McLaughlin Sanchez

As anyone who's ever taken a skydive can tell you, there's nothing quite like the free fall. Instead of just imagining what it would be like, it's time to do it for yourself! And to add to your extreme sports adventure, imagine Northern California's Wine Country as your landing pad. The pros at NorCal Skydiving can make this adventure a reality. In addition to providing the necessary training and equipment, you can also get your dive recorded to share with everyone when you safely return to the ground.

McKinley Square is one of the city's most popular park areas. Because of its location on a hillside, it offers spectacular views that combine the majestic backdrop of San Francisco with the more urban realities of the various roofs of the nearby houses to give it a special kind of balance. The neighborhood charm of the park is evident, as several people are out walking their dogs, playing with the kids or just taking a quick stroll down one of the many walking trails. This is most definitely a great place to come breathe in some fresh air and enjoy time outdoors before heading back to your usual routine.

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.

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!