIPS Powell/Hyde line: 6:00 am to 12:20 am. Powell/Mason line: 6:30 am to 12:20 am. California Line: 6:20 am to 11:30 pm. The cable cars run about every 10 minutes, on average. A little closer together in the morning and a bit farther apart in the evening, but generally within an 8 to 12 minute time span. BIKE THE GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE. READ MY TIPS BEFORE YOU BOOK Get a local's advice on the best deals on renting the bikes, which tours to take, what the ride is like, and tips for taking the ferry. Experience the Golden Gate Bridge up close and enjoy spectacular views of the city, the bay and Alcatraz. Explore charming Sausalito. SAN FRANCISCO WEATHER: WHY IS IT SO COLD?!! What to Wear. Because the weather in San Francisco is so changeable, the best solution is to dress in layers. A jacket or sweatshirt with a hood is the best outer layer; the wind can be cold and strong when the fog starts to come in. But an hour later, the fog may burn off and it's getting warm, so a t-shirt or light long-sleeved shirt would be BEST GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE VIEWS: LOCAL'S TIPS ON WHERE TO Battery Spencer View. Battery Spencer is a crumbling artillery battery, built in 1897, that sits on the cliffs close to the northern end of the bridge. Driving to Battery Spencer: after you cross the Golden Gate, take the Alexander Ave exit. Turn left and go under the highway and you'll be on Conzelman Road. THE SAN FRANCISCO PIERS: BY THE NUMBERS The piers in San Francisco run along the Embarcadero, the street that follows the curve of the northeastern edge of the city. The numbering starts at the Ferry Building at the end of Market Street; to the left are the odd-numbered piers, and to the right, the even-numbered piers.. The waterfront tourism activity mostly happens between the Ferry Building and Fisherman's Wharf to the north and west. THE ROCKET BOAT: A WILD SAN FRANCISCO RIDE! Leaving from Fisherman's Wharf, next to Pier 39, is one of the most exhilarating adventures on the wharf. The Rocket Boat takes a group of voyagers for a fast speed boat ride out onto SF Bay, under the Bay Bridge, and zooms past the city skyline and ATT Park. BILLY GOAT HILL: WITH ITS GREAT SF VIEW AND COOL ROPE SWING. COVID-19 Status: at midnight on Monday, March 16, San Francisco was placed under a "shelter-in-place order. All residents were ordered to stay home, except for necessary trips to grocery stores and essential medical visits, and solo outdoor activities like hiking. TANK HILL, SAN FRANCISCO: OUR LITTLE SECRET. Tank Hill is one of our insider secrets; even most locals haven't been up here. But the view of San Francisco is amazing and the tour buses are missing! Right near Twin Peaks is another little hill, tucked into an attractive San Francisco neighborhood. The panorama isn't 360, but it's got a gorgeous view of downtown San Francisco, Alcatraz and SAN FRANCISCO JAPANTOWN. A LOCAL'S TIPS ON WHAT TO SEE AND DO. There are only four Japantown's left in the U.S. now, and San Francisco's is the largest, and oldest surviving one. All four are in California; two are in Los Angeles (Little Tokyo and Sawtelle Japantown) and another is San Jose's Japantown. San Francisco's Japantown (aka Nihonmachi) tends to be overshadowed somewhat by SF's more famous Chinatown, but there's a lot to see and do in a small

area.

THE BEST ALCATRAZ TOURS: A LOCAL'S GUIDE Check them to see their status. Here are some of the most popular Alcatraz combination tours: Alcatraz & Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour. Get a 2-day pass on the hop on hop off tour bus that hits most of the main San Francisco sights (including Sausalito), and a visit to Alcatraz. $139.99. $11 off if booked online. BEST GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE VIEWS: LOCAL'S TIPS ON WHERE TO Battery Spencer View. Battery Spencer is a crumbling artillery battery, built in 1897, that sits on the cliffs close to the northern end of the bridge. Driving to Battery Spencer: after you cross the Golden Gate, take the Alexander Ave exit. Turn left and go under the highway and you'll be on Conzelman Road. VISIT STOW LAKE IN GOLDEN GATE PARK. A Golden Gate Park Gem. Stow Lake is a man-made lake with an island in the middle, tucked away in Golden Gate Park. This charming little lake, with its pedal boats, waterfall and Chinese pavilion, is one of the locals' favorite places. Covid note: Stow Lake is open and the boat rentals are available. The snack bar is open for take out. Covid BEST PARKING APPS FOR SAN FRANCISCO. FOG CITY SECRETS. For example: looking at a couple of high demand lots and garages in the Fisherman's Wharf area for an 8-hour reservation, BestParking.com beat SpotHero.com $10 vs $14 in one case, and $13 vs $15 in another. ParkingWhiz.com beat SpotHero.com on one garage $15 to $20 (for an 8 hour parking period). THE SUTRO BATHS: SAN FRANCISCO'S STRANGE RUIN. The Sutro Baths opened in 1890, and was intended for the working people of San Francisco, who could take his train out to the ocean sand dunes and play in the pools, enjoying the day swimming, exploring his museum and eating in the restaurants. There were musical performances and dance competitions, and other amusements provided for

