“Don’t let a few hills discourage you from visiting San Francisco,” advises Bonnie Lewkowicz, director of Access Northern California. “Just plan ahead and use public transportation to get around the hills.” Lewkowicz knows what she’s talking about, as she just finished updating the latest edition of Access San Francisco, a must-have resource with access details on over 100 San Francisco-area attractions, restaurants and hotels.

Of course, you have to make some choices when visiting San Francisco, as it’s literally impossible to see everything. However, the good news is most of the popular tourist haunts offer good access.

Accessible Transportation
Accessible public transportation is available to most of the tourist areas, and it's really the most convenient way to get around. For example, you can just hop on the F-line streetcar, enjoy a city tour, and stop off at Fisherman’s Wharf along the way. The fare is a bargain $1.50, and the vintage streetcars offer roll-on access via boarding platforms and wayside lifts. It’s probably the most economical way to get around the city, but be advised that the streetcars get pretty crowded during rush hour.

Accessible Alcatraz
No visit to San Francisco is complete without a trip out to Alcatraz Island. Transportation to this former prison is provided by Alcatraz Cruises. The 15-minute boat ride departs from Pier 33 and all Alcatraz Cruises vessels have boarding ramps and wheelchair-accessible restrooms.

Over on Alcatraz Island, modifications have been made to make things more accessible. The cell block is located at the top of the island, but there is an accessible shuttle from the pier to the prison for folks who can’t manage the 12 percent grade. Recent upgrades on The Rock include elevator access to the second floor of the historic cell block and a new audio tour narrated by former prison guards and inmates. Bear in mind, Alcatraz is an old site, with some uneven patches of concrete and a few tight spots here and there. However, it’s still a fun tour and doable if you watch your step. Remember to get your tickets early as they sell out fast, and same-day tickets are seldom available.

Hyde Street Pier
Once you’re back on the mainland, be sure to visit the Hyde Street Pier just west of Fisherman’s Wharf. Here you’ll find a sampling of vessels found on the Bay at the turn of the 19th century. You can get a good look at most of the ships from the pier, but the Eureka Ferry offers roll-on access. Be sure to have a look at the collection of vintage automobiles on her car deck.

Wheelchair Ramp-Equipped Taxis
If you’d like to do a little shopping while you’re in the city, then head up to Union Square. The easiest way to get there is to take an accessible taxi, as it’s a slight climb from Market Street. Several companies, including Luxor (415-282-6684), Yellow (415-626-2345) and Town Taxi (415-401-8900) offer wheelchair ramp-equipped taxis in San Francisco. Although you’ll see lots of accessible taxis on the street, it’s best to call dispatch the first time to order a taxi. After that, just ask the driver for his card, and call him directly.

Chinatown
Located just above Union Square, Chinatown is also worth a visit. The only way to access it directly from Union Square involves several flights of stairs and a hearty climb. Alternatively, Bonnie Lewkowicz recommends wheeling through the Stockton tunnel for easier access. It’s a longer route, but it doesn’t involve any hills or steps.

Nob Hill
Nob Hill, which is located in one of the steepest sections of the city, is also worth a visit. For obvious reasons, walking up there is not advised. A good plan of action is to take an accessible taxi up to the Fairmont Hotel, have lunch or dinner, and then check out the area on the taxi ride back down the hill.

Free Accessible Tour
If you’d prefer a more structured tour of the city, then book a tour with On the Level Walking Tours. These excellent tours are conducted along accessible routes and they are ideal for slow walkers and wheelchair-users. Fees are based on a sliding scale, but if you’d like a free preview, then join company founder Marilyn Straka at the Presidio on the first Friday of the month for a complimentary tour. On the Level also publishes several booklets that contain accessible tour routes and maps, if you’d rather do a self-guided tour.

Overall, San Francisco is a pretty accessible city if you think things out in advance. “Plan ahead, do your research and find out about the work-arounds,” advises Bonnie. And don’t leave home without your copy of Access San Francisco. Call the San Francisco Convention & Visitors Bureau at (415) 391-2000 to order your free copy today.

Candy Harrington is the editor of Emerging Horizons and the author of Barrier-Free Travel: A Nuts and Bolts Guide for Wheelers and Slow Walkers. Visit her blog at http://www.BarrierFreeTravels.com for access news, resources and industry updates.

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