A Weekend Spent in San Francisco
Where to go, what to eat, & how not to be a tourist in the iconic city by the bay.
Let's face it, San Francisco is world famous and for good reason — it is pretty dang spectacular. However, its fame and size can cause even the local to sometimes feel overwhelmed. Not only can the long to do list and even longer lines cause a headache, it can often deter visitors from witnessing the true heart of the city.
As a California native, I have traveled to San Francisco many times. By now I have seen the sights, and while they are truly amazing, during my most recent trip to the bay I wanted to witness the San Francisco the locals see and share the experience with each of you.
Coffee is much more than a beverage, as it basically keeps me walking and talking throughout the day, so let's start there.
Not only does Elite Audio Coffee Bar roast top notch beans, they'll add a fun surprise to your usual coffee order by throwing on some Instagram worthy coffee art. Make sure to visit during coffee art hours (see below), come with a creative idea in mind (or let the artist choose something for you), and smile and say thank you once they've finished. The only problem with this creative spot, your coffee may just look too good to drink.
Coffee Art Hours: Mon - Fri : 1 - 3 pm, Sat : 12 - 4 pm
Organic, hand-crafted, fair trade coffee from Four Barrel Coffee. Combined with freshly baked whole grain bread ground by Josey Baker with a stone mill on the spot (get the name now?). Both of these aspects work together to create a unique space for quality coffee and the people who love to drink it.
This historic spot first opened its doors in 1956 and holds the title as the first espresso coffee house established on the West Coast — do you really need another reason to try it out?
A few other local favorites to add to your must-try list:
Craftsmen & Wolves - Try the Rebel Within
Food is a necessity, so why not also make it a luxury?
This neighborhood favorite has two locations within the city, both of which continue draw in the local crowd. And no wonder, their menu boasts of 20 different types of egg dishes alone (including one titled the "godfather").
A local favorite, Ike's Place was opened up on Halloween of 2007 and offers its customers a choice of 78 different sandwiches. If the variety alone doesn't convince you that this spot is a must try, then the fact that they use their secret (and soon to be patented) "Ike's Dirty Secret Sauce" a whopping three times on each sandwich should having you running to get in line.
Ever since I was lucky enough to spend time in Italy this past year, I jump at any chance to get my hands on authentic Italian cuisine (perhaps in the hopes that by closing my eyes, chewing three times, and taking a sip of wine I will be magically transported back to the Piazza Navona). First established in 1919, Tosca Cafe has recently revamped itself and now stands as one of San Francisco's top food destinations and a true Italian experience.
A couple more mouthwatering options:
Bars & Brewery's, because as the saying goes: No good story ever started with someone eating a salad.
What's more San Franciscan than the California gold rush you ask? Not much. Anchor Brewing Company offers its customers a chance to connect with the long history of San Francisco as the brewery's origins date all the way back to 1849 when German brewer Gottlieb Brekle first arrived in the city.
To learn more about the brewery's past and enrich your visit click here.
It wouldn't be right to visit the city and not try out a wine bar, after all, San Francisco is smack in the middle of wine country. This particular place boasts a large list of wines and champagnes from both local and foreign origins. Whether you're craving a Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley, a Pinot Noir from France, or a Malbec from Argentina, you'll be sure to find what you're looking for at Amelie.
Reminiscent of the 1920's, Bourbon and Branch offers you a chance to step into the days of prohibition — that is, if you can find it. That's right, today Bourbon and Branch continues to operate as a Speakeasy, just as it did (on the same location) over 90 years ago.
Tip: Be sure to follow the house rules as well as make a reservation in advance in order to be allowed into an especially secret room inside the speakeasy. As for the address, well, you'll have to find that one for yourself.
Two more places to spice up your evening plans in the city:
We all know about Golden Gate Bridge and Pier 39, but don't forget to explore the many ways SF locals choose to spend their time.
Start your day the right way by spending your morning in the mission with Yoga to the People. Not only does the studio come with a fantastic view of the city, the practice is donation based, so pay what you can (a true lifesaver for a broke college student such as myself).
Tip: Craftsmen and Wolves is located just two blocks away. So head on over and grab some guilt-free coffee and food (after all, you just worked out — you deserve it).
While you're in the Mission District, why not walk over and enjoy a picnic with friends or a good book by yourself at Mission Dolores Park? You'll not only experience the beauty of nature (a nice break when you're in a city), but you'll also witness firsthand some local color (not always good, but usually entertaining). Bonus: It's free!
Located directly across from the Painted Ladies, this park will have you singing the Full House theme song the entire time you're there.
Tip: Mojo Bicycle Cafe is located just a few minutes away and is well worth the short walk.
The De Young, Legion of Honor, SF MOMA, and California Academy of Sciences are just a few of the many museums the locals of San Francisco enjoy. While they will most likely be busy, they are busy for a reason and worth any wait you may have.
A beautiful greenhouse and botanical garden that houses rare and exotic plants, located within Golden Gate Park.
Tip: Visit in the late summer in order to experience the Dahlia Garden.
It wouldn't be right to not mention at least a few of San Francisco's spectacular beaches, this is California after all.
Go for a spectacular view of the Golden Gate Bridge (one that's farther away from the crowds).
200 foot tall bluffs overlook the Pacific Ocean, giving you a great spot for some whale watching during the winter months.
A long stretch of beach that provides the perfect place for a sunset walk and sea glass hunting.
Other places & activities to add to your SF To Do list:
Thrift Shop in Haight-Ashbury
Experience the Lands End Labyrinth
Visit some of the many art galleries in SoMa
Picnic at the Palace of Fine Arts
Stroll through the Japanese Tea Garden
Let's face it, in the end we all want a good Instagram picture.
While the Princess of Genovia has long since left the building, it's no less amusing to grab a photo in front of Grove High School. Fun Fact: The site used to represent Grove High School in the Princess Diaries is actually someone's private residence!
Grove High School: 2601 Lyon Street
Princess Mia's House: 724 Brazil Avenue
Add some color to your newsfeed by taking a few shots in front of the numerous murals that line the walls of Clarion Alley.
This spot overlooking the city offers both spectacular views and photo ops to prove it. Bonus: There's a swing!
Get that iconic Golden Gate Bridge photo you know you've always wanted.
Top of the De Young Museum
Enjoy a 360 degree panoramic view of the city.
Something to help you remember San Francisco by.
I am both a minimalist and a book lover, I also hate tacky souvenirs and think that adding a new piece to my library is one of life's greatest joys. So of course, I will recommend that you grab a book from City Lights Bookstore to help you remember your time spent in the city (maybe a book about San Francisco?).
Finally, I would like to give a huge shout-out to all the SF locals (you know who you are) for showing me your city and making sure I saw it right.
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