his guests

SAN FRANCISCO TOURISM: TOP INSIDER TIPS FROM A SAN The Unofficial Guide to San Francisco Tourisminsider tips from a local. San Francisco has a mystique all its own. The pretty Victorians climbing its steep hills, the clang of the cable cars, the fresh sea air and the swirling fogthere's magic afoot! SAN FRANCISCO CRIME: IS SF SAFE FOR TOURISTS? TIPS FROM A San Francisco Crime Is San Francisco safe? Many visitors read about crime in San Francisco and wonder just how safe it is to travel here. There are many opinions on this, and I have my own after living here for many years, but I also wanted to give a more objective and balanced view of this subject. MARSHALL'S BEACH: SAN FRANCISCO'S BEST SECRET BEACH! Marshall's Beach is a hidden San Francisco beach with spectacular views. This beach is the closest one to the Golden Gate Bridge, but few people make the trek down, or even know it's there. The beach requires some effort to get to, however. The path down to the beach from the bluffs above is long; coming back up is a real workout! THE SEWARD STREET SLIDES: THE COOLEST SLIDES IN SAN FRANCISCO! By Bus. From Downtown SF: You can get to within a couple of blocks of the park from downtown. Take the J-Church Muni Metro from Market Street downtown, get off at 24th Street and Church Street, and catch the 48-Quintara bus. The bus takes you to 21st and Douglass Streets, which is a short walk to the slides (on Seward Street, off Douglass Street, right near 20th Street. BILLY GOAT HILL: WITH ITS GREAT SF VIEW AND COOL ROPE SWING. COVID-19 Status: at midnight on Monday, March 16, San Francisco was placed under a "shelter-in-place order. All residents were ordered to stay home, except for necessary trips to grocery stores and essential medical visits, and solo outdoor activities like hiking. ALCATRAZ SOLD OUT? A LOCAL'S TIPS FOR LAST MINUTE ALCATRAZ For years, visitors could line up super early at the ticket office to get a ticket for one of that day's Day Tours. It was a little desperate, but a great way to get a ticket when Alcatraz was sold out for weeks or months in advance. HOW TO RIDE A CABLE CAR IN SAN FRANCISCO. INSIDER TIPS Powell/Hyde line: 6:00 am to 12:20 am. Powell/Mason line: 6:30 am to 12:20 am. California Line: 6:20 am to 11:30 pm. The cable cars run about every 10 minutes, on average. A little closer together in the morning and a bit farther apart in the evening, but generally within an 8 to 12 minute time span. VISIT STOW LAKE IN GOLDEN GATE PARK. A Golden Gate Park Gem. Stow Lake is a man-made lake with an island in the middle, tucked away in Golden Gate Park. This charming little lake, with its pedal boats, waterfall and Chinese pavilion, is one of the locals' favorite places. Covid note: Stow Lake is open and the boat rentals are available. The snack bar is open for take out. Covid ALCATRAZ BEHIND THE SCENES TOUR: THE INSIDE SCOOP Behind the Scenes Tour Schedule. Departures: this tour has two sailings from Alcatraz Landing each afternoon, five days a week.. Summer: Thursday through Monday, at 4:20 pm and 4:50 pm. Winter: (starts Nov 6, 2019) Tuesday through Saturday, at 2:10 pm and 2:40 pm. Return to Pier 33: people on this tour become part of the night tour after the private tour is over, and can return on either of BEST PARKING APPS FOR SAN FRANCISCO. FOG CITY SECRETS.SEE MORE ON INSIDE-GUIDE-TO-SAN-FRANCISCO-TOURISM.COM SAN FRANCISCO TOURISM: TOP INSIDER TIPS FROM A SAN The Unofficial Guide to San Francisco Tourisminsider tips from a local. San Francisco has a mystique all its own. The pretty Victorians climbing its steep hills, the clang of the cable cars, the fresh sea air and the swirling fogthere's magic afoot! SAN FRANCISCO CRIME: IS SF SAFE FOR TOURISTS? TIPS FROM A San Francisco Crime Is San Francisco safe? Many visitors read about crime in San Francisco and wonder just how safe it is to travel here. There are many opinions on this, and I have my own after living here for many years, but I also wanted to give a more objective and balanced view of this subject. MARSHALL'S BEACH: SAN FRANCISCO'S BEST SECRET BEACH! Marshall's Beach is a hidden San Francisco beach with spectacular views. This beach is the closest one to the Golden Gate Bridge, but few people make