Citybuzz – A Vidicom and Christy Ferer Guide to Travel

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San Francisco

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Experience True American Ballet with the San Francisco Ballet

As America’s first and oldest professional ballet company, the San Francisco Ballet is a must-see for anyone looking to truly experience the American style of ballet. It is among the world’s leading dance companies and one of the three largest American ballet companies, and is the company responsible for premiering ballet staples like Swan Lake & Nutcracker to American audiences.

The company presents more than 100 memorable performances annually, from new works by today’s most prominent choreographers to new interpretations of classic full-length productions. Led by world-famous Helgi Tomasson, the company consists of a diverse international repertoire that is always presented with finesse and elegance.

The company is currently based in the beautiful 3,146-seat War Memorial Opera House in San Francisco. With its elegant lines, vaulted ceiling, marble foyer, and sweeping balconies, the opera house complements and completes the breathtaking experience that is the San Francisco Ballet.

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Dance the Night Away at Madrone Art Bar

Madrone For an upscale time on a budget, head to Madrone Art Bar on Divisidero for fun drinks, a chill, friendly crowd and lots and lots of dancing. Things really heat up Tuesday nights for Boogaloo $2 Tuesdays with the local band "Steppin" playing live music until closing and $2 Tecate beer and $4 Jameson all night long. Fridays and Saturdays also get going with drink specials and theme nights,  including a Michael Jackson/Prince dance-off. You also can't beat the decor. Madrone highlights different artists and their work - from photographs to paintings and mixed media - every month, making each visit feel like your first. They also have a photo booth in the front of the bar so even if you forget your camera, you can still have memories of a great night. Madrone Art Bar is located at 500 Divisadero Street in San Francisco.

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San Francisco Symphony

Get classical with The San Francisco Symphony. Now entering it's one hundredth year, The San Francisco Symphony sets the highest possible standard for excellence in musical performance in the Bay Area.

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75 Years of Excellence at SFMOMA

The SFMOMA is one of the most inventive museums of modern and contemporary art. Celebrating its 75th anniversary with a brand new rooftop garden, it has something for every taste: traditional paintings and sculptures to new-age mixed media. The brilliant collection features contemporary greats such as Henri Matisse,  Alfred Stieglitz, Marcel Duchamp, and of course, the infamous Jackson Pollock.

For art enthusiasts or simply anyone who recognizes and welcomes greatness born in our time, SFMOMA offers not only traveling exhibitions of modern artists, but also artist lectures, curator talks, film screenings, workshops and more.

Complete with an architectural model of Eliot Noye's Westinghouse 1964 New York World's Fair Pavilion, as seen in the Men in Black movie, and Andy Warhol's Red Liz, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is an excellent and eye-opening museum.

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Gold Dust Lounge’s Music is Money

With the ceiling murals and walls lined with framed currency, the Gold Dust Lounge looked like a Wild West saloon. Don’t let the decor fool you, this historic Dixieland bar was famous for the many Jazz artists who have played there over the years. San Francisco's Gold Dust Lounge, in a fight for its life since octogenarian owners Jim and Tasios Bovis were hit with an eviction notice last year, served last call at its beloved Union Square digs and announced an upcoming move to the tourist heavy Fisherman's Wharf. The Gold Dust Lounge has reopened and you're invited! We packed up the pieces in Union Square and moved to Fisherman's Wharf on the Barbary Coast. We brought Bing Crosby's cherub mural on the ceiling, the antique brass lights, the Bovis Family paintings, the tables, the gold filigree mirrors, the old wood bar, the red velvet booths, Herb Caen's stool, his Vitamin V, the band, the bartenders, waitresses, the Miner 49er, the swinging saloon doors, that familiar marquee -all we're missing is you! Come have a drink as we kick off more good times for years to come! Help us make the new Gold Dust a home.

