Summer in the USA: San Francisco

Studying English in the United States can be an amazing experience, and there’s no better time to do it than the summer. Beyond learning in the classroom, you’ll be able to embrace the warm weather, take part in local activities, visit new places, and learn to enjoy the city like a local.

We’re exploring 5 amazing cities you won’t want to miss if you choose to study English in the USA this summer.

This week, we’re taking a closer look at San Francisco, home of one of the world’s most famous skylines, Alcatraz Island, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Located just blocks away from Union Square and the buzzing area of “SoMa” (South of Market Street), Kaplan’s English school in San Francisco is an ideal summer setting.

 

Why is San Francisco a perfect summer destination?

With the tech boom overtaking the Bay Area over the past decade, San Francisco has gained popularity worldwide as a hub for engineers and fast-growing technology companies. However, this northern California city has always been an enticing place to visit for its stunning natural views, picturesque neighborhoods, fascinating history, and quirky residents.

The City by the Bay is pleasant to visit year round, but in the summer, it’s particularly beautiful. While other cities in the country experience heat waves, San Fran usually remains mild, with cool winds and sunny days.

Visitors can explore the many city landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Pier 39, and the Ferry building, or attend popular festivals such as the Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival and the Monterrey Jazz Festival, just a couple hours south of the city.

 

Lombard St San Francisco
Check out twists and turns of the world-famous Lombard Street

 

How to spend a day like a local?

If you are lover of art and music, you’ll fit right in. You can start your day by exploring Haight-Ashbury, the very neighborhood where the ‘Summer of Love’ movement originated.

Then jump on a bike and pedal around the city’s trendiest spots and hidden gems, such as the Dolores Park (a local tanning hot spot on a sunny day), the largest Chinatown in the United States, the foodie paradise of Outer Richmond, or the iconic Painted Ladies, a row of 19th Century mansions painted in bright colors. 

 

Painted Ladies San Francisco
Capture a fantastic view of the city skyline behind the Painted Ladies

Hand-picked related content: HOW TO STUDY ENGLISH WHILE VISITING THE USA


A meal you can’t miss

While San Fran is a cosmopolitan city that offers food from around the world, it would be unforgivable to go to California and not have Mexican food. Taco joints in the city are plentiful, but some of the most famous ones are Taquería Cancún and Taquería Vallarta in Mission District.

 

Mexican food San Francisco
The Mission District is the place to be if you are looking for authentic Mexican food

 

Whether you enjoy some local culture in the heart of the city near our San Francisco English school, or jump across the bay to check out the leafy college town of Berkeley, the Bay Area offers countless fun activities for a memorable summer adventure.

Have we missed activities in San Francisco you would like to recommend? Let us know in the comment section below!

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