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During your San Francisco vacation, don't miss these great establishments and attractions:
California Palace of the Legion of Honor
Designed as a memorial to California's World War I casualties, this neoclassical structure is an exact replica of the Legion of Honor Palace in Paris, right down to the inscription HONNEUR ET PATRIE above the portal.The Legion of Honor reopened in late 1995, after a 2-year, $35-million renovation and seismic upgrading. The exterior's grassy expanses, cliff-side paths, and incredible view of the Golden Gate and downtown make this an absolute must-visit attraction before you even get in the door. The inside is equally impressive. The museum's permanent collection covers 4,000 years of art and includes paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts from Europe, as well as international tapestries, prints, and drawings. The chronological display of 4,000 years of ancient and European art includes one of the world's finest collections of Rodin's sculptures. The sunlight Legion Café offers indoor and outdoor seating at moderate prices. Plan to spend 2 or 3 hours here.
Golden Gate Bridge
The year 2005 marks the 68th birthday of possibly the most beautiful, and certainly the most photographed, bridge in the world. Often half-veiled by the city's trademark rolling fog, San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge spans tidal currents, ocean waves, and battering winds to connect the City by the Bay with the Redwood Empire to the north.With its gracefully swung single span, spidery bracing cables, and zooming twin towers, the bridge looks more like a work of abstract art than one of the 20th century's greatest practical engineering feats. Construction was completed in May 1937 at the then-colossal cost of $35 million.The 1 1/4-mile-long steel link (longer if you factor in the approach), which reaches a height of 746 feet above the water, is an awesome bridge to cross. Traffic usually moves quickly, however, so crossing by car won't give you too much time to see the sights. If you drive from the city, park in the lot at the foot of the bridge on the city side and make the crossing by foot. Back in your car, continue to Marin's Vista Point, at the bridge's northern end. Look back, and you'll be rewarded with one of the greatest views of San Francisco.Millions of pedestrians walk or bike across the bridge each year, gazing up at the tall red towers, out at the vistas of San Francisco and Marin County, and down into the stacks of oceangoing liners. You can walk out onto the span from either end, but be prepared -- it's usually windy and cold, and the bridge vibrates. Still, walking even a short distance is one of the best ways to experience the immense scale of the structure.
Aquarium of the Bay
The latest major addition to Fisherman's Wharf is Aquarium of the Bay, a $38-million, 1-million-gallon marine attraction filled with sharks, stingrays, and more. A moving footpath transports visitors through clear acrylic tunnels. The aquarium ultimately is not a destination in itself, but it's a good place to take the kids if you're in the neighborhood.
Renaissance Stanford Court Hotel
The Renaissance Stanford Court Hotel is located atop prestigious Nob Hill overlooking the dramatic San Francisco skyline. The hotel sits where railroad millionaire Leland Stanford's mansion once stood and his legacy lives on throughout the hotel. Our lovely brick courtyard has a beaux-arts fountain and garden setting. The lobby features a colorful Tiffany-inspired glass dome, turn-of-the-century antiques and three hundred sixty degree mural depicting early San Francisco history. Luxurious ...
Kensington Park Hotel
The best address at Union Square! All guests whether corporate or leisure travelers will enjoy the quiet, intimate atmosphere. Featuring Complimentary Wireless Internet Access, our guest rooms are richly detailed in Queen Anne decor and have recently been enhanced with new bedspreads and drapes. Mahogany armoires, writing desks and individual artwork completes the English theme. Bathrooms are appointed in brass and marble. The elegant grand lobby creates the intimate atmosphere of a private ...
Courtyard by Marriott San Francisco Downtown
At the Courtyard San Francisco Downtown, there is something for everyone. From the moment you step inside the two-story atrium lobby with its four-sided fireplace, innovative artwork and whimsical bronze sculptures, you will feel a warm welcome and a sense of adventure that inspires you to explore the sights and sounds of San Francisco. The Courtyard staff is ready to make you feel right at home and help you plan a memorable stay. The hotel offers many full-service amenities and has achieved ...
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