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It’s Comedy Central at Cobb’s Comedy Club

When it comes to comedy clubs, the question to ask isn't Cobbsemptyroom"What?" or "Where?" it's "Who?" In any case, Cobb's Comedy Club has you covered. In its 25th year, the North Beach venue plays host to the finest funny men and women working today. From Jerry Seinfeld and Dave Chappelle to Ellen DeGeneres and Margaret Cho, Cobb's rotating cast of headliners are Leno and Letterman regulars, many with a comedy series of their own. Let's put it this way: a celebrated stand-up doesn't step foot out of SFO without first making an appearance on this stage. If you're hungry for more than laughter, the 400-seat venue offers a full dinner menu of classic American pub food, like crispy fried calamari, marinated chicken sandwiches, and of course, a Cobb's chopped salad. Just remember to come thirsty: with a two-beverage minimum, they mean business. Sobreity is no laughing matter.

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The Contemporary Jewish Museum’s Ever-Changing Exhibits

As a non-collecting institution, the Contemporary Jewish Museum's ever-changing exhibition program embraces a range of artistic disciplines. From Andy Warhol's pantheon of Jewish portraits to a retrospective of Where the Wild Things Are author Picture 85Maurice Sendak's career, each presentation is timely and relevant, fostering a dialogue between museum-goers of all faiths. Partnering with national and international cultural institutions, the Museum showcases contemporary art, historical objects, film and music, literary readings, and other live performances that pertain to Judaism as both a religion and culture. Founded in 1984, the Contemporary Jewish Museum opened its doors as the "Jewish Community Museum" in San Francisco's Financial District with a goal of introducing audiences of all backgrounds to contemporary perspectives on Jewish culture, history, art and ideas. After much success, ten years later, the Museum hired acclaimed Polish-American architect Daniel Libeskind — who won the competition to reconstruct Manhattan's World Trade Center site — to re-envision a 1907 landmark in SoMa as its new home. Reopened in 2008 with a vibrant blue metallic steel roof surging from a Beaux Arts brick façade, the dynamic 63,000-square-foot structure marries historical and contemporary architecture. Steps away from the SFMOMA and the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, it's a can't-miss for culture vultures.

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Broadway’s Best at The Orpheum Theatre

Take one glimpse at the majestic carved doors of San Francisco's Orpheum Theatre and you'll see the sparkle of an architectural gem. Designed in the 1920s by renowned theater architect Picture 56B. Marcus Priteca as a showcase for the silent films and vaudeville productions of impresario Alexander Pantages, the elaborate Spanish-style Civic Center cathedral boasts all the ingredients required to cook up an evening of glitz and entertainment. From the baroque, vaulted ceilings to walls brimming with folkloric lion figurines, the palatial venue is well-deserved of its designation as a San Francisco Historical Landmark. Though the theater's delicate balconies endured years as a first-run movie house, it's been reinvigorated by some of the nation's most acclaimed Broadway shows. These days its rich red carpets and chairs accommodate crowds of musical enthusiasts for the box office record-breaker Wicked, but this beautiful building has also set the stage for Phantom of the Opera, Cats, Rent and The Lion King. No doubt, it has a long history to come as host to the most prized performances.

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It’s a Creative Whirlwind of Exposure at 111 Minna Gallery

Ask anyone where the latest in San Francisco cuisine, music, performance, Picture 11and most importantly art resides and they will tell you at the famously dynamic 111 Minna Gallery in SOMA.  Gallery by day and dance floor by night, this gallery changes every six weeks to embrace the latest in local, national, and international urban art. With gallery space that easily converts itself into spaces for as little as 50 and up to 500 people, including the bar and dance floor, 111 Minna is the cities go-to for the hottest events.  And they’re here to showcase anything and everything in the world of art.  With Emily the Strange creator Rob Reiner’s exhibit, San Francisco’s Poet Laureate Diane DePrima readings, World-Renowned DJ Vinroc, and even the EAT street food pop-up restaurant every Monday night, nothing is off topic, too outlandish, or out of range for 111 Minna’s creative initiative.

