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1 Ruby Skye
Nicknamed the Paris of the west, San Francisco hosts attractions lavish enough to compete with those of the Moulin Rouge, many of which can be found at Ruby Skye. Set in a playhouse from the turn of the 20th century, the nightclub is a snazzy exercise in theatrics and show. On the dance floor, Paris Hilton and J.Lo lookalikes sway to electronica in the mould of the Prodigy and the Chemical Brothers. Fire-breathers, frantic light shows and trapeze artists are another draw. If you plan to visit, consider splashing out for a place in a VIP booth to avoid the crush, and dress up. Ruby Sky is at 420 Mason Street (www.rubyskye.com).
2 The Exploratorium
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One of the most striking sights in the city, the Exploratorium bulges behind an artificial classical ruin, the Palace of Fine Arts. The attraction was established in 1969 as a museum of science, art and human perception. A hit with children and adult curiosity-seekers alike, it has hundreds of exhibits, most of which hinge on the interactive discovery of scientific principles. Watch out for one on the succulent science of gardening, robot sumo webcasts and the Space Weather Research Explorer, which lets you check the weather in space and learn about the impact it will have on the planet.
3 Peasant Pies
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If you have time to visit only a few attractions, along with the Golden Gate Bridge, ensure you go to Peasant Pies. The shop front is modest - and so is the price of the pies. Mostly vegetarian, they puncture the assumption that meat-free means bland. Mouth-watering options include tofu black bean veggie, curried potato yam, zucchini mushroom cheese and spicy clam tomato sauce. The shop also offers luscious sweet pies, all at 1039 Irving Street, Sunset. Also at 4108 24th Street, Castro (www.peasantpies.com).
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