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.
Franklin Square Park has a low-key, comfortable area that is both inviting and relaxing. The lush green grass and expansive area make the nearby soccer field, playground, monkey bars and jungle gym highly inviting prospects for the kids. The plentiful trees offer some relaxing shaded areas, and the picnic tables and benches are perfect spots to grab a quick lunch or just sit outdoors for a while and take it all in.
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.
Music fans know that in these days of a volatile economy, it is actually a challenge to find a real music store anymore. That's why collectors stay devoted to Amoeba Music, which just happens to be the world's largest independent record store. Both young and old music fans alike spend hours flipping through Amoeba's incredible selection of vintage vinyl LPs to find several long-out-of-print treasures. There's also a great selection of CDs, DVDs, and related items like t-shirts, posters and various other collectibles. Plus, the store regularly features musical guests who perform right in the store. So don't lose your groove, find it, at San Francisco's Amoeba Music!