There is nothing wrong with doing the tourist thing in San Francisco, but there is so much more to the city than the usual tour book fodder. There are parks, bookstores and many other parts of the city that are amazing.
Instructions
find off the Beaten Path Attractions in San Francisco
1. Figure out exactly what it is you are looking for. What do you want to do? Are you a vintage shopper? Maybe you area book worm? Are you just looking for a place to hang out and relax? Maybe you are looking for the perfect sushi restaurant. Once you have a list, come up with keywords to use in an internet search.
2. Google away. Use Google or any other search engine. Use keywords to find articles, reviews and listings of area events, stores, parks, and other items of interest. Make a list of the articles, events and items that catch your eye. You may want to print out the websites or listings for reference. Look for reviews of each item and be sure to take notes. You may need to refresh your memory later.
3. Use other online resources. Check out CitySearch, using the same keywords as you did in the search engine. Visit forum sites like Thorntree or Trip Advisor. Search for your question first. If you can’t find it ask it yourself. Be specific and use as many details as you can. If you are looking for vintage shopping or something more subculture themed, check out their chat rooms and forums. The locals are the experts. They know the best places to go for food, shopping and everything else. Do not overlook this great resource. See what the locals say. To use Thorntree or some of the other sites, you may have to sign up or register. Most of these sites are free, but if you are picky about submitting personal information online this could be tricky. The Thorntree site only asks for an e-mail address and a user name. The good news is Thorntree aldready has a sticky thread full of wonderful tips for San Francisco, so you may not have to create an account at all. Other sites will ask for more. Keep taking notes. These will be valuable later.
4. Break things down by neighborhood. Did you know the MIssion has Mission Delores and some amazing thrift and book stores? The California Cable Car line may not take you to the Wharf, but the wait time is considerably shorter. You can pick up this cable car anywhere between the Financial District and Van Ness Ave. It takes you through Chinatown and Nob Hill.Nob Hill is the home to the Vampire Tour of San Francisco. The views are breath taking, and you can even enjoy some time at Huntington Park at Taylor and California. Japan Center is over shadowed by Chinatown, but it has it's own unique flair. There are wonderful coffee shops and places to go all over the city. Learn more about each neighborhood, and you will discover new and interesting places to visit.
5. Ask the hotel staff. Once again, the locals are the experts. If you are staying in a hotel in Chinatown and you want the have dinner and the best authentic Chinese Restaurant, the front desk may have just the place for you. If you have a place in mind, they may be able to give you suggestions or insight.
Tags: Attractions Francisco, Beaten Path, Beaten Path Attractions, locals experts, Path Attractions