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In for a Swanky Night at Bimbo’s 365 Club

Picture 36With nightclubs, jazz venues, bars, and its own Vegas-style light show, North Beach is where San Franciscans have always gone to party.  And in the heart of this “Little Italy” lies Bimbo’s 365 Club, as much a favorite today as it was when Rita Hayworth was a high-kicking chorus line girl. Everyone who is anyone has since walked through these doors, including Chris Isaak, Robin Williams and Jill Scott. When you walk into Bimbo’s, expect an evening of classic lounge acts, supper club entertainment and a dramatic art deco theme that is entirely reminiscent of the swankiest big band era nightspots. One of Bimbo’s famously plush events is its corporate and private parties for swanky Silicon Valley guests like Cellular One, Oracle, and Yahoo!.  The venue offers tiered seating, dramatic lighting, fine dine table settings and a dance floor next to the concert stage. Whether you’ve been a regular for years or it’s your first time here, Bimbo’s is the classic nightspot for the upscale traveler.

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Kung Fu & King-Sized Collection at the Asian Art Museum

If you think of Asian Art as just orchids, bamboo, and cast iron teapots, Picture 5you haven’t been to the Asian Art Museum in the Civic Center – and you need to go! Not only does the museum have priceless artifacts like the oldest Chinese gilt-bronze Buddha in the world (photographed in textbooks everywhere), but they offer some pretty cool interactive programs such as yoga inspired by the sculpture poses, storytelling for the kids (“How Ganesha Got His Elephant Head”), and learning the art of Japanese Tea Ceremonies. The museum even has exhibitions for the night owls with their Thursday night after-hours parties called MATCHA.  Observe the Shaolin Temple monks demonstrate some high-kicking kung fu while you listen to Shanghai Jazz.  Always changing and never a dull moment, this Asian Art Museum will keep you exploring  over 6,000 years of history.

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Twin Peaks’ Views For Lovers & Sightseers

While the city skyline is beautiful from the balcony of a downtown hotel, nothing can compare to the city's best views, Twin Peaks Vista Point.  Called Los Pechos de la ChocaPicture 23 (breasts of the Indian maiden) by early Spanish settlers, Twin Peaks is perfect for lovers and sightseers alike. The drive up is stunning, especially at night, so hire a limousine or taxi to fully enjoy the ride.  Of course, you can also take a bus or hike up during the day– it’s worth the trek in clear weather once you see Ocean Beach, the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay Bridge all in one sweeping glance! Twin Peaks are a must for anyone who comes to San Francisco and for anyone who hasn’t been in a while.  Bundle up for the wind, and you’ll enjoy eucalyptus-shrouded hiking, bird-watching, city-watching and the most popular place to snuggle with your loved ones in the city.

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Glitz and Grammy’s for The San Francisco Symphony

For the Vivian and Edward in all of us (Pretty Woman fans?), your romantic evening awaits at the San Francisco Symphony.  With eleven Grammy wins, this ensemble features the most talented musicians in the world and is appropriately situated in the magnificent Davies Symphony Hall, which neighbors the Opera House and Capitol Buildings of the Civic Center.Picture 23 Whether an anniversary, Valentine’s Day, or birthday, the San Francisco Symphony continues to excite and lure even the most jaded of guests to fall in love with classical music year-round.  The Symphony's passion for music and award-winning Chorus & Youth Orchestra will inspire you to not just listen to the music, but emotionally become part of the experience. Davies Symphony Hall even offers a free after-hours party for some of its concerts, allowing you to enjoy popular bay area music in a nightclub atmosphere.  The folks at SFS really know music, from classical to contemporary, and hope to inspire the same appreciation in their guests, even if it requires drinks and socializing from the balconies that offer spectacular views of City Hall.

