18 must-see attractions in San Francisco

San Francisco is a vibrant and multicultural city that attracts countless visitors to explore. If you are planning a trip to San Francisco, this guide will provide you with some useful information and recommended activities. First, you must visit the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, which is one of San Francisco’s most famous landmarks. It is recommended that you go to Fisherman’s Wharf to enjoy fresh seafood and a unique seaside atmosphere. In addition, don’t miss to ride the classic trolley, which is a unique mode of transportation in the city. For more detailed information, refer to the attraction guide below.

1. Alcatraz

Alcatraz Island is a historically and culturally significant island located in San Francisco Bay, California, USA. It was once one of the most famous federal prisons in the world. Alcatraz Island is about 1.25 miles (2 kilometers) from the coast of San Francisco and is named for its treacherous waters and strong currents.

The prison on Alcatraz operated between 1934 and 1963 and housed some of America’s most notorious criminals, such as Al Capone and Robert Stroud. The prison was known for its strict rules and extremely high security measures and was considered an “inescapable prison”. Despite this, some inmates have attempted escapes, the most famous of which was in 1962, but their fate remains a mystery to this day.

Today, Alcatraz Island is open to the public as a national historic landmark and tourist attraction. Visitors can take a ferry to the island and take a guided tour to visit historic buildings such as prison ruins, cells and guard towers, and learn about its rich history and the hardships of prison life. There are also detailed audio guides on the island that provide in-depth background stories and historical details.

2. Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge is a famous suspension bridge in San Francisco, California, USA, spanning the Golden Gate Strait and connecting San Francisco and Marin County. When the bridge was completed in 1937, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world at that time, with a total length of about 1.7 miles (2.7 kilometers) and a main span of 4,200 feet (about 1,280 meters).

The Golden Gate Bridge, with its unique international orange paint and elegant architectural design, is a globally recognized engineering marvel and an iconic sight in San Francisco. The bridge tower is 746 feet (227 meters) high, and from the bridge deck you can enjoy a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean, San Francisco Bay, and the surrounding city.