
San Francisco – also known as the Bay Area – is located at the tip of a peninsula that sits in between the Pacific Coast and the San Francisco Bay. Although San Francisco is the smallest county in the state, it is the most populous city in California. San Francisco is a beloved tourist destination with dozens of amazing sights, attractions, and landmarks to check out. In today’s post, we are listing down all the coolest sights and must-see attractions to check out in the Bay area:
The Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge is the most popular of all landmarks in the United States. It is also one of the most recognizable suspension bridges in the world and is the most photographed man-made structure. The bridge is about one mile wide and three miles long. The Golden Gate Bridge stretches between the San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean. It links San Francisco to Marin County.
As the most famous of all bridges in the world, a trip to San Francisco is not complete without checking out this amazing structure! More than 120,000 vehicles drive across the Golden Gate Bridge every day. There is also a pedestrian walkway so you can cross the bridge on foot or via bikes.

Touring the City Via Cable Cars
Cable cars are widely used in San Francisco. In fact, this mode of public transportation has been used since the late 19th century. Why not go around the city like the locals do and hop on a cable car? The car runs on tracks that that go on three routes. You can purchase a ticket at the cable car turnarounds at the ends of each route for seven bucks. The one-way ride will take you through beautiful streets, hilly spots, and less populous areas of the city.
Touring Alcatraz
Alcatraz is the notorious prison located on a small islet in the middle of the San Francisco Bay. The structure was a federal prison from 1933 to 1963. The most dangerous criminals were incarcerated in Alcatraz. Because deep waters surround the former prison, escape nearly impossible. It features a lighthouse, a military fortification, and a military prison.
Today, Alcatraz is better known as a popular attraction in San Francisco. Managed by the National Park Service, Alcatraz receives thousands of tourists each year. You can reach the island via a ferry ride from Pier 33 near the Fisherman’s Wharf. The tour features the history of the prison and a guided exploration of the grounds and buildings.
Visiting the Fisherman’s Wharf
The Fisherman’s Wharf is a popular tourist spot located on the northern waterfront of San Francisco. The wharf was the place where locals can purchase fish wholesale and discover local delicacies. The Fisherman’s Wharf is lined with local eats, shopping centers, museums, and other attractions. It is also home to a community of sea lions! Guests have to line near the railing to watch the antics of the sea lions that took up residence on the floats near Pier 39. From there, you can take pictures, enjoy the sights, and try the local food.
Shop in Union Square
If you live for shopping, you can find a dizzying array of high-end boutiques, curios, souvenir shops, and designer goods at Union Square. The Union Square is home to the largest Bloomingdales and second largest Nordstrom in the country.
