Things To Do
Golden Gate Bridge & Round House Cafe
When Pat and Col visited SF before they moved here, they did a 10 mile hike through city. When they got to the Golden Gate bridge, they were so hungry they ate chocolates out of the gift shop as Round House Cafe was closed down (much to Col's dismay). For two years the cafe sat shuttered, but is now reopened and has great views/snacks. Col and Pat recommend Ubering to the cafe, grabbing a beverage, and walking the bridge! Make sure to head to the official visitor center too and, as Col would say, "Get your NPS Passport stamp"! P.S. The chocolate tins in the gift shop make a great snack too!
Lombard Street
SF's famous street known for its highly winding, crooked section, often referred to as "the crookedest street in the world"! Also, a cute tie to Colleen's home town - Lombard, IL!
Ghirardelli Square
Ghirardelli Square is a historic landmark in San Francisco, originally the site of the Ghirardelli Chocolate Company's factory. It's now a vibrant complex of restaurants, shops, and a hotel, known for its red brick buildings which are the original facades from the factory. Worth a visit for their famous hot fudge sundaes and chocolate tastings! While here, enjoy views of the bay and Golden Gate bridge from Aquatic Park (where Col recommends eating your sundae) or grab lunch at Barrio before your Ghirardelli experience for tacos, margs, and views!
PIER 39 & Sea Lions
A bustling waterfront entertainment complex in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf district, renowned for its iconic sea lions, diverse attractions, and stunning bay views. While a bit touristy, the sea lions at the end of the pier on the left are worth the visit!
Cable Car Ride
Start your day at the Turn Cafe grabbing a coffee/pastry and head to the cable car line (a block down)! Enjoy your breakfast while downloading the Muni app and getting your Muni day pass (trolley single tickets cost $8, so get the $14 one for unlimited rides/hop on and off privlidges for one day!) Ride the cable car through several famous SF neighborhoods enjoying sites along the way. End your journey at Fisherman's Wharf and enjoy an Irish coffee at the famous Buena Vista Cafe!
Painted Ladies & Blue Painted Lady Tour
When Col and Pat first visted SF, Colleen stopped to take a picture in front of the blue painted lady. Pat of course was telling her to get out of the way as she got told to "get out of my driveway" by the owner that was trying to come in. Little did they know that man, their now friend George, was only kidding and LOVES when people stop to see his house. Pat and Colleen were offered to come inside (Col about died as a Full House fan) and George took them on a trial run what is now his famous home tour - they were the first tour and the rest is history! If you'd like to step inside this iconic Painted Lady, message George on Instagram or just show up in front of the house at 4pm daily. Otherwise, just head to Alamo Square park and take in all the houses and views from across the street!
Chinatown San Francisco
This vibrant, historic neighborhood is the oldest Chinatown in North America and one of the largest outside Asia. Don't miss Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory, Lion's Den for drinks and Mister Jiu's for some yummy food!
Alcatraz Island
Famously known as "The Rock", Alcatraz was used as a maximum-security prison from 1934 to 1963, housing notorious criminals. The island is now part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Check out Hillstone for a meal before or after your cruise!
Mel's Drive-In
A classic American diner, known for its 1950s-style retro decor and classic diner food. Mel's Drive-In has a long history in San Francisco, first opening in 1947, and has been featured in films like "American Graffiti". Col and Pat often go here with Ollie for a bite to eat and continue the tradition of "diner dates" Pat's parents used to do in New Jersey!
Dumpling Story
A favorite take-out and date night spot in Col and Pat’s neighborhood which they often refer to as "dough house" due to all the yummy dumplings. Try the Numb & Spicy Pork Xiao Long Bao!
Johnny Doughnuts
Missing Stan's from Chicago when moving to SF, Col's day was made when an old neighborhood ice cream store turned into Johnny Doughnuts. It's a staple for Col, Pat, and Ollie on week day walks or weekend strolls. If you visit, take your donuts and head up to the couple's favorite neighborhood park, Alta Plaza, for amazing views for the bay and city!
Options Near Hotel
Here are some options near the hotel for... Coffee: Home Coffee Roasters (455 Grant Ave.) Breakfast: Café de la Presse (352 Grant Ave.) & Sisterita (669 Commercial St.) Lunch: Sutter Pub (700 Sutter St.), Matador (679 Sutter St.), & Lori's Diner (500 Sutter St.) Dinner: Aliment (786 Bush St.), Del Popolo (855 Bush St.), & Nob Hill Cafe (1152 Taylor St.) Drinks: Peacekeeper (925 Bush St.), PCH (550 Sutter St.), & Persona (685 Sutter St.) Pharmacy: Walgreens (459 Powell St.)