If you're going to San Francisco...

Although we didn't wear flowers in our hair, we made the most of our time in San Francisco. Having visited the city before, I had a better idea of what to see and do. This time around I really started to know the city. We stayed in Japantown which may not be the most happening area in the city but it was so central it was a great jumping off point for all of our excursions.

View of the City from Castro

San Francisco's weather was a bit nippy during our stay, averaging around 17 C, so be warned. Our weather was a tad colder than usual, however, if you are visiting SF, bring pants, scarves, and a jacket if you plan to explore this city comