Destination Series: San Francisco, CA

San Francisco, CA

This multi-part destination series will feature thefascinating cities you can experience throughnonstop flights offered in Rapid City. Discover theamazing adventures each of these major citieshave to offer, as well as the allure of worldwidetravel through direct services.

San Francisco, California is located on the northern tip of the peninsula between the Pacific Ocean and the San Francisco Bay. This hilly city is known for its fog, cool summers, cable cars and some of the steepest streets in the country. The gold rush established San Francisco as the “premier city of the West.” Today, the city is the headquarters for five major banking institutions and companies like Gap, Inc., Levi Strauss & Co., Fitbit, Uber and Lyft. San Francisco’s dining scene is one of the best in the country. Satisfy your comfort food cravings or take in fabulous fine dining; there’s something for everyone.

If you’re going to San Francisco…. make sure to check out these famous sites.

Golden Gate Bridge – The world-famous Golden Gate Bridge connects San Francisco Bay to Marin County. Recognized as one of the modern wonders of the world, it was opened in 1937 and, at that time, it was the longest suspension bridge ever created. Number one on every visitor’s list, you can travel across the 1.7 mile bridge by walking, car, or by bicycle.

Golden Gate Park – The Golden Gate Park is the third most visited park in the United States. Make sure to explore its over 1,000 acres of picturesque space. Discover all it has to offer – gardens, museums, art, flowers, trees, lakes, birds and wildlife.

Chinatown – Experience the largest Chinatown outside of Asia in downtown San Francisco. Covering 24 square blocks, Chinatown is rich in both culture and cuisine. San Francisco's Chinatown restaurants are considered to be the birthplace of westernized Chinese dishes like Chop Suey while they also introduced and popularized Dim Sum to American palates.

Union Square – Don’t miss the most visited neighborhood in San Francisco. Shop their highend outlet stores, stay in their luxurious hotels, eat delicious foods in their cafés, view beautiful pieces of art, and party like a local in the hopping nightlife scene.

Fisherman’s Wharf – Waterfront marketplaces, fishing boats, sea lions basking in the sun, seafood restaurants and sourdough French bread bakeries; what’s not to love? Fisherman’s Wharf has everything a seafood lover could want. And don’t miss Pier 39, a shopping center and popular tourist attraction located at the edge of Fisherman’s Wharf.

Alcatraz Island – Previously the site of the first lighthouse built on the Pacific Coast, and most famously a federal prison, Alcatraz is now a national park and one of San Francisco’s most popular attractions. Only a mile and a half from Fisherman’s Wharf, the prison housed famous criminals like Al Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly. Take a tour and see how the prisoners once lived.

Lombard Street – Known as the “Crookedest Street in the World,” Lombard Street is one of San Francisco’s most popular landmarks. Walk or drive down the scenic street and experience the eight sharp hairpin turns.

Ghirardelli Square – Have a bit of a sweet tooth? Then you need to check out Ghirardelli Square. Originally the chocolate factory of the Domingo Ghirardelli family during the 1800s, this famous San Francisco landmark is a chocolate lover’s dream.

Professional Sports Teams – Whether you’re a basketball, baseball or football fan, San Francisco Bay area has a team for you. Depending on the time of year you visit the area, take in a game of the Golden State Warriors, San Francisco 49ers or Giants or the Oakland Athletics or Raiders.

Victorian Homes Tour – It’s not a trip to San Francisco without a tour of their stunning Victorian homes, many of which are featured in famous television shows and movies, including Full House and Fuller House, Party of Five, Mrs. Doubtfire and Princess Diaries. Don’t forget to bring your camera when you visit the “Painted Ladies” on Postcard Row. BHW