San Francisco: A Unique Summer Vacation

In the cold and dreary months of winter, we find ourselves thinking about the warm summer months — and summer vacation. Summer vacation is an opportunity to go explore a new city or country. It’s also a great time to get together with family and friends, especially going on a large group vacation. When planning a summer trip, many will often go where the weather is conducive to outdoor activities, such as camping, swimming and sightseeing. San Francisco is a great vacation spot in the summer months due to its pleasant temperatures, international cuisine and iconic landmarks. Here are some fun places to check out:

Alcatraz Island
This famous prison is actually a cool place to visit with stories of its infamous prisoners, such as Al Capone, Sam Shockley and Frank Morris, beautiful tide pools and gardens. It was only in operation for thirty years and opened to the public in the 1970s. It’s interesting to note that there were 450 cells, but only 250 inmates at a time. When you get to the island from the ferry, you are treated to an audio recording of the life of an inmate. Just watch out for the birds, as the prison is their favorite nesting spot.

Ghirardelli Square
If you love chocolate, you must visit this famous chocolatier. Lured to California for finding gold, Domenico “Domingo” Ghirardelli came to San Francisco from Italy to open a general store for the gold miners. It carried an array of goods, but most importantly chocolate. The Ghirardelli Chocolate Company operated in the mid-1800s. The company was sold in the 1960s, but Ghirardelli Square was saved and soon reopened with a collection of dining and retail, including the Ghirardelli flagship store.

The Golden Gate Bridge
Why visit a bridge? It was designated as the “greatest man-made sight in the United States by the U.S. Travel Service.” It was built despite the fog, winds, rocks and tides of the bay. To construct this massive bridge, it cost 35 million and 11 workers their lives. Many enjoy biking across it to take in the gorgeous views.

The Walt Disney Family Museum
The man who gave us years of laughter and joy with Mickey and Minnie Mouse has a museum dedicated to his life and family. The Walt Disney Family Museum showcases many memorable moments and artifacts, such as a collection of Mickey Mouse dolls, hand-drawn cartoons and a model of the Red Cross ambulance Walt drove during World War I. Housed in former military barracks in The Presidio of San Francisco, the museum showcases many items that give new insights into Walt Disney’s life and career.

Originally published at robertsiekert.net on March 7, 2019.