Situated between the Pacific Ocean and the San Francisco Bay in northern California, the city of San Francisco is one of the country's most scenic metropolises. Built on hills with year-round mild temperatures, the city offers opportunities for walking, kayaking, rock climbing and biking, to name a few. The city also receives some of the freshest local produce from surrounding farms.
Walking
San Francisco is an excellent walking city. One of the best ways to learn about the city's history and ethnic neighborhoods is to pass through on foot. One of the more interesting routes is the Barbary Coast Trail, a 3.8-mile marked path that begins at the U.S. Mint in Downtown San Francisco and continues north, ending at Aquatic Park, a lagoon at the eastern end of Fisherman's Wharf. Some of the highlights on the trail are the Gold Rush Museum and a World War II submarine.
Kayaking
San Francisco has plenty of opportunities for kayakers of all levels. Take a bay tour along the waterfront and beneath the Bay Bridge or even paddle to Alcatraz, the infamous prison. Tour companies in the area also offer trips to Angel Island, the Golden Gate Bridge and Marin County. For a romantic evening, moonlight kayak trips are also available.
Rock Climbing
One of the highest indoor climbing walls in the country is in San Francisco. Mission Cliffs, an indoor rock climbing facility and fitness center in the Mission neighborhood, has a 50-foot wall and about 14,000 square feet of climbing terrain. Climbs range from the most basic to the extreme, which include bouldering. The climbing routes are changed on a weekly basis to provide variety.
Biking
Whether you bring your own bicycle or rent one at the numerous bike rental companies in town, cycling in San Francisco ranges from flat, smooth bike lanes to steep hills and dirt paths. According to the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition, some of the desirable areas for biking are in Golden Gate Park, around the Embarcadero, and on the city's twisting Lombard and Vermont streets. For information on the bike routes in and around the city, view the map in the Resources section of this article.
Local Food
Visit the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market, one of the largest markets in the country. The markets lies along the Embarcadero at the foot of Market Street and is easily accessible by bus, train, ferry and trolley car. You will find local fruit, vegetables, herbs, flowers, meats, eggs, breads, cheeses and jams. Aside from shopping, look for market talks and cooking demonstrations given by San Francisco's top chefs. The farmers market is open three days a week--Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
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