Natalie & Josh
While You're in SF...
Upper Haight (for adults and kids!)
Josh lived in this neighborhood for four years, and it's a must-see if it's your first time to San Francisco. Some highlights: Amoeba Music Loved to Death (Liz Knisely Approved) Free Gold Watch (a hidden pinball arcade for the whole family) Cha Cha Cha (Spanish tapas, and one of our first dates) Escape from New York Pizza (arguably the best slices in the city) Club Deluxe (for live music and drinks) Alembic (small bites and classy cocktails) Zazie (best brunch in town, but get there early!)
Valencia Street
One of the longest strips of independent retailers in the country, Valencia street from 16th to 24th street is your spot to explore bookstores, coffee shops, clothing stores, restaurants and bars. Most stores open at 11am and the strip is a popular destination for night life. If you are cruising this strip, make sure to check out Scarlet Sage (Nat's favorite), Needles and Pens, Dog Ear Books, Aquarius Record Store, Paxton Gate and 826 Valencia. For a bite to eat: Arizmendi Bakery, DOSA, Dandelion Chocolate, Craftsman and Wolves, Media Noche, Loló...the list goes on, please text us!
Ferry Building Marketplace
One of San Francisco's most iconic buildings, located at the end of Market street along the Embarcadero. A major port of entry for commuters traveling the Bay by ferry, you can start your day off by grabbing a bite to eat or a coffee, then cruising the Embarcadero to catch some views of the waterfront. On Saturday mornings they have a vibrant, bustling farmers market on top of their usual indoor artisanal market. Very easy to get to via MUNI and BART.
Mission Dolores Park
Natalie's local park growing up, this is a great place to grab some snacks, beer or wine and have a picnic. With some great views of San Francisco and plenty of grass to spare, this is your place to lounge, people watch & soak up some sun. We are warning you now: the park will be MADNESS on Pride weekend, but so much fun. There's usually a massive dance party and lots of nudity and glitter.
Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park is home to many amazing destinations and activities for those looking to keep it outdoors. Popular attractions include: -Botanical Gardens (be sure to visit their book shop and the fragrance garden while you're there) -Stow Lake (rent a pedal boat and keep an eye out for great blue herons!) -Japanese Tea Garden (free admission on Wednesdays before 10am) -Bison Paddock (a quick Google search reveals a fascinating history here) -San Francisco Lawn Bowling Club (great for people-watching, but there are also free lessons at noon on Saturdays). -Disc Golf Course -Free Yoga on Saturday mornings at 11:30am https://sf.funcheap.com/event-series/free-outdoor-yoga-day-golden-gate-park/ The park is also home to the Cal Academy of Sciences, De Young Museum and Conservatory of Flowers for those looking to do something inside.
Tartine Bakery
Home to some of the world's best baked goods, Tartine is a San Francisco staple. Located blocks from where Natalie grew up, this could be a perfect spot to stop for a morning coffee and pastry. This place ALWAYS has a line and is always worth it. Located close to Valencia street and/or Dolores Park, perfect for your sugar or caffeine fix.
Marina Green Drive
Located at the northern end of San Francisco with clear views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, the Marina Green is perfect for an early morning stroll or bike ride along the water.
Presidio
A stunning expanse of National Park land funneling into the Golden Gate Bridge on the north end of town, you'll find endless hiking opportunities here along with several museums and cultural centers and a massive food truck picnic on Sundays.