When you are visiting Santa Clara it's easy to enjoy other Bay Area attractions. San Francisco is about an hour's drive from Santa Clara, making it a perfect day trip for those who want to explore the excitement of the world-famous California city by the bay.
Visiting San Francisco
A trip to San Francisco will answer the question why tourism is a major part of the San Francisco economy. The city is beautiful with hills and bays abutting the ocean. Attractions such as the famous San Francisco Zoo, Fisherman's Wharf and Chinatown will keep you busy. Spend a day exploring on your own or enjoy a guided tour to the many area attractions.
Fisherman's Wharf
You don't have to be angler to appreciate a day trip to the wharf. Shops and seafood restaurants line the city's historic wharf, including vintage fishing carts once used by Italian immigrants.
Golden Gate Bridge
Sure, you've seen it on postcards, in movies and on television, so why not take a walk on it? The famed bridge offers a spectacular view of the city. If you are up to walking a portion or all of it, you'll be treated to a view and experience truly unique.
Union Square
You'll find many of the city's finest stores here from Tiffany's to Macy's with specialty shops of every variety crowding the side streets.
Cable Car Ride
This is a San Francisco trademark you just have to experience first-hand to truly appreciate it. The city's cable cars have been operating for nearly 140 years.
Golden Gate Park
Take a break from urban life right in the middle of it. The city's famed park includes sprawling gardens, a lake, museums and even the occasional heard of bison.
Alcatraz
Al Capone and other notorious criminals are no longer here. Take a walk down history with a tour of the facility back to an era when this former prison was the most secure place in the world and once deemed escape proof.
San Francisco Zoo
Located near the southern portion of Ocean Beach, the city's world-famous zoo is an ideal destination for the entire family. The zoo is open year round.
