Lost Resort

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 Asian culture is a vital part of San Francisco's identity. To celebrate the cultural contributions, you can get a deeper and quite colorful view when you visit the Asian Art Museum. This museum is one of the largest venues in the world devoted entirely to Asian art. When you enter the venue, you will be struck by the incredible variety of pieces which number to over 15,000. Every one of these exhibits span nearly 6,000 years of history. The sheer depth and breadth of the art presented here is a sweeping introduction to Asia's major cultures as well as those of India, Tibet, China, Japan and Korea.

For a chance to take the family out and have some fun in the California sun, there's no better destination in San Francisco than Crissy Field. While this is a beautiful and relaxing place, it also offers stunning views from nearly every vantage point. There is beach access here, too, so the kids will love to romp on the seashore while playing in the waves. This park is within the confines of the Golden Gate National Park, and Crissy Field is 100 acres of California shoreline that is a favorite of joggers, walkers, cyclists and anyone who loves the outdoors. Additional amenities include picnic tables, a gift shop, concession stand, restrooms, a visitor center and the area also allows alcohol.