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Move Over Shakira- It’s Fat Chance Bellydance

Picture 21Shakira may have started the belly dancing trend in mainstream America, but recently you’ve seen it featured as a fitness routine on Dr. Oz and in Akon’s “Bellydancer” video.  At Fat Chance Bellydance, in the heart of the Mission District, you can see a bodacious belly dancer in front of your own two eyes- or become one yourself. One part troupe, one part workshop, Fat Chance Bellydance showcases American Tribal Style dancing,  created by director Carolena Nericcio. Here you’ll see how improvisational choreography creates a smooth and enchanting hip dance, or learn both slow and fast movements, and how to use zils to make your own beat.  Fat Chance is perfect if you’re looking for unique entertainment at a party, wanting to learn how to do solo performances at restaurants and shows, or for an alternative outlet to spice up your fitness routine.  Walk-ins are welcome!

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Fall In Love with Art & Jewelry at Velvet da Vinci

Art has most of us seeireneebevan3webng inspiration in its pure form.  At Nob Hill’s favorite art-jewelry gallery, Velvet da Vinci, all you’ll see is too many pieces to fit in your box.  The lofty and warm space introduces San Francisco to the most unique pieces in modern art available, such as last June’s Jane Adam Jewelry exhibition.  With current pieces like Renee Bevan’s Rose Petal Lei, you may find something special just in time for Valentine’s Day or a special anniversary.  And with 10-12 exhibitions a year, you’ll have monthly supply of fresh pieces for your home and heart. Since 1991, Velvet da Vinci has featured craft artists from the U.S., Europe, Latin America and Japan.  The regular exhibitions of artisanal jewelry, sculpture and metalwork are popular amongst collectors, museum curators and jewelry enthusiasts. With each unique piece up for grabs, this popular jewelry museum is a must-stop for everyday shoppers.  With only the cream of the crop in contemporary art and sculpture, it’s hard for anyone appreciative of beauty to walk out empty handed.

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ODC Takes the Artistry of Dance to Another Level

If the images of elegant ballerinas or hip-hop DWTS contestants come to mind when you think of dance performances, ODC Dance Company will blow your mind. Since the beginning, it has pushed the envelope of avant-garde dance, meaning the choreography, music, and narratives are completely out of the box and original.

But it's not all creativity without meaning here, ODC has a commitment to maintaining interesting story lines (something not all avant-garde performances do) and outstanding technique. The company has been widely recognized for its fusion of modern techniques and ballet, as well as star-studded collaborations with actors like Robin Williams and visual artists like Eleanor Coppola.

ODC Dance Company proves that West Coast dance is as innovative and technically accomplished as any traditional East Coast company.

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Move Over E-Harmony, CAS Gets Sexy and Single

For the upper echelons of San Francisco social life, intelligence is sexy.  That’s why Nightlife at the California Academy of Sciences is the hottest new singles and date spot in the city.  You get to mingle, sip cocktails, dance to the best beats in the city, and enjoy the academy exhibits without the chaos of daytime school groups.  For the 21 and over crowd, it’s a real treat to have the place to yourselves and for once- and not tCASrip over strollers. Featuring a four-story living rainforest, penguins, a floor-to-ceiling coral exhibit, and just about every other fascinating natural phenomenon, The California Academy of Sciences is the perfect setting for your social event ($60 for private VIP if you prefer), a great conversation starter for first dates, or just a great way to get out on the town without the crowded, dark bar scene. Be sure to get to the Nightlife event early for the best experience and the least amount of wait times.  Unless you had dinner prior to coming to the Academy, tapas-style plates are available, that is – if you can pull yourself away from how bizarre it is to watch a glowing jellyfish while drinking a cosmo.

