A weekend in San Francisco can be just what you need to feel a more vibrant side of yourself and experience an immersive culture without even leaving the US. With so much diversity, SF is one of the most visited places in the country and offers something for pretty much everyone. From walking into Marlin County via the Golden Gate, to a walking city tour, give these a try.
Get Up and Visit the Glorious Golden Gate!
What would a trip to the City by the Bay be without taking in the glorious Golden Gate Bridge? An engineering marvel, the bridge spans around 1.7miles, and leads into Marlin County, a relaxing and beautiful part of California’s Pacific coast. So fire up an app for luggage storage in San Francisco, and get going! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can walk the Golden Gate Bridge or even cycle. It will take around 45 to 60 minutes, but also be aware of the weather!
A Weekend in San Francisco on Cable Cars
San Francisco attracts around 23 million visitors each year, and like other cities, you need some ways of getting around this sprawling town. One of the most unique attractions of San Francisco is its vintage and charming cable cars, which run up and down the most visited spots in the City:
- The California Street Line connects the luxury and financial area to Van Ness Avenue.
- The Powell-Hyde Line links tourist spots such as Union Square to Fisherman’s Wharf.
- You can get to North Beach by taking a cable car that runs along the Powell-Mason line.
Take an Evening Trip to North Beach
North Bridge is among the most visited places in SF with a strong Italian-American heritage. As such, there are many fine and authentic Italian eateries among a sea of bookstores and bars. So, after an afternoon of reading, you can relax with some fine dining and a goodnight drink. Pretty much everyone’s idea of an evening well spent. Unfortunately, North Beach doesn’t actually have a beach. However, it is very close to tourist areas such as Pier 33 and Coit Tower.
How About a Stretch at Alcatraz?
The world’s most infamous prison that made mincemeat of Al Capone is situated just off the coast of SF. Despite being shut down decades ago, the prison remains one of the most visited sites in the US, and a top reason for tourism to the City. Besides its damning history, Alcatraz is also said to be one of the most haunted places in the world. So, keep an eye out for eerie shadows and listen to see if you smell something the next time you hop over to the Rock!
An Artsy Weekend in San Francisco
The art scene in San Francisco is pretty well known and continues a vibrant heritage started in the 1950s by the Bay Area Figurative Movement. While your partner catches a San Francisco Giants game, you can spend a weekend in San Francisco getting lost in its stunning art culture.
de Young museum
Boasting 104 art galleries, San Francisco is no stranger to stunning collections. One of the most impressive and a must-see for any art lover is the de Young Museum (free on Fridays).
The Haight-Ashbury district
If you enjoy quaint towns and architecture, then the Haight-Ashbury district is a treat. Like a town in a town, explore the Victorian houses and unique shops with a relaxed atmosphere.
Yerba Buena neighborhood
Yerba Buena is home to the Museum of the African Diaspora that celebrates African culture through art and stories, and is also close to the contemporary Buena Center for the Arts.
A Skyline View from Dolores Park
There are very few places in the world with sunsets as stunning as those in California. Dolores Park in particular offers stunning sunset views as well as unmatched vistas all around, including the famous SF skyline. However, before settling down to watch the sun go down for another night, why not tire yourself out with some of the many attractions at the park? Basketball, tennis, and even a dog play area are all available before you take in the sights of the SF Bay.
Don’t Forget About BART
No, not one Bartholomew J. Simpson, but the Bay Area Rapid Transit system that locals use to get around the City. SF is a large place and it’s pretty much impossible for your tootsies to walk everywhere without getting hurt. To get between districts, BART offers cheap and convenient transportation. Fares start at $4.25 and can reach around $11.45 depending on distance and age. However, the lines are pretty reliable and on time, and much cheaper than Uber!
A Walkabout Weekend in San Francisco
At 121 km2, San Francisco is a pretty big city and is the fifth most densely populated in the US. However, one of the best ways to tour a city is by walking it. Of course, this isn’t for everyone, but if you are able to navigate on foot, there are some scenic routes that will make it worthwhile:
- There are many stunning Pacific coastal walks, such as the Lands End Trail.
- If you want some history, you can walk from Crissy Field to Fort Point.
- Golden Gate Promenade offers stunning views of the world-famous bridge.
Prepare for Hills and Changing Weather
Being situated right on a coastal bay, the weather in SF is pretty unpredictable. It’s also built on a series of hills that can take its toll on your legs. If you aren’t the most able-bodied person, then plan to use cable cars and BART, or your legs will feel it. While SF is pretty much hot and sunny most of the time, with stunning Californian weather, it does change at the drop of a hat. One minute you’re basking in the sun, and the next there’s a tropical storm. So keep up to date.
Summary
Walking the Golden Gate Bridge is a great way to start a weekend in San Francisco, with stunning places to see on the other side. However, SF is known for its art and vibrancy, so check out the many galleries in the City. But be prepared for the many steep hills and weather!
