SSan Francisco is known all over the world for so many things. The City by the Bay is famous for the Golden Gate Bridge, the cable cars, the Bay Area, Haight-Ashbury, Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz, Chinatown, steep and hilly streets, and so much more! It’s a city that has so much to see, so you don’t miss anything. 

San Francisco may be only 49 square miles, but the city is packed with exciting things to see and do. Views of the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay are often laced with fog, creating a romantic mood in this most European of American cities. It was the 1849 Gold Rush that helped grow the city of San Francisco from a small town to a major city almost overnight. “The City is home to world-class theatre, opera, symphony, and ballet companies and often boasts premieres of Broadway-bound plays and culture-changing performing arts.

You’ll see San Francisco like never before and catch all the city has to offer in a special bundle that includes two unforgettable adventures. The Official San Francisco Downtown Experience includes a cruise to Alcatraz Island and a Big Bus hop-on, hop-off tour of the city. 

See Alcatraz Island Up Close  

Enjoy round-trip ferry service to Alcatraz Island to learn all about the infamous island and the historic buildings it houses. It’s a chance to visit the famous Cellhouse and leave the crowds behind! 

The tour to Alcatraz, including roundtrip boat time, is about 3 hours, so plan ahead to make sure you have all the time you need to explore this iconic San Francisco attraction. You’ll get to explore the island and learn all about its intricate history by way of “outdoor interpretive signs, a discovery guide island map, and exhibits.” Also, you can ask Park Rangers questions. They will be stationed around the island to answer any inquiries you may have.  

This exciting trip includes an award-winning audio tour, access to the island’s outdoor historic spots, admission to the New Industries Building which houses fascinating historic exhibits, and so much more! 

Tips for a Great Visit:  

• Make sure you wear comfortable shoes to explore the island’s steep roads and walkways.  
• You may want to eat before you go, as you won’t have the chance on the ferry and island.  
• The weather can be unpredictable and change fast, so bring along a light sweater or jacket, just in case. 

Hop On and Off the Bus to Check Out the City of San Francisco 

The Big Bus Classic Tour of San Francisco offers a comprehensive, hop-on-hop-off experience that showcases the city’s most iconic landmarks and neighborhoods. The route typically starts at Fisherman’s Wharf, a bustling waterfront area known for its seafood and scenic views of the bay. From there, the tour heads through the vibrant streets of North Beach, San Francisco’s historic Italian district, and then climbs to Coit Tower for panoramic city vistas. The bus crosses the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge, offering breathtaking views of the bay and Marin Headlands, before looping back through the picturesque Presidio and Golden Gate Park. The route also passes through Union Square, the heart of San Francisco’s shopping and theater district, and explores the eclectic neighborhoods of Haight-Ashbury and the Mission District – both rich in history and cultural flair. Throughout the journey, informative commentary highlights the city’s history, architecture, and diverse communities, making it an ideal way to explore San Francisco’s unique charm.

This is a great tour because you’ll see so many neighborhoods and get to experience the amazing culture of the city, its delectable food, its fun parks, inspiring architecture, world-class shopping, and oh, those views!  

Original Post Date: August 4, 2022