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It’s All About the Extravagant at The Castro Theatre

Glowing like a beacon over the Castro District, The Castro Theatre marquee is not only a symbol of the city’s gay rights movement (as featured in the Oscar-winning film Milk), but the city's facastro_frontvorite venue to connect with the community in a way that is colorful and meaningful.  For decades San Franciscans have come together in this lavishly decorated historic theatre for live and screen performances, even participating in cult films such as The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Little Mermaid sing-alongs, Dionne Warwick concerts, and every single film festival that comes to town. The Castro Theatre is old-fashioned and intimate, right down to the original brass ticket booth out front that's big enough for only one vendor.  Inside, the Spanish-Oriental influence is apparent in the scraffito wall murals, but the gold art deco details make it familiar.  The 1,400 red velvet seats throughout the main floor, mezzanine, and balcony are new, along with the PA, sound, and lighting systems, but have stylishly retained their early-century charm. The theatre also functions in the mainstream, as each month it features top box office movies.  Some recent favorites have been the star-studded Nine and Milk, which ran for almost two months.

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A Century of Music at This Great American Hall

The Great American Music Hall has been described many ways: opulent, warm, friendly, even sanctified.  Whatever your adjectives, this place is just plain fun, from the smiles at the red velvet-draped front door to the energy of the crowd buzzing off the ceiling frescoes.  Having hosted such diverse big names as Duke Ellington, Billy Joel, The Grateful Dead, and Van Morrison, this gracious Victorian hall has charmed San Francisco throughout the twentieth century. MusicHall2This 5000 square foot concert hall has seen many changes since its opening in 1907. Constantly upgrading the sound system and restoring anything that begins to lose luster, the Great American Music Hall takes pride in providing you with the best intimate music experience.  You can even book the venue for private wedding receptions, product launches, holiday parties, and bar mitzvahs. When spending the evening here you have no choice but to leave the hustle of the city behind, grab a drink at the restored Victorian bar, and let go of your troubles on the oak dance floor.  Why not enjoy one hundred years of history and modern entertainment all in one evening?

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Reviews and Romance at the Palace of Fine Arts

Known for its natural beauty, the Palace of Fine Arts in The Presidio is even more famous for its performance lineup.  Almost every name in history has come here to speak, dedicate, and inspire: Truman Capote, Francis Ford Coppola, Jay Leno, Joan Baez, and Jane Fonda, to name a few.  With personalities such as these and over 1000 continental-style seats, you will be comfortable at every function. New Camera 027Fortunately, you don’t have to book yourself a ticket to enjoy the venue.  There’s nothing more relaxing than sitting by the Palace’s Corinthian columned rotunda and lagoon, brimming with bright flowers and peaceful swans.  This setting has long been the symbol of the Palace of Fine Arts and draws thousands of people each year to its romantic backdrop.  It is, after all, San Francisco’s top choice for outdoor weddings. The Palace of Fine Arts is sure to charm you as you watch lovers stroll hand-in-hand and parents helping their toddlers throw breadcrumbs to the birds.

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Golden Gate Fields: Where the Bay Goes to Play

A day at the races has long been America’s favorite pastime, well next to baseball and BBQ’s.  Luckily for San Franciscans, the Berkeley shoreline across the bay houses Golden Gate Fields, the only horse track in Northern California. Even for first timers, it’s easy to get swept up in the scene.  There are dozens of screens overhead on every floor highlighting the races, boxing matches, sports, and just about any televised activity favorable to gambling.Winners Making a reservation in The Winner’s Circle is where your group receives personal attention.  With a champagne buffet set up next to the winner’s circle, valet parking, and your group’s name introduced by the track announcer, this is true Derby in style. Most fans opt to come on Sundays for $1 beer, programs, tickets, and hot dogs. For those feeling more lavish, the Turf Club has amazing views of San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz Island, and the Golden Gate Bridge.  They even have Hermes and Gucci equine scarves on display next to antique bridles worn by winners past. With tickets starting at $5, this is a place where everyone can take a Sunday to play.

