I’ve been to San Francisco many times, but this was the first time I spent the night in the city. It was a wonderful experience, and I can’t wait to return, spend a few more nights there and explore some more!
One of the easiest ways to reach the city from the Central Valley is to ride the train down to Emeryville and from there the bus which takes you to the Salesforce Center in the downtown area. The train may be slow, but it’s wonderful to be able to enjoy the views of the bay after you cross the Benica-Martinez-Bridge. Once we step off the bus, our first thing on our agenda is usually a walk to the Ferry building for breakfast- a tasty something from the Acme Bakery and a cup of coffee, both to be enjoyed out on the deck looking out towards the Bay Bridge. After that it’s time to explore.
Architecture
I really like the mix of architecture in San Francisco. The old and the new stand side by side and there is always something fun to discover.
Museums
There are a plethora of museums to choose from when visiting San Francisco. Check to see what’s on before you go. Here is a selection of museums I like.
Legion of Honor: This museum is a bit off the beaten track, but well worth the bus ride out. The views over the city and of the Golden Gate are lovely, as are the special exhibits shown. We were lucky enough to have tickets for the Guo Pei Fashion exhibit.
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA): If modern art is more your thing, don’t miss the shows here.
De Young Museum: Over the past decades I have seen many stunning exhibits here. Across the street is the California Academy of Sciences, a museum I loved as a child. Don’t miss walking through and having tea in the Japanese Tea Garden next door.
Pier 24 Photography: Probably the hardest place to get tickets for but when you do, you won’t be disappointed. I left utterly inspired.
Touristy
Don’t we all secretly like to do something touristy when visiting a place? Mine is watching the sea lions bark, crawl over each other and fall into the water out on Pier 39. I don’t care much of the rest of Fisherman’s Wharf, except for the Ghiradelli store, but I sure love watching those cute animals.
Food
There are of course many delicious restaurants to chose from in San Francisco and many more I have yet to experience. This is a very short list of the ones I can currently recommend.
Mr. Jui’s: Delicious contemporary Chinese American restaurant and bar in Chinatown. Book in advance as it’s hard to get a table, then enjoy every dish you order.
Acme Bakery: Anything with flour the heart desires from sweet to savory.
Tartine Bakery: The best almond croissant I have ever had (and I’ve had a lot). Period.
Barcha: The perfect place for lunch. Mediterranean and Middle Eastern inspired. It’s fun to sit out under the skyscrapers.
Great photos! What a spectacular variety of subjects! You really captured the essence of a walking tour of downtown San Francisco.
I walked right beside you and so many of these photos are way better than what I saw—but not with your photographer eyes!
Your photos are fantastic! And it looked like you had gorgeous weather. I’m just so sorry I didn’t get to join you. But it sure would be fun to go with you next time you’re here!