Kimpton Alton Hotel - NEW HOTEL

From amazing photo ops and a sea of sea lions to chowder bread bowls and California wines, your visit to San Francisco starts at PIER 39. The most visited destination in San Francisco, PIER 39 offers two levels of dining, entertainment, shopping, and attractions—including Aquarium of the BayOpens in new window—all surrounded by unbeatable views of the city and the bay. Located along the historic San Francisco waterfront, PIER 39’s location provides the picture-perfect backdrop for postcard views of the Golden Gate and Bay Bridges, Alcatraz, Angel Island, and the city skyline. PIER 39 is located in San Francisco’s Fisherman's Wharf, at Beach Street and The Embarcadero. Parking is conveniently available in the PIER 39 Garage located directly across from the Entrance Plaza, or ride in style on San Francisco's historic F Line streetcar to PIER 39.

Alcatraz was the site of the first lighthouse in the Western United States, but became a federal penitentiary from 1934 to 1963, housing famous convicts such as Al Capone and George "Machine Gun" Kelly. Now, this once infamous prison island is part of the Bay Area’s 80,000-acre Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Located one-and-a-half miles from Fisherman's Wharf, Alcatraz is one of the city's most popular attractions. A visit to the island includes a tour of the cell house where visitors can see where the prisoners lived.

The Skystar Wheel is a great way to snag breathtaking city and bay views. Set along the northern waterfront near PIER 39, the Skystar Wheel stands 150 feet tall and features 36 climate-controlled gondolas, providing visitors with a comfortable experience.

Located on Pier 15 on the Embarcadero, the Exploratorium is a home-grown, hands-on museum igniting curiosity and inspiring creativity in people of all ages. Explore more than 600 hands-on exhibits and enjoy breathtaking views of the city and bay in the spectacular glass-and-steel Bay Observatory.

Ghirardelli Square is a must-visit historical attraction in San Francisco, offering a fascinating blend of the old and new. Originally a chocolate factory established in 1852 by Domenico Ghirardelli, this square has transformed into a destination that beautifully preserves its iconic past. Today, visitors can learn about the rich history of the factory while indulging in chocolate desserts at the Ghirardelli Chocolate Company. The square also hosts a variety of boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants, making it a perfect place for a stroll. Ghirardelli also sits right next to Aquatic Park, a picturesque waterfront location on the Bay, great for recreation and relaxation.

Situated in North Beach, Coit Tower was built in 1933 as a tribute to the city's firefighters. A slim building constructed from white concrete, the uniquely designed monument sits atop Telegraph Hill, offering 360-degree views of the city and the bay. The iconic tower houses beautiful murals in its interior base.

Once called "the bridge that couldn't be built," today the Golden Gate Bridge is one the seven wonders of the modern world. This magnificent bridge, perhaps San Francisco's most famous landmark, opened in 1937 after a four-year struggle against relentless winds, fog, rocks, and treacherous tides. Spanning 1.7 miles from San Francisco to the Marin Headlands, the bridge’s sidewalks are open during the day to pedestrians, including wheelchair users and bicyclists.

Formerly a military post, the Presidio is now a national park site and recreational paradise featuring spectacular vistas, beautiful trails, and historic and architectural treasures. Come for a hike, a walking tour, a picnic, or to view an exhibit at the Walt Disney Family MuseumOpens in new window, or take a stroll back in time. The much-anticipated Presidio Tunnel Tops, sloping gently over Highway 101, opened in 2022. It has quickly become a favorite outdoor spot for both residents and visitors alike. Kids of all ages love the OUTPOST, a jaw-dropping children's play area open year-round.