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10 Cities on a Shoestring

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#2 of 10:  San Francisco, CA

San Francisco

The City by the Bay isn't known as a bargain mecca, but for a daytripper, a world of sights and sounds are in store that won't cost you a dime. Aim for a good-weather day and take in some of the city's most famous attractions, like:

  • Golden Gate Bridge
    Free.

    Walk it, drive it, or bike it, but you've just gotta do it, and your reward will be incredible views of the city and undoubtedly some stellar photos. The bridge is 1.7 miles long, and may test your fear of heights. But the vistas are truly unforgettable.

  • Golden Gate Park
    Free.

    This glorious expanse of flora and fauna offers up a Japanese Tea Garden, koi pond, paddle boats, buffalo, and more, and it's completely free. If you've got little ones, don't miss the park's children's playground.

  • Lombard Street
    Free.

    The crookedest street never fails to delight kids of all ages – and their parents – as it zigs and zags to allow cars to navigate one of the city's most steeply graded hills. There's always a line of cars waiting to drive down so you might choose to walk it instead, which will allow you to linger and marvel at this ever-popular, whimsical landmark.

  • Chinatown
    Free; loads of inexpensive eateries.

    Wander the streets and take in the sights, sounds, and smells of this bustling neighborhood, which you can access by Cable Car. This is a great place for picking up inexpensive souvenirs or stopping in for a very reasonable – and tasty – lunch.

And for more ideas from the locals, visit our California Travelers Group.

Next: San Antonio

Next City on the Cheap: San Antonio, Texas

Member Comments On...

10 Cities on a Shoestring

AbigailPeony
AbigailPeony says:
6 days ago

I love San Fransisco so much!! I have great memory in SF, the seafood, the pier, and all of them are cheap!!

http://cruisedisne-y.com/disney-cruise-lines

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oldsrocket88
oldsrocket88 says:
May 27, 2009

I went to MS&I in chicago a few years ago on a free day and it was a mad house. I would suggest paying admission it is a lot less bussy and worth the admission to avoid the crowds.

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ellorybisk
ellorybisk says:
February 10, 2009

Hi Gang, Ellory from Chicago here. It's true that Chicago is a great place to visit. Here's another tip. Check out the Field Museum and the Museum of Science and Industry Calendars before you go. They too have free days! This does not include special events or special exibits. But hey...free is free! And there's alot to see without the special stuff!

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