O N T H E F L Y

I left my [wallet] in San Francisco…

San Francisco is known for its wonderful food, but there’s also plenty to do when you’re not inhaling your tenth plate of pasta on Columbus Street (wouldn’t know anything about that).

Alcatraz

The infamous island that housed some of the most notorious criminals like Al Capone, George “Machine Gun” Kelly, and the “Birdman” Robert Franklin Stroud, is about a 15 minute ferry ride away from the heart of San Francisco. It’s so close that inmates could regularly hear the sounds of the city on a Friday night through the prison windows.

For about $50, you’ll get transportation to and from Alcatraz by ferry from Pier 33 and an audio tour which entertained both my 12 and 21 year old selves. If you’re on a strict budget, Alcatraz might have to wait, but if you’re willing to take a picnic to Dolores Park instead of going out to dinner, it’s definitely worth the price. It might be the history geek in me speaking, but I think the tour is the most interesting experience that San Francisco has to offer.

Note: Food isn’t offered on the island, so make sure you eat beforehand or bring a snack with you!

Fisherman’s Wharf

I know I just said there’s more to San Francisco than the food, but it would be wrong to tell you to just go sightseeing on the wharf. Yes, there are sea lions to be watched sunbathing and sparring. Yes, there are gorgeous views. But there’s also a lot of chowder. Go get some.

Ferry Building

Located at the center of Embarcadero in the Financial District is the Ferry Building. On Saturday mornings, you can come here for a Farmer’s Market, and on any other day just come for the cute shops and for a good cup of coffee! Blue Bottle Coffee is a hot commodity around here. The piers around the building also offer picturesque views.

Union Square

Fancy a wee bit of shopping? Union Square offers your favorite stores, whether that includes Saks, Burberry, and Chanel, or Macy’s, Express, and Victoria’s Secret. The square is also a cute place to hang around if the weather is nice. Take a picture with the infamous San Francisco hearts–they are regularly painted so check back to see if they’ve changed!

Painted Ladies

Whether or not you’re a Full House fan, you’ve probably seen at least a photo of the Painted Ladies. Located on Steiner Street across from Alamo Square Park, these Victorian style houses might be worth the trek up several hills, not only because they’re famous, but because a bit further down on Hayes Street is an adorable area with some boutique shops and restaurants. So make an evening out of it!

Chinatown

Last, but certainly not least, Chinatown is a must see (and eat) when in San Francisco. You’ll get some of the best Chinese food in the state, and maybe even country for pretty much whatever budget you’re looking for. Make sure to do your research and you’re bound to find something delicious!

See you soon, SF.