My views do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer.
June 21 & 22, 2025
In the three days I had at home before joining Villa Vie Odyssey, I was stressing about what to pack. Wendy reminded me that the ship would stop in San Francisco and they could bring me anything that could wait until then. What a relief! But there was something else that made this solution particularly pleasing. I’d been home on medical leave while Easton (Wendy’s grandson, Cameron and Selina’s son) grew from a toddler into a person. I adore this little guy so much. He is hilarious, and I love watching him figure out the world. When I recovered from surgery and was about to return to work, we tried to explain that I’d be living on a big boat and wouldn’t be around for a while. His two-year-old brain didn’t understand. He came to Papa and Bobby’s house (Stu and Wendy’s grandparent names) and asked, “Where are Kelly’s bags?! Where is Kelly?!”
This time, when I warned the now three-year-old Easton that I was going back on the big boat for a while, he asked “Why? My daddy has a boat where you can work.” With modern technology I can video call now and then, but it’s not the same as being there. I really wanted Easton to see my boat so he could understand where I am when I’m away.
As the date approached, bad weather turned out to be in our favor – Captain Val decided to speed up through the storm so we would arrive the afternoon before our scheduled time.
The first time I sailed under the Golden Gate Bridge was on the Dawn Princess in 2007. My mom and Ron Voyage booked their very first cruise together, and I invited myself to sleep on the bunk bed in their cabin. I’d never been on a cruise before. When I saw the guy hosting trivia, I thought, I could do that! In 2019 I sailed under the Golden Gate Bridge again on the Golden Princess – this time as that trivia host. Now, on Villa Vie Odyssey, I passed beneath the Golden Gate as the Destination Presenter.
Everyone was out on the deck enjoying the view. Meg and I made our way to the bow on the top deck. I loved being outside with everyone instead of inside hosting activities while there was so much to see (don’t get me wrong – I loved hosting trivia – just not when there were unique views outside. We marveled at the skyline. One of the residents mused aloud – “Oh look! A Ferris wheel! I wonder how long that’s been there.”
Confidently I said, “It’s been there since 1906 – it was built after the earthquake”
“Really?! Both she and Meg were impressed that I knew the answer.
“I don’t know” – I admitted. “I made that up.”
With a bonus afternoon in San Francisco, I left the ship and hit the streets.
Believe it or not, I passed a wine festival. I was still feeling shy, so I looked it up online instead of asking about it in person.
I found the Boudin Bakery, ordered a mini bottle of wine (a compromise for skipping the wine festival) and sourdough garlic bread. It was everything I wanted.
That evening, a couple of residents invited Meg and Gidea to dinner and they included me, too. Gidea picked the restaurant.
This was an Italian restaurant that specializes in garlic.
The food was delicious and we had a great time. I could see why Gidea had befriended Michele and Steven.
When it came time for dessert, their specialty was garlic ice cream. I had to try it. I told them about the gelato place in Shimizu (we were going there later that summer) and they had all the gelato with weird flavors – tomato, edamame, salt. Those flavors didn’t turn out to be delicious, but I discovered cinnamon gelato in Italy by ordering things I didn’t understand. We decided to try the garlic ice cream.
The chocolate was the best part. The ice cream was creamy but my brain was confused that it was sweet and garlicky.
By the end of the night we were all good friends.
The next day I was so excited to see Cameron, Selina, Easton and Ella. It was the day after Ella’s first birthday party and I was honored they were squeezing in a road trip on a busy weekend.
I reserved them a spot in the parking garage across the street from the ship (parking can be tricky and expensive in San Francisco). They crossed the bridge and I went out to meet them.
They were stuck in traffic and kept getting re-routed until, finally, we figured out we had a parade between us. I started power-walking toward them.
About 40 minutes later I found them and jumped into their car in the middle of an intersection (traffic was stopped). The kids needed a change of scenery, so they found street parking and we got out. As we made our way back toward the ship, we caught each other up on the last couple of months. Easton pointed out every boat we saw, and each time I told him my boat was bigger. He was blown away. But by the time we reached the ship, we were too close to visitor curfew.
