You travel, you want to figure out what to do and make sure it’s how you really wanted to spend your time. Me too. I’ve lived in San Francisco since 1995, but grew up in Monterey, CA; so “the city” has always been part of my heart and soul.
I’ve traveled a bit, but I’m not big on the typical touristy things to do. For example, the Golden Gate bridge is beautiful, but instead of just going there, snapping a few photos and getting back on the tour bus, how about doing it a little differently?
Start at the Ferry Building, which is probably close to your hotel. Have coffee at Peet’s to get energized. Then walk a few long blocks North on the water side of the Embarcadero (or take a street car) to rent a bike (Blazing Saddles is popular and right near Pier 39 … which you can skip altogether, in my opinion … well maybe the Musee Mecanique *might* be worth a short stop … more on that later).
Follow the free route map through Aquatic Park, up over the hill into the Marina District and along the water and the SF Yacht Club. Next, you’ll go through the Presidio and on to Fort Point, which is under the bridge and the spot where Kim Novak jumped into the bay in the Hitchcock thriller, Vertigo. After a little fort exploration and picture taking, go up the hill to the bridge. More photo opps await you.
Then, take a little ride across the bridge to the other side. It’s safe because both sidewalks are separated from the traffic and divided - walkers on one side and bikes on the other. You can stop and enjoy the wind or fog, which often haunt that part of the bay, even in the Summer (take a jacket).
After a brisk ride across the bridge (the wind can work against you, but is really exhilarating, which adds to the experience), you can coast down the long hill into Sausalito. There, you might have lunch and linger in this little village with great views back to the city. When you’re ready, you can take the ferry back to drop off your bike and you’re done.
Now, which version sounds like the most fun way to spend 3 or 4 hours?
The bike version is more my style; so if that sounds like more fun to you too, you may enjoy the other things I have listed for you here on my blog. I add things constantly; so you might want to come back frequently to see what’s new.
Use the search box on the top right, or the categories on the left, to find things that seem interesting to you; then just print out what you’d like take along. Everything should be easy to find; so just ask at your hotel or someone on the street. We’re a friendly bunch and always willing to help people find their way.
Enjoy,
Randy
