San Francisco is a dynamic and diverse metropolis full of places to go and things to see... just make sure you keep on the well-beaten path for safety.

Here are just a few of the places to go that I've been to and would recommend:

Golden Gate Park - This is at the northern part of the city, just south of the Golden Gate Bridge... which I don't think I need to recommend seeing and taking pictures on. In the park there is a ginormous arboretum, a plant conservatory, a bison range (random, yes), lakes, an aquarium (which I think is closed for repairs now...), an art museum, and a Japanese Tea Garden... just make sure you have money to enter most of these separately. Entry prices range from $3-5. There are also nice grassy areas for picnics. But look out for homeless people.

Union Square - This is a very nice and classy part of the city, with high-end stores and restaurants. The Cheesecake Factory is here, which, if you've never been, is a little pricey but fun and extremely good! Doesn't the name explain it all? There is a Macy's, a Disney Store, a nifty plaza, and the Westin Hotel... look in here for the glass elevator and get a great view of the city for free!

AT&T Park - If you like baseball... this is the home of the Giants!

Cable Car Museum - Here covers the first car run in 1873 to the present. Learn about the inventor, technologies, builders, expansion, near loss and the ongoing efforts to save and rebuild the cable cars of San Francisco. Featuring a collection of cable cars, photos, mechanical displays and a gift shop.

Pier 39/Fisherman's Wharf - Great for kids! Lots of shops and little eateries, including the famous clam chowder in a bread bowl. There's also an aquarium at the front. At the side of the pier by the water is an old submarine you can check out... and seals! Ghirardelli Square is also nearby... grab a free chocolate! Look out for parking; try to park in the center of the city where there are places that are $10 for parking all day rather than $30 for just a few hours.

Chinatown - Don't be afraid of its dirtiness. Go inside shops and get some good souvenirs! Take a picture at the front with the Chinese Arch and lion sculptures.

Art Museums - There is the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) and the Asian Art Museum with anime!

The Exploratorium - A great science museum excellent for kids. Lots of hands-on exhibits in a architecturally beautiful building in the Marina District. Adults are $9; children $5; children 3-5 $2.50; and children under 3 free. Admission is also free the first Wednesday of every month.

San Francisco Zoo - Lots of cute and crazy animals, including gorillas, koalas, and big cats! Make sure to get there early before they put all the animals away.

Alcatraz - Try the audio tour to learn more about the Rock!

Lombard Street - Of course, the crookedest street in the world!