We told Easton he could see my room and swim in the pool “next time”. I was disappointed I couldn’t show him (and his family) the inside of the boat, but at least he saw the outside. In addition to that, seeing them gave me a taste of home I don’t usually get mid-contract.
And it was all worth it when Easton confirmed that I had the biggest boat in San Francisco.
Welcome to the “City by the Bay.” With its dramatic hills, iconic landmarks, and rich cultural heritage, San Francisco is one of the most unique and scenic cities in the United States. Known for its Victorian architecture, cable cars, and vibrant neighborhoods, the city invites you to explore both the historic and the hip.
Why Are We Here?
San Francisco offers a rare blend of natural beauty, world-class dining, historic charm, and forward-thinking culture. Whether you’re marveling at the Golden Gate Bridge, enjoying a bowl of clam chowder at Fisherman’s Wharf, or exploring diverse neighborhoods like Chinatown and the Mission District, this city offers something for every traveler.
History:
With its dramatic hills, sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, and a skyline framed by the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco is one of the most distinctive and picturesque cities in the United States. But beyond its postcard beauty lies a rich and complex history that has shaped its unique identity.
Originally home to the Ohlone people, San Francisco’s story began long before European settlers arrived. The Spanish established the Presidio and Mission San Francisco de Asís (Mission Dolores) in the late 1700s, laying the foundation for what would become a thriving port town.
San Francisco truly came into its own during the California Gold Rush of 1849, when fortune seekers from around the world flooded into the area. In just a few short years, it transformed from a sleepy village into a bustling boomtown. The city’s economy and population skyrocketed, and its diversity grew rapidly as immigrants from China, Latin America, and Europe established roots.
By the late 19th century, San Francisco was a center of industry, culture, and innovation. Grand Victorian homes—many still standing today in neighborhoods like Alamo Square and Pacific Heights—were built during this era. But the city’s momentum was dramatically interrupted by the devastating earthquake and fire of 1906, which destroyed much of downtown. From the ashes, San Francisco rebuilt itself with resilience, emerging even more vibrant and forward-looking.
Throughout the 20th century, the city became known as a hub for progress and counterculture. It was the birthplace of the Beat Generation in the 1950s, the heart of the hippie movement in the 1960s centered around Haight-Ashbury, and a leading voice in the LGBTQ+ rights movement, particularly in the Castro District. Today, San Francisco remains a beacon for innovation, social change, and creative spirit.
From its iconic cable cars and fog-draped hills to the cutting-edge tech scene of nearby Silicon Valley, San Francisco invites you to experience a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re admiring the Painted Ladies, sailing past Alcatraz, or wandering through neighborhoods like Chinatown or the Mission, every corner of the city tells a story.
Itinerary:
Arrival: Sunday, June 21 2:00pm (Please allow time for port clearance)
Departure: Sunday June 22 All aboard: 4pm Sail away: 5pm
Weather
- Average Temps: 55°F to 68°F (13–20°C)
- Dress in layers! Mornings and evenings can be chilly even in summer.
- Bring a windbreaker or light jacket and comfortable walking shoes.
Near the Pier:
Cruise Ship Dock
We’ll be docking at the James R. Herman Cruise Terminal at Pier 27, located along The Embarcadero. From here, it’s a scenic and walkable stretch to many key attractions, or a short taxi or cable car ride to further destinations.
Nearby Essentials
- Pharmacy: Walgreens – 500 Geary St. or 825 Market St.
- ATM: Chase Bank ATMs available along The Embarcadero and throughout downtown
- Grocery/Snacks: Trader Joe’s at 10th and Market or Safeway at Jackson and Marina Blvd
- Nearest Church: St. Peter and Paul Church, 666 Filbert St
- Nearest Beach: Ocean Beach, 1398 Great Highway
- Nearest Golf: Golden Gate Park Golf Course 970 47th Ave
Getting Around:
San Francisco is famously walkable but hilly, so prepare for some incline!
