Downtown San Francisco

To get a sense of what makes San Francisco tick, spread your wings and explore nearby neighborhoods like Haight-Ashbury, Chinatown, and Nob Hill.

There is a lot to see and do in the city center of San Francisco, so make sure you explore some of the other iconic attractions, including Pier 39 and Lombard Street.

To better understand San Francisco, head to one of its museums and theaters. Spend a quiet afternoon browsing the exhibits at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, Randall Museum and the California Historical Society. Book tickets for a couple of the thrilling theater, dance and music performances at Orpheum Theater, the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium and the Castro Theatre. The area is a great place for those who love art. Make sure you see the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, the Cartoon Art Museum and Xanadu Gallery.

When it’s time escape the city, plan a trip to the nearby green spaces. There are some nice gardens and parks, so take a picnic blanket to the Mission Dolores Park and Allyne Park. To catch a glimpse of the nearby wilderness head out to the TransAmerica Redwood Forest.

Visitors to the Downtown San Francisco area should go and see Grace Cathedral, the Full House House and the Yerba Buena Gardens. To get a little closer to San Francisco’s heart and soul, pay a visit to the area’s most sacred sites, such as the St. Patrick Catholic Church, the Glide Memorial United Methodist Church and the Konko Church of San Francisco.

Go to Embarcadero Center, Crocker Galleria and the Anchor Brewing Company for some retail therapy.

Watch the San Francisco Giants take on the opposition in their home stadium, AT&T Park. Sporting enthusiasts also have the chance to tour the locker rooms and visit the VIP boxes of AT&T Park by joining a back stage tour.

At the end of a long day exploring the streets of Downtown San Francisco, stay the night at one of the area’s hotels or serviced apartments. The Parc 55 Wyndham San Francisco - Union Square, the Hotel Nikko San Francisco and the Westin San Francisco Market Street are just some of the best places to find a warm welcome and a good night’s rest.