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For a look back that stretches all the way to the nation's colonial period, check out the awe-inspiring exhibits at the de Young Museum. This venue was first opened in 1895 and holds the distinction of being the city's oldest, most diversified museum. Even though it was remodeled in 2005 and several of its exhibits were updated, it still stands as one of the world's most fascinating collections of African, Oceanic, and pan-American art. This is highly worth checking out!

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.

Leave the work of planning an all-inclusive tour of San Francisco to the experts at San Francisco Comprehensive Shuttle Tours. This tour is regarded by many visitors as one of the best deals in town as it is the only small group shuttle tour that provides a separate tour guide (not the driver) to point out areas of interest and to answer your questions. Their two most popular packages are a 5-hour comprehensive tour with ferry cruise that includes such sites as Grace Cathedral, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Chinatown; and a two-hour tour that drives by the famous sites with no stops and includes views of Coit Tower, Crissy Field, and the financial district. Either way, you're sure to see it all without the stress of having to get there yourself!

The men and women who serve on our military forces always deserve special recognition for their hard work and diligent sacrifices. San Francisco goes a step further to celebrate their efforts with Fleet Week, held every October. Families of those currently serving as well as veterans and their families are sure to enjoy the events of Fleet Week that include such attractions as an air show by the Blue Angels, Team Oracle, and the Air Force's F-16 Demonstration Team. Other events that are part of the festival include a Marine Band concert, ship tours, a fireworks display, and a parade of ships.