Welcome to San Francisco
The indomitable and culturally hip heartbeat of Northern California where innovation and creativity reign supreme
Driving up to the luminescent skyline of San Francisco, it’s easy to feel as if the city is born of a fairytale. This iconic city of dreamers and free spirits is defined by its sheer multitude of facets, from its status as a hub for art and culture to a business monolith taking over the tech industry and the financial center of NorCal. San Francisco is built solidly on a history of innovation and open-mindedness.
The city was incorporated in 1856, and ever since its inception, San Francisco has been a magnet for the extraordinary. Currently the third-largest economy in the nation, San Francisco is additionally one of the world’s most renowned music scenes and has been the setting for many momentous occasions in history. From the historic counter-culture movement born at Haight Ashbury in the 60s to the creation of the United Nations in 1945, San Francisco is a global juggernaut city that’s always moving forward.
Due to the city’s large size and expansive history, San Francisco’s residential real estate market is incredibly diverse. As a highly sought-after, affluent city, many of the properties here are priced above $1 million, while some homes near the northeastern bay edge cost upwards of $30 million. From massive Mediterranean mansions built in the 1930s and upscale townhomes to staggering new builds and luxe penthouses evoking the best of contemporary design, San Francisco is a true city of wonder.
What to Love
- Vintage shopping and cultural history at Haight Ashbury
- Bountiful museums and educational institutions for the intellectually minded
- Fresh produce and community at the Ferry Building Farmer’s Market
- Epic concerts and sports events held throughout the year
- Souvenirs, niche shops, and a quintessentially San Francisco experience at The Fisherman’s Wharf
People & Lifestyle
San Francisco is an amalgamation of diverse residents, vibrant history, enthusiastic progress, and eclectic, hip neighborhoods, each of which resonates with its own charisma. A few of the most recognizable neighborhoods and enclaves include the Mission, the Fillmore District, the Marina District, Dolores Park, and Waterfront Piers, all of which are packed with palpable energy. With so much to do, San Francisco is easily defined as a city of hustle and exploration.
Dining, Shopping, & Entertainment
As one of the best metropolitan cities in the world, San Francisco is brimming with commercial districts and chances to experience the best of the best in retail and dining. Whether you’re finding one-of-a-kind wares and apparel on
Haight-Ashbury or marveling at the sheer magnitude of
Westfield San Francisco Centre’s nine stories and 170 shops — including brands like
Coach,
Burberry, and
Michael Kors — you’ll fall in love with the abundance of San Francisco.
San Francisco is a known mecca for foodie and culinary excellence, with more award-winning restaurants than one could even count. Notable must-try locations include the heavenly Greek fare at
Kokkari and
Zuni Cafe’s dazzling French cuisine.
Tadich Grill is known as the oldest continuously run restaurant in all of San Francisco and has been delighting diners with their fresh and sumptuous meals for more than fifty years.
The minimalist décor of
Atelier Crenn is the ideal balance to their intricate and innovative French dishes, fueled by the passion of Chef and co-owner Dominique Crenn.
State Bird Provisions is the go-to for appetizing New American cuisine, while
Liholiho Yacht Club dishes out elegance with their bold menu. Craving a stellar slice of pizza?
A16 has you covered with their gourmet Neapolitan pies and mouth-watering Italian fare.
Things to Do
San Francisco is easily among the top cultural centers in the nation, due in part to its large collection of museums. Part art museum and part tribute to political and social histories spanning back thousands of years, the
Legion of Honor Museum is an excellent resource for expanding your intellectual horizons. The
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art — also referred to as SFMOMA — is a miraculous source of inspiration and awe for everyone who visits, as is the contemporary mixed-genre art center, the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts.
The de Young Museum is another popular site, particularly for fine arts aficionados.
More specific interests are also reflected in San Francisco, and residents can truly enjoy a wealth of knowledge from cultures all over the world.
The Asian Art Museum does a tremendous job of capturing the complex history and incredible works of art from the continent of Asia. The
California Academy for the Sciences is a preeminent global leader, while the
Exploratorium is a dizzying combination of science exploration, arts, and experimental learning.
Beauty is everywhere you turn in San Francisco, and some of the area’s biggest attractions are simply landmark buildings whose architectural splendor is astounding.
The Palace of Fine Arts is one such location — its Grecco-Roman styles, man-made lagoons, and exhibition theater make for an unforgettable event venue. Those looking for a more natural source for scenery can head to
Crissy Fields or
Marina Green, both of which are stunning places for an afternoon stroll or picnic.
Schools
San Francisco is home to several excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include:
- Lowell High School, 9-12, #1 best public magnet school in San Francisco Bay area
- The Hamlin School, K-8, highly rated private school
- Convent & Stuart Hall, K-12, highly rated private Catholic School