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Although it was a federal prison for just under 30 years, the myth of “The Rock” continues to capture the imagination of visitors. Even if exploring prison life holds no appeal, the ferry ride makes it well worth a visit.

America’s “Devil’s Island” didn’t operate as a prison for very long, but it can still evoke a chill.

African-American feminist and dedicated San Franciscan, Walker’s novel The Color Purple (1985) set the tone for a new vision of black heritage, as seen from the woman’s point of view.

This first-rate restaurant serves Sicilian and seafood dishes in an old-style interior. There are great views over the Golden Gate Bridge

Ginsberg (1926–97) cleared the way for the eventual Gay Liberation Movement by openly declaring his homosexuality in his literary milestone Howl , first unveiled to the public in 1955 (see Howl). His epic poem soon attracted charges of obscenity in the buttoned-down, witch-hunting 1950s. Ginsberg’s spiritual mysticism also set the tone for the Hippie Movement.

This old-fashioned hotel has sweeping views of the Bay and of the city. Many rooms benefit from balconies.

Some of the best views on the Bay.

Pacific Heights’s double block of verdant hill is a popular place to take the sun when it ventures to break through the fog. Basketball and tennis courts and a children’s playground are in the center, while to the south there are terraced lawns, onto which some of Pacific Heights’ oldest homes face.

A place to mellow out on astrological cocktails, one specially concocted for each sign. It’s the Age of Aquarius here, with the midnight blue and purple velvet decor, complete with starry galaxies.