Allen Hotel

The California Academy of Sciences is located in Golden Gate Park and offers the whole family a chance to learn about science in a new and entertaining way. Among the many popular exhibits and attractions are those focused on various types of fish and other aquatic life, the rain forests of the world, and the newly added roof garden. The spirit of scientific discovery is very much alive here, and that pursuit of knowledge will no doubt inspire your kids to not only ask more questions, but find the answers in this highly regarded facility.

Many visitors have claimed that the Japanese Tea Garden, located inside of Golden Gate Park, is perhaps the most beautiful and serene part of San Francisco. That statement may very well be true, as hundreds of people have had the pleasure of seeing the garden and spending time taking in its incredible natural amenities. The landscaping is truly breathtaking, as well as the detailed Japanese sculptures and miniature pagodas that are also featured here. So when you're in San Francisco, make plans to experience the Japanese Tea Garden's mesmerizing, almost intoxicating natural allure.

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 Zoo benefits from its natural surroundings that allow it to create some impressive natural habitats for more than 5,000 animals and 250 species. Among the smartly designed enclosures and attractions, you will see such memorable creatures as penguins, lions, koalas, giraffes, bears, and elephants, among many others. The zoo also features one of the country's largest gorilla habitats as well as a highly entertaining kangaroo exhibits. In addition to the animals, the zoo also features a classic carousel, a petting zoo, a nature trail, and a wildlife theater.