San Francisco is my favorite city which is located on the west coast. It is also one of the most expensive, especially for hotels. Lucky for the frugal traveler, many places are free.
Note: When I first went to San Francisco (driving from LA), I was very surprised by the decrease in temperature. Check the weather before arrival.
Fisherman's WharfFisherman's Wharf, Pier 39 and Ghirardelli Square cover about 6 blocks along the waterfront. This tourist destination offers spectacular views of the famous Alcatraz, souvenir shopping, seafood vendors and street artists. Some of the local "residents" include pelicans and sea lions. Souvenir to withdraw for chocolate loving mothers? Ghirardelli Chocolate. This is where it all started.
The cable carAt the Ghirardeli roundabout, take some photos at the cable car turnaround (the end of one of the lines). Cable cars, as a living memorial to San Francisco, are a good break for the tired.
Note: There are no transfers with cable cars. Each ride requires a new ticket.
ChinatownChinatown in San Francisco ranks second only in the US in size to New York City. It is a great place to get cheap supplies and a cheap meal.
Lombard streetKnown as the crooked street, Lombard is one of those photographs that tourists love. Walking down is free.
the Golden Gate BridgeAnother famous and picturesque walk is across the Golden Gate Bridge. On a clear day, the views are spectacular (and will work on all the great Chinese food you are eating). This suspension bridge is slightly less than 9,000 feet, so plan your round trip.
Cable Car MuseumLove cable cars? Then visit the Cable Car Museum on Mason Street. Entrance is free and the museum's deck overlooks the huge engines and curved wheels that pull cables. Great pictures can be taken in vintage cable cars.
A city of diverse cultures, surrounded by the sea, San Francisco has a perfect blend of historical attractions and modern sites. Many of them are free.
