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.
San Francisco basketball fans love their college team, the Dons of the University of San Francisco, who are an NCAA Division 1 team. Bill Russell has guided the sports team to much success, not the least of which are the coveted basketball championships of 1995 and 1996.
One of the most essential sites to see in San Francisco is the Golden Gate Bridge. Getting up close to this amazing attraction, the kids will be able to see what an incredibly built structure this bridge is. The bridge connects San Francisco to Marin County, and if you are on the Marin side, you will get a captivating view from a spot called Vista Point. But given the ocean, the sailboats, and the natural landscape in and around the bridge, it is difficult to find a place where the view isn't absolutely stunning.
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.