If you're going to San Fransisco...

…Be sure to wear some flowers in your hair.

Who else is singing with me?

If not, go look up the song by Scott McKenzie and add it to your California playlist pronto.

Now that I’ve been to San Fransisco a couple times, I feel like I’ve gotten a good lay of the land. I have to say, it’s a city I could keep coming back to again & again and never have the same experience. Those are the kind of cities I love to visit!

Things I’ve learned in my visits there- it’s either SF or The City. “No one calls it San Fran Sarah” as a local told me. Weather is basically 5 seasons in a day, sushi burritos are taken VERY seriously here, the Fog is named Karl and everything you could want from beaches to mountains to wineries are all a days drive away.

So yes, I have a soft spot in my heart for San Fransisco and all it’s quirkiness. Which is why I want to share ALL my favorite spots with you! Whether you have 3 days or a week, these are some of my must do’s and fun spots below, enjoy!

Classic Must Do’s

1. Alcatraz

   I’m putting this as number one because it was the best audio tour I think I’ve ever done. Also it’s a historic place that embodies SF. Give yourself about half a day to Ferry over and explore the island along with the tour. Tickets go quick so book well in advance!

2. Golden Gate Bridge

   A San Fransisco staple that can’t be missed. I have biked, driven, and walked across this bridge numerous times and it never gets old. Photo 3

3. Oracle Park

   I haven’t gone on a single trip to SF without hitting up a Giants game. The stadium is unique that it has water on either side of it, so kayakers will actually hang around to catch balls. Photo 1

4. Lombard Street

   Get there early! Many people and cars want to go down this famously windy road, so be prepared for some photo bombers.

5. Ride a Cable Car

   Just a classic must do.

6. Fisherman’s Wharf

   Also included within this is Pier 39 to see the Sea Lions. Photo 2

7. Golden Gate Park

   This park is HUGE. Not as big as Balboa or Central Park, but big enough that I didn’t make it to the end while scootering before the battery ran out. Whoops!

8. Twin Peaks

   Insane lookout to where you can see the whole city and outskirts of the bay area. It’s windy and chilly up there though so make sure to have a jacket! Easiest way to get there is an Uber.

9. Alamo Square

   The Full House intro victorian row houses, need I say more?

Favorites for Food

1. Mr. Holmes Bakehouse $$

   These Raspberry Rose and Matcha Croissants were decadent and totally insta worthy. The place has a long line and no seating inside so get there early! Photos 1 & 3

2. Toasty SF $

   These are the most colorful toasts you’ll have, what better way to brighten your morning? The Unicorn toast is pretty magical and the turmeric latte is unique.

3. Mercado Brasil $

   THE best Acai bowl I’ve ever had. And the servings were huge! This is secret gem tucked in the Mission District.

4. Media Noche $$

   Known for their cuban sandwiches.

5. The Bird $

   Best fried Chicken west of Nashville. Be prepared for long lines!

6. MoMo’s $$

   This one is specifically for before the Giants baseball game for Happy Hour.

7. EPIC Steakhouse $$$

   The view is truly Epic. Grab a table by the window to see the Bay Bridge light show as it flickers off the bay water.

8. International Smoke $$$

   For my Charlotte friends, this is Ayesha Curry’s restaurant that has a BBQ concept but is inspired from multiple nationalities. I had my birthday dinner here and they were so sweet to have a birthday card waiting for me at the table as well as a complimentary dessert. It’s served family style and let me tell you, EVERYTHING is good. But if you need specifics…can’t go wrong with the cornbread, the Chicken Karaage (Japanese version of fancy chicken nuggets), and the rib tipped Mac & Cheese. My mouth is watering typing this. Photos 2 & 4

9. Burma Superstar $$

   This one was suggested to me by my friend Bryn, who just came back this week from visiting SF! Here’s what she had to say- “Ton’s of magazines and talk shows are featuring this place and it’s surprisingly worth it! The Rainbow Salad has 22 ingredients and it just works! It’s tiny so go during non-peak hours.”

Off the beaten trail

1. Palace of Fine Arts Theatre

   You will easily feel transported to Europe when walking around this divine Palace in the middle of the city.

2. Pier 7

   This pier doesn’t seem like much when looking out at Treasure Island and the bay, but when you look behind you from the pier, the scenic backdrop of the Transamerica building is beautiful. Photo 4

3. Castro District

   Pride month anyone?? This area can be seen with lots of colorful shops and rainbow street art everywhere.

4. Mission Dolores Park

   Right around the corner from Castro District, this is a beautiful park to lounge around reading a book and grabbing a drink from the coconut man (trust me, it sounds weird but it’s a thing).

5. Lands End

   A little eerie, a little breathtaking. This area was once an old hotel at the edge of the continent. It’s crazy to look out into the vast pacific ocean.

6. Muir Woods

   A great half day trip that is easy to get to by Uber or a group tour, Muir Woods is the closest place to find Redwoods from San Fransisco. They won’t be the biggest, but they will be the closet. Make sure to book your ticket AND your parking spot in advance if you are driving as they limit the number per day. Photo 1

7. Sausalito

   The cutest town just over the bridge. We biked over from SF and packed a picnic, then walked along the cute streets and grabbed some amazing Lappert’s ice cream. Photo 3

8. The Walt Disney Family Museum

   Just around the corner from The Palace of Fine Arts, this is a little gem any Disney fan would appreciate.

9. Full House House

   Maybe I’m the only one who didn’t know this but the ACTUAL Full House isn’t the victorian ones you see stacked together in the promo over at Alamo Square. It’s actually over in Lower Pacific Heights. Go explore this cool neighborhood and find it! Photo 2

After Hours

1. Playland

   Polk Street

2. CityScape rooftop bar & lounge

   Financial District

3. Jaxson

   In case you were missing your southern roots, this country bar makes you feel like you are right back in the summer of 2009 at a Kenny Chesney concert. Wear your cowgirl boots and get ready to boogie. Marina District

Where to Stay

1. Opal Hotel $$

   They just went through renovations in 2018 when i was there, and the new rooms are sharp. Not much for amenities but the deals are good and it’s centrally located on Van Ness. 3 Star Hotel

2. Vertigo Hotel $$

   Based off the classic film “Vertigo,” this hotel has a 60’s inspired theme with decor from the era in vintage orange and white. The spiral staircase from the top will certainly have you feeling vertigo. 3 Star Hotel

3. Oakland Airbnb’s $ - $$

   Yes, Oakland is over the bridge but don’t let that fool you. There are some hidden gems hiding over in Oakland and Berkley including this Japanese Garden House I stayed in during my last trip. It makes for a peaceful night out of the city. The ferry only costs $7 to get over to SF.

4. Fairmont Hotel $$$

   Want to go all out on your trip? Maybe it’s a special anniversary or you are just ball’n out. Then this place is worth the dollars! Now I haven’t personally stayed here, but I can tell you this place when I walked around was fancy AF. It has a beautiful rooftop garden for those city views when Karl (the fog) is out of the way. Oh, also it’s where Obama stays so that’s cool. 4 star Hotel

Annual Events

Wondering what time of the year to visit? Check out these awesome events that may sway your decision!

1. Craft Brew Festival - March

2. Bottle Rock Napa Music Festival - May

3. Pride Parade - June

4. Outside Lands Music Festival - August

5. Ghirardelli Chocolate Festival - September

6. Wharf Fest - October

Hope you have just as much fun exploring this quirky and ever evolving city as I do!

Sincerely,

Sarah