Discover San Francisco by experiencing its varied culture, famous landmarks and cool-summer Mediterranean climate. San Franciscans are known for their cultural and ethnic diversity, which you may encounter as you bicycle, run or hike through the city's steep rolling hills, modern and historical neighborhoods or as you attend local festive events.
Golden Gate Bridge
Tour the city's iconic landscape by walking or bicycyle the 1.7-mile east sidewalk of the Golden Gate Bridge. Enjoy the view of its sweeping cables and towers and learn about its construction from a cross-section display. The sidewalk is open all year for walkers and cyclists during daylight hours. Access the sidewalk from the southeast or northeast parking lot, and start the walk from the Fort Point overlook. Take a stroll through the garden area on the southeast side, where you find almost five acres of flower beds, hedges and brick sidewalks. Trail maps can be found on the south side of the bridge near the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
Hiking
Many hiking trails in the bay area offer spectacular views of the city's skyline while immersing you in natural sights like forested ridges and grassy slopes. Hike the five-mile Angel Island Loop Trail at Angel Island State Park. This trail has a 400-foot elevation gain that treads through rocky coves and leads atop Mount Livermore, where you can see a 360-degree panoramic view of San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate. To get to the trailhead, take the public ferry from San Francisco to Angel Island, or if you have a boat, use the mooring buoys or the boat slips at Ayala Cove.
Events
Join fitness events in the area, including the San Francisco Triathlon at Alcatraz or the San Francisco 5k/10k at Treasure Island. The San Francisco 5k/10k is held in July and features scenic views of the Bay Bridge, Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco Skyline and Alcatraz Island. The Aquatic Park Bathhouse hosts the San Francisco Triathlon at Alcatraz Training Camp in July for those who like to train for the swimming portion of the triathlon.
Food
Attend the San Francisco Street Food Festival in August to sample a diverse selection of food offered by local vendors. The event is hosted by La Cocina with the purpose of advocating support for all mobile food vendors in the city. The event also has various activities and entertainments for participants, like music performances, art projects, games and more. To find fresh vegetables, herbs and fruits, stop by at one of the many farmers markets in the area, including Ferry Plaza Farmers Market, San Francisco Farmer's Market and Bayshore Farmers Market.
Mountain Biking
Grab your mountain bike or rent from a local bike shop to explore the city's landscape and various rocky paths. The Presidio Loop trail passes through green hills and rocky paths of Land's End and Lincoln Park to reveal ocean views. Access the Golden Gate Park Loops and ride through 10 miles of narrow dirt trails and single track. If you prefer more scenic water views, try the Ocean Beach Harding Park Loop to sightsee the Pacific Ocean waters and Lake Merced.
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