- Taxis & Rideshares: Uber and Lyft are widely available.
- Hop-On Hop-Off Tours: Great for a quick overview of the city’s main sights. Visit: https://www.bigbustours.com/en/san-francisco/san-francisco-bus-tours
- Bay Wheels (bikeshare): Docks near Pier 27
- Bike Rentals: Try Blazing Saddles or Bay City Bike Rentals for a ride across the Golden Gate Bridge.
Public Transport: Muni buses, streetcars, and the iconic cable cars offer easy access.
- With multiple ways of paying, buying your Muni bus, rail or cable car tickets is easy.
- Clipper®: Use your Clipper card on all Bay Area transit systems, including Muni. To pay for your trip, tag your Clipper card or Clipper mobile on the ticket readers inside Muni buses and at Muni Metro fare gates.
- MuniMobile®: Download the app and purchase your Muni fares instantly from your phone. Activate your ticket in the app when you board a Muni bus or enter the subway.
- Cash: Fares can be paid on surface transportation only (not Muni Metro) with any U.S. currency or coin. Exact change is required.
- Youth Ride Free: Youth aged 18 and under ride free on all regular Muni service (cable car excepted). Youth aged 4 and under ride Cable Car free.
Link to map: https://www.sfmta.com/maps/muni-service-map
Witnessing:
The Golden Gate Bridge is to San Francisco what the Eiffel Tower is to Paris—an iconic symbol of the city and a masterpiece of engineering and design. Completed in 1937, this striking red-orange suspension bridge stretches 1.7 miles across the Golden Gate Strait, linking San Francisco to Marin County. Often shrouded in fog, it appears to float like a ribbon in the sky, blending strength and grace. At the time of its completion, it was the longest and tallest suspension bridge in the world—an architectural leap much like putting wings on concrete. Walk or bike across this legendary structure for panoramic views.
Alcatraz Island, located just over a mile offshore in San Francisco Bay, is one of the city’s most intriguing and storied landmarks. Best known as the site of the former maximum-security federal prison, it once held infamous inmates like Al Capone and “Machine Gun” Kelly. Operating from 1934 to 1963, Alcatraz was considered escape-proof due to the cold, swift waters surrounding it. But the island’s history goes beyond its prison walls—it was also the site of a Native American occupation in 1969, a pivotal moment in the fight for Indigenous rights. Today, Alcatraz is a national parkand popular visitor destination, where guests can explore the cellhouse, learn about its layered past, and take in sweeping views of the Bay and city skyline. Take a ferry to this infamous former prison, now a national park with audio-guided tours. Visit https://www.nps.gov/alca/planyourvisit/fees.htm
Fisherman’s Wharf & Pier 39 are among San Francisco’s most popular waterfront destinations, offering a lively mix of history, shopping, dining, and entertainment. Fisherman’s Wharf dates back to the city’s fishing industry boom and is famous for its fresh seafood stalls, especially clam chowder served in sourdough bread bowls. Just a short walk away, Pier 39 is a bustling marketplace featuring shops, restaurants, street performers, and the famous sea lions lounging on the docks. Visitors can also find aquarium exhibits, bay cruises, and spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island.
Lombard Street is one of San Francisco’s most iconic landmarks, famous for its “crookedest” block—a short, steep stretch with eight sharp switchbacks that zigzag through beautifully landscaped flowerbeds. Lombard Street’s crooked design was created in 1922 to reduce the hill’s natural 27% grade, making it safer for cars.
