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. 7 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. 4 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. 6 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. 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.) FROM TOP: instagram.com/louiskchan; San Francisco Travel Association; SF Mural Arts; instagram.com/gabrieluggla; instagram.com/oliviapaul; Della Huff 7 5 8 Welcome . 13
San Francisco Visitors Planning Guide 2019: Page 13
