It’s simple, there’s much to love in San Francisco. From architectural styles to fusion restaurants, neighborhoods to natural wonders, sports teams to street art. Top it off with reliable public transit and the city’s cable cars, which make San Francisco easy to visit and even easier to love. Enjoy your time in this coastal jewel — each block brimming with technology, trends, art and food from around the globe.
DINING
For dining, start your stay in the Mission District — a popular neighborhood for San Francisco’s prosperous dining scene. Try regional staples like Al’s Place or La Taqueria, or even Foreign Cinema for a beloved brunch. For local cuisine or fusion flavors, stay and wander in the SoMa (or South Market) district. Of course, don’t miss out on San Francisco’s wide variety of Chinatown eateries. You’ll find Sichuan-style favorites like Chong Qing Xiao Mian, dim sum favorites including City View or Yank Sing, plus Chinese bakeries, wonton soup shops, cocktail lounges and restaurants serving Vietnamese cuisine.
ART AND CULTURE
San Francisco served as an art and cultural destination long before technology giants and clothing designers started sprouting up in the city. After World War II, the city contributed to the rise of “hippie” counterculture, the center of the Peace Movement and the beginnings of the LGBTQIA rights movement. Throughout various political climates and changes, the arts thrived here. Whether you’re seeking historic architecture like the city’s “painted lady” Victorian & Edwardian houses or exploring the recently-expanded San Francisco Museum of Modern Art or “SFMOMA” or simply viewing the Mission Murals, you’ll find plenty to see.
POPULAR SPOTS
It’s tempting to avoid the crowds at the tourist spots in San Francisco, but with stunning views and interesting activities, they really are worth a visit. Of course, a visit to the Golden Gate Bridge should be on your list — with its surrounding parks, it offers beautiful views of this iconic landmark. For family fun, explore Alcatraz and the Ferry Building Marketplace at Fisherman’s Wharf. Top it off with a trip to Golden Gate Park, a Central Park-style greenspace home to the de Young Museum, San Francisco Botanical Gardens, Japanese Tea Garden and Stow Lake.
ATTIRE (WHAT TO PACK)
Before you take a flight to San Francisco, check the weather for your final destination. Bring a raincoat in the winter and pack layers for whenever you visit. If you’ll be walking a lot, sneakers or flat boots are a must for the city’s hills, plus, they keep the morning and evening chill at bay. If you’ll be frequenting some of the city’s more upscale dining spots, bring evening wear with more formal shoes — but be ready to snag a cab, Uber or Lyft ride if walking is uncomfortable. No matter what, work your own style and be open to inspiration. This diverse city offers and array of styles and looks as unique as the city itself.