A place I have always wanted to go but have never been is San Francisco, which is in Northern California. It seems to be a great place for a California vacation. It is the second most densely populated city in the US after New York. I think I would like it because although it is a city and there is a lot to do, it’s laid back. There are a lot of festivals, restaurants and neighborhoods to walk around. It’s also a manageable at only six miles square.

From what I have read, there are a few things as a first time visitor to do.

1) Take a cable car ride

2) Bike across the Golden Gate Bridge

3) Walk around the mission district

4) Alcatraz tour

5) Walk around Fisherman’s warf

6) Go on a wine tour

7) Take a walking tour around Chinatown

8)  Go to Coit tower for the views

9) Take the stairs up telegraph hill

10) Go to the Explatorium

11) Go to a baseball game at AT&T park

Tips from friends who have lived there

1) Don’t rent a car, plan on walking

2) If you’re going to be there a few days but a city pass for $67 for unlimited city transportation and entry into some places to go.

3) Best time to visit is from September-November, there is warm weather and fewer crowds than the summer.

There are also a bunch of websites that help with lodging, transportation, restaurants and nightlife.

I found this site particularly helpful. http://www.sanfrancisco.com/

If you’re bringing kids this article has 10 great places to go http://www.huffingtonpost.com/colleen-zarate/10-san-francisco-hidden-h_b_3368916.html