San Francisco Hotels

>> Hotel guides >> San francisco

As the fourth most populous city in California, San Francisco is home to nearly 800,000 residents and is considered to be one of the most densely populated cities in the country. Located on the tip of the San Francisco Peninsula, the city is home to several world-famous sites and attractions including the Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown and Alcatraz Island. It is best known for its cosmopolitan lifestyle and vibrant entertainment districts, and caters to thousands of visitors each and every year.

San Francisco has its roots in the trading industry, and first experienced tremendous growth during the California Gold Rush of the mid 1850s. The discovery of gold in Coloma raised the population to nearly 25,000 residents within one year; the previous year's population was a meager 1,000. The area soon generated wealth for thousands of homeowners and business developers, and the early growth industries were banks and railroads. Wells Fargo, the First Continental Railroad and textile companies including Levi Strauss became the leaders of the commercial and business sector of this rapidly growing area.

Today, the initial wealth and flamboyant lifestyles continue to exist in neighborhoods such as Nob Hill and areas around Golden Gate Park. Noteworthy attractions and sites to explore include The Conservatory of Flowers in Golden Gate Park, the Palace of the Legion of Honors, the California Academy of Sciences, and the Steinhart Aquarium. Visitors to San Francisco can also explore diverse neighborhoods that feature unique festivals, performances and community gatherings throughout the year.

The government of San Francisco is responsible for ensuring that all neighborhoods and communities continue to grow and thrive, and the organization is comprised of government agencies, the mayor, and other appointed officials that convene regularly at key government venues around the city. The rapidly-growing small business community is also supported by city officials and government agencies that provide access to capital and resources to business owners.