Day Things to Do in San Francisco

Day Things to Do in San Francisco
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San Francisco has an abundance of healthy outdoor activities to do during the day. The temperature is usually never too hot, which lends itself to walking and experiencing new adventures. The city itself has an historic waterfront to exercise on and scenic hills to traverse and see historic mansions. There are also some stunningly beautiful National Parks very close by the city, all making for some great day trips to enjoy.

Golden Gate Promenade

The Golden Gate Bridge is perhaps San Francisco's best known landmark. But along its promenade you can hike, roller skate or ride a bike along arguably the most stunning waterfront in the U.S. The Golden Gate Promenade has a trail connecting San Francisco to historic Fort Point where scenes from Alfred Hitchcock's Vertigo were filmed. At the other end of this captivating trail is Crissy Field where you can stop for a healthy picnic and throw a Frisbee.

Golden Gate Park

Golden Gate Park is almost 3 miles long and extends right up to Ocean Beach. The park is filled with runners and those simply taking in the sites and local color. The main road through the park does not allow cars on Sundays and holidays, making it ideal for bikes and blading. You can rent roller skates and bicycles at the world-famous Haight Ashbury end of the park.

Heights and Sites

Fitness experts agree that walking inclines is a far more challenging workout that walking flat surfaces. San Francisco is the right place for inclines. While walking the hills of the city's unique neighborhoods, you will encounter everything from Victorian mansions in Pacific Heights to a tour of the existing 1906 earthquake damage. Numerous tour companies offer guided walks and the City of San Francisco provides a complete guide of every walking tour option, time and meeting location.

Botanical Garden

The San Francisco Botanical Garden is over 50 acres of lush, landscaped gardens containing almost 8,000 varieties of plants from all over the world. As you stroll the gardens will see themed collections such as a Japanese moon-viewing garden and the Garden of Fragrance, which will delight your olfactory senses. You can take a guided tour of the entire Garden every weekday at 1:30 p.m.

Healthy Eating

San Francisco prides itself on being home to some of the healthiest eating in the country. Have lunch at one of many unique restaurants that showcases organic foods, grown locally. Choose avant garde menu selections that feature fresh produce and environmentally friendly gourmet. Delight in knowing you are enjoying a great lunch and supporting sustainability.

References

Article reviewed by Jessica Lyons Last updated on: Dec 7, 2010

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