Chinatown in San Francisco is the oldest and one of the largest Chinatowns in North America, offering a vibrant glimpse into Chinese culture, history, and community. Established in the mid-1800s during the Gold Rush era, it quickly became a bustling enclave for Chinese immigrants seeking new opportunities. Today, Chinatown is famous for its colorful pagoda-style architecture, bustling markets, traditional herbal shops, and authentic restaurants serving dim sum, noodles, and other classic dishes. Visitors can stroll through iconic spots like Grant Avenue, explore hidden alleys, and visit cultural landmarks such as the Tin How Temple and Dragon’s Gate. It’s a lively neighborhood where history and modern life blend seamlessly.
North Beach is San Francisco’s historic Italian-American neighborhood, often called the city’s “Little Italy.” Known for its charming cafes, bustling restaurants, and lively nightlife, North Beach has long been a hub for poets, artists, and bohemians. In the mid-20th century, it was the heart of the Beat Generation, with famous figures like Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg frequenting its cafés and bars. Visitors can enjoy delicious Italian fare, visit landmarks like Saints Peter and Paul Church, and explore Washington Square Park. Its vibrant streets, combined with views of nearby Coit Tower, make North Beach a favorite for both locals and tourists.
Golden Gate Park is a sprawling urban oasis in the heart of San Francisco, covering over 1,000 acres—larger than New York’s Central Park. Created in the 1870s on what was once sand dunes, the park offers a rich blend of nature, culture, and recreation. Visitors can explore beautiful gardens like the Japanese Tea Garden and Conservatory of Flowers, visit world-class museums such as the de Young Museum and the California Academy of Sciences, or enjoy outdoor activities like biking, picnicking, and paddle boating on Stow Lake. With its winding trails, open meadows, and frequent concerts, Golden Gate Park is a peaceful retreat and cultural hub for both locals and visitors.
Twin Peaks are two prominent hills near the center of San Francisco that offer some of the city’s most breathtaking panoramic views. Rising about 900 feet above sea level, they provide sweeping vistas of the San Francisco skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridge, and surrounding bay area. The area is popular with both locals and tourists, especially at sunrise and sunset. Accessible by car or hiking trails, Twin Peaks also boasts natural beauty with wild grasses and seasonal wildflowers. It’s a perfect spot to appreciate San Francisco’s unique topography and stunning urban landscape.
Learning:
- San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) Open 10am to 5pm – SFMOMA is renowned for its expansive collection—over 33,000 works in photography, architecture, design, painting, sculpture, media, and more
- The Exploratorium – Interactive science museum on Pier 15
- California Academy of Sciences – Aquarium, planetarium, and rainforest dome under one roof
- Aquarium of the Bay is San Francisco’s premier waterfront aquarium, located at Pier 39 on The Embarcadero & Beach Street .
- Cable Car Museum – Learn how these iconic vehicles still run on 19th-century technology
Exploring:
Mission District: Street art, Latinx culture, and delicious eats (try a Mission-style burrito).
- The Mission District is one of San Francisco’s oldest and most culturally vibrant neighborhoods, centered around Mission Dolores, the city’s oldest building. Known for its rich Latino heritage, the area bursts with colorful murals, authentic taquerias, lively street festivals, and a strong spirit of community activism. Visitors can explore iconic Balmy Alley, relax in Dolores Park, or stroll down Valencia Street for boutique shopping, art, and nightlife. Despite rapid gentrification, the Mission remains a dynamic hub of history, creativity, and cultural pride.
Haight-Ashbury: Birthplace of the 1960s counterculture.
- Haight-Ashbury is a legendary San Francisco neighborhood known as the birthplace of the 1960s counterculture movement. In the “Summer of Love” (1967), it drew thousands of young people seeking peace, music, and alternative lifestyles. Today, it retains its bohemian spirit with vintage shops, tie-dye boutiques, record stores, and colorful Victorian houses. Highlights include Haight Street, the iconic Red Victorian, and nearby Golden Gate Park. Rich in music history—once home to Janis Joplin, the Grateful Dead, and Jefferson Airplane—Haight-Ashbury remains a vibrant, nostalgic, and offbeat part of the city.
Presidio: Historic military base turned public park with trails and scenic overlooks.