the trek down, or even know it's there. The beach requires some effort to get to, however. The path down to the beach from the bluffs above is long; coming back up is a real workout! THE SEWARD STREET SLIDES: THE COOLEST SLIDES IN SAN FRANCISCO! By Bus. From Downtown SF: You can get to within a couple of blocks of the park from downtown. Take the J-Church Muni Metro from Market Street downtown, get off at 24th Street and Church Street, and catch the 48-Quintara bus. The bus takes you to 21st and Douglass Streets, which is a short walk to the slides (on Seward Street, off Douglass Street, right near 20th Street. BILLY GOAT HILL: WITH ITS GREAT SF VIEW AND COOL ROPE SWING. COVID-19 Status: at midnight on Monday, March 16, San Francisco was placed under a "shelter-in-place order. All residents were ordered to stay home, except for necessary trips to grocery stores and essential medical visits, and solo outdoor activities like hiking. ALCATRAZ SOLD OUT? A LOCAL'S TIPS FOR LAST MINUTE ALCATRAZ For years, visitors could line up super early at the ticket office to get a ticket for one of that day's Day Tours. It was a little desperate, but a great way to get a ticket when Alcatraz was sold out for weeks or months in advance. HOW TO RIDE A CABLE CAR IN SAN FRANCISCO. INSIDER TIPS Powell/Hyde line: 6:00 am to 12:20 am. Powell/Mason line: 6:30 am to 12:20 am. California Line: 6:20 am to 11:30 pm. The cable cars run about every 10 minutes, on average. A little closer together in the morning and a bit farther apart in the evening, but generally within an 8 to 12 minute time span. VISIT STOW LAKE IN GOLDEN GATE PARK. A Golden Gate Park Gem. Stow Lake is a man-made lake with an island in the middle, tucked away in Golden Gate Park. This charming little lake, with its pedal boats, waterfall and Chinese pavilion, is one of the locals' favorite places. Covid note: Stow Lake is open and the boat rentals are available. The snack bar is open for take out. Covid ALCATRAZ BEHIND THE SCENES TOUR: THE INSIDE SCOOP Behind the Scenes Tour Schedule. Departures: this tour has two sailings from Alcatraz Landing each afternoon, five days a week.. Summer: Thursday through Monday, at 4:20 pm and 4:50 pm. Winter: (starts Nov 6, 2019) Tuesday through Saturday, at 2:10 pm and 2:40 pm. Return to Pier 33: people on this tour become part of the night tour after the private tour is over, and can return on either of BEST PARKING APPS FOR SAN FRANCISCO. FOG CITY SECRETS.SEE MORE ON INSIDE-GUIDE-TO-SAN-FRANCISCO-TOURISM.COM FOG CITY SECRETS INDEX COVID-19 Status: at midnight on Monday, March 16, San Francisco was placed under a "shelter-in-place order. All residents were ordered to stay home, except for necessary trips to grocery stores and essential medical visits, and solo outdoor activities like hiking. BILLY GOAT HILL: WITH ITS GREAT SF VIEW AND COOL ROPE SWING. COVID-19 Status: at midnight on Monday, March 16, San Francisco was placed under a "shelter-in-place order. All residents were ordered to stay home, except for necessary trips to grocery stores and essential medical visits, and solo outdoor activities like hiking. TANK HILL, SAN FRANCISCO: OUR LITTLE SECRET. Tank Hill is one of our insider secrets; even most locals haven't been up here. But the view of San Francisco is amazing and the tour buses are missing! Right near Twin Peaks is another little hill, tucked into an attractive San Francisco neighborhood. The panorama isn't 360, but it's got a gorgeous view of downtown San Francisco, Alcatraz and GETTING AROUND SAN FRANCISCO. TRANSPORTATION WITHOUT TEARS! The good news. San Francisco is one of the better cities in the U.S. for getting around without a car. Not so good: the San Francisco public transportation system can seem very confusing and complicated. But there are ways to make it easier and to save money while doing so. CHINATOWN SHOPPING TIPS: THE COOLEST SHOPS IN SAN My collection of tips on the best places to shop in San Francisco's Chinatown The two main shopping streets are Grant Avenue, with most of the tourist-oriented stores, and Stockton Street, with its produce markets, where Chinatown residents do their shopping.And don't miss poking around in the Chinatown alleys, and looking at the shops tucked

