2018-12-17 19:13:38
San Francisco is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. With waterside views, unique architecture, exquisite cuisine and diverse culture, it’s naturally photogenic. Here are just a few spots for taking FOMO -inducing photos on your next trip to the City by the Bay. 1 Golden Gate Bridge There are plenty of options for postcard-worthy photos of San Francisco’s most iconic structure. This beauty has no bad sides. From the Presidio, you can capture a wide shot of the full span. Snap a stunning sunset at Baker Beach with views of the bridge against the Marin Headlands. Or, head to Fort Point for an iconic angle that inspired the great Alfred Hitchcock. 2 Alamo Square One of the most popularly photographed locations in San Francisco is Alamo Square’s famous “postcard row” at Hayes and Steiner streets. This colorful stretch of 19th-century Victorian homes is known as the Painted Ladies. One of the best times to take a photo of these seven beauties is when the sun begins to set and casts a glow over the colorful houses. 3 Golden Gate Park There are so many things to see in this 1,017-acre park that it merits a full day’s visit. There’s no shortage of great photo ops, including exotic blooms at the Conservatory of Flowers and herds of bison roaming the meadow next to Spreckels Lake. The majestic aquariums at the California Academy of Sciences and a 360-degree panorama of the city from the de Young Museum’s observation tower also provide inspiring views. Later, head to the nearby Sunset District to catch the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean. 4 Palace of Fine Arts Built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition, the Palace of Fine Arts features Greco-Roman colonnades and a soaring central rotunda. It’s the perfect locale for a romantic stroll or a scenic picnic on its sprawling lawn. For a stunning shot, take a picture across the tranquil lagoon with the dome reflected in the water. 5 Chinatown On Grant Ave. and Bush St. stands the iconic Dragon Gate, an enchanting entry flanked with lions, dragons and fish to symbolize wealth, prosperity and other good things. Explore deeper into this storied neighborhood for colorful murals and alleyways teeming with red lanterns and pagoda-style buildings. You’ll find plenty of Instagrammable, delicious dim sum along the way. 6 The Sea Lions at PIER 39 While it’s a popular tourist spot, PIER 39 also draws a lot of locals — sea lions, to be exact. These fun, barking creatures love to lay on the wooden docks in large colonies, especially in spring. Snap some adorable photos of the sea lions as they play and sunbathe in the marina, then head to one of PIER 39’s many shops or restaurants. 7 Mission Dolores Park Located a few blocks south of the historic Mission Dolores, this park draws big crowds on sunny weekends. You’ll want to get here early to claim a prime picnic spot. From the top of the park, along 20th St. between Church and Dolores streets, you’ll find phenomenal photo opportunities with the park in the foreground and the city skyline behind it. Or, walk southeast on Valencia St. and explore the colorful murals in Balmy Alley. 8 Ferry to Alcatraz For amazing views and an unforgettable historical tour, head to Pier 33 for passage on Alcatraz Cruises. A short, scenic ride across the bay gives you access to unspoiled photo ops of the city skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz, the infamous former prison. (Be sure to reserve your tickets in advance, as this tour sells out quickly.)
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