San Francisco: Maps and more for ALA Annual 2015

By Autumn Faulkner

Are you gearing up for San Francisco? The NMRT Local Information Committee is too! We’ve created two Google maps to help you make the most of your time at ALA Annual 2015. Use the layers feature on each map to view different categories and attractions.

  • NMRT Local Info Map

    General map of the Moscone Center, all the conference hotels, selected attractions, coffee shops, stores, and restaurants. Also outlines the official Pride Parade route! A great tool for finding your way around between sessions.
  • San Fran Restaurants

    Comprehensive listing of highly rated local restaurants in the northeast region of the city, filtered by cuisine style and sorted by price. Something for everyone! Use it to find a nearby sandwich place when you’re in a rush, and to plan a fine dining experience when you’re not.

Also, for those of you haven’t spent much time in San Francisco, here are some quick facts to help you plan your trip:

San Francisco is a big city. Where is everything happening?

  • The Moscone Center is in the SoMa (South of Market) neighborhood, and most of the conference hotels are located in the nearby Union Square/Market Street area.

  • Other notable neighborhoods within easy reach of the general conference area are Nob Hill, Chinatown, and the Financial District.

What should I see while I’m there?

  • Traditional attractions include the Golden Gate Bridge, super-steep Lombard Street, Fisherman’s Wharf, Golden Gate Park (including the Japanese Tea Garden and the de Young Museum), and Alcatraz. See a complete list of recommended attractions on TripAdvisor.
  • For Star Wars fans, the Yoda Fountain at LucasFilm’s headquarters in the Presidio is a fun and nerdy pilgrimage!
  • In addition to the de Young, San Francisco is home to many amazing museums, including the California Academy of Sciences, the Cartoon Art Museum, the Museum of the African Diaspora, the Musée Mécanique, and many others.
  • Don’t forget the Pride Parade on June 28! Claim your spot on Market Street early Sunday morning if you want to catch a glimpse of this historic and meaningful celebration. The parade itself begins at 10:30am and proceeds down Market Street from Beale to 8th. Read more details here.

How can I get around?

  • Although you can actually ride one of San Francisco’s famed cable cars, we recommend the Muni Transit system’s many bus routes for quick and convenient travel. Pick up a pass at the airport or at convenience stores around the city. Regular fares are normally $2.25.
  • ALA’s usual shuttle service will also be running between the conference hotels and the Moscone Center.

We hope you’re as excited as we are about ALA Annual 2015, and we look forward to seeing you there!