A LOCAL’S GUIDE TO SAN FRANCISCO

I’ve been living in San Francisco for almost three years and have been meaning to write a San Francisco travel guide for a while. Now that I’ve experienced most of what San Francisco has to offer here’s my local guide to San Francisco on everything you should do, see and eat!

WHERE TO STAY

Hotel Nikko: The best boutique hotels in San Francisco located in Union Square.

Loews Regency: Amazing views of the San Francisco skyline and has one of the best rooftop bars in the city.

Fairmont San Francisco: One of San Francisco’s most iconic hotels is in the perfect location with the best views. The property is glamorous and has a very old unique charm to it. By far my favorite hotel in San Francisco!

Tip: Snap a photo on California Street between Powell & Stockton.

WHAT TO DO

Take a walk across the Golden Gate Bridge. As cliche as it is, it’s a must! The Golden Gate Bridge is one of San Francisco’s iconic gems. You can also bike across the bridge but walking will give you time to take in the scenery and iconic city views of SF. I also have a dedicated blog post on The Best Places To View The Golden Gate Bridge.

Walk along Embarcadero & indulge in the many restaurants at the Ferry Building. Go to Vive La Tarte for the croissant shell tacos!! There’s also a big Cupids Arrow along the Embarcadero for a photoshoot.

Go up the Coit Tower for the best views of San Francisco. If you’re all about the views, I have a blog post of my 10 Best Views of San Francisco. I also love taking friends who are in town to Twin Peaks or Bernal Heights for the view.

If you like shopping, head to Union Square for some fun! There’s also a great view of Union Square from the Cheesecake Factory inside Macy’s.

Explore Fisherman’s Wharf and walk to Ghirardelli Square for Ghirardelli ice cream! I also highly suggest getting tickets to explore Alcatraz and learn how the famous prisoners escaped!

Explore the famous crooked street of San Francisco, Lombard Street

Spend time exploring Crissy Fields and the Palace of Fine Arts

Spend time exploring China Town

Go to a Giants game at AT&T Park

If you love parks or love outdoor activities, here are a few of my favorites:

Alamo Square in front of the Painted Ladies. The Painted Ladies is a block of homes that became famous for the television show, Full House
Ina Coolbrith Park has amazing views of downtown San Francisco
Grand Park View & 16th Avenue Tiled Steps
Golden Gate Park and explore the Japanese Tea Garden
Lands End & Sutro Baths
Mission Dolores Park
San Francisco Botanical Gardens

Looking for a day trip from San Francisco?

Take a boat ride to Sausalito for brunch or spend the day making your way to Wine Country to either Napa or Sonoma! Check out my list of Best Day Trips from San Francisco.

WHERE TO EAT

Here’s a list of the Best Restaurants in San Francisco and Where to Brunch in San Francisco.

A few of my favorite places I always take friends or family in town is Philz Coffee (must get the mint mojito), Mr. Holmes Bakehouse (known for cruffins), Hog Island Oysters (inside the Ferry Building) and State Bird Provisions.