Save Me San Francisco – Day 1

I’ve been high, I’ve been low, 

I’ve been yes, and I’ve been oh, hell no!

I’ve been rock ‘n roll and disco,

Won’t you save me San Francisco?”

~ Train

Save me San Francisco is one of my favorites song from Train.  We were only in San Francisco for 48 hours and we experienced both highs and lows (literally and energetically).  Our goal was to see as much of San Francisco as possible in a very short time period.    And we certainly did that. 

I would normally post pictures of the place we stayed, but let’s just say it was weird at best. 

We stayed on the 4th floor of an AirBnb and it wasn’t what we expected.  The place included a parking spot (rare in SF) but we didn’t realize that so we didn’t rent a car.  We ubered and lyfted all around for 3 days but probably would have been cheaper with a car.  The AirBnb had a creepy really slow elevator in the back of the garage.   There were some stairs but they went through the apartments of two other families and well, that just felt weird so we used the slow, creepy elevator, which got stuck once!   Note to self: pay closer attention to the description in AirBnb.  

We only had 48 hours in San Francisco and we were determined to see all that we could in the time we had.  We started with Alcatraz.  There are lots of tours that include Alcatraz but I recommend buying tickets directly on Pier 33.  Make reservations and buy tickets in advance as they sell out.    

The tickets include an audio tour which was informational but also a little creepy as it played prison “sounds” in the background.  It was eerie to take off the headphones and see all the tourists wondering around in total silence.  There were some great photo ops on the island and on the ferry. 

After returning to Pier 33, we walked the short distance to Pier 39 and saw the Sea Lions.  They were making a lot of noise and there were many opportunities to video.  We also took the time to have a little fun at Pier 39 and ride the carousel.  It was $5 each or 3 for $10.  So I convinced two friends to ride with me! We were not the only adults riding the carousel. It was definitely worth a whirl. I highly recommend doing the unexpected when the chance arises.  

 

Our next stop was Fisherman’s Wharf for lunch.  There are a ton of food vendor carts along the wharf selling fresh crab, shrimp, lobster, calamari, and all things fishy.  We purchased our selections and we walked out to find a bench to sit on for lunch.  The vendor told us to watch for the seagulls, but they were faster than me.   A very large sea gull swooped down and stole a whole shrimp from my plate.  I was surprised I didn’t drop the whole plate.  Definitely watch out for those gulls!

Next, we walked down to the famous Buena Vista Cafe which is known for the famous irish coffee.   It is a treat to watch the bartenders, formally dressed make 10 irish coffees at once.  They definitely put on a show.  

Right around the corner from Buena Vista is the Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory, a must see.  You don’t get to tour the factory, but they do have a display in the cafe showing you how chocolate is made. The aroma is amazing. There is a gift shop and free samples.  Definitely should stop for an afternoon treat.  We split a sundae so that we could enjoy and still split the calories.

Next, we couldn’t resist the San Francisco treat, the ultimate public transportation, Riding on a Trolley.  We stopped in Maritime National Historic Park, which was beautiful by the bay.  Lots of people picnicking and enjoying the sunshine.  I suppose California is known for this beautiful weather. We bought our day pass tickets ($17 a day) and then waited in line for an hour to get on the Powell-Hyde line. We learned later that we could have walked up a block and gotten on at the intersection right away.  Live and learn. 

We jumped off the trolley at Lombard Street and took the opportunity to walk down the crookedest street in the US.  It was a challenge, but fun.  We hopped back on the trolley (Powell Mason line) and headed down to Chinatown for dinner. 

Chinatown was full of the traditional paper lanterns and beautiful displays.  We took in the beautiful sites until our stomachs were growling, and we stopped for dinner. 

We had Peppered Salt Crab (whole dungeness crab) at R & G Lounge on Kearny street.  It was amazing.  It was $55 but we split so it was worth it. We ordered a couple of other traditional dishes and they were all really good. I hear that everything on the menu as R&G Lounge is good.  The portions were rather large.   It was more than we could eat.   I highly recommend this place.  It fueled us for the adventure still waiting in the night.  

The highlight of the trip was seeing a live musical of Rocky Horror Picture Show at the Victoria Theater in the theater district.  It was everything I imagined and more.  Don’t forget to check local theaters when travelling.  There is a chance you might find a treasure like this!  

Yes, I can’t believe we are still on Day 1, but we were still going strong and had one more adventure planned for the night.  Our last stop for Day 1 was the Bourbon & Branch speakeasy.  It is a hidden club that requires a reservation and a password to get in.  It’s even in a seedy block of downtown, so be aware and move quickly.   There are no signs or marquee, just a door.  You knock and give the password. 

Once inside, no pictures or cell phones allowed.  There was even a secret library/bar in the back that you had to “know” about and that you enter through a bookcase.  I LOVE MURPHY BOOKCASES! And according to the website, do not even try to order a COSMO!

I snuck this picture of the menu when the waitress wasn’t watching.   All in all, we had a wonderful first day.   We logged over 16,000 steps on the step tracker, but it was worth it. 

If you don’t have much time in San Francisco, I just want to let you know, you can see it all.  Be sure to check out Save Me San Francisco – Day 2 to continue the journey. 

Thanks exploring with me.   Like & Follow my blog if you enjoyed!