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Sushi Gets Jazzed Up at Yoshi’s

Someone forgot to tell the proprietors of Yoshi’s that sushi and jazz are cultural opposites.  Of course its founder and namesake, Yoshie Akiba, is also a fascinating mix.  YoshisOrphaned in Japan during WWII, Yoshie came to Berkeley as a student and opened Yoshi’s with her two best friends. Thirty years later, in its new $10 million setting in the Fillmore District (the “Harlem of the West”), Yoshi’s has earned a reputation as one of the world’s finest jazz venues featuring jazz legends like Dizzy Gillespie, Diana Krall, Max Roach, and Harry Connick Jr. Yoshi’s is also an award-winning restaurant, with Chef Shotaro Kamio presenting modern sushi that he describes as “seasonal, simple, surprise."  You can make dinner reservations in the separate restaurant before the show or enjoy small tapas-style sushi and sake cocktails in the club.  Prices are higher than average, but you’ll appreciate that Yoshi’s serves fresh and thoughtful Japanese cuisine rather than greasy quesadillas and mozzarella sticks. Tickets range from $13 - $100 depending on the performer, and the club seats 420 in its warmly lit acoustic cavern.  The custom sound system, complete with a resident Steinway grand piano, is clear and allows artists to truly be the center of attention.  So feel free to jazz it up with flapper outfits and tailcoats.

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Controversial De Young Museum Shines

Unless you’re a local who knows its history, visitors who pass by the De Young Museum might think an abstract spaceship had crash-landed into Golden Gate Park. Providing San Franciscans with a never-ending debate over aesthetics, the building is intended to unify modern art and architecture with the natural landscape.  Meant to oxidize and turn pale green the way the Statue of Liberty has done, the museum’s copper mesh exterior will eventually blend in with the surrounding eucalyptus trees. image_1_32Before you even enter the De Young Museum, explore over five acres of native landscaping, in which you can wanarden, koi ponds, waterfalls, and the Andy Goldsworthy “Faultline” installation in the courtyard. Like any great museum, the De Young features an impressive permanent collection: Ancient Teotihuacan stone murals from Mexico, the finest collection of American paintings, African and Oceanic art, and The Anderson Graphics Art Collection.  Great exhibitions have included Yves Saint Laurent, Andy Warhol, Chihuly, and most recently King Tutankhamun.  You can also explore the 144 ft. observation tower that provides views of the park, the new California Academy of Sciences building across the lawn, the Golden Gate Bridge, and downtown. Whether you love the building and what it contains, or hate its aesthetics, the architects and curators have obviously done their jobs – eliciting reactions.

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Classical Art Made Modern at San Francisco Opera

If you think of opera as long, boring, and hard to follow, you haven’t been to the San Francisco Opera.  From the bellbottoms to ball gowns dress code, and SFotellowith subtitles above the stage, a night at the opera isn’t just for the world-traveling elite anymore.  The San Francisco Opera does justice to this classic art form by making it accessible and entertaining to modern society. In the heart of The Civic Center next to the Capitol Building, every grand staircase and facade of the San Francisco War Memorial Opera House seems to have been carved out of marble and gold, and the set designs are always elaborately impressive.  Taking in the spectacle is even better while enjoying a pint of beer or a high-end wine.  And don’t think the crowd is going to be boring either, since the opera is attended more these days by 20-50 something’s in the peak of their social lives, with great fashion sense to boot. Tickets can range from $10-$120, but if you’re looking for an old-fashioned night out on the town don’t be afraid to play “Pretty Woman” dress-up, make reservations at one of the many nearby fine restaurants (like Absinthe), and go all out with a box seat and opera glasses.

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Crissy Field: Weekend Windsurfing & Everything Else

Looking for an all-purpose, exquisitely maintained outdoor venue without the private club membership? Head to Crissy Field in the Marina District, where boredom and inactivity are not an option. This is where San Francisco spends its weekends: on windsurfing boards, kayaks, nature trails, dog-friendly beaches, bike paths, and open lawns. Crissy Field is also the perfect place to photograph the Golden Gate Bridge, with no need to drive to the north viewing terrace in Sausalito, let alone homepage_san_fransicopay for the toll or the fancy postcards. Not to mention you can kill two birds with one stone, since Alcatraz, “The Rock,” is just off the coast in the center of the bay. Stick around with your blankets and folding chairs for sunset over the bridge- it’s a soft, romantic light show you won’t want to miss. Originally a US Mail Airfield, Crissy Field has been transformed by the community through years of native plant restoration, historic preservation, and refurbished park amenities. All the years have paid off as this is now an amazing venue for the beach, sightseeing, and everything in between.

