“See” listings
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Alamo Square
Those who grew up in the 1980s and early-'90s will have a sense of déjà vu when arriving here. Made famous during the opening scene of popular TV Show Full House, the lawn where Uncle Jesse and the rest of the gang picnicked is dotted by visitors relaxing and snapping shots of the colorful Victorian homes that are known as the Painted Ladies. (08/2011)
Pierce and Hayes sts
alamosq.org -
Castro Theatre
Even from the outside, this historic theater in the heart of the Castro visually dazzles. A working Wurlitzer organ often plays before shows, and the lineup of classics and campy sing-alongs on the big screen means this place always promises a good time. (05/2011)
429 Castro St
415-621-6120
castrotheatre.com -
Lake Merced
Take a cruise around the city's biggest lake on two wheels (or four if you prefer); it's connected to Golden Gate Park via a paved bike path (and a road). Nearby Fort Funston has people hang-gliding from cliffs on the weekend. (04/2011)
1 Harding Rd
415-831-2700
sfrecpark.org -
FORT MASON CENTER
With restaurants, special events (including the ZAP Zinfandel Fest, Jan. 27-29) and outdoor science exhibits from the Exploratorium learning museum, this old fort that divides Fisherman’s Wharf from the Marina Green is a little slice of old San Francisco’s Navy days. (01/2011)
Marina Blvd and Beach St
415-345-7500
fortmason.org -
ST. GEORGE SPIRITS
The home of Hangar One vodka is set, appropriately enough, in a former airplane hangar. But the delicious vodka isn’t all you’ll get to sample in the tasting room or see on the weekend tours; it makes a number of spirits, most infused with fresh fruit and herbs. (01/2011)
2601 Monarch St, Alameda
510-769-1601
stgeorgespirits.com -
UNION SQUARE PARK
Union Square is San Francisco’s epicenter of high-end shopping—with Macy’s, Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue bordering it—and it’s a lovely place to sit and people-watch. Even Scrooges will appreciate the giant Macy’s Christmas tree decorated with lights through December. There’s an ice rink, too. (12/2010)
Powell & Geary sts
unionsquarepark.us -
JACK LONDON SQUARE
Take a boat ride from the Ferry Building to Jack London Square, where you can enjoy holiday displays and a killer Sunday brunch with live jazz at Scott’s Seafood. Check out the re-created log cabin where Jack London spent his Yukon days. (12/2010)
Port of the City of Oakland
jacklondonsquare.com -
BALMY ALLEY
Stroll alone down this alley full of colorful murals, or go with a tour from the nearby Precita Eyes. The murals here change all the time, making this little stretch of street a living museum. (11/2010)
At 24th St in The Mission
balmyalley.com -
SUTRO BATHS
The outdoor remains of the once-heated baths may look like Roman ruins, but they were actually opened in 1896 so that San Franciscans could swim in the winter. Today, a path leads down to the ruins—it’s worth a hike for the stellar ocean views. (09/2010)
At Golden Gate National Recreation Area
sutrobaths.com -
MISSION DOLORES PARK
Summer may come very late here, but once it does, locals like to picnic and sunbathe in Dolores Park. Thanks to local microclimates, it’s almost always the warmest, sunniest park in the city. Expect to see street food for sale nearby. (09/2010)
18th & Dolores sts
no phone -
STERN GROVE FESTIVAL
Every Sunday during this festival, top musicians from around the world—like West African-born Angelique Kidjo (June 20) and Hapa Hawaiian Duo (June 27)—headline free concerts in a sprawling park with a natural lake. June 20 though Aug. 22. (06/2010)
19th Ave and Sloat Blvd
415-252-6252
sterngrove.org -
THE MISSION DISTRICT
The incredibly colorful area around the intersection of 24th and Mission streets is plastered with murals and packed with restaurants and personable locals. It really blossoms during the weekend of Carnaval (May 29-30). (05/2010)
24th and Mission sts • no phone
sfmission.com
