In the Golden Gate area of San Francisco there is much more to see and do including that famous bridge and seeing the bridge is a must. The Golden Gate Bridge was built in 1935 to connect San Francisco with Marin County. Be forewarned, though, that to use the Golden Gate Bridge, it will cost you five dollars. Don’t forget to pick up a souvenir from the gift shop that’s located in the Roundhouse behind the Strauss Statue.
Almost just as well known as the Golden Gate Bridge is Alcatraz Island which housed a federal penitentiary from 1934 to 1963. Preceding that time period, Alcatraz Island operated as a military prison from 1859 to 1934. It also enjoyed a short life when it was done “doing time” when Indians claimed the Island from 1969 to 1971 using squatter’s rights. Occupation of “The Rock” by Indians of All Tribes resulted in changing the course of United States and American Indian history. For the full story of Alcatraz Island, click here .
What’s left of the prison is available to visitors starting at 9:30 AM, with the ferry running to an from Alcatraz every thirty to forty minutes. In the summer months the prison closes at 6:30 PM, but during all other seasons it closes at 4:30 PM, being closed only on Christmas and New Year’s Day, or during distressing weather. Special evening tours are available as well.
Fisherman’s Wharf is yet another popular tourist attraction in the Golden Gate area. Here you can experience the beautiful riverfront, see the sights, take in some shopping, and of course, enjoy the mouth-watering seafood. You can also visit the Aquarium of the Bay and the National Maritime Museum, or try the chocolate at Ghiradelli Square. From here you’ll have the best views of the San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge.
Also at the Fisherman’s Wharf you can visit The Wax Museum. This museum has been around for over 100 years, and was recently renovated into a new 100,000 square foot showplace. Currently at the museum you can see historical figures, religious figures, King Tut, and of course many wax renditions of famous sports stars and entertainment celebrities. The museum is open every day of the year from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM with special holiday hours. Adults are charge dan admission of $12.95 with Juniors 12 to 17 and Seniors paying $9.95. Children 6-11 pay $6.95.
San Francisco is also know famously for its transportation involving cable cars. After watching a horse-drawn streetcar slip in a terrible accident in 1869, a British man, Andrew Smith Hallidie, developed the cable car system. Today the cable cars still run every day of the week on three routes. Adults and children age 5-17 pay $3.00 each way, and Seniors and the Disabled pay the same, but pay only $1.00 from 9:00 PM to 7:00 AM. One day passes can be obtained for $9.00, three day passes for $15.00 and seven day passes for $20.00.
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