A quick getaway to San Francisco

I left my heart in San Francisco. I think that’s the song. And now I see why. Before I traveled cross country — literally, from Philadelphia to San Fran — to visit this diverse city, I hadn’t heard a single bad review. Sure the traffic is terrible and the hilly terrain is even worse, but that pales in comparison to what this quirky, tech-driven city has to offer.

See the sights:

Golden Gate

If you go to San Francisco and don’t see the Golden Gate Bridge, were you really there? This is a staple, so no matter if you have a few hours or a few days, go here.

The Wharf

I suggest you park either at Fort Point National Historic Site or in the first parking lot along that same road. Both places will give you an opportunity to take photos of the bridge from multiple angles.

You’ll likely be told that the Wharf has become a tourist trap, and it has. But it’s still a sight to see. The strip along the coast is lined with tourist shops, restaurants and street performers. Hop into a local shop and buy yourself a souvenir!

Ghiradelli

Chocolate, chocolate, chocolate. I’m not sure you need much, if any, convincing here. The Ghiradelli factory no longer exists but it’s still worth a stop into the store. You can watch chocolatiers perfect the chocolate recipe. I highly recommend ordering a hot  chocolate unless it’s hot outside — then ice cream it is!

900 North Point St Suite 52, San Francisco, CA 94109

Haight Ashbury

Any Full House fans? This is known as the posh neighborhood of San Francisco and is home to the row of houses used as the backdrop in the Full House trailer. Even if you’re not a fan of the show, this area is total house goals.

Lombard Street

Grab some dramamine — just kidding — and head to Lombard Street. The windy road is unusual even in even kooky San Fran. The road is a one-block stretch  sandwiched between housing where cars have to snake their way down a hill. It’s too weird not to have on the must-see list.

Best views: 

Take an Uber or Lyft along the Pacific to Lands End. You’ll have to walk or bike to lookout points because Lands End is actually in a park, but it’s well worth it. You won’t get a city view here, but you will get to take in the sea and get a good view of the Golden Gate Bridge.

680 Point Lobos Ave, San Francisco, CA 94121

Twin Peaks is home to a hilltop park that gives those willing to hike the summit a 360-view of the Bay Area.

501 Twin Peaks Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94114

Cityscape is an enclosed hotel bar on the top level of the Hilton in downtown with a great view. Take your date, your friends or yourself for a drink just because. You deserve it.

333 O’Farrell St, San Francisco, CA 94102

A day away

Napa and Sonoma are wonderful day trips just a couple of hours from San Francisco where you can enjoy the California countryside and sip wine.

My recommended wineries are Castello di Amoroso and Coppola winery.

In the Castello you get to drink wine in an actual castle. I believe the castle has been owned by the same family for generations and perks if you speak Italian, so do most of the employees.

I recommend Coppola for selfish reasons: it’s one of my favorite brands of wine. Try the pinot noir.

Castello di Amoroso

4045 St Helena Hwy, Calistoga, CA 94515