For the first city of our “City Uncovered” series, where we provide you with mini travel guides to assist you when traveling, we are uncovering San Francisco.
A vibrant city in California that blends modern innovation with rich history and breathtaking natural beauty, we can guarantee that when you’re done reading this guide you’ll want to book the first flight out to this city!
Nestled along the shores of Northern California, San Francisco attracts travelers from around the world with its iconic landmarks and diverse neighborhoods.
From the Golden Gate Bridge to the serene Golden Gate Park, this city has so much to discover and explore.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, this blog post will serve as your guide to discovering the must-sees of San Francisco's unforgettable sights.
Why This City
San Francisco is a lively city with numerous attractions that make it a popular destination for visitors from around the world.
When talking about California, San Francisco is usually one of the first cities in the state people are checking off their list so it’s only right that we have a mini guide on it to help you get started with your planning when in town for the next brunch.
Originally a Spanish mission, when later acquired by the U.S. San Francisco eventually boomed as a center of “wealth, military power, progressive culture and high technology.” as stated by History.com.
Why You Should Visit
San Francisco is a destination that captivates travelers from around the world with its unique blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and technological innovation. There are countless reasons why people should consider visiting this vibrant and enchanting city.
From iconic landmarks to diverse neighborhoods, world-class cuisine to cutting-edge technology, here is a look at why San Francisco made our list!
Iconic Landmarks
One of the most compelling reasons to visit San Francisco is its iconic landmarks that have become symbols of the city. The majestic Golden Gate Bridge, with its distinctive red hue, is a work of art and offers breathtaking views of the city and bay. Exploring Alcatraz Island, once home to a notorious federal penitentiary, provides a glimpse into the city's rich history and storied past. These are just a few of several landmarks specific to San Francisco that make it worth visiting.
Cultural Neighborhoods
San Francisco's neighborhoods are said to be a reflection of its diverse population and offer a wealth of experiences as you travel the city. Home to neighborhoods like Chinatown and Little Italy, you can get a taste of different cultures that often host local events and festivals you may be able to join while visiting if you’re lucky.
Art and Culture Scene
San Francisco’s vibrant arts and culture scene never fails to impress from what we’ve heard. From world-class museums like the de Young and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) to numerous art galleries and theaters, there is no shortage of creative expression to explore. The city's love for music and live performances can be witnessed at various venues, showcasing a diverse range of genres, from jazz and blues to indie rock and classical symphonies. San Francisco's numerous festivals and events further contribute to its allure. The city hosts celebrations for LGBTQ+ pride, film, music, food, and more, drawing people together in joyous gatherings that celebrate diversity and inclusion.
Where to Stay
Hotel Zephyr in San Francisco is our choice of stay when in San Francisco. Located on Beach Street, Hotel Zephyr is placed within one of the most visited neighborhoods in the city: Fisherman’s Wharf.
Not only does The Wharf have several activities you can do like boat rides, tuk tuk rides, whale tours, and more that we will discuss in the “Things to do” section, but the hotel is a source of entertainment in itself.
With 361 rooms, the hotel features details that mimic a “ship-yard chic” feel that matches the physical location of The Wharf. Hotel Zephyr has fire pits, San Francisco’s largest periscope, an elaborate game room, gym, discounts at local restaurants, and more for you to enjoy during your stay.
Where to Have Brunch
We have hosted a few brunches in the San Francisco Bay Area so we have some spots we think you should keep on your radar cause you know we want you to eat good!
Our recommendation this time around is 620 Jones Cocktail Bar and Restaurant. This bar and restaurant combo merges together to provide an atmosphere that is lively, welcoming, and entertaining.
620 Jones has three on-site bars and a patio with a luxurious ambience perfect for brunchin’. 620 Jones has a Weekend Brunch and Sunday Drag Brunch where you can enjoy a live show while eating delicious dishes like the smoked salmon benedict.
Catch the Next Brunch In This City:
Next week the San Francisco Bay Area is back at it again with another brunch being hosted next week on August 12th, 2023 at 11am PDT.
This brunch will be at the Brown Estate Winery in Napa Valley. Napa Valley is Northern California’s renowned wine country well known for its lush vineyards, rolling hills, and charming wineries that produce some of the finest wines in the world.
We love that our brunchers in the area will get to experience the valley's inviting ambiance and exceptional wine and culinary experiences.
Things to Do
San Francisco offers a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to all interests and preferences of different travelers. Whether you're a history buff, a food enthusiast, an art lover, or an adventure seeker, San Francisco has something special in store for you.
We can’t cover them all, but here are our top picks for this mini guide!
Japanese Tea Garden
The Japanese Tea Garden provides visitors from around the world with an opportunity to experience the natural beauty, tranquility and harmony of a Japanese-style garden in the heart of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park.
Take A Whale Tour
Whale tours are offered in the city and are a great way to witness some of the most majestic creatures on the planet in their natural habitat. Setting sail on a whale tour, often guided by knowledgeable guides offer an unforgettable wildlife encounter.
Sea Lion Center
The Sea Lion Center in San Francisco is where you can go to observe and learn more about sea lions. Located at Pier 39, the center offers a unique educational experience, providing valuable insights into the lives and behaviors of sea lions. You'll get to see sea lions basking in the sun and playfully interacting with one another.
Museum of the African Diaspora
The Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD) celebrates the art, history, and contributions of people of African descent from around the world. Located in the heart of the city's Yerba Buena Arts District, MoAD offers thought-provoking exhibitions and immersive programs that explore the rich and diverse experiences of African diaspora communities.
Hidden Stairways of San Francisco
The hidden stairways of San Francisco are tucked away in various neighborhoods and offer a unique and enchanting way to explore the city's architectural treasures and scenic beauty. From the iconic Filbert Street Steps leading up to Telegraph Hill with panoramic views of the Bay to the colorful 16th Avenue Tiled Steps adorned with a stunning mosaic, each stairway has its own personality and story to tell.
We hope you enjoyed reading this mini guide and can’t wait to see what you get into while in the city.