Top Four Things to Do in San Francisco

If you’ll soon be moving to San Francisco, the anticipation may be killing you. The city has a reputation for being one of the most enjoyable in the entire country and even the world. No matter what you like to do for fun, what kind of restaurants you prefer or what type of culture you identify with, if you’re looking for things to do in San Francisco, San Francisco will give you plenty of options. While you have years and years to explore everything this city has to offer, getting through the following list should be a priority.

Golden Gate Park

Although there are a number of parks in town, Golden Gate Park is, arguably, the most amazing. It’s home to the California Academy of Sciences, MH de Young Museum, and the gorgeous Japanese Tea Garden. With over 1,000 acres to explore, you’ll probably need to take more than one trip to truly appreciate all that Golden Gate Park has to offer. However, when you visit, keep in mind that at one point, this whole area was little more than sand dunes. San Franciscans changed that back in 1866 and have not only preserved it ever since but fought attempts to replace it with casinos and other attractions.

Mission District Murals

It won’t take you long to realize that your new hometown is fond of art. For one thing, there are countless shows and festivals that take place in San Francisco throughout the year. Then there are the many galleries. No matter what kind of art you’re into, you’ll have at least a few sites you can visit to get your fix. One of these is basically the entire Mission District. You won’t have to pay a single dime to see the best art in this part of town either, because it’s covering so many of its public walls. Back in the 1930s, Diego Rivera fell in love with Frida Kahlo. While both were artists, it was Rivera who felt the need to express his feelings by painting masterpieces around the Mission District that survive to this day. Since then, other artists have painted over 400 walls in this area. Balmy Alley is a good place to start, as it has the oldest murals, but just about any part of the Mission District will give you plenty to look at.

Cable Cars

Although they are decidedly old-fashioned, you have to take at least one ride on a cable car or you’re no San Franciscan. Take one up Nob Hill and you’ll not only get a fun ride out of it, but a gorgeous view of San Francisco when it’s over. Though these testaments to yesteryear have barely changed in over 140 years, cable cars are still plenty safe and a great way to kill a few minutes on a sandy day.

Barbary Coast Nightlife

You won’t have any problem finding ways to spend your evenings in San Francisco. The nightlife here is as eclectic as it is legendary. When the sun goes down, make sure you spend at least one evening on the Barbary Coast. Here, you’ll find all kinds of saloons that will make you feel like you’re traveling back in time. Many pay direct homage to San Francisco’s history as an unruly port city. You’ll find dim lights, iron stools and even fountains of absinthe. Just be sure you have a ride home, even if it’s just a local cable car. With so much to do, most people would agree you need a lifetime to truly appreciate all the things San Francisco has to offer. However, if you start with the above list, you can make a decent dent within a month or so. Sources: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/usa/san-francisco/travel-tips-and-articles/68242