My San Francisco City Guide is a list of the memorable places and experiences in the city that I think you might enjoy. That is of course, if you like the same kinds of things I do. I welcome feedback, and would love to know if you have made a similar list of your own.

A few notes:

1. I do not own a car and take public transportation everywhere. (I have included bus #s for each place)
2. I am not a foodie. I do love great food, but I don’t really know what I’m talking about. My restaurant recommendations are places I like to eat. That means that they are comfortable and consistent, but probably not perfect. Dining out is an experience for me, and it’s not just about the food.
3. I have lived in the city for less than a year…so please cut me a little slack!

Without further ado, I give you San Francisco…

The Sights

1. The Golden Gate Bridge

(Photo Above)
Highway 101 North across the Bay
Muni: Bus #28 or #29
Admission: Free

The Quintessential view of the Golden Gate Bridge from the Presidio

You will see this bridge from everywhere. It will become the landmark you look to to figure out which way is north, and I believe that walking across is the best way to experience it. Sure driving across is cool too, but if you walk you can actually see how massive it is, and how beautiful it is. You will see seals swimming below. You will be passed by commuters on bikes. You will laugh with other tourists as you all take photos. You will see San Francisco from the outside, and she’s quite gorgeous.

2. Alcatraz & Alcatraz Gardens

Ferries leave from Pier 33 on the Embarcadero
Street Car: F Line
Admission: $26/adult $16/child (5-11)
Day and Night tours are available
Garden Tours: Free every Friday and Sunday morning at 9:30

The Main Cell Block

A docent led tour of Officer's Row

Alcatraz is more than a rock with a prison on top. The island’s history dates back to 1850 when it was fortified by the American Military. Military families lived on the island for over 40 years and are responsible for the soil, plants and many of the buildings. The cell block was not built and used as a Federal Penitentiary until 1934. And most recently, American Indians occupied the island in 1964 and again in 1969. If you visit the island, make sure that you allow plenty of time to walk through the grounds as well as taking the cell block tour. Just one word of warning: Food is not allowed on the island, so plan your trip accordingly!

Casual Dining

1. Golden Boy Pizza

542 Green St @ Columbus
Close to Washington Square
Muni: Bus #30, 20, 45, 41, 39
A square of pizza: $3-6

Walk in the door. Order a square. Pay your small bill. Grab a seat along the bar. Walk away stuffed. Easy as that. Great pizza. Good price.

Coffee/Pastries

1. The Warming Hut

The Western edge of Crissy Air Field in the Presidio
Muni: Bus #28
Coffee: $2-$5
Sandwich: $8
Michael Schwab Postcards: 50¢

This is one of my absolute favorite spots for coffee. I love the building, I love the bookstore, I love the view, I love the jo and I love the people. It’s located in Crissy Field, so there are people and their dogs everywhere. Also, after you have your coffee, you can walk down the road a little ways and see surfers out at Fort Point. I know most people wouldn’t, but I make special trips just to have a hot beverage here.

2. Blue Bottle Coffee

3 Locations:
1 Kiosk – 315 Linden Street @ Gough
Muni: Bus #21, 38
2 Ferry Building – Shop #7
Muni: F Line, Bus #6, 21, 31
3 Mint Plaza – 66 Mint Street @ Jessie near 5th St & Mission
Muni: Any line that stops near Market & 5th
Coffee: $3-$7

Portland has Stumptown, San Francisco has BlueBottle. Each location is different, but all are cool and hipster-styled. The drip coffees do take forever because each one is brewed on the spot, so if you’re in a rush, order an Americano. (they probably think a fine cup of joe cannot be rushed, but sometimes we just are) I think the Mint Plaza location is the most unique and is also the best one to sit around and talk beans.

Sleeping

1. Grosvenor Suites

899 Pine St @ Mason St
Streetcar: Powell & California Lines
Bart: Powell St. Station
Muni: Bus #4
Double Room: $103/night

From the outside, the Grosvenor doesn’t seem like anything special, but the north facing rooms on the upper levels are amazing! They have small balconies that provide 180˚ views of downtown that you can’t stop staring at. Also, the rooms are quite nice. The beds are big and comfy, and each room has a fully equipped kitchenette.

2. Inn 1890

1890 Page St @ Shrader St
Muni: Bus #7, 71, 43
Room: $99-189/night

This bed and breakfast has great beds and breakfasts, but the kicker is that they have an unlimited supply of candy for you to help yourself to at any time! It is also wonderful sleeping in a classic San Francisco Victorian just blocks away from Golden Gate Park.

Just outside of Town

1. Point Montara Lighthouse & Youth Hostel

25 Miles South of San Francisco
16th Street just off Highway 1
Montara, CA
Private Room: $60-100 (depending on # of occupants)
Dorm Room: $23/adult, $11.50/child (12 + under)

This is the hostel of all hostels!!! The 4 private rooms are situated with views looking down the coast and are close enough to the ocean that you can hear it all night long. The staff is super helpful, and they even have their own private beach. It’s a great weekend escape and would be perfect for individuals, couples or groups.

2. Pigeon Point Lighthouse & Youth Hostel

50 Miles South of San Francisco
210 Pigeon Point Rd just off Highway 1
Pescadero, CA
Private Room: $60 – 120 (depending on # of occupants)
Dorm Room: $23/adult, $11.50/child (12 + under)

We have not stayed at the hostel here, but it looks like it could be as nice as Point Montara. We did visit the grounds, which are beautiful, and they provide binoculars for you search for whales along the horizon!!