Whether you've stumbled upon a captivating article in National Geographic or have been caught saving a dozen snapshots on Pinterest, there's no doubt that San Francisco, California has made its way onto any wanderluster's bucket list. With its rich history and diversity, it's no surprise that The City attracts approximately 16 millions tourists annually... And you shouldn't be one to miss out on this California adventure!
But between the high rises and movie stars are many other fantastic sights and activities left unrewarded by tourists, so if you ever happen to find yourself wandering the streets of San Francisco, make sure to stop by and enjoy other Bay Area favorites, recommended by yours truly, a California native and fellow world traveler.
1. Explore the California Academy of Sciences
This natural science museum is not your average field-trip bore! It's filled with the many exhibits, featuring over 40,000 live animals. It's family-friendly and will not fail to add a flare of excitement in your vacation. If you make your way to the museum, don't forget to stop by the butterfly exhibit!
Learn more at: http://calacademy.org
But between the high rises and movie stars are many other fantastic sights and activities left unrewarded by tourists, so if you ever happen to find yourself wandering the streets of San Francisco, make sure to stop by and enjoy other Bay Area favorites, recommended by yours truly, a California native and fellow world traveler.
1. Explore the California Academy of Sciences
This natural science museum is not your average field-trip bore! It's filled with the many exhibits, featuring over 40,000 live animals. It's family-friendly and will not fail to add a flare of excitement in your vacation. If you make your way to the museum, don't forget to stop by the butterfly exhibit!
Learn more at: http://calacademy.org
2. Enjoy a Clam Chowder Bread Bowl at Pier 39
No clam chowder meal in San Francisco is complete without a bread bowl and the smelly marina background. Here at Pier 39, you can indulge on the chowder, after bouncing through store-to-store samples! You even get a view of your choice: resting sea lions or street performers.
No clam chowder meal in San Francisco is complete without a bread bowl and the smelly marina background. Here at Pier 39, you can indulge on the chowder, after bouncing through store-to-store samples! You even get a view of your choice: resting sea lions or street performers.
3. Hike Mission Peak
Approximately 40 miles south of San Francisco is Fremont. While bare in incredible sights, it is home of Mission Peak, a popular hiking location among Bay Area residents and perfect for outdoor-lovers. The 2-3 hour hike has some nice view of clear, grassy landscapes, so be sure to Instagram them. But more importantly, make sure to snap the signature totem pole photo!
Approximately 40 miles south of San Francisco is Fremont. While bare in incredible sights, it is home of Mission Peak, a popular hiking location among Bay Area residents and perfect for outdoor-lovers. The 2-3 hour hike has some nice view of clear, grassy landscapes, so be sure to Instagram them. But more importantly, make sure to snap the signature totem pole photo!
4. Catch a Giants Game
Whether or not you're a fan of the Giants, or, heck, know a single thing about baseball, attending a game is a definite component of the NorCal culture. You can attend in San Francisco at AT&T Park or in San Jose at the San Jose Municipal Stadium. At my first game, I went for an authentic experience, only complete with overpriced hot dogs and peanuts; if you're on a budget, ditch the carbs, but if not, I say go for it!
Whether or not you're a fan of the Giants, or, heck, know a single thing about baseball, attending a game is a definite component of the NorCal culture. You can attend in San Francisco at AT&T Park or in San Jose at the San Jose Municipal Stadium. At my first game, I went for an authentic experience, only complete with overpriced hot dogs and peanuts; if you're on a budget, ditch the carbs, but if not, I say go for it!
5. Swing by a Farmer's Market
There are TONS throughout the Bay. Grown freshly and organically, the produce are worth it's price! Yes, the bargains are great and the artwork from local artisans are beautifully crafted, but you'll enjoy the social scene the most. The markets have a very blissful, down-to-earth vibe that bounces off between the vendors and attendees. I recommend San Jose's San Pedro Farmer's Market and Campbell Farmer's Market.
More info at:
http://www.localharvestfarmersmarkets.com/#!historic-downtown-san-pedro/cxq7
https://www.downtowncampbell.com/downtowncampbell/farmers_market
There are TONS throughout the Bay. Grown freshly and organically, the produce are worth it's price! Yes, the bargains are great and the artwork from local artisans are beautifully crafted, but you'll enjoy the social scene the most. The markets have a very blissful, down-to-earth vibe that bounces off between the vendors and attendees. I recommend San Jose's San Pedro Farmer's Market and Campbell Farmer's Market.
More info at:
http://www.localharvestfarmersmarkets.com/#!historic-downtown-san-pedro/cxq7
https://www.downtowncampbell.com/downtowncampbell/farmers_market
These are, without a doubt, a few of the most commonly enjoyed activities, and I truly hope you are able to enjoy these in your leisure the next time you are in Northern California!