away there.

VISIT STOW LAKE IN GOLDEN GATE PARK. A Golden Gate Park Gem. Stow Lake is a man-made lake with an island in the middle, tucked away in Golden Gate Park. This charming little lake, with its pedal boats, waterfall and Chinese pavilion, is one of the locals' favorite places. Covid note: Stow Lake is open and the boat rentals are available. The snack bar is open for take out. Covid CHINA BEACH SAN FRANCISCO: EXPLORE OUR GREAT LITTLE POCKET China Beach has a good view of the channel leading into San Francisco Bay, and there's a chance of getting a glimpse of whales (in season), porpoises, and sea lions. If you come at low tide, you can explore the area between China Beach and Baker Beach. You'll find lots of mussels and sea anemones, and occasionally sea stars, clinging to the rocks. THE CALIFORNIA ACADEMY OF SCIENCES: A LOCAL'S TIPS. The California Academy of Sciences is an enormously popular San Francisco science museum, housing a Planetarium, Aquarium and Natural History Museum, as well as a well-respected research community of scientists. In 2008, the beloved old museum was torn down and an award-winning, "green" building was built to house the Academy and its

exhibits.

BEST GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE VIEWS: LOCAL'S TIPS ON WHERE TO Battery Spencer View. Battery Spencer is a crumbling artillery battery, built in 1897, that sits on the cliffs close to the northern end of the bridge. Driving to Battery Spencer: after you cross the Golden Gate, take the Alexander Ave exit. Turn left and go under the highway and you'll be on Conzelman Road. JAPANESE TEA GARDEN MENU Other Food Items. Arare is a dish of rice crackers, dried peas, peanuts, plus fortune cookies. $4.25 (small), $6.95 (large).. Miso Soup, $4.25.. Edamame, $4.25.Soy beans in pods. Dorayaki, $3.50.Japanese pancakes filled with red bean paste. The Latest Additions. There is a new dish available on weekends: a combination plate with Inari (rice inside fried tofu) and Futomaki (sushi rolls)

for $12.

SAN FRANCISCO TOURISM: TOP INSIDER TIPS FROM A SANSAN FRANCISCO TOURISM BUREAUSAN FRANCISCO TOURISM DOWNSAN FRANCISCO TOURISM OFFICIAL WEBSITESAN FRANCISCO TOURISM WEBSITESAN FRANCISCO TRAVEL GUIDESAN FRANCISCO VISITOR GUIDES The Unofficial Guide to San Francisco Tourisminsider tips from a local. San Francisco has a mystique all its own. The pretty Victorians climbing its steep hills, the clang of the cable cars, the fresh sea air and the swirling fogthere's magic afoot! SAN FRANCISCO CRIME: IS SF SAFE FOR TOURISTS? TIPS FROM A San Francisco Crime Is San Francisco safe? Many visitors read about crime in San Francisco and wonder just how safe it is to travel here. There are many opinions on this, and I have my own after living here for many years, but I also wanted to give a more objective and balanced view of this subject. THE SAN FRANCISCO PIERS: BY THE NUMBERS The piers in San Francisco run along the Embarcadero, the street that follows the curve of the northeastern edge of the city. The numbering starts at the Ferry Building at the end of Market Street; to the left are the odd-numbered piers, and to the right, the even-numbered piers.. The waterfront tourism activity mostly happens between the Ferry Building and Fisherman's Wharf to the north and west. MARSHALL'S BEACH: SAN FRANCISCO'S BEST SECRET BEACH! Marshall's Beach is a hidden San Francisco beach with spectacular views. This beach is the closest one to the Golden Gate Bridge, but few people make the trek down, or even know it's there. The beach requires some effort to get to, however. The path down to the beach from the bluffs above is long; coming back up is a real workout! CHINATOWN SHOPPING TIPS: THE COOLEST SHOPS IN SAN My collection of tips on the best places to shop in San Francisco's Chinatown The two main shopping streets are Grant Avenue, with most of the tourist-oriented stores, and Stockton Street, with its produce markets, where Chinatown residents do their shopping.And don't miss poking around in the Chinatown alleys, and looking at the shops tucked

