What are some good places to stay and things to do while in San Francisco?

Going with the family this summer to San Francisco and want to know some good hotels to stay and things to do. Nothing too expensive but decent and by things to do...perhaps by Fisherman's Wharf? Or are there other spots that are better? I have two children ages 12 and 11. Want to have a good time and do things with them that will be fun.What are some good places to stay and things to do while in San Francisco?
I advise against staying in the Wharf area, nothing but an overpriced tourist trap. Limit your time there to how long it takes you to get to and from Alcatraz. Your kids will love Alcatraz, the trip to and from is by ferry and it is just a cool experience of history and nature.



Some things you and your kids might enjoy

Golden Gate Park - Academy of Science, paddle boats, Conservatory of Flowers, bison, Windmills, a carousel, ride bikes, skate or just wander around.

Yerba Buena Gardens - Skating Rink, [Brian Boitano's Home ice], bowling, another carousel, the Cartoon Art Museum, a kids hands on art museum called Zeum where they can make their own film using stop animation.

In and Around the Presidio and GG Bridge: The Exploretorium a hands on science museum, Lucas Arts Campus, Walt Disney Museum, Ft. Point, and Chrissy Field



As to where to stay I would suggest out near the Marina for your family. There are several motor court style hotels along Lombard Street.



A personal favorite is the Hotel Del Sol which offers special amenities for families and a pool and sauna. Lots of good food nearby and they offer free parking if you are driving.

http://www.hoteldelsol.com



If you using public transport you can get to most of the above destinations by walking a few blocks and taking one bus.What are some good places to stay and things to do while in San Francisco?
Places to go:

Chinatown and North Beach (the Italian neighborhood)

Union Square - for shopping and whatnot

the "Japantown" mall

Fisherman's Wharf can be nice but it's very touristy, so don't stay there for too long unless you can tolerate the tourist-i-ness of it.

and of course the Golden Gate Bridge visiting, but that was a bit obvious.



and the Wharf Inn in Fisherman's Wharf is an affordable hotel, and it's in a nice area, where you can wake up to seagulls in the morning. it's really relaxing actually.



and just for the note, it may be a bit chilly and foggy for a lot of the day during the summer, so a sweater or coat would be good to keep just in case.What are some good places to stay and things to do while in San Francisco?
There are several San Francisco hotels worth checking out, some of which have rates starting from under $100/night.



Hotels:

Renoir Hotel

Hotel Fusion

Westin St. Francis

Carlton Hotel

Hotel Adagio

Cova Hotel

sea doo