Top 5 San Francisco Tourist Spots

So you're heading out to San Francisco and you want to know what to see? Here's a list of the top 5 San Francisco tourist spots, from those you might have heard of to those you might not have.

I've included only places located within the city, so place further afield like Marin and Alcatraz didn't make the list. So here are the places within city limits that you really need to see when visiting San Francisco.

Coit Tower - Located on a hill with 360 degree views, Coit tower is a landmark that provides the best views in town. The walk up the hill can take a bit of work, but once you are there, you buy tickets for an elevator ride to the top. Make sure you bring a camera and binoculars if you have them, because the views in all directions are truly breathtaking.

Golden Gate Park - Located at the western end of the city, from the Haight all the way to the Pacific Ocean, Golden Gate Park is a truly beautiful and enormous area, with lakes, forested areas, museums, gardens, hiking trails, and even bison roaming! You can really spend the entire day here and barely cover half of what there is to see. The park can be reached by the Muni light rail line, so you don't have to even have a car. But if you do drive, parking is available throughout the park, though it can be tighter on weekends.

Union Square - Located in the heart of the city, Union Square is it's urban shopping and theater center. Within walking distance are some incredible department stores and shops along with live theaters and restaurants. You can also catch a cable car directly to the Fisherman's Wharf, making for one perfect San Francisco day.

Fisherman's Wharf - The classic San Francisco tourist destination on the breathtaking waterfront and the end of the cable car line. There are plenty of shops, art galleries, and restaurants plus a maritime museum, sourdough bread, and the famous Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory. It's a great place to spend a day taking in San Francisco.

Golden Gate Bridge - Whether you go by tour bus or car, crossing the Golden Gate is an experience to remember. Stop and enjoy the views from the San Francisco side, with the old fort, and from the Marin side, with the Marin Headlands to the right and the city and Alcatraz across the bay. Explore the World War II era gunnery placements on the Marin side of the bridge, then spend the rest of the day enjoying magnificent Marin County, from the redwoods at Muir Woods to the incredible coastline at Point Reyes. There really is so much to do in this incredible region.

For more information on San Francisco attractions visit http://www.sanfranciscoattractions.org