San Francisco, the “City by the Bay,” is a vibrant and eclectic metropolis with a rich history spanning over 200 years. Founded in 1776 by Spanish friar Junípero Serra, the city began as a small mission settlement, Mission San Francisco de Asís (Mission Dolores). During the California Gold Rush of 1849, San Francisco rapidly grew into a bustling commercial center, attracting thousands of prospectors and entrepreneurs. The city’s iconic Golden Gate Bridge, completed in 1937, connected the city to Marin County and solidified its status as a major port and transportation hub.

San Francisco has a long history of cultural and social innovation, from the Beat Generation of the 1950s to the Summer of Love in 1967. The city has been a beacon for LGBTQ+ rights, environmental activism, and technological advancements. Today, San Francisco is a thriving hub of tech industry giants, startups, and entrepreneurs, earning its nickname as the “Silicon Valley of the North.” The city’s diverse neighborhoods, such as Haight-Ashbury, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Chinatown, offer a unique blend of Victorian architecture, cultural attractions, and world-class cuisine, making San Francisco a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.