San Francisco, California

“If you're going to San Francisco, Be sure to wear some flowers in your hair. If you're going to San Francisco, You're gonna meet some gentle people there”

This city is really quite charming. I’ve been a few times and have always really enjoyed my stay. I have only really stayed with family/friends when I have arrived. With that being said though, knowing the area and how far it is from certain things you want to see/do is crucial. I would say Union Square, Nob Hill, Fisherman's Wharf, and Russian Hill are all great areas to stay in due to the closeness of majority tourist activities/sights.

Transportation:

I don’t think renting a car is a good idea because parking is terrible there and it’s known for break ins and that’s just something no one wants to deal with, personally. The BART, Muni, and ride sharing apps are the best way to go.

I’ve done quite a few fun activities throughout my stays here so I’ll elaborate more on below:

My favorite spots:

  • Golden Gate Bridge: Typical, I know but WORTH THE VIEW. You can drive across it, walk/bike across it, or simply gaze at it from either side of it.

  • Golden Gate Park: This is such a relaxing and fun place to go when you want to get away from the craziness of the city. There are very fun things to do in this park as well. You can visit the Japanese Tea Garden, De Young Museum, Stow Lake, The Buffalo Paddock, The Park Windmills, & the California Academy of Sciences.

  • Alcatraz Island: This is located in the San Francisco Bay. You will need to purchase tickets for the island plus pay for ferry there and back. Visiting the prison was my highlight. It was crazy to see the remains of everything and the energy truly felt so heavy. You get a cell house audio tour, too which is informative and fun. Book your tour here!

  • Fisherman’s Warf: Main location for Pier 39, Ghirardelli Square, Crab stands, a Ripley's Believe it or Not museum, Wax Museum at Fishermans Wharf, and a bunch of cute restaurants that are water front with amazing seafood. It’s a very popular tourist area filled with a lot of life so there won’t be a dull moment. I encourage you to go one day and just hang around the area. Shop, drink, eat & explore. It’s super fun.

  • Muir Woods National Monument: Wow, this place is fantastic. You are literally surrounded by gorgeous, tall redwood trees. I believe the entrance is fee about $15 for 16 years or older. If you want a taste of nature in a city full of noise, this is it. The trails can lead you to gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean, Mount Tamalpais & the treetops. Please keep in mind that you will need a parking reservation and I encourage you to get that beforehand. They are not sold on site and cellphone service will be lost by the time you get there so make sure you’re prepared!

Sightseeing/Activities:

  • Lombard Street

  • Chinatown

  • Go see a play!

  • Union Square

  • Twin Peaks

  • Coit Tower

  • The Painted Ladies (Photo of me above)

  • The Palace of Fine Arts

  • Baker Beach

    Food:

  • Abacá - Filipino

  • Lucca Delicatessen - Italian American Deli

  • Sotto Mare - Seafood

  • China Live - Chinese

  • Hog Island Oyster Co. - Seafood

  • Sons & Daughters - Fine Dining

Danielle Giordano