When you visit San Francisco for the first time, visiting Alcatraz is definitely a must-do. The Rock, as Alcatraz is known locally, was originally a lighthouse and a military out post and prison before becoming a federal prison. The likes of Al Capone, among others, served their time here. The tour takes you from the shore to this ominous island and the guides are all well-informed and always ready to answer your questions. The inherent drama of Alcatraz itself makes it worth seeing, but the added touches and expert treatment by the guides only underscore how essential it is to see this dramatic facility when you are in the Bay Area.
The San Francisco Dungeon is NOT your usual visitor attraction! It's an exciting mix of 9 live actor shows, 200 years of history, gripping storytelling in 360º themed sets, 1 dark boat ride and authentic storytelling. Being scared has never been more fun. The San Francisco Dungeons unique take on history has made them one of the best-loved visitor attractions.
The Great American Music Hall offers lots of great entertainment all in one place. The stage always features some of the most talented comedians and musicians from all around the country. This two level venue offers an inviting dance area on the first floor and small dining area on the second. The atmosphere offers a nod to the California Gold Rush, as various items and décor add another dimension to the Hall's classic feel.
Golden Gate National Parks' beaches are among the area's most popular destinations for beach lovers. Ocean Beach most definitely falls into that category. The beach stretches three miles along the western side of the city from Richmond to Sunset. This beach perfectly exemplifies the untouched outdoor beauty of the western part of San Francisco as it looked before it was fully developed. When you take that fact into consideration, Ocean Beach is even more alluring, as the inviting sandscapes and sound of the waves will draw you in, whether the season is warm or cool. In the latter case, you can choose to warm up by grabbing a coffee or latte at Java Beach coffee shop.