- The Presidio is a former U.S. Army post turned stunning national park at the northern tip of San Francisco. Originally established by Spain in 1776, it later served as a military base for over 200 years before becoming part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Today, it offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and culture, with scenic hiking trails, art installations like Andy Goldsworthy’s Wood Line, and breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Visitors can explore restored military buildings, visit the Walt Disney Family Museum, or enjoy food and events at Presidio Tunnel Tops, a vibrant public space built over former roadways.
The Castro: Heart of LGBTQ+ history, activism, and vibrant nightlife.
- The Castro is one of the first and most prominent LGBTQ+ neighborhoods in the United States, symbolizing both pride and progress. Centered around Castro Street near Market Street, the neighborhood became a haven for the gay community in the 1960s and 70s and was home to civil rights icon Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official in California. Today, the Castro remains a vibrant, welcoming district known for its rainbow crosswalks, historic Castro Theatre, lively nightlife, and annual events like SF Pride. It stands as a proud, living testament to San Francisco’s legacy of diversity and activism.
Marina District & Palace of Fine Arts: Elegant architecture and waterfront paths.
- The Marina District is a scenic, upscale neighborhood along San Francisco’s northern waterfront, known for its elegant homes, trendy boutiques, and Bayfront parks with postcard views of the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s a popular spot for walking, jogging, and relaxing by the water, especially along Crissy Field and the Marina Green. At its heart stands the stunning Palace of Fine Arts, originally built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition. With its classical rotunda, lagoon, and peaceful grounds, it remains one of the city’s most iconic and romantic landmarks—perfect for photos, picnics, or a quiet stroll.
Nightlife:
🎉 Late-Night Parties & Club Events
- Union Square Pub Crawl – A guided bar-hop around Union Square starting around 8 PM. Lively way to leap into the weekend .
- Bounce & Roll: 70s–90s Roller Disco Vibes – Spin under disco lights at The Rumpus Room (9 PM–2 AM). Free and fun .
- Sundown Saturday @ Zoë Cocktail Bar – Chill rooftop vibes with cocktails into the night (9 PM–2 AM).
🎶 Live Music Venues
- Pier 23 Café – Live jazz, reggae, salsa, and rock nightly on the waterfront .
- The Saloon – One of SF’s most storied blues bars, hosting live sets late into the evening.
- Biscuits & Blues – Soulful, intimate blues shows with two performances on weekend nights.
😂 Comedy & LGBTQ+ Scene
- Punch Line San Francisco – The city’s oldest comedy club, typically featuring stand-up pros and rising talent.
- SF Pride Bar Crawl – In celebration of Pride month, this themed crawl at Comet Club & others is happening June 21.
- Comedy Shows: https://sf.funcheap.com/2025/06/21/
🎤 Cultural & Community Events
- Yerba Buena Gardens Festival – Free early-evening performances (like circus, music) throughout the parksfchronicle.com+2axios.com+2en.wikipedia.org+2.
- SOMA Nights street fest – Though usually on Folsom Street, check for an after-hours takeover and pop-up drag shows .
🖤 First Ever Glen Park Night Market – First-Ever!
Saturday, June 21, 2025 | 5–10 PM
Join the debut of this open-air night market celebrating Glen Park’s vibrant community, where you can browse local artist and maker booths, enjoy live music and DJ sets, sample bites from neighborhood food vendors, and soak in a friendly, festive atmosphere under the stars.
📍 Kern St (Diamond to Brompton) + Glen Park Parking Lot
🚇 Just one block from Glen Park BART
💵 Free | RSVP encouraged
Events in San Francisco – Sunday, June 22, 2025
🚶♂️ Free San Francisco Walking Tour
📍 Starts: Union Square (Post & Powell – look for the red & white “FREE TOUR” umbrella) | 🕙 10:00 AM daily, rain or shine
📍 Ends: Embarcadero, across from the Ferry Building | 🕧 12:30 PM | Free – Booking required
Discover San Francisco’s rich history and iconic sites on this engaging, tip-based walking tour from the heart of downtown to the scenic waterfront.
