If you’ve never visited San Francisco, you are in for a treat. The city is filled with colorful characters and is home to many notable landmarks. The Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane, Janis Joplin, and Jimi Hendrix all made their mark in this hip, flower-power-inspiring district. Music lovers should check out clubs such as Haight-Ashbury and Peacock Lounge.
While it is illegal to smoke in public areas in California, smoking is still allowed in many establishments. In fact, many of them have begun to enforce their own local ordinance that requires visitors to smoke outdoors at least 25 feet away from a building. While it may be tempting to smoke on public transportation, the Bay Area is notorious for its tolerance of personal habits, so be sure to be considerate and respectful of others’ rights. When planning a trip to San Francisco, be aware of the following tips.
Dining: Whether you’re looking for upscale dining or casual bistros, San Francisco has it all. From street food to world cuisine, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your appetite. It’s no wonder that San Francisco is one of the USA’s most cosmopolitan cities, boasting Michelin-starred restaurants. There are even international neighborhoods that cater to different tastes. For example, North Beach offers Italian food, while the Mission area has Mexican and Chinese cuisine. While you’re there, be sure to check out the numerous art galleries and museums.
Parking in San Francisco is expensive. Many hotels charge extra for valet parking, and some do not allow self-parking. Consider taking the bus if you’re staying downtown. The city’s public transportation is efficient and cheap. Alternatively, if you’d rather spend your money on a tour, consider car-sharing services. You can also find a number of bicycle rentals in San Francisco. So whether you want to rent a car or not, be sure to do your research and find out where the public parking is located.
Choosing an appropriate map is essential when visiting San Francisco. The city is small but dense. In land area, San Francisco is approximately seven square miles. The hills make it difficult for a map to be accurate and helpful. A regular street grid in San Francisco might mislead visitors. You can’t just take a walk down a sidewalk – you’ll have to cross many bridges to find the desired destination. If you plan to buy a map, you can download it online and have it delivered to your hotel!
A major city with a storied history, San Francisco has an incredibly rich culture and a vibrant arts scene. Unlike other U.S. cities, San Francisco continues to grow, and aggressive urban planning projects have transformed the city. Today, the skyline has changed drastically. Despite the massive city growth, cable cars still exist. In fact, the city’s sprawl is far less severe than many other American cities. If you’re looking for an ideal destination to explore without a car, San Francisco should be your next stop.