Joe Cohen

The Cartoon Art Museum is virtually guaranteed to put a smile on your face as you walk through it and see the nearly 6,000 original items housed in this fascinating facility. The museum received the support of Charles M. Schultz, the creator of "Peanuts," and it was with that impressive blessing that the museum transitioned from a mere idea to becoming the only collection of its kind west of the Mississippi. Located in Yerba Buena Gardens in the city's art center, this popular venue attracts cartoon and comic lovers from all over the world. In addition to the major exhibitions held yearly, the museum also features the very popular bookstore that features several unique items for sale.

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 Park is nearly as iconic as the bridge it is named for. This incredibly beautiful swath of land is lush, inviting and peaceful. The park is the perfect place for a quiet outdoor picnic, scenic walk or just sitting and enjoying the exceptional views. On a larger scale, this park features 1,000 acres of gardens, meadows, lakes, and even a golf course, along with internationally recognized art and science museums. In short, the park offers something special for both locals and visitors who not only love nature, but the whole experience of being in San Francisco as well.

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.