Allegra & Christopher
Things To Do
Alcatraz Island
If you've got the time, Alcatraz is worth the effort. Not only is there a breathtaking ferry ride across the Bay, but there is an audio tour that takes you back in time. Book tickets as far in advance as possible.
Andy Goldsworthy's Wood Line
If you are short on time, make a quick detour to see/hike Andy Goldsworthy's (one of Allie's favorite artists) "Wood Line." A meandering continuous log takes you down Lovers' Lane in the historic Presidio. Once you are finished, you can check out the nearby view at Inspiration Point and also see Goldsworthy's "Spire."
Bay Area Discovery Museum
If you have young children (under 10), they will LOVE the Discovery Museum. Set underneath the Golden Gate Bridge, it offers interactive science, art, environmental, and cultural exhibits, in addition to fabulous play areas for the kiddos.
Exploratorium
If you have kids or just love science, this interactive museum on the Embarcadero has got something fun for everyone.
Ferry Building Marketplace
Great market filled with locals' favorite stores. Lots of free samples, and the views are pretty spectacular.
Filoli Historic House & Garden
A 40 minute drive south of SF, Filoli is one of Allie's favorite places. Designed between 1915 – 1917 and set against the dramatic backdrop of the northern Santa Cruz Mountains in Woodside, California, Filoli is an excellent example of the Golden Age of American garden design and country house architecture. It is recognized as one of the finest remaining country estates of the early 20th century, and its gardens are stunning year-round.
Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park is perfect for going on a run, playing some volleyball or getting your culture on. Visit the Japanese Tea Garden, the DeYoung Museum tower, the California Academy of Science, the Conservatory of Flowers, Stowe Lake, the Botanical Garden, or the buffalos.
Haight-Ashbury
Visit the Upper Haight if you are looking for the "Summer of Love" San Francisco vibe. Amoeba Records, FTC skate shop, and tons of hippie and Tibetan stores make up the Haight-Ashbury.
Hayes Valley
Hayes Valley is a great neighborhood for a wander. Good shopping, restaurants, and an outdoor biergarten. A bit on the pricey side.
Lands End Lookout
This is Allie's favorite hike in SF. Check out the Sutro Baths, Point Lobos, and some of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge as you hike around the cliffs lining the entrance to San Francisco Bay. She took the picture above at Land's End. The hike is relatively flat and no more than 2 miles round trip. It is also paved most of the way. There is a great gift shop and cafe at the parking lot.
Mission District
Historically the Mexican district, this now gentrified neighborhood is good for a wander. It's got great shopping, restaurants, street art and murals, and the best taquerias in SF. Locals love Dolores Park, Bi-Rite Ice Cream, and Tartine Bakery. Yuzuki and Ichi, Chris and Allie's favorite Japanese restaurants in SF, are also in the Misson.
Muir Woods National Monument
Take a hike through this gorgeous redwood forest. It was featured in films such as "Vertigo" and "Return of the Jedi." You may need to make reservations or buy permits to park. Check in advance.
Point Reyes National Seashore
A spectacular day trip (1 hour drive from San Francisco). Hike to the lighthouse or to the very edge of Tomales Bay. After your hike, stop in Inverness and eat Tomales Bay Oysters at Saltwater Oyster Depot, have a homemade meal at Vladmir's Czech Restaurant, or experience a local sustainable, not to mention, super tasty meal at Marin Sun Farms in Pt. Reyes Station.
Napa Valley
Napa Valley, Sonoma, Alexander Valley... Wine tasting, duh. Some of Allie's favorites to visit are Opus, Hall Wines, Peju, and Alexander Valley Winery.