San Francisco, CA

Rich in entertainment and history, Fisherman’s Wharf covers the city’s waterfront area and offers water, land and air excursions. Visitors can also catch a shark feeding, participate in an interactive 3D film, or observe the infamous landing of the sea lions. A diverse array of restaurants are also available at the Wharf, offering the freshest of seafood, with the majority being caught right there just beyond the docks. Of course the Golden Gate Bridge is the absolute “must do” on any list of attractions to visit during a holiday in San Francisco. After all, what would San Francisco be without the Golden Gate Bridge? Declared one of the Modern Wonders of the World, this landmark is also one of the most photographed bridges in the world. Designed to withstand a magnitude 8.0 earthquake, the Bridge is also strong enough to take on 90-mile-per-hour winds. But seeing is believing, so only your eyes can gauge the qualities of this modern architectural wonder.

You may already have seen this well-known tourist attraction in numerous movies and TV shows. One of the world’s most crooked streets and a landmark of San Francisco, Lombard Street is famous for its steepness and sharp turns. The street is particularly famous for a highly steep, one-block section that features hairpin turns. Bordered by blooming flowers and a diversity of greenery, the street is said to resemble a playground slide. Whether you go by foot, take a car down its windy red-bricked road or go via cable car with stops at the top of the hill, you’re guaranteed to have an adventure on your visit to Lombard Street. Not just any library, the San Francisco Main Library is the centre for resources within the entire Public Library system of San Francisco, in addition to the rest of the libraries of Northern California. A great variety of exhibits, programs and informative tours of the Library await your enjoyment.

A visit to San Francisco’s Cable Car Museum will expose the history behind the city’s famous cable car. The museum is a treasure-trove of explanatory and historical exhibits presented in a fun and understandable way. Self-guided tours mean that you can spend as much or as little time as possible learning the ins and outs of this famous San Francisco mode of transport. A ride on the real cable car will be the perfect ending to your visit here. In fact, no visitor should leave town without taking a trip – at least once – on San Francisco’s signature cable cars. The unique ride, fun route, friendly drivers and marvellous views are bound to have you wishing you could take second ride. No list of cultural activities during a holiday in San Francisco would be complete without a mention of the city’s unique “after-dark” experiences. An evening spent at the California Academy of Sciences and Exploratorium offers a unique nightlife experience, with a variety of themes, shows, live bands and performances.

One of the most popular of San Francisco’s tourist attractions, Chinatown is a historic and famous neighbourhood that will take you right to the heart of Asian culture in America. This is where people go to preserve and nurture Asia’s rich heritage, with celebrations such as the Chinese New Year and other events being held all over the Bay Area. A visit planned at the beginning of February will have you joining in on the colourful and fun parade. Street fairs are some of the most outstanding and unique activities to be enjoyed in San Francisco. If you’re looking for a great experience that only San Francisco can deliver, the city offers numerous great street fairs for you to check out. From the Castro Street Fair to the Haight Street Fair, whatever you choose, you are guaranteed a one-of-a-kind experience.

The months of September to November mark the best period for holidays in San Francisco. The warm temperatures of autumn attract fewer visitors on a United States tour to the bustling American city. Spring is another ideal time, although you should brace yourself for breezes that carry a little more bite in them.

A summer holiday in San Francisco witnesses a surge in tourism as visitors head west in search of the sun, sand and surf. At this time, the city offers a perfect getaway with sunshine that lasts longer during the day. If travelling for a holiday to San Francisco during winter, be sure to arm yourself against the chilly weather with plenty of layers.

Springtime Strolls

If you can, beat the tourist rush and go on holiday in San Francisco during spring when the weather is mild. While the average high temperatures will not allow for a relaxing dive in the Pacific, there’s nothing to stop you from wandering this fascinating city by foot. During your strolls around, you may come across some of the spring festivals and events held annually in San Francisco including the San Francisco International Film Festival and the Carnaval San Francisco.

Summertime Sizzle

Summer marks the peak of holidays to San Francisco with people from all over the world drawn to the pleasant weather and promise of sizzling summertime festivities. While San Francisco may not offer the typical California beach getaway for the summer, the city does come alive with many street fairs and special events. Some of the festivals not to miss out on include the San Francisco Pride, the North Beach Festival, Dine About Town and the Filmore Street Jazz Festival.

Autumn Skies

Autumn marks a sweet spot for a United States holiday in San Francisco. Believe it or not, the weather during this season is often warmer than it is during a summer in San Francisco. Constant sunny skies inspire tourists and residents alike to head down to the beach. After some swimming, sunbathing and relaxing, it’s time to hit the festivals, which are aplenty during the autumn. Don’t miss out on the Ghirardelli Square Chocolate Festival and Dia de los Muertos.

Winter Laughter

The ever present fog and nippy gusts of San Francisco make the city seem much colder. But if you don’t mind chilly winds, you will find that winter offers a great opportunity to save on your tour in the United States. An array of festivals and events are held in San Francisco during wintertime. Foodies will find their niche at Dine About Town. If you are in the mood for a good laugh during your holiday to United States, you will find it at the SF Sketchfest Comedy Festival.