In de late 1800's, heeft een Schot genaamd John McLaren meer dan 1000 acres (405 hectare) van zandduinen getransformeerd tot een bijzondere haven in midden in het drukke stadsleven. Zich uitstrekkend van Stanyan Street tot de Pacifische Oceaan, de prachtige eigenschappen van het landschap veranderen iedere keer dat je er bent. Er zijn paden om te wandelen, joggen, fietsen, paardrijden en een golfbaan, lawn bowling banen, voetbalvelden en een baseball veld. Voor diegene die een minder inspannende afleiding zoekt, bekijk het California Academy of Sciences en de authentieke Japanse Tea Garden. Voor families met kinderen zijn er speeltuinen, een reservaat met levende buffels en een draaimolen. Je vindt er ook de Shakespeare Tuin, als je een verborgen paadje inslaat in het Golden Gate Park.
Developed by physicist Frank Oppenheimer and opened in 1969, this innovative and interactive museum is dedicated to art, science and human perception. Relocated from the Palace of Fine Arts to Piers 15 and 17, the modern space features plenty of new green technologies including the largest solar panel roof in San Francisco and offers over 600 hands-on exhibits. These hands-on displays unveil the mysteries of science and language, and present these theories simply and succinctly. Webinars, special events and seminars occur throughout the year. This San Francisco gem is a must visit.
Located at the western end of Golden Gate Park is San Francisco's biggest beach. It extends from Fort Funston in the south, to the Cliff House in the north. Typically, the cold winds, fog and low San Francisco temperatures deter any regular beach activities (unless you're lucky enough to be there on a hot day) but visitors fly kites or just walk along and admire the views of Seal Rocks and Point Lobos. Adventure seekers love surfing here. There are also bonfire pits provided on the beach for the general public; to claim one, go early in the evening.
Located in Golden Gate Park, the California Academy of Sciences is one of the greenest buildings in the city and has a platinum certification from the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). The museum features the renovated and expanded Steinhart Aquarium, complete with a hands-on tide pool and the well-known alligator swamp. Other exciting features are the Morrison Planetarium, the four-storey rainforest dome, and the Tusher African Hall. In addition to these educational gems, the museum features other natural history exhibits as well as exhibits about global warming. The Academy Café offers international cuisine, while the elegant Moss Room restaurant is the only dining option available in the park past museum closing time.
This San Francisco landmark features some of Fisherman's Wharf's best shopping and attractions. Ride the carousel, people watch, or take in views of the bay. There are more than 25 one-of-a-kind gift stores that carry automobile, Hollywood, and rock 'n' roll memorabilia, as well as flags of the world, Russian dolls, collectible knives, hammocks, kites, and more. But that's not all. You will find over 30 more stores, including the famous Na Hoku to shop for clothing, jewelry and toys. It is a great place to pick up high-end San Francisco souvenirs. When you're done shopping and eating to your heart's content, visit the famous resident sea lions for a prime photo session. Pier 39 is a magnet for locals and tourists for many reasons, including their calendar of special attractions for the whole family like the Tulipmania tulip festival held in late February or the Holiday Tree Lighting in November.
Redwood Regional Park is located in the hills of Oakland. It boasts the largest remaining natural strand of coastal redwood in the East Bay. Early mariners used to use these tall redwood trees to help them navigate the San Francisco Bay. Many locals enjoy hiking and biking around the available trails, which offers gorgeous scenery. In addition to the deer, rabbits and squirrels that roam the park, it is also home to rare wildlife species such as the golden eagle and the striped racer snake. The Roberts Regional Recreation Area, a park within the park, features a swimming pool and playgrounds. Throughout the park, you will find access to a well-maintained system of restrooms, water fountains and picnic tables. The Chabot Observatory and Science Center is one of the park's most prominent attractions.
Black Hammer Brewing is an eco-friendly brewery and bar that uses futuristic brewing techniques. It was started by Jim Furman, a chemical engineer by profession and a skilled brewer by passion. His partner K. Albert Jackey met with a lot of ridicule for American beer during his foreign trips, which inspired him to start this brewery as a suitable comeback. For its furniture, Black Hammer Brewing has used reclaimed redwood from the 19th Century and lumber sourced from sustainable Mexican forests. It also houses an art gallery to showcase the works of local artists. At the bar, sample brews such as Ekspört Kölsch, Jaded Raver, Squid Ink and Hammerschlagen Bock. The beers can often be paired with delicious items sold on food trucks at this venue. Parrots, dogs and children alike are welcomed, though only if they are accompanied by an adult.
This majestic building in the Financial District houses a little secret. The outer columns of the building lead into a large greenhouse which is actually one of the city's POPO's, or Privately Owned Public Outdoor spaces, so its open for general use. It is a great spot to enjoy a nice break from the city with lunch or simply to people-watch through the open entryway.
Having undergone a major facelift in 2015, the Bendetti Diamond works as a sprawling ballpark, while its 3D turf, made with eco-friendly, recyclable material, enables patrons an immersive viewing experience. Complete with well-made spectator decks and a viewing deck for donors and VIPs, a clubhouse and meeting rooms for USF (University of San Francisco) events, Bendetti Diamond is truly the architectural centerpiece of the university. This expansive stadium is the home field of the San Francisco Dons.
This public plaza is located right in the Financial District. All kinds of architectural features make this urban plaza and park truly unique and pleasant. Come sit and relax amongst the trees, grass, modern fountain. The plaza is slightly sunken from street level, so you can try to forget about the hoards of business people streaming by above.