Some well-known and lesser-known reasons to visit San Francisco.
Golden Gate Park
A few highlights
Conservatory of Flowers
Since 1879, locals and visitors have marveled at San Francisco's Conservatory of Flowers, the oldest glass-and-wood Victorian greenhouse in the Western Hemisphere and home to more than 10,000 plants from around the globe.
Japanese Tea Garden
Many people's favorite part of the park, this was originally built as part of the sprawling Midwinter Fair. Begun by an Australian in 1894, this intricate and private (depending on the season) complex of paths, ponds and a teahouse features native Japanese and Chinese plants. Also hidden throughout its five acres are beautiful sculptures and bridges. Makato Hagiwara, a Japanese gardener whose family took over the garden from 1895 to 1942, also invented the fortune cookie.
Map of the Park Notice how it ends right across the street from the
Pacific Ocean. Very handy after biking/rambling through the park all day. Also, many great picnic spots and photo opportunities.
Japantown & environs
Cherry Blossom Festival April 16-24
Fun shopping for electronic gadgets, anime, video games, Asian art, anything made in Japan. I like to check out the origami papers and pick out some mystery groceries for a picnic later.
Origami Papers new arrivals monthly. 1,000 sheet 3" mini assortment only $3.75. New Books coming in March:
Baby-gami (wrapping methods for baby),
Naughty Origami .
Also home of San Francisco's
Jazzhttp://www.sfgate.com/traveler/guide/sf/neighborhoods/wa.shtml scene:
The Jazz scene on Fillmore began to define the area, with greats like Duke Ellington and Billie Holiday frequently playing clubs in the neighborhood.
Coming Soon:
The Haight, home of hippiedom
The Castro
And many more. That's enough for today though. Check ~Fav Five~ for updates.
BONUS: Handy Street Festival & Seasonal Events Guide
Spring
Summer
Fall
Winter