and the birthplace of the revolution
I think the folks in Boston would take issue with that statement.
ETA: Not all of California is a brainless wasteland. If you're going to be in/near San Francisco, take a drive north over the Golden Gate into Marin County. Visit the Marin Headlands, go see the Muir Woods and, if you have enough time, take a drive up to Point Reyes. It's absolutely gorgeous.
Or head south and drive along the Big Sur coast. It's also gorgeous.
Sue (born in CALIFORNIA!)