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The Extensive San Francisco War Memorial & Performing Arts Center

Picture 39As one of the largest performing arts center in the United States the SFWMPAC covers everything from theater, operas, concerts, lectures, special screenings, dance, recitals, meetings, and galas. It is a massive facility, 7 1/2 acres in total, containing the War Memorial Opera House, Herbst Theater, War Memorial Veterans Building, Louise M. Davis Symphony Hall, and even the offices of the prestigious SFMOMA. Conveniently located in the heart of San Francisco’s historic Civic Center district, the Performing Arts Center is not only a haven for the arts, but also a memorial for the men who fought in the first World War. Check out the calendar for all the lectures, performances and recitals or participate in a tour of the facilities which are held every Monday from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

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Exploratorium Allows You To Do Just That

At most museums you are told "Do Not Touch," but that's the exact opposite of the intention at San Francisco's Exploratorium. This institution's goal is to promote museums as education centers, and here they like their visitors to learn by doing. Whether it's creating a tornado with your feet, putting samples under a microscope, or getting your hands wet touching sea creatures, the unique Exploratorium has hundreds of exhibits for your enjoyment in science, art, and human perception.

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Bay Area Discovery Museum

Everyone's talking about the museum on the west coast that makes all other children's museums green with envy. Located at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge, The Bay Area Discovery Museum is the only museum in a National Park and its creative exhibits are admired by other museums nationwide. Whether it's sculpting a model of the Golden Gate Bridge (that's right above!), examining live sea creatures in a recreated natural habitat, or watching a puppet show, the hands-on museum nurtures future generations of creative thinkers and innovators.

There are tons of exhibits at the Bay Area Discovery Museum year-round for children to discover and get creative in their own way.

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Dance in the Vineyards of Chouinard Winery

Picture 2Located up in the hills near San Francisco Bay is the family run Chouinard Vineyard & Winery. Sure, Chouinard offers tours and wine tastings, things you would typically expect from a winery, but don't be fooled, this is no ordinary vineyard. Reggae in the Vineyards, Jazz in the Vineyards, 70’s and 80’s Dancing in the Vineyards as well as Ghouls in the Vineyards are some of the ever changing events happening at the winery. It's needless to say, these are certainly not activities you would expect from a vineyard. Yet, you'll still find a staff that loves making wine and can't wait to share it with their clients. Escape the city for a day to this nearby vineyard and winery and take pleasure in the award-winning wine- and entertianment- Chouinard has to offer.

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The Conservatory of Flowers’ Flying Flowers

From potted plants to those that live in water to those suspended in the air, The Conservatory of Flowers houses almost 2,000 different species of tropical and colorful plants and flowers. In the Aquatic Plants gallery, a giant art installation of glass and metal can be viewed, but that’s not what draws in the crowds. An authentic and rare Victoria Amazonic water lily hangs suspended in the air! Its leaves can support the weight of a small child! Picture 5The Highland Tropics gallery of the Conservatory is world-renowned for its collection of delicate high-altitude orchids, which grow on the bark of gnarled trees. You may want to bring a cardigan, since the gallery’s temperature mimics that of misty cloudy forests of tropical mountaintops. Step into the Lowland Tropics gallery and notice its steamy, humid, rainforest-esque atmosphere. This gallery is home to Phil, the 100-year-old giant Imperial Philodendron, and Cycads that pre-date the dinosaurs. It’s not all plants and flowers at the Conservatory. Be sure to visit the Butterfly Zone where you can see these colorful insects at work in a picture perfect surrounding of beautiful blossoms.