🛍 Outer Sunset Farmers Market & Mercantile
📍 37th Ave & Ortega | 🕘 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Free
A beloved weekly market in the Outer Sunset featuring local farmers, food trucks, live music, family activities, artists, and handmade goods.
🖤 SF Juneteenth Parade & Block Party
📍 Parade: Market & Spear to 8th St | 🕚 11:00 AM
📍 Block Party: Fulton Plaza (between the Main Library & Asian Art Museum) | 🕛 12:00 – 6:00 PM | Free – RSVP encouraged
Celebrate freedom and Black culture at San Francisco’s flagship Juneteenth celebration with music, art, and community joy.
💃 Lindy in the Park – Free Swing Dancing
📍 JFK Drive (between 8th & 10th, behind de Young Museum) | 🕚 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Free
Dance in Golden Gate Park! No partner or experience needed—just bring your dancing shoes and enjoy live swing music.
🏳️🌈 Peoples March & Rally (Alternative Pride Event)
📍 Polk & Washington to Civic Center | 🕚 Rally 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM; March & Celebration until 4:00 PM | Free
A grassroots, BIPOC-led Pride march and celebration—centered on activism, visibility, and queer joy.
🇯🇵 Japan Day
📍 Post & Laguna Streets and Studio Gen | 🕛 12:00 – 5:00 PM | Free
Experience Japanese culture with live taiko drumming, traditional dance, martial arts, and music, both on an outdoor stage and indoor venue.
🧘 Free Yoga at the Beach
📍 Judah & Great Highway Park | 🕛 12:00 PM | Free
Community yoga by the ocean. Bring your mat and mug—free coffee after class from Java Beach Café.
🎺 Golden Gate Park Band: “PRIDE – A Musical Celebration”
📍 Music Concourse, Golden Gate Park | 🕐 1:00 PM | Free
The 143rd season of the park’s resident band continues with a Pride-themed concert. An SF tradition since 1882.
🌈 Pride Block Party @ The Check-In Lounge
📍 201 Ocean Ave (between Ocean & Onondaga) | 🕐 2:00 – 5:00 PM | Free, Family-Friendly
Celebrate with live DJ sets, performances, food and drink. Hosted by Nitrix Oxide—fun for all ages.
Hidden Gems:
The Wave Organ – A huge musical instrument played by the ocean
Magowan’s Infinite Mirror Maze – A psychedelic labyrinth on the San Francisco Bay
Secret Tiled Staircase – An artsy staircase leads to breathtaking views of San Francisco
Seward Street Slides – Bring your own cardboard to the slippery slopes of concrete hidden in a neighborhood park
Peephole Cinema – A tiny theater hidden in an alley plays a constant stream of short silent films for anyone willing to peer through the peephole
Albion Castle – A 140 year old castle with underground caves hidden in San Francisco
Auditorium Theatre of Sound-Sculptured Space – The only theatre in the world constructed specifically for sound movement.
Institute of Illegal Images – A museum befitting the city responsible for supplying the majority of the world’s LSD.
Good Vibrations Antique Vibrator Museum
Paxton Gate – A shop full of natural curiosities, carnivorous plants, and costumed taxidermied mice.
The Parrots of Telegraph Hill – Staircase winds down the side of Telegraph Hill through gardens with wild parrots flying overhead.
The Pirate Supply Store – An essential stop before plundering.
Bourbon & Branch – A nondescript building that’s been functioning as a speakeasy for nearly a century and a half
Golden Gate Park Bison – In case you missed the ones on Catalina Island
Church of 8 Wheels – This 19th century church is now a popular roller rink.
Mission Delores Cemetery – The oldest burial ground in the city, final resting place of city founders, Ohlone natives and murderers alike.
