SAN FRANCISCO - ATTRACTIONS

There are a lot of interesting places in San Francisco, enough to keep you busy for a week. Everyone knows about Alcatraz, Fisherman's Wharf, Chinatown, Lombard Street, and Golden Gate Park, so we won't mention them. Instead, we will look at other less familiar areas that offer interesting viewpoints or things to see. A word of advice regarding Coit Tower - the ride to the top isn't worth the $3.75 admission - you get a good view from the top of the hill, and that should suffice. If a better view is desired, go to Twin Peaks for nothing.

1. Cliff House - Located along the Great Highway on the western edge of the city, Cliff House offers spectacular views of the Pacific and Seal Rocks as well as some walking paths right down to the shore. This is a great place to catch a sunset. Even more interesting is the Musee Mecanique, just underneath the house. It contains over a hundred coin-operated machines from the early 1900's. All of these machines, which include love testers, fortune tellers, and even a very cool baseball game, are still in working condition, so bring a roll of quarters and enjoy yourself. There is nothing else like it.

2. Cable Car Museum - Another free attraction that is very interesting, particularly if you are a transit geek, is the Cable Car Barn and Museum. Cable cars are one of the enduring symbols of the city, and you can see how they work at the main barn located on Washington Street at Mason. The entire working machinery for all 4 lines is on display, as well as some fascinating historical photos and other exhibits. This only takes about 30 minutes, but is worth a look.

3. Maritime Museum - Located near Fisherman's Wharf, this is a great museum for those with nautical knowledge. Part of the National Parks Service, this free museum contains a large number of historical boats, models, and displays related to marine history in San Francisco. The display devoted to electronic gadgets in shipping is particularly interesting. As well, check out the yacht behind the museum - a Japanese man sailed from Japan in 1962 in this tiny boat - it is unbelievable.

4. Twin Peaks - At the end of Market Street lie two hills that offer panoramic views of the city. Known as Twin Peaks, a short, winding road takes you to a parking area at the top - from there you can enjoy the views for as long as you like, but it does get pretty chilly up there, so bring a sweater. Telescopes are also available, but of course, you should bring your own free binoculars.

The view from Twin Peaks

5. Exploratorium - Located in the Palace of Fine Arts, this science museum actually does cost a bit - $9 for adults, although most tour guides should have a discount coupon. This is a great place for kids and anyone who has an interest in exploring scientific principles via interactive exhibits. You can easily spend a couple of hours wandering from station to station exploring various phenomena. One interesting display showed how a director conducts a televised baseball game. 7 different camera angles were recorded and are shown along with the audio commentary from the director. It is quite impressive how he keeps ahead of the action so the viewer at home doesn't miss a thing.