Things to Do
Our favorite San Francisco spots
Extending your trip? San Francisco is one of our favorite cities, and we'd love to share some of the places that make it special to us. Here are our personal recommendations—some classic, some off the beaten path.
Food & Drink
Tartine Bakery
Mission District
The morning bun is legendary for a reason. Get there early to beat the line!
Swan Oyster Depot
Nob Hill
A San Francisco institution since 1912. Counter seating only—the wait is worth it.
Foreign Cinema
Mission District
Dinner with films projected on the courtyard wall. One of our favorite date spots.
Smuggler's Cove
Hayes Valley
Pirate-themed tiki bar with 400+ rums. Ask the bartenders for recommendations!
Golden Boy Pizza
North Beach
Thick, focaccia-style squares. The clam and garlic is incredible. Cash only.
Ritual Coffee Roasters
Multiple locations
Our go-to for great coffee. The Valencia Street location has nice outdoor seating.
Sights & Activities
Golden Gate Park
Bigger than Central Park! Visit the Japanese Tea Garden, California Academy of Sciences, or just wander. The bison paddock is a hidden gem.
Dolores Park
The best people-watching in the city. Grab snacks from Bi-Rite and enjoy the views of downtown. Sunny weekends are magical here.
Lands End Trail
Stunning coastal walk with views of the Golden Gate. The Sutro Baths ruins are fascinating. One of our favorite hikes in the city.
Ferry Building Marketplace
Food hall with incredible local vendors. Saturday mornings feature the famous farmers market. Blue Bottle started here!
Cable Car Ride
Yes, it's touristy, but it's also genuinely fun! The Powell-Hyde line has the best views. Board at the turnaround for shorter lines.
SFMOMA
World-class modern art museum. The building itself is beautiful. Don't miss the living wall on the third floor!
Neighborhoods to Explore
The Mission
Our favorite neighborhood. Amazing taquerias, street art, vintage shops, and some of the best restaurants in the city. Valencia Street and 24th Street are the main drags. Don't miss the murals in Balmy Alley.
North Beach
San Francisco's Little Italy. Great for Italian food, old-school cafes, and Beat Generation history. Climb up to Coit Tower for panoramic views.
Hayes Valley
Near both venues! Walkable strip with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Perfect for a pre-wedding wander. Patricia's Green is a nice spot to rest.
The Castro
Historic LGBTQ+ neighborhood with great bars, the beautiful Castro Theatre, and a vibrant community. Walk up to Twin Peaks for incredible sunset views.
Day Trips
Muir Woods
~45 min drive
Ancient redwood forest that feels magical. Reserve parking in advance! Combine with a stop in Sausalito on the way back.
Wine Country
~1 hour drive
Napa and Sonoma are both close! We prefer Sonoma for a more relaxed vibe. Consider a guided tour if you want to taste freely.
Half Moon Bay
~45 min drive
Cute coastal town with great seafood. Drive down Highway 1 for stunning ocean views. Perfect for a chill afternoon.
Point Reyes
~1.5 hour drive
Beautiful national seashore with hiking, wildlife, and dramatic coastline. The lighthouse is stunning. Check for elephant seals in season!
Have questions about San Francisco or want more personalized recommendations? Just ask us—we love talking about this city!