san francisco is big in terms of attractions and amenities the city is also the most accessible as it is only 49 square miles this gives tourists an advantage to see and do a great many things in a short period the city has a lot to offer and one can easily spend weeks here experimenting and exploring here are a few mustdos once in san franciscosea lions california sea lions reside on the floats of pier 39 marina a festive waterfront marketplace that is one of the citys most popular attractionsfrom there its a short walk to the san francisco dungeon and madame tussauds ripleys believe it or not and the famous crab vendors selling walkaway crab and shrimp cocktailsvisit the rock alcatraz the notorious former prison is located on an island of the same name in the middle of san francisco bay some of the united states most notorious criminals were incarcerated therethough several tried no inmate ever made a successful escape from the rockshop till you drop at the union square brands like post sutter geary grant stockton and powell line the streets herethe westfield san francisco shopping centre houses the largest bloomingdales outside of new york and the second largest nordstrom in the usdine in style known as one of americas best restaurant cities san francisco chefs excel at combining the freshest local ingredients authentic international flavors and a touch of creative genius choose your cuisine chinese japanese french italian spanish malaysian mexican greek russian or fusion a combination of any or all of these influencesvisit the dine section for a list of citys hottest restaurants and insider tips from local food and wine writersring in the nightlife nightlife in san francisco is a constantly changing scenethe hottest clubs currently are in the south of market and mission districts with live and recorded rock and latin music jazz blues swing and oldies music can be found all over town for a complete list of nightlife options visit the nightlife section