away there.

HOW TO RIDE A CABLE CAR IN SAN FRANCISCO. INSIDER TIPS Powell/Hyde line: 6:00 am to 12:20 am. Powell/Mason line: 6:30 am to 12:20 am. California Line: 6:20 am to 11:30 pm. The cable cars run about every 10 minutes, on average. A little closer together in the morning and a bit farther apart in the evening, but generally within an 8 to 12 minute time span. ALCATRAZ SOLD OUT? A LOCAL'S TIPS FOR LAST MINUTE ALCATRAZCHEAP ALCATRAZ TICKETSI NEED ALCATRAZ TICKETSALCATRAZ CRUISES SAN FRANCISCO For years, visitors could line up super early at the ticket office to get a ticket for one of that day's Day Tours. It was a little desperate, but a great way to get a ticket when Alcatraz was sold out for weeks or months in advance. VISIT STOW LAKE IN GOLDEN GATE PARK.STOW LAKE BOATHOUSE A Golden Gate Park Gem. Stow Lake is a man-made lake with an island in the middle, tucked away in Golden Gate Park. This charming little lake, with its pedal boats, waterfall and Chinese pavilion, is one of the locals' favorite places. Covid note: Stow Lake is open and the boat rentals are available. The snack bar is open for take out. Covid BEST PARKING APPS FOR SAN FRANCISCO. FOG CITY SECRETS.SEE MORE ON INSIDE-GUIDE-TO-SAN-FRANCISCO-TOURISM.COMBEST PARKING APPBEST PARKING APP CHICAGOINEXPENSIVE PARKING APPSSMART PARKING APPS THE SUTRO BATHS: SAN FRANCISCO'S STRANGE RUIN.SEE MORE ON INSIDE-GUIDE-TO-SAN-FRANCISCO-TOURISM.COM SAN FRANCISCO TOURISM: TOP INSIDER TIPS FROM A SANSAN FRANCISCO TOURISM BUREAUSAN FRANCISCO TOURISM DOWNSAN FRANCISCO TOURISM OFFICIAL WEBSITESAN FRANCISCO TOURISM WEBSITESAN FRANCISCO TRAVEL GUIDESAN FRANCISCO VISITOR GUIDES The Unofficial Guide to San Francisco Tourisminsider tips from a local. San Francisco has a mystique all its own. The pretty Victorians climbing its steep hills, the clang of the cable cars, the fresh sea air and the swirling fogthere's magic afoot! SAN FRANCISCO CRIME: IS SF SAFE FOR TOURISTS? TIPS FROM A San Francisco Crime Is San Francisco safe? Many visitors read about crime in San Francisco and wonder just how safe it is to travel here. There are many opinions on this, and I have my own after living here for many years, but I also wanted to give a more objective and balanced view of this subject. THE SAN FRANCISCO PIERS: BY THE NUMBERS The piers in San Francisco run along the Embarcadero, the street that follows the curve of the northeastern edge of the city. The numbering starts at the Ferry Building at the end of Market Street; to the left are the odd-numbered piers, and to the right, the even-numbered piers.. The waterfront tourism activity mostly happens between the Ferry Building and Fisherman's Wharf to the north and west. MARSHALL'S BEACH: SAN FRANCISCO'S BEST SECRET BEACH! Marshall's Beach is a hidden San Francisco beach with spectacular views. This beach is the closest one to the Golden Gate Bridge, but few people make the trek down, or even know it's there. The beach requires some effort to get to, however. The path down to the beach from the bluffs above is long; coming back up is a real workout! CHINATOWN SHOPPING TIPS: THE COOLEST SHOPS IN SAN My collection of tips on the best places to shop in San Francisco's Chinatown The two main shopping streets are Grant Avenue, with most of the tourist-oriented stores, and Stockton Street, with its produce markets, where Chinatown residents do their shopping.And don't miss poking around in the Chinatown alleys, and looking at the shops tucked

away there.

