Why Hearts Get Left in San Francisco
By Rich Steck & Judi Janofsky
In a Travel & Leisure/CNN top 25 urban destinations poll last year, San Francisco was named number one for most Notable Neighborhoods in America, and its residents were voted the favorite People Overall.
A visit to that remarkable city shows why, and then some. A while ago, we visited San Francisco and wrote about the Ferry Building, the Fairmont and cable cars.
Remembering that trip brought one of the city’s best entertainment neighborhoods to mind: Fisherman’s Wharf. A place loaded with attractions and activities for singles, couples, families and retirees. A unique place where you can check out all the fun and exciting events that make the Fisherman’s Wharf area San Francisco’s #1 visitor destination. For it’s here you’ll find nearby attractions including Alcatraz, Pier 39, The Cannery, Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Cruises, Coit Tower, Lombard Street, Ghirardelli Square, Aquarium of the Bay and North Beach.
Here’s a brief listing of some of the things you can do:
* Enjoy a bay cruise under the Golden Gate Bridge
* Climb half way to the stars aboard the legendary cable cars
* Watch sea lions frolic in the bay, one of the most popular attractions for all ages, viewable from the Pier 39 perimeter road
* Discover the bay at Pier 39′s Aquarium of the Bay
* Experience world famous Ghirardelli chocolate at Ghirardelli Square
* Explore the National Maritime Museum and the USS Pampanito Submarine Museum
* Hop on a ferry to Alcatraz
* Take a roller coaster ride at an exhibit tracing the fascinating history of Amusement Attractions in America, now open at Pier 45
* Board one of the Blue & Gold Fleet’s ferries to trek Angel Island, one of the last undeveloped islands left in the San Francisco Bay (www.angelisland.org)
* Browse Fort Mason, a former military installation and port of embarkation
* Walk the decks of tall ships and stroll along the Hyde Street Pier, home of the world’s largest collection of historic ships by tonnage, where visitors can board several National Landmark vessels
* Browse through the flagship Boudin Bakery and enjoy a freshly baked loaf of sourdough
* Enjoy an Irish coffee at Buena Vista CafГѓВ©, the beverage’s origin
* Get a work out rollerblading, bicycling or walking over the Golden Gate Bridge
* Take a thrilling adventure on Turbo Ride through the magic of films and sophisticated simulation technology where the hydraulic seats move in sync with the action on the big-screen at Pier 39
* A food lover’s haven, Fisherman’s Wharf boasts some of the best dining in the world. Savor Ghirardelli chocolate, fresh sourdough bread, fresh Dungeness crab and the myriad of restaurant options, an eclectic mix of international cuisine
* Raise a toast at San Francisco’s Best Sports Bar, Knuckles
* During the day, enjoy street performers entertaining onlookers with all kinds of interesting acts, including talented magicians, human robots, musicians, jugglers, clowns and fire-eaters; at night enjoy live music, dancing and comedy clubs as well.
So, with all that activity available, count on spending a couple of days. We can recommend the Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf (especially if you’re a member of AAA – they’re offering some really nice benefits through February, 2009: 10% off prevailing room rates; breakfast for two each morning and 25% off valet parking. Rates during this period start at $195 ($175 for AAA members). For more information, visit http://fishermanswharf.hyatt.com
The hotel features 313 guest rooms with the plush new Grand Bed with pillow-top mattresses; multifunction workstation with ergonomic chair; and luxurious bath with deluxe amenities. Guest services and amenities include Wi-Fi service throughout the hotel; 24-hour automated business center; complimentary transportation to the Financial District; newly renovated 24-hour StayFit @ Hyatt Fitness Center; outdoor heated pool and Jacuzzi; and pool tables at Knuckles Historic Sports Bar & Grill.
Tony Bennett got it right, remember?
December 24, 2008
Posted in: United States NorthWest