Why go
The sensible first destination is often a known garage or accommodation loading area, not the attraction that appears closest on a regional map. Drivers reach San Francisco from the north over the Golden Gate Bridge, from the east over the Bay Bridge, and from the peninsula via US 101 or Interstate 280.
The full story
Drivers reach San Francisco from the north over the Golden Gate Bridge, from the east over the Bay Bridge, and from the peninsula via US 101 or Interstate 280. Traffic can build sharply around commuter periods, events, and bridge incidents. Toll systems and payment rules change, so check the relevant bridge authority before setting out. Inside the city, steep grades, one-way streets, transit restrictions, and scarce curb space make improvisation slow. Select parking in advance, unload only where permitted, and keep all belongings out of sight. If the visit centers on downtown, Chinatown, the waterfront, or the Mission, consider parking once and using transit until the regional leg resumes. A careful reading of Arriving by Car also places the subject within its surrounding districts, transport corridors, and named landmarks, making the resulting route more coherent.