HOW TO RIDE A CABLE CAR IN SAN FRANCISCO. INSIDER TIPS Powell/Hyde line: 6:00 am to 12:20 am. Powell/Mason line: 6:30 am to 12:20 am. California Line: 6:20 am to 11:30 pm. The cable cars run about every 10 minutes, on average. A little closer together in the morning and a bit farther apart in the evening, but generally within an 8 to 12 minute time span. ALCATRAZ SOLD OUT? A LOCAL'S TIPS FOR LAST MINUTE ALCATRAZCHEAP ALCATRAZ TICKETSI NEED ALCATRAZ TICKETSALCATRAZ CRUISES SAN FRANCISCO For years, visitors could line up super early at the ticket office to get a ticket for one of that day's Day Tours. It was a little desperate, but a great way to get a ticket when Alcatraz was sold out for weeks or months in advance. VISIT STOW LAKE IN GOLDEN GATE PARK.STOW LAKE BOATHOUSE A Golden Gate Park Gem. Stow Lake is a man-made lake with an island in the middle, tucked away in Golden Gate Park. This charming little lake, with its pedal boats, waterfall and Chinese pavilion, is one of the locals' favorite places. Covid note: Stow Lake is open and the boat rentals are available. The snack bar is open for take out. Covid BEST PARKING APPS FOR SAN FRANCISCO. FOG CITY SECRETS.SEE MORE ON INSIDE-GUIDE-TO-SAN-FRANCISCO-TOURISM.COMBEST PARKING APPBEST PARKING APP CHICAGOINEXPENSIVE PARKING APPSSMART PARKING APPS THE SUTRO BATHS: SAN FRANCISCO'S STRANGE RUIN.SEE MORE ON INSIDE-GUIDE-TO-SAN-FRANCISCO-TOURISM.COM FOG CITY SECRETS INDEX COVID-19 Status: at midnight on Monday, March 16, San Francisco was placed under a "shelter-in-place order. All residents were ordered to stay home, except for necessary trips to grocery stores and essential medical visits, and solo outdoor activities like hiking. THE SAN FRANCISCO PIERS: BY THE NUMBERS The piers in San Francisco run along the Embarcadero, the street that follows the curve of the northeastern edge of the city. The numbering starts at the Ferry Building at the end of Market Street; to the left are the odd-numbered piers, and to the right, the even-numbered piers.. The waterfront tourism activity mostly happens between the Ferry Building and Fisherman's Wharf to the north and west. THE SAN FRANCISCO BAY CRUISES: SOME INSIDER TIPS Going out on the water with one of the San Francisco Bay cruises is one of the best SF experiences, in my opinion. You'll see incredible views of the city, the bridge and Alcatraz that you can't get on land. There are three main types of bay cruises: Destination Cruises - going from San Francisco to another location. THE ROCKET BOAT: A WILD SAN FRANCISCO RIDE! Leaving from Fisherman's Wharf, next to Pier 39, is one of the most exhilarating adventures on the wharf. The Rocket Boat takes a group of voyagers for a fast speed boat ride out onto SF Bay, under the Bay Bridge, and zooms past the city skyline and ATT Park. VISIT STOW LAKE IN GOLDEN GATE PARK. A Golden Gate Park Gem. Stow Lake is a man-made lake with an island in the middle, tucked away in Golden Gate Park. This charming little lake, with its pedal boats, waterfall and Chinese pavilion, is one of the locals' favorite places. Covid note: Stow Lake is open and the boat rentals are available. The snack bar is open for take out. Covid THE SEWARD STREET SLIDES: THE COOLEST SLIDES IN SAN FRANCISCO! By Bus. From Downtown SF: You can get to within a couple of blocks of the park from downtown. Take the J-Church Muni Metro from Market Street downtown, get off at 24th Street and Church Street, and catch the 48-Quintara bus. The bus takes you to 21st and Douglass Streets, which is a short walk to the slides (on Seward Street, off Douglass Street, right near 20th Street. CHINATOWN SAN FRANCISCO: A LOCAL'S TIPS ON WHAT TO SEE AND Chinatown Shops: there is a great variety of shopping opportunities here, from bargains to higher-end items.Even if you're not looking to buy anything, it's fun to browse. Most of the gift shops are on Grant Avenue, with the produce markets on Stockton Street, but be sure to wander off the main streets to explore the side streets and alleys.For more info, see my page on the most interesting ALCATRAZ BEHIND THE SCENES TOUR: THE INSIDE SCOOP Behind the Scenes Tour Schedule. Departures: this tour has two sailings from Alcatraz Landing each afternoon, five days a week.. Summer: Thursday through Monday, at 4:20 pm and 4:50 pm. Winter: (starts Nov 6, 2019) Tuesday through Saturday, at 2:10 pm and 2:40 pm. Return to Pier 33: people on this tour become part of the night tour after the private tour is over, and can return on either of BEST GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE VIEWS: LOCAL'S TIPS ON WHERE TO Battery Spencer View. Battery Spencer is a crumbling artillery battery, built in 1897, that sits on the cliffs close to the northern end of the bridge. Driving to Battery Spencer: after you cross the Golden Gate, take the Alexander Ave exit. Turn left and go under the highway and you'll be on Conzelman Road. SAN FRANCISCO WEATHER: WHY IS IT SO COLD?!! What to Wear. Because the weather in San Francisco is so changeable, the best solution is to dress in layers. A jacket or sweatshirt with a hood is the best outer layer; the wind can be cold and strong when the fog starts to come in. But an hour later, the fog may burn off and it's getting warm, so a t-shirt or light long-sleeved shirt would be

