Exploring the Charms of San Francisco: A Traveler’s Guide
Welcome to the enchanting city of San Francisco, where the iconic Golden Gate Bridge stretches across the bay and the vibrant energy of the streets beckons you to explore. This was my first time in San Francisco and we did a lot of research for restaurants, hotels and even activities! We spend 4 full days in San Fran and we do plan on going again because like they say San Francisco is a true West Coast gem!
In this travel blog post, I’m diving straight into the top activities to do in San Francisco, along with some essential tips to make the most of your visit.
Top Activities in San Francisco:
Golden Gate Bridge: No visit to San Francisco is complete without marveling at the engineering masterpiece that is the Golden Gate Bridge. Whether you choose to walk, bike, or drive across, the breathtaking views of the bay and the city skyline are bound to leave you in awe.
Some of our favorite look out spots for the bride were
Battery Spencer
Golden Gate Postcard Viewpoint
Marshalls Beach
Golden Gate Overlook
Fort Point
Dana Bowers Vista Point
Marin Headlands
Alcatraz Island: The history of one of the world’s most infamous prisons with a visit to Alcatraz Island. Take a ferry ride across the bay to explore the eerie corridors of the prison and learn about its notorious inmates through captivating audio tours. Make sure to check ferry times and purchase your tickets online!
Fisherman’s Wharf: Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can sample fresh seafood delights, browse through quirky souvenir shops, and even catch sight of playful sea lions lounging on the docks. So much to do here and tons of places to eat.
Chinatown: San Francisco’s Chinatown, the oldest and one of the largest in North America. Explore its narrow alleys lined with traditional shops, indulge in delectable dim sum, and soak in the rich cultural heritage. Some of the best dumplings I’ve had!
Cable Cars: Experience a piece of San Francisco’s history by hopping aboard one of its iconic cable cars. Take a ride through the city’s steep streets and enjoy panoramic views while clinging to the iconic wooden benches.
Golden Gate Park: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and unwind in the sprawling oasis of Golden Gate Park. Rent a paddleboat on Stow Lake, explore the Japanese Tea Garden, or simply stroll amidst lush greenery and blooming gardens.
Helpful Tips for Your San Francisco Adventure:
Dress in Layers: San Francisco’s weather can be unpredictable, with foggy mornings giving way to sunny afternoons and chilly evenings. Be sure to pack layers so you can easily adapt to changing conditions throughout the day. I packed light sweaters and jeans and sneakers! It does randomly rain, so don’t forget your umbrella!
Plan Ahead for Alcatraz: Tickets to Alcatraz Island tend to sell out quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons. It’s advisable to book your tickets in advance online to secure your spot.
Explore Neighborhoods on Foot: One of the best ways to discover the charm of San Francisco is by wandering through its diverse neighborhoods on foot. From the bohemian vibes of Haight-Ashbury to the trendy streets of the Mission District, each area offers its own unique flavor.
Try Public Transportation: While San Francisco is known for its iconic cable cars, its public transportation system is extensive and efficient. Consider purchasing a Muni Passport for unlimited rides on buses, trams, and cable cars, making it easy to navigate the city.
Sample Local Cuisine: San Francisco boasts a culinary scene that’s as diverse as its population. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in fresh seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf, savor authentic Mexican flavors in the Mission, or treat yourself to gourmet delights in upscale eateries.
Before I begin my long list of places you must eat at, I will say we did spend one full day in Napa and had lunch at Gotts Roadside. They had a great veggie and chicken burger, the garlic parmesan and sweet potato fries with the special sauce was 10/10. They have some amazing milkshakes and some of the freshest strawberry lemonade. For Dinner definitely check out Mustard Grill, it’s a farm to table and has some of the best seasonal dishes.
We wanted to stay a little closer to family and be central of everything and Hotel Nia was the perfect location!
Packing for a trip or a weekend getaway, don’t forget some of my favorite travel essentials I can’t live without.
Some of my favorites travel minis I can’t travel without!
Just an East/West coast girl living the southern life. I love sharing all my tested and perfected recipes here, along with some travel guides and a little bit of my lifestyle
