Courtyard by Marriott San Francisco Airport

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.

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.

Biscuits and Blues not only brings you some of the best live blues music and entertainment this side of Memphis, but it also offers some of the tastiest food that features its own brand of southern flair. The venue has earned its reputation as one of the best blues clubs in the country, as it regularly features some of the world's most famous bluesmen on its stage. And if blues isn't the only thing you're hungry for, you'll also find such inviting menu items as hot biscuits, fried catfish, and spicy chicken to satisfy your non-musical appetite, as well.