Fog City Secrets

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THE UNOFFICIAL GUIDE TO SAN FRANCISCO TOURISM ...INSIDER TIPS FROM A LOCAL San Francisco has a mystique all its own. The pretty Victorians climbing its steep hills, the clang of the cable cars, the fresh sea air and the swirling fog...there's magic afoot! I live in San Francisco - I've been here almost 30 years, and was born just across the Bay - but the City still casts its spell over me.

View from the

Marin Headlands

I want you to enjoy it as much as I do, hence this guide. I'll tell you what it's _really_ like, unlike the usual tourist websites. * Candid reviews of the popular attractions. * Insider tips on what to see and do (or not do!). * How to get discounts on popular tours. * Where the locals go: our favorite haunts. * Where the locals park ;-) Browse through the site to get some ideas for fun things to do in San Francisco. First-timers, repeat visitors, and local Bay Area folks,

welcome!

------------------------- POPULAR SF ATTRACTIONS

Golden Gate Bridge

Alcatraz

Pier 39

Chinatown

Lombard

Street

Cable Cars

Fisherman's Wharf

Ghirardelli Square

Golden Gate Park

-------------------------

THINGS TO DO IN SF

Bay Cruises

Bike the Bridge

Lands End HIke

Top of the Mark

Ride the Go Cars

SF Beaches

------------------------- SAN FRANCISCO MUSEUMS

Academy of Sciences

Exploratorium

de Young Art Museum

Legion of Honor Art Museum Conservatory of Flowers

Musée Mécanique

-------------------------

FUN DAY TRIPS

Napa Valley

Muir Woods

Angel Island

------------------------- When I travel, I love to get suggestions from the people who actually live there. And now you know someone in San Francisco! Take a look and GET RECOMMENDATIONS for: * Fun things to do in the city. * Great restaurants, where the locals eat. * Attractive (and safe) places to stay. * Tourist attractions that are really worth seeing. * Ideas for day trips out of SF. _COME AND JOIN US... _ Sit in a cosy San Francisco cafe, order an Irish coffee, and listen to the foghorns while the mist gathers

outside.

Wander the streets where Sam Spade, Janis Joplin and the Beat Generation hung out. _GO OFF THE BEATEN TRACK... _See some sights that most visitors don't see, like the haunting ruins of the Sutro Baths

.

The Sutro Baths

Check out my tips for finding the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge, like the one at the top of this page. Ready to explore San Francisco like a local? Take a look through the site and see what sparks an interest.

San

Francisco native...after a long day of sightseeing.

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