A metropolis growing out of a beautiful bay, San Francisco is one of the country's most recognizable cities. Its offers a diverse culture and long history in its many eclectic neighborhoods. Guests to the city will find a year-round mild climate, but should consider wearing light layers for outdoor activities since the weather can change rapidly. For January visitors, the city offers an array of outdoor activities to start the year off.
Golden Gate Park
The huge Golden Gate Park, located at the western edge of the city, has a selection of open space, museums and gardens. Open year-round, visitors are encouraged to stop by to see the new science and art museums, as well as the aquarium. For active endeavors, boat rides, bike paths, golf and activity fields are all available. On Sundays, cars are banned from the park, making the area free for bikers, Rollerbladers and joggers. Equipment rental can be found at several locations near the park, and dining opportunities are widely available. For a unique experience, wander through the Japanese Tea Gardens, where guests can purchase tea and traditional crackers for a snack.
Golf in the City
Though the city is known as an urban center, it is also home to some of the world's finest golf courses. The Golden Gate Golf Course made Golflink.com's top 100 list in 2008, and is home to a 9-hole course, putting green and BBQ restaurant. The club is open to the public, and specializes in teaching beginners. Opened in 1951, it is located within Golden Gate Park. For more experienced players, The Presidio Golf Course served as a members-only destination until 1996. Today the course offers a full 18 holes, putting green, professional instructors and on-site dining. The city offers several more courses in town and nearby, many of which provide online scheduling for tee times or lessons.
Angel Island
Though not technically in San Francisco, Angel Island is as historically important as the city's cable cars. The West Coast's answer to Ellis Island, Angel welcomed millions of immigrants through the years. The island is just a short boat ride from the city and provides places for picnics and camping. For adventurous tourists, Mount Livermore, which rises to more than 780 feet, offers hiking and bike trails, beginning with a 5-mile trip around the border. Bike rental is available during the summer at the Cove Café, or guests can transport their own bikes on the ferry.
Alcatraz Island
Another Bay gem, Alcatraz opened as a prison in the 1930s and housed some of America's most notorious criminals. Visitors are welcome year-round and several tours leave each day from Pier 33. Guests are permitted to tour many of the buildings that housed criminals, and view guard towers and other structures. Additional opportunities include an audio tour, which leads participants through an average day in prison life. All guests must provide photo identification, and it is recommended by the tour company that you prepare for a variety of weather conditions, as the Bay is frequently foggy and windy.
Fort Point
Uniquely positioned overlooking the Golden Gate, Fort Point served as an important military outpost during the Civil War and World War II. Today the area is open year-round to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Several times per year the fort holds Civil War re-enactments, a variety of traveling exhibits and other special events. Nearby, active guests can find bike and hiking paths, as well as spots for picnics and activity fields.
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