Hotel Vertigo – A historic hotel that made a cameo in Hitchcock’s classic film has no intention of letting guests forget its fame.
The ‘Full House’ House – This private residence was the template for one of the most beloved television homes of all time.
Beat Museum – A collection of memorabilia from the Beat era in the back of a San Francisco bookstore.
Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Company – One of the oldest producers of hand-folded fortune cookies still uses its original secret recipe.
The Old Ship Saloon – A Barbary Coast watering hole built into a Gold Rush shipwreck.
Presidio Pet Cemetery – A monument to the love people have for their pets.
Tobin House – Half of a house.
House of Air – Inside an old airplane hangar, friends and strangers alike play on a massive trampoline.
Hang Ah Tea Room – The oldest dim sum restaurant in the United States is a nostalgic jewel.
Admission Day Monument Octopuses – A pair of mutilated bronze octopuses slump at the base of the monument honoring California’s admission to the US
Monarch the Bear – The taxidermied remains of the “last wild grizzly bear in California” and of the symbol of the state of California
Westin St. Francis Hotel – The only hotel where you can legally launder money.
Drawn Stone – Art in the form of a winding, man made crack in stone.
Vedanta Society’s Old Temple – Built in 1906, this unique building was the first Hindu temple in the United States.
Lincoln Park – Shoot for par over the bodies of the dead on this cemetery-cum-golf course.
William Westerfeld House – This Alamo Square mansion is rumored to have hosted satanic rituals and other occult practices.
Street Whale – Part mural and part sculpture, this work of art sits in the middle of the Promenade, as if swimming in a river of asphalt towards the ocean.
Showgirl Magic Museum – In the basement of a San Francisco performing arts center, a small museum dedicated to the history of showgirls.
Vermont Street – Lombard Street may be more famous, but this is the real “crookedest street in the world.”
St Francis of the Guns – This sculpture was made out of recycled guns that were turned in to the city
Tasting:
San Francisco is a foodie’s paradise, blending world-class cuisine with local charm. From waterfront seafood to sweet treats and savory dim sum, there’s something here for every craving.
🥖 Local Icons
- Boudin Bakery (Fisherman’s Wharf)
Famous for sourdough bread and clam chowder in a bread bowl. - Swan Oyster Depot (Polk Street)
A classic seafood counter—fresh oysters, crab, and shrimp cocktail. - Tartine Bakery (Mission District)
Legendary for flaky croissants, morning buns, and artisan bread. - The Slanted Door (Ferry Building)
Upscale Vietnamese cuisine with stunning bay views. - Ghirardelli Chocolate (Ghirardelli Square)
Don’t leave without trying a chocolate sundae at this historic factory!
🥟 Dim Sum in San Francisco
San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest in North America and home to some incredible dim sum. You’ll also find modern twists in Fisherman’s Wharf and beyond.
- Osmanthus Dim Sum Lounge (Chinatown)
- New Moon (Chinatown)
- Begoni Bistro (Chinatown)
- Palette Tea House (Ghirardelli Square/Fisherman’s Wharf)
A contemporary take on traditional dim sum—delicious and stylish!
🌊 Fisherman’s Wharf
- The Buena Vista
World-famous for its original Irish Coffee. Great brunch spot! - Hollywood Café
Cozy, casual breakfast near the waterfront. - Boudin Bakery Café
So good you may go twice—try their sourdough pizza and tacos. - The Baked Bear
Local sweet shop offering custom ice cream sandwiches. - Wipeout Bar & Grill
Surf-themed with hearty fare and refreshing cocktails. - Tony’s Pizza Napoletana (North Beach, short ride from Wharf)
Award-winning pizzas from a 13-time World Pizza Champion!
Conclusion
San Francisco is a city that blends old and new, wild and refined. Whether you’re tasting world-class cuisine, diving into counterculture history, or simply taking in the fog-shrouded skyline, this city leaves a lasting impression. Take time to explore, discover, and savor every moment in this iconic coastal gem.