San Francisco Tourism Tips Blog

The San Francisco Tourism Tips blog is dedicated to all things San Francisco. Find out about the latest news and events in San Francisco. I'll also update you on the latest special offers and other deals available for your trip.


Visit the Famed Haight Ashbury District

The Haight Ashbury district is one of the most famous in San Francisco. This neighborhood was the center of the action during the 'Summer of Love' in 1967.

Janis Joplin, the Grateful Dead and Jefferson Airplane are just a few of the popular acts of that day that called this neighborhood home. Today, the Haight is still a colorful, unique neighborhood and worth a visit.

Find out more about the Haight and Ashbury neighborhood including more on its history, the what there is to see and do and recommendations for some guided tours.


Walk the Golden Gate Bridge

Have you always wanted to take a stroll over this famed bridge in San Francisco? Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be suspended in the air over the San Francisco bridge?

Walking the bridge is a fun -- and free! -- experience. You can walk the entire way -- 1.7 miles -- or just walk a few feet. Read on for some tips on walking the famous Golden Gate bridge.


Perfect Pictures of the Golden Gate Bridge

Are you looking for that perfect photo of the Golden Gate Bridge? This famous bridge sits between the city of San Francisco and Marin County.

Photos of the bridge are everywhere, but do you know where to go to find a great angle? Read on to discover some of the best places in the city for amazing Golden Gate Bridge photos.


Tips to Visit Ghirardelli Square

Ghirardelli square is a historic square on the western side of Fishermans Wharf. This was the original location of one of the first chocolate factories in San Francisco.

Today, this square still sells Ghirardelli sweet treats. You will also find some fun stores and great restaurants. Read on to discover more about Ghirardelli Square San Francisco.


SFO Shuttles to the East Bay, Marin and Other Places Outside San Francisco

Are you visiting a region outside of San Francisco? Are you looking for easy and affordable transportation to get you to your final destination?

If so, a shuttle is a great option. There are many companies that provide this service for Marin, Sonoma, the east bay and other locations. Get the details, including the pros and cons, by reading the SFO Airport Shuttle Options page.


Find Some of the Best Downtown San Francisco Hotels

Are you looking for a hotel for your stay in San Francisco? There is a wide range of hotels in the centrally located downtown San Francisco area. You will find smaller boutique hotels and larger more expensive chain hotels. This area is a great place to stay since it is close to most of the San Francisco attractions.

Discover some of the best downtown San Francisco hotels for your visit. Find recommendations for hotels in Union Square, the Financial district and other centrally located options.


Tips to Visit the Fort Point National Historic Site

Are you a history buff? If so, then a stop at the Fort Point National Historic site is a must.

This old army base has a rich history. This site was originally built in the late 1800s. Its goal was to protect San Francisco from incoming attacks.

It was almost destroyed during the building of the Golden Gate Bridge. However, the building was saved and its history lives on. Discover more about this free historical site located right under the Golden Gate Bridge.


Alcatraz Island History, Visiting Tips and More

Alcatraz is still one of my favorite San Francisco attractions. It has a rich history. A visit gives you a small sense of what life was like on the island for some of its famous prisoners.

Discover the Alcataz Island history and the events that made it such a famous location. Also, find some great tips to help you prepare for your upcoming visit.


Chinatown San Francisco: History, Shopping & Other Things to Do

Chinatown is a lively, thriving neighborhood in San Francisco. Grant Street is the main street running through the neighborhood. It is also the oldest street in San Francisco.

There is quite a bit to see and do in this centrally located neighborhood. Find out more about China Town San Francisco including some of its history, where to find great deals and other attractions to visit during your stay.


Fishermans Wharf Hotels: Recommendations for All Budgets

Fishermans Wharf is a popular place to stay while visiting San Francisco. Staying in this neighborhood keeps you close to the action.

It is also easy to get to get to other attractions in San Francisco from Fishermans Wharf. Uncover some of the best Fishermans Wharf hotels for all budgets.


Cheap Hotel Recommendations in San Francisco

San Francisco is expensive. The great news is that there are clean, affordable hotels available throughout the city.

Many of these hotels are two or three stars with few amenities. However, if you travel like me and are never in your room, then you can find some great deals.

This list of cheap hotels in San Francisco is a great place to start your search. It includes a quick overview of each hotel and why it is a good budget friendly option.


Angel Island: Fun Things to Do on the Island & Tips for the Ferry

Are you planning a visit to Angel Island? If you enjoy hiking and biking, this is the perfect day trip from San Francisco.

Angel Island is located in the San Francisco bay near Alcatraz. The ferry is the only way over to the island. Find tips & a schedule for the Angel Island ferry and all of the great things to do on Angel Island once you arrive.


Compare San Francisco Attraction Passes

There are several attraction passes for San Francisco -- but two stand out as visitor favorites. Both offer attraction entrance fees for a fraction of the cost.

The first one is the GO San Francisco Card. It includes entrance for up to 50 different attractions in and around the city.

The second one is the San Francisco CityPass. This pass covers the entrance fee to some of the major attractions.

Which one is right for you? Compare these two San Francisco discount passes today!


Pros & Cons of Taking a Shuttle from SFO to San Francisco

One of the easiest ways to get to and from San Francisco International Airport and San Francisco is by taking a shared ride shuttle service. This is a popular option and cost effective for smaller groups of people.

Most shuttle services charge around $16 to $18 per person. This is a reasonable price, but you will want to weigh your options.

Discover some of the pros and cons of taking an airport shuttle in San Francisco. You will also find recommendations for some top companies and get tips for finding the shuttles upon your arrival at SFO.


San Francisco Hotel Deals

Are you looking to save a little money on your trip to San Francisco? Staying in a hotel does not have to be outrageously expensive. Check out some of the latest San Francisco hotel deals and save today!


Enjoy a Meal at One of These San Francisco Seafood Restaurants

Located right on the water, San Francisco is home to a number of amazing seafood restaurants. From simple and high end, these San Francisco seafood restaurant recommendations are sure to please.


Visit One of the Great History Museums in San Francisco

San Francisco has a number of amazing museums. If you enjoy history, then I recommend stopping by some of the great history museums in San Francisco on this list. Most are about the history of San Francisco, but some others have a broader topic. Either way, they are all worth a visit.


Facts About the Infamous Escapes from Alcatraz

Want the real story about the infamous escapes of Alcatraz? How many prisoners tried to escape and how many of them were successful? Find the answers to these questions and more details on the most famous escapes from Alcatraz.


Facts About the Golden Gate Bridge

This brightly painted bridge hangs high above the waters of the San Francisco Bay. How much do you know about it? How many cars cross it every year and how high are those towers? Find some quick facts about this beautiful landmark and pick up some great visiting tips today.


Biography of Al Capone: Prisoner of Alcatraz

Who was Al Capone and how did he end up in prison? Find out more about this interesting resident of San Francisco's famed Alcatraz Island: Biography of Al Capone.