For virtual attendance details, please visit the Virtual Access page.

A City of Innovation and Inspiration

San Francisco, nestled on the northern tip of the California peninsula, is a city where history and modernity collide in breathtaking harmony. Founded in 1776 as a Spanish mission, it transformed during the 1849 Gold Rush into a bustling port, its population exploding from 1,000 to 25,000 in a single year. Today, with around 827,000 residents spread across 46.9 square miles, it’s a global beacon of culture, technology, and resilience—perfectly suited to host GSCA 2026.

Iconic Landmarks and Natural Beauty

No visit is complete without marveling at the Golden Gate Bridge, an engineering marvel opened in 1937, stretching 1.7 miles with its iconic red-orange span. Walk or bike across for panoramic views of the bay, or snap photos from Crissy Field, where the bridge meets the rugged coastline. Nearby, Alcatraz Island, once a notorious prison, now offers a hauntingly beautiful tour with audio guides narrating its storied past. For a quieter escape, Twin Peaks offers 360-degree vistas of the city, especially stunning at sunset, while the Presidio’s trails weave through history and nature.

A Cultural Tapestry

San Francisco’s diversity is its heartbeat. Chinatown, the oldest in North America, buzzes with dim sum eateries and vibrant street markets, while the Mission District celebrates Latin American heritage with colorful murals and taquerias. The Castro shines as a global LGBTQ+ landmark, and the Haight-Ashbury echoes with 1960s counterculture vibes. The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) showcases cutting-edge art, and the city’s theaters, like the Tony-winning American Conservatory Theater, host world-class performances—ideal for summit attendees seeking inspiration.

A Hub for Healthcare Innovation

For GSCA 2026 delegates, San Francisco’s biotech corridor in Mission Bay is a draw, home to giants like Genentech and UCSF Medical Center, driving cancer research forward. The city’s walkable neighborhoods, ranked America’s most walkable by Walk Score, make it easy to explore, with BART and Muni connecting key areas. Pack layers for the famous fog—named Karl by locals—and comfortable shoes for the steep hills, ensuring a memorable stay.

Whether you’re here for the summit or to explore, San Francisco promises an unforgettable blend of science, culture, and scenic splendor. Plan your visit to coincide with local events like the Fillmore Jazz Festival, and let the city’s spirit fuel your experience.

Attendees can expect a range of hotel services (venue to be confirmed), including:

• Audio/Visual Equipment Rental
• Business Center
• Complimentary Printing Service
• Meeting Rooms & Office Rental
• Video Conference & Messaging
• Baggage Storage, ATM, Fax, Secretarial Services