Make the Most of a Weekend in San Francisco
Let me just say ‘West Coast’s the best coast’, and San Francisco just might be the gem that makes the Golden State shine so bright.
Three days in “The City” may hardly feel like enough time to fully experience all that San Francisco has to offer. But a weekend well spent can make you fall in love with this “viewtiful” vacation destination.
Here are just a few places to consider for your visit to make the most of your weekend in San Francisco.
#Views
Golden Gate Bridge – One does not simply visit SF and not make it a point to see the Golden Gate Bridge. You can go for the super touristy Overlook, Fort Point or Crissy Field; or you can go for a romantic sunset picnic on Baker Beach with the bridge as your backdrop without too much fog.
McCormick and Kuletos – For breathtaking views and all the great seafood SF can offer, consider an upscale dinner here and a stroll next door to the Original Ghirardelli Square for dessert. Their fresh chocolate chip cookies are delicious!
Parc 55 a Hilton Hotel – Request a room on a higher floor, where you will have remarkable views of the city. Even the breakfast area has an awesome view of the hustle and bustle of San Franciscans rushing to work in Hallidie Plaza.
#Eats
La Taqueria – San Francisco’s burrito game is strong. Consider the La Taq location in The Mission for some tasty burritos and cold cervezas. I suggest going with someone, agreeing on a burrito of choice, and sharing your meal (so you can explore The Mission after without a to-go bag to carry around). Disclaimer 1: You will wait in line for about 20 minutes to order when the line is out the door. But you will not mind when you taste the delicious comida. Disclaimer 2: About 99% of The Mission is cash only homie so make sure you’re prepared with some dollar bills.
Alba Rays – The City might be 2,300 miles away from New Orleans, but you can grab some Cajun-Creole food from this soulful spot in The Mission. The jambalaya takes on more of a paella approach, but is truly tasty, as are the boudin balls, red beans & rice and shrimp & grits.
Crepes on Cole – A smaller breakfast shop with some sizable plates. The omelet is definitely enough for two to share and the iced coffees get your day started just right.
Honorable mentions: Super Duper Burgers, Original Ghirardelli Square, and Fisherman’s Wharf for seafood snacks.
#Lifestyle
Sam’s Cable Car Lounge – This chill dive lounge in Union Square boasts a 4-hour happy hour with decent prices even for “The City”. They’ll gift you with popcorn as you kick back with a cocktail.
Lyon Street Steps – Just in case 10k+ steps per day aren’t enough for you, make an exercise out of the Lyon Street Steps. It’s a perk that the area is breathtakingly gorgeous – or maybe you’ll be breathless from the stairs…
Lagunitas Brewery – Yes, there are breweries in San Francisco proper, but nothing beats jumping in a rideshare full of friends and jamming for an hour north to Petaluma, the home of Lagunitas Brewery. Alongside some of the best craft beer California can offer, there’s tasty food and live music. Learn the brewery magic by taking a tour, then wrap up with a tasting flight and games of corn hole with friends for an afternoon of fun.
Hopefully, these suggestions will help you make the most of your San Francisco weekend. Have you been to SF and have local favs of your own? Did you try out a recommendation above? Share your experience with us in the comments section below!
Happy travels!
To access more information about local restaurants, unique attractions, and special offers in San Francisco, visit our Destination Guide, or explore Hilton properties in San Francisco below.
Know Before You Go
- Golden Gate Park has many activities – there are countless trails to walk, lakes, ponds, fields for sports activities, and even a Conservatory for Flowers.
- Check out these spots for great photos: Coit Tower, Telegraph Hill, Dolores Park, and Alamo Square.
- Always dress in layers for the weather. Even in the summer, it can be chilly!
