Union Square - San Francisco, CA

Originally a Spanish and later Mexican mission and pueblo, the United States conquered San Francisco in 1846. The Gold Rush in 1848 made San Francisco a cosmopolitan metropolis. Unfortunately, an earthquake and fire destroyed much of the city in 1906. Despite this natural disaster, the spirit and strength of San Francisco could not be defeated. It progressed through the 20th century as a hub of wealth, progressive culture, and technology.

As the city emerged, downtown San Francisco became home to a large collection of department stores, upscale boutiques, gift shops, art galleries, beauty salons. five-star hotels, small inns and single-act theaters. Some area museums include: The Exploratorium, Cartoon Art Museum, and Beat Museum. Some notable personalities native to the area include Clint Eastwood, Tom Hanks, Bruce Lee, Liev Schreiber, Alicia Silverstone, Tony Bennett, and Courtney Love.

For nearly a century, thousands have flocked to the annual charity event "Bay to Breakers," which begins at the Bay Bridge downtown. This May event celebrates the diversity of San Francisco with streets full of onlookers blasting inspirational tunes and sipping on cocktails. A costume contest and a festival with music and activities precedes the race. In addition, several other music and art festivals run throughout the year.

Eclectic local dining provides something for every palette in downtown San Francisco. Head out to Cafe Claude located on Claude Lane. With a European vibe and amazing French food, guests will not be disappointed. Try the steak tartare for a savory yet light dish. Other tasty options include: Confit de Canard, Escargots en Croute, and the Frisee au Lardons. Jazz music plays in the background while you enjoy a delectable meal.

Try Tropisueno located near Yerba Buena for terrific Mexican cuisine. Order the enchiladas, chicken flautas, or the chile verde for an appetizing dish, and wash it down with the house margarita. Check out their website where you can order ahead and pay before you arrive.

Nightlife in the downtown neighborhood booms to the wee hours of the morning. With a diverse variety of bars, clubs, lounges, electronic music clubs, and hip-hop lounges in the immediate downtown area, each location carries a distinct flavor. Ruby Skye ranks as one of the top clubs/bars in the heart of downtown. Some of the top DJs in the world have spun at this high-style lounge. The venue hosts bands, fashion shows, dance nights, and private events, which draw celebrities from Los Angeles and around the world.

Although San Francisco seems massive to its visitors, it actually measures small in size. With that being said, time spent in the greater downtown San Francisco area does not require a car, and walking and biking serve as the most efficient ways to access the downtown vicinity.

Those looking for other options can save on parking and by choosing public transportation options such as: buses, the infamous cable cars, cabs, trolley rides and Uber. Consider purchasing a Muni Passport, which grants commuters access to public transportation services for a discounted price. Choose from a one-, three- or seven-day pass.

An adventure in downtown San Francisco would not be complete without visiting Union Square. Union Square earned its name because it was once used for rallies and support of the Union Army during the American Civil War. This earned its designation as a California Historical Landmark. Originally a tall sand dune, the square later became a public park in 1850. Although Union Square is only one block in the downtown area, it has earned the role as the "heart" of San Francisco and serves as the site of several public concerts, events, art shows, impromptu protests, private parties, a winter ice rink and the annual Christmas tree and Menorah lighting. Free of charge, kid-friendly, and dog-friendly, both visitors and locals truly enjoy Union Square. Other parks in the area include: One Kearny Rooftop, Third Street Sculpture Corridor and Transamerica Redwood Park.

The cost of living in San Francisco checks in at 34 percent higher than the California average and 79 percent greater than the national average. Plan on spending between $2289 and $3395 for a one-bedroom apartment. The price of gas ranks 9.3 percent higher than the national average, and coffee is 27.1 percent higher. Also, plan on spending 8.9 percent more than the national average on pizza. Although the area rates above the national average in overall cost, you will get every penny's worth in this accessible, diverse and eclectic city.

As the center of high-class shopping in San Francisco, the downtown shopping experience amazes all who flock to this neighborhood. Couture boutiques and chain department stores combine to serve the downtown area. Chanel and Saks Fifth Avenue are just a couple of local favorites. Others enjoy shops like G-Star Raw Store and Metier, which carries men's and women's clothing, accessories and jewelry.

Several grocery options lie in the downtown area. San Francisco Farmers Market at Crocker Galleria, Rincon Market and Yerba Buena Lane Farmers Market serve as great options for those who wish to purchase from local vendors rather than supermarkets. Those who prefer a larger grocery store can head to Safeway, which is located on Jackson Street.