Jesse & Bryn

Some of these are super touristy, but they are our favorites don't judge. 

Alcatraz- You either love it or you hate it. We love it. Both the night and daytime tour are a yes from us. I (Bryn) also have an odd liking to everything crime. These tickets sell out FAR in advance so would definitely plan ahead. You will also get the best views of the city and Golden Gate Bridge from the island. Short boat ride for those who have motion issues like me. 

Pier 39- Ahh the sea lions. Yes, love to see it, but only for a little bit. We would advise going to see the sea lions, but not staying anywhere near Pier 39 for long. The street cars will take you along the wharf. You can download a pass from the Muni app! (More on that in the Getting Around section) We find better places to eat along the Wharf are towards the end near Ghirardelli Square. Really though, just the Sea Lions here. 

The Ferry Building-  Closer to the Bay Bridge, you will find the Ferry Building. If you're looking for a quick bite to eat there are a few places in here that have excellent food! If you are visiting on a day when there is a Farmer's Market at the building definitely check that out! 

City Lights Bookstore- You know we love a good progressive institution! Founded in the 1950s by poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti, City Lights was most famous for publishing Howl by Allen Ginsberg (and undergoing an obscenity trial as a result). It has held a spot as one of America's most daring publishers becoming the epicenter of progressive thought.  This can also be added to a walk from China Town to North Beach! 

Chinatown- Having been to NYC & London's Chinatown we still think SF reigns supreme. The vibrant and authentic culture in this area is so much fun! Totally worth taking a stroll through. 

Golden Gate Bridge- Highly recommend renting a bike and riding across the Golden Gate! (We even saw a whale from the bridge once!) Full disclosure - if you are afraid of heights this one will be a bit tricky. Also, the ride up to the bridge is a bit of a task. All worth it, though!

Union Street- more like a Magazine Street/ Uptown feel. Tons of cute shops and restaurants. We really like Palm House, but you really can't go wrong here! Best shopping areas are between Van Ness Ave & Fillmore Street.

Union Square- lots of shopping! (Downtown feel)

Golden Gate Park- SO MUCH TO DO. Literally - there are so many things to do here. We have not even managed to cover half of the park. It's beautiful though & definitely worth a trip.

Batteries Bluffs Trail to Marshall Beach- simply Uber to Langdon Court Parking Lot for the BEST picture spot of the Golden Gate. Little crowds, super accessible. If you are feeling outdoorsy- take this trail down to Marshall Beach. It is simply the most beautiful trail we have ever been on. If you can- sunset is prettiest. The views of the Pacific on one side, the Golden Gate on the other. It is about a 15 minute trail (each way). Bring a sweater because it does get a little chilly.

Muir Woods- About a 35 minute drive north (they also have tours that will take you here.) It is one of our favorite places around San Francisco. The Redwood forest is just the most peaceful, majestic place. They do require parking reservations so make sure you check a few weeks prior and reserve your parking if needed.

Sausalito- The cutest little town across the bay! We love Sausalito and there are ferries that will take you there almost all day long. We like Scomas & highly reccommend an outside table there! There are tons of cute little shops around the main strip of Sausalito. Also- the BEST children's museum (Bay Area Discovery Museum). 

Monterey- If you're looking to get out of the city and go for a day trip- driving down Hwy 1 along the coast to Monterey is our suggestion! There is not a moment during this drive where the view is not beautiful. It is about a 2 hour drive to Monterey- a cute little town with shopping, food, and an aquarium. 

Big Sur- About an hour south of Monterey is Big Sur. We have never been here, but have heard from good sources that it is TOTALLY worth the trip. You will have no cell service while in Big Sur, but with those views you won't be worried about your service. :) 

Y'all- this was the groom's only task on this website. He is still "working on it". 

So, here is Bryn's version. It may have involved some googling because she is not big on drinking or fine dining! 

If this does not suffice, you should 100% blame Jesse Augustine Jr. Please call and express your dissatisfaction.  

Tony’s Pizza Napoletana- simply the best pizza. We really can't choose a recommendation here because everything we have tried is ridiculously good. Located in Washington Square North Beach. 

House of Nanking- SO SO GOOD. The Nanking Sesame Chicken is a favorite! 

Palm House- cute little place for drinks and brunch! Location on Union Street with tons of shopping around.

Scomas- we love the old family feel seafood! They have a location on the Wharf & in Sausalito. 

Victoria Pastry- order everything. EVERYTHING.

Places on our list to try:

Lucca Delicatessen, Mama's on Washington Square, Mission Burrito, Tu Lan, Sotto Mare, Anchor Oyster Bar 

 Bars:

All I have for you - links to some articles. 

Link 1
Link 2
Link 3

We recommend downloading the MuniMobile App should you want to ride any public transportation. 

Just some things we learned- Cable Cars are the cars that go from Union Square to the Wharf. Historic Street Cars are the cars that run along the Wharf to each Pier. If you are just needing transportation along the Wharf stick to passes that include the Street Cars and not the Cable Car. 

1 Day Passport $13 (Includes all street cars, muni, muni metro & cable cars) 
3 Day Passport $31 (Includes all street cars, muni, muni metro & cable cars)
7 Day Passport $41 (Includes all street cars, muni, muni metro & cable cars)

Single Ride $2.50 (includes everything except cable car) 
Single Ride $8 (Historic Cable Cars) 

Day Pass $5 (includes all with the exception of the Historic Cable Cars)