Bring on the Fog! Everything Not to Miss During Your Next Visit to SF
Whether you’re looking to explore the vibrant food scene or check out the iconic Painted Ladies, San Francisco caters to almost every kind of traveler. This legendary city is home to icons like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, and its unique history and diverse population give it character and charm that’s unlike any other. From the hilly streets to the legendary and historic Chinatown, there is so much to see and do in the Golden Gate City. And while you could hit all the big attractions, we’re here to honor the city’s hidden gems. So we put together a guide for the ultimate, not-so-basic weekend in Downtown San Francisco.
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4 p.m.
Check-in to Omni San Francisco Hotel
Omni San Francisco Hotel is located in the heart of the city on the historic California cable car line, placing travelers in a prime location to explore the very best of SF. The exterior of the building boasts intricate designs and timeless architecture, providing guests with a sense of exclusivity and elegance upon arrival. The hotel is home to 362 guest rooms, each designed with sophistication and modern luxury in mind. The bathrooms feature marble vanities, and the crown molding brings a bit of history to the present. When you want to break a sweat in between activities, there is a fitness center on-site with Peloton bikes and a nice city view. Room service is available for breakfast, lunch and dinner and is a great option when you want to watch the fog roll in from your room. That said, one of the best things about the Omni San Francisco Hotel is the fact that it’s within walking distance to almost everything cool, giving you a head start on making the most of your trip. Let’s go!
6 p.m.
Dinner at Wayfare Tavern
Wayfare Tavern transports guests to London with a British pub setting that is enhanced with exposed brick walls and antique artwork. This upscale eatery blends European charm with refined American cuisine, and it provides a true taste of San Francisco’s renowned culinary scene. Start off with oysters from the raw bar along with a crisp glass of Sancerre from France. For your main course, the Skuna Bay salmon pairs perfectly with a side of burrata-whipped potatoes.
12/27
8 p.m.
Nightcap at Monte’s Bar
Once you arrive back at Omni San Francisco after dinner, hit up the hotel bar for a soothing nightcap. Sleek and chic, Monte’s Bar features massive windows that offer an elegant peek into the outside world. This hotel bar has a timeless appeal, and the overall vibe makes you want to put your pinkies up as you sip something classic like a gin martini. Monte’s Bar also serves up some tasty bites like deviled eggs and shrimp cocktail for snacking.
10 a.m.
Breakfast at Sweet Maple
Before starting your busy day, hit up Sweet Maple for breakfast and brew. This casual hot spot is a San Francisco staple, specializing in innovative breakfast fare that is sure to kick-start your morning. Sweet Maple serves everything from decadent scrambles to fluffy “Soufflegg” skillets. The most famous dish on the menu, however, is definitely the thick-cut Millionaire’s Bacon, which is baked with a brown sugar glaze and other spices.
Noon
Explore the Ferry Building Marketplace
The chic and trendy Ferry Building Marketplace is the ideal spot for a light lunch and curated shopping. There are so many vendors and merchants to browse, ranging from artisan foods to holistic skin-care lines. Snag a sweet treat from Dandelion Chocolate or pick up some gourmet cheese from Epicurean Trader before sitting down for a crisp glass of wine on the Ferry Plaza Wine Merchant patio. If you’re looking for jewelry or clothes, the Fog City Flea Trading Post is a must-visit.
2 p.m.
Hop on the Cable Car to Chinatown
Upon entering the iconic Dragon’s Gate, visitors become immersed in one of the oldest Chinatowns in the entire country. This historic area is home to authentic cuisine, renowned herbalists and bustling karaoke bars. However, no visit to Chinatown is complete without a treat from the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory. From chocolate-dipped to green tea-flavored, this iconic establishment has been serving handmade fortune cookies since 1962.
4 p.m.
Shop in Union Square
Looking to indulge in a little shopping spree in San Francisco? Union Square is packed full of some of the best boutiques and big-name brands imaginable. From Madewell to Chanel, there is something for every style and price point. Whether you’re looking to purchase a new handbag or simply need a new outfit for the night ahead, exploring Union Square with a coffee in hand is the best way to get a taste of the SF shopping scene.
6 p.m.
Dinner at Angler San Francisco
Angler San Francisco is a refined eatery that serves decadent seafood and world-class wines. Since it is located right on the waterfront, the panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay are stunning and immersive. The seafood at Angler is locally sourced, and the menu changes based on what is caught each day. When it comes to cooking, everything is grilled to perfection on the open wood fire, resulting in a slightly smoky yet enticing taste.
8 p.m.
See a show at Club Fugazi
Club Fugazi is an iconic venue that places the audience up close and personal to some of the most amazing performances in the city. The current show, “Dear San Francisco,” excites and entices with death-defying stunts and amazing acrobatics. This 90-minute show provides the perfect post-dinner entertainment during your second night in SF. Given the intimate setting of Club Fugazi, your attention is sure to be captivated by each and every move.
10 p.m.
Cocktails at Wilson & Wilson
What better way to close out your trip than with a nightcap at Wilson & Wilson? This mysterious speakeasy has unique and clandestine vibes that set the scene for innovative craft cocktails in the heart of the city. The dim lighting and vintage decor create an immersive atmosphere while the amazing libations tantalize your taste buds. In addition to being beautiful, the tequila-based Touch of Evil digestive is the perfect send-off drink before bed.
Allie Lebos graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2017 with a BA in Communication. While in school she was a staff writer at The Daily Nexus for nearly two years. Since graduating she has written for The Palisades Magazine, as well as Hidden Hills Magazine. Currently living in Santa Monica, Allie loves to indulge in good food, hot yoga, and daily walks along the beach; writing articles on travel, special events, as well as features on local businesses and individuals.
