Spend a lifetime in San Francisco and you still wouldn’t have sufficient time to experience the city’s countless wonders. The City by the Bay is steeped in history, hosts many renowned cultural institutions, possesses some of the most compelling architecture you'll find anywhere, and boasts a culinary scene that other urban hubs can only dream about. Because there are so many options to consider, we’ve selected activities that everyone from the first-time traveler to the frequent visitor will love. Here’s where to shop, eat, stay, and explore in the Golden City.
Stay at The Fairmont San Francisco
Named for the railroad barons (“Nobs”) who built their mansions in the area, Nob Hill is one of the most well-heeled neighborhoods in San Francisco. At its pinnacle sits the historic Fairmont San Francisco, a stunning hotel that evokes early 20th-century opulence. Channel your inner blueblood and relax among marble columns, crystal chandeliers, and giant gilded mirrors. The penthouse suite, which takes up the entire eighth floor, boasts a two-story circular library, a vaulted billiards room, and even a secret staircase that once facilitated dalliances between President John F. Kennedy and Marilyn Monroe. Looking for a memorable cocktail? The onsite Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar features all the tiki classics you expect and a floating bandstand that will bring a smile to your face.
Explore SFMOMA
It’s easy to get lost in the SFMOMA in a wonderful sort of way. The largest modern art museum in the world houses more than 33,000 pieces by the likes of Jackson Pollock, Paul Klee, and Andy Warhol. The space itself is impressive—most notably, in the way the rippling white fiberglass exterior invokes rolling fog—but every inch of the structure is in a sense an exhibition. Insider tip: The SFMOMA Museum Store is a fabulous place to shop for that stylish someone on your list, including a well-curated collection of gifts for kids.
Shop in the Mission District
The Mission District is worth a visit if only to see this artsy neighborhood’s vibrant outdoor murals. Once you’re there, stop inside any of the dozens of independent boutiques and eateries. Fuel up with a banana cream cupcake from Wholesome Bakery before browsing for creative gifts at the women-owned design collective Gravel & Gold. For dinner, you can keep things simple with a Mission-style burrito from La Taqueria or El Farolito, or you can go high-end with a sumptuous meal at Californios or Flour + Water.
Discover the Ferry Building
Beaux arts–inspired grandeur, locally sourced food, creative merchants, and killer views of San Francisco Bay—the Ferry Building is like a microcosm of the city itself. Plus, it's a great way to do some people-watching and live just like the locals do. Stroll through the Great Nave to explore outposts of some of the Bay Area’s most interesting vendors. Be sure to sample some Mt. Tam cheese from Cowgirl Creamery, try local oysters (and many other ultra-fresh seafood options at Hog Island Oyster Company, recharge with a siphon pour from Blue Bottle Coffee, and shop for handcrafted tableware at Heath Ceramics.
Eat at The Slanted Door
The Slanted Door has permanently closed its Ferry Building restaurant, but you can still taste Chef Charles Phan's contemporary Vietnamese cuisine in San Ramon and at a newly opened outpost in Napa. Try favorites like shaking beef, cellophane noodles, and imperial rolls and you'll understand why Bay Area residents consider this franchise a local treasure.
You shouldn't have trouble filling up your San Francisco itinerary: You can tempt your palate in the Japantown neighborhood; shop to your heart's content in Union Square; explore your inner child at Fisherman's Wharf; or visit some lesser-known attractions that are guaranteed to please. You'll also find awesome ice cream, top-notch coffee options, and dining scene like no other.