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When it comes to "being green," San Francisco sets the bar. From its use of solar energy to its commitment to reusables and recycling, the city works diligently in having a positive impact on the environment. As you'll find, most of its festivals now have a green component to them. Walking remains the main mode of transportation. And several buildings are implementing changes to both presentation and practice, to become legitimately green.
As a visitor to S.F., you may find yourself feeling greener as well. Remember, every little bit helps. And as travelers, a natural place to start would be the old adage: "Take only pictures, leave only footprints." Fortunately for us, San Francisco's renowned beauty makes this a snap! In addition, we may also consider...
A green hotel: San Francisco offers a growing selection of green-conscious hotels, with the LEED-certified Orchard Garden Hotel leading the way. When choosing a green hotel, look specifically at its recycle/reuse programs, conservation efforts, and day-to-day best practices.
Public transportation: Via Muni buses, light rail, cable cars, and BART, you'll be able to reach most every destination on your list. Keep the nifty HopStop on your laptop/phone to help with directions and trip-planning. In addition, do as the locals do and go for a walk. Even with its hills, San Francisco was made for the walking tour, with interesting sights, architecture, and people to see along the way. Check out self-guided audio tours, such as those produced by City Story Walks or Stroll San Francisco. Also, when here, look to the volunteers at San Francisco City Guides, who have been leading (free) tours for over 30 years.
Golden Gate Park: Home to summer concerts, two major museums, a tea garden, an arboretum, two windmills, and the oldest existing public conservatory in North America, this park is grand. Its newest museum is the rebuilt California Academy of Sciences, the only place in the world to have a planetarium, aquarium, and natural history museum all under one roof. Its "living roof" is a marvel to be seen and the building itself stands a symbol in a green-conscious world, blending sustainable features seamlessly into a beautiful, natural setting.
Local foods: If you're visiting the city over the weekend, definitely try and visit the Farmer's Market at the historic Ferry Building. Dining out? San Francisco is famed for its unique culinary style and most of its restaurants make it a point to buy local. With a visit, you'll be supporting their efforts.
A bike or segway tour: San Francisco offers fun segway and bike tours for those who wish to cover a greater amount of the city in less time. Experience the waterfront, Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge (views), and North Beach in two hours.
And throughout, don't forget your camera! To of course, take those photographs. You'll find the city a beautiful, interesting subject, from its vistas and hills, monuments and bridges, Victorians and cafes. Snap and preserve them on your memory stick and in the process, "leave only footprints" behind.
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