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Soak in the Charm of Chinatown

Picture 7Chinatown has a unique character and charm all its own. There are a number of bargain furniture stores, banks, grocery stores here. Holistic healers often come here to shop the wide selection of Chinese herbs and medicines in some of the natural healing stores. But the big seller here, of course, is the food! More than 50 restaurants are scattered around the area, from Vietnamese, to dim sum to sushi. The unique architecture of buildings such as Sing Chong Building and the Bank of Canton is what really gives this community its name. Being the city where the first Chinese immigrants arrived in America, it makes sense that SF is home to the largest Chinatown outside of Asia. You can't help but think you're not in Cali anymore.

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See the Cells of Alcatraz on this Double Decker Combo Tour

The Double Decker and Alcatraz Combo Tour is a 5-in-1 packing providing you with the experience to see San Francisco’s best sights. It includes a fully narrated tour of the Golden Gate loop, including the bridge, views of the city’s skyline, the mansions of Pacific Heights, and Fisherman’s Wharf. Downtown, you’ll see Union Square, crPicture 6ooked Lombard Street, and even the largest Chinatown outside of Asia, all atop a double-decker bus. You’ll want to get tickets a few weeks in advance so that you don’t miss the cellblocks of Alcatraz, "The Rock," which was the home of Al Capone and other infamous mobsters. Featuring interviews with inmates and guards who actually lived there before the prison closed in 1968, Alcatraz is all the rage. This is a hop-on, hop-off tour allows guests to shop and eat along the way. The Japanese Tea Gardens or Postcard Row is where the most famous of San Francisco’s “Painted Ladies” can be viewed- and, if you're a Full House fan, you may recognize the sights from the show's credits. For night owls, there’s even a special night loop. One trip on the Double Decker and Alcatraz Combo Tour and you will have officially conquered San Francisco- well, kind of.

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Eat Your Way Through San Francisco on the Local Tastes of the City Tour

Picture 43Cappuccinos are to North Beach as tea is to Chinatown. San Francisco is a city known for fresh ingredients and its cultural melting pot translating into the kitchen. Local Tastes of the City offers an experience to taste it all in the diverse foodie neighborhoods of North Beach/Little Italy and Chinatown. The North Beach/Little Italy Tour is so much more than a food tour, it’s a cultural experience. Not only will you find freshly baked bread that will send your senses soaring, but also discover quaint shops with handmade ceramic trinkets, intricately woven baskets, quilts, and more; uncover hidden authentic Italian cathedrals; and experience first-hand the coffee roasting process in these small shops. Locals come here for the fresh food, but they stay for the culture. You’ll think you stepped into Beijing, but don’t be fooled, it’s just Chinatown. The cuisine will enliven your senses with new flavors and aromas. See artisans practice their crafts in back alleyways that can’t be viewed from a double-decker bus, watch as chefs fold fortune cookies by hand, and view the unique architecture of building such as the Sing Chong Building and the Bank of Canton. Travel deep into the essence of these neighborhoods by trying different foods and drinks from the best and most authentic bakeries, restaurants and cafes in town. These stops are not typical tourist spots, yet places that the locals go to shop and eat. Taste pastries and breads in Little Italy, dim sum and tea in Chinatown, and much more.

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Alcatraz

Take a boat ride to and a tour through the small island full of rich history. Alcatraz was one of the first US forts on the west coast, an infamous federal penitentiary, and occupied by Native Americans for eighteen months. Alcatraz also has gardens, tide pools, and a view of the city like none other. For a highly entertaining and educational excursion, visit Alcatraz Island.

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Ghirardelli

Sample some of the treats at this world famous chocolate factory.

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Palace Legion of Honor

Marvel at great art in a beautiful setting with a wonderful view of the city.

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California Academy of Science

Several museums rolled into one.

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