Alcatraz is a must see for those who plan in advance. As this is probably one of the biggest tourist attractions in California advanced booking sometimes of a few months is necessary to ensure you get to see the island. Alcatraz housed America's most notorious criminals,operating from 1934 to 1963. The presence of infamous inmates like Al "Scarface" Capone, and the "Birdman" Robert Stroud helped to establish the island's notoriety. To this day, Alcatraz is best known as one of the world's most legendary prisons.

Alcatraz is now home to rare flowers and plants, marine wildlife, and thousands of roosting and nesting sea birds. Civil War-era buildings dotting the island give insight into the 19th century when the island served as both a harbor defense fort and a military prison. You can also see visible reminders of the American Indian Occupation that started in 1969 after the prison closed, highlighting an important milestone in the American Indian rights movement.

The Golden Gate Bridge: The brige is stunning and one of the most-photographed sights in the world. A walk on it is a must. Golden Gate Park is the largest park in the city. Walk to the Japanese Tea Garden, or the San Francisco Botanical Garden, California Academy of Sciences and Conservatory of Flowers all located in the park.Conservatory of Flowers  is a historic San Francisco landmark in Golden Gate Park since 1879 boasting rare tropical flowers and plants from around the world. The museum opens Tuesday through Sunday from 9am-4:30pm. $7 for adults, $5 for youths 12-17.

Red and White Fleet Cruises, in Fishermans Wharf was founded in 1892, and is the family run cruise experience in San Francisco cruises. Take a fabulous cruise under the Golden Gate and past Alcatraz, and enjoy sunset sailings while you discover San Francisco's sights and history through onboard headphone audio in 12 languages.

Also at Fishermans Wharf is the legendary Ripley's Believe It Or Not! Museum. The museum has a collection of unusual exhibits, interactive and video displays in 11 galleries. The museum is in the area over 43 years and offers and exciting but different museum experiecnce. Admission $14.99 and $8.99 for children.

Aquarium of the Bay is an amazing marine where you will get to meet 20,000 amazing marine animals as you walk through 300 feet of crystal clear tunnels. Open daily with summer hours opening between 9am-8pm. Admission is $16.95 for adults and a special rate of $39.95 family for 2 adults and 2 children.

Boudin at the Wharf is a two-story flagship building found in the heart of Fisherman's Wharf. See this exciting bakery in action and learn how sourdough French bread is made and why it cannot be baked anywhere else on earth. On this trip you will get to go into the tasting room included with Museum & Bakery tour.