I had a friend in town for Thanksgiving. She has been to San Francisco many times before, so we have done all the obvious touristy things in town and even day trips like wine tasting in Napa. When I asked her if she had any requests for this visit, she wanted to see redwood trees near…
Northern California
Holiday Things to Do in San Francisco 2025: Local’s Guide to Decorations, Drinks & Events
Every year, San Francisco transforms into a city of lights, holiday cocktails, and festive displays – and 2025 is shaping up to be no exception. After living here for 18 years, I’ve put together a fresh, updated guide to the best holiday decorations, bars, and seasonal events in San Francisco. Many lists online recycle outdated…
The Best Walk to Twin Peaks from Noe Valley: Hidden Stairs and City Views
There’s no better way to understand San Francisco’s layered topography than by walking it. This route begins in Noe Valley, one of the city’s most charming residential neighborhoods, and winds upward through a sequence of hidden stairways and hillside streets to walk to Twin Peaks, one of the best panoramic viewpoints in San Francisco. As…
A Perfect Day Trip to Pescadero from San Francisco
Taking a day trip to Pescadero from San Francisco is one of my favorite getaways. The “Slow Coast” is a special stretch of Highway 1 in Northern California between Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz. Most of the drive is along the coast so you get treated to gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean along…
A One Day Tour of San Francisco on Public Transportation
Wondering what to do in San Francisco on a budget? Here’s how we explored The City in one day using public transportation—cable cars, Muni trains, a driverless taxi, and the historic F line—while visiting iconic spots like the Ferry Building, Chinatown, North Beach, and the Castro. Tour with a Local I moved to San Francisco…