This North Californian city is the perfect stop for those who want a taste of the big West Coast but would rather stray away from the bustling culture of Los Angeles and Hollywood. Not to say that San Fran isn't busy -- it is one of the most culturally diverse, eclectic towns in the U.S.!
For starters, your hungry student group will be thrilled to hear that San Francisco has the most restaurants per capita in the U.S., such as Fisherman's Wharf or Pier 39, where you can grab a bowl of clam chowder or fish and chips "so fresh it was swimming this morning." For the caffeine addicts, enjoy a cub of famous San Francisco Joe to start your day, and enjoy authentic cuisine in Chinatown. For dessert, stroll through Ghiradelli Square, where delightful sample squares of various Ghirardelli chocolates are offered upon entering, there to be enjoyed with a fresh waffle cone and top-notch shopping inside this 19th-century renovated chocolate factory.
Take your students back in time by visiting Alcatraz, once home to infamous prisoners Al Capone, George “Machine Gun” Kelly, James “Whitey” Bulgur and Alvin “Creepy” Karpis. Closed in 1963, the prison now remains for open tours and is filled with urban legends. If you don't dare to find out if the Alcatraz curses are real, walk across the incredible Golden Gate Bridge at sunset for a truly beautiful view.
More beautiful sights are to be seen driving down Big Sur, a magnificent 90-mile stretch of steep ravines, dramatic bridges, breathtaking seascapes, gorgeous hidden beaches, and pristine state parks. For some beachy fun, choose one of the hundreds of public access spots, or take a Sunset Cruise, where you'll be treated like royalty with elegant dining on the Bay.
Hands-on type of students will love the Exploratorium, described as "the most important science museum to open in the 20th century" and characterized as "a mad man’s penny arcade, a scientific funhouse, and experimental lab rolled into one." Explore your way through six amazing galleries displaying over 600 engaging interactive exhibits and come prepared to explore and experiment your way to an easier understanding of the amazing world we live in.
With aquariums, historical landmarks, incredible eateries, beautiful sights and so much more, your student group will make memories to last a lifetime in San Francisco.
