San Francisco: Things To Do

Alcatraz Island From Pier 33, ride an Alcatraz Cruise ferry (www.alcatrazcruises.com) to the infamous US fort turned federal penitentiary. Tours explain the island’s colorful (and scary!) history. The Embarcadero; 415-981-7625; www.nps.gov/Alcatraz
family | tour | history | boat tour

Exploratorium Learn about science at their many exhibits – be sure to test your sense of touch in the pitch-black tactile dome. Presidio/The Marina; Marina 3601 Lyon St.; 415-397-5673; www.exploratorium.edu
family | museum | educational | editor pick

Golden Gate Park See the park’s Japanese Tea Garden, de Young Museum and Observation Tower (www.deyoungmuseum.org), and rare, tropical plants at the Conservatory of Flowers (www.conservatoryofflowers.org). For the ultimate experience, visit on foot or bike. www.nps.gov/goga
family | architecture | history | view | gardens | editor pick

Legion of Honor This Greco-Roman-style stone structure looks like something you would expect to find in an ancient Grecian town; inside you’ll find collections of European artists, including work by Rodin, that span four centuries. The Legion of Honor occupies one of the highest points in the city: hike to its edge for a stunning view of the Golden Gate Bridge and Straights. Presidio; Lincoln Park; 34th Ave. and Clement St.; 415-750-3600; www.famsf.org
family | culture | museum | views | art

Pier 39 Come for incredible scenic views, wacky street performers, and California sea lions, plus shopping at over 110 shops, dining, gaming in the arcade, or wildlife-spotting at the aquarium. Fisherman’s Wharf; www.pier39.com
family | aquarium | wildlife | entertainment | view | restaurants

San Francisco Seaplane Tours A Golden Gate tour is nice, but a Champagne Flight is spectacular. Passengers sip champagne at sunset while soaring above the coastline – the most romantic 30-minutes of your life, guaranteed. Sausalito/Mill Valley; 242 Redwood Hwy.; 415-332-4843; www.seaplane.com
romantic | tour | smart splurge | view | airplane

Twin Peaks It’s a bit of a hike, but the sweeping city, bay and ocean views are worth it. Miss the fog by heading up in the early morning. South of Market/Yerba Buena; By car: Turn right on Twin Peaks Boulevard off of Portola, Market St.
family | outdoors | view | nature

Yerba Buena Gardens Most events at the gardens are free including jazz concerts, opera, spoken-word events and children’s programming. The children’s garden, public art museums and historic carousel are also worth visiting. South of Market/Yerba Buena; www.yerbabuenagardens.com
family | free | outdoors | history | great value | gardens | nature