Find Asian treasures, trinkets, and exotic cuisine.

The oldest and second largest Chinatown in North America, San Francisco's vibrant Chinese neighborhood almost feels like you've traveled to a distant country. Rightfully so, this compact district (only eight blocks long and two blocks wide) has attracted throngs of tourists for many years. While many people know about the countless bustling shops selling unique and interesting souvenirs on overloaded shelves, the neighborhood is also home to stores that sell precious jewels, jade, and objets-d'art, as well as hard-to-find cooking and art supplies. And follow the locals to find some of the most memorable Asian cooking outside of China, often an incredible bargain for the quality of the food. (Be really adventurous and order from the Chinese menu--only written in Chinese characters.) Guided tours let visitors in on the history, secrets, and culinary gems of this vibrant area. Come for Chinese New Year, which features a massive street fair, followed by the famous and boisterous evening parade and a spectacular Chinese dragon.

San Rafael's Downtown Farmers' Market Festival returns every Thursday night! Featuring fresh organic produce, flowers, arts and crafts and an international gift mart, there is also food, live music and family fun for all. Join your neighbors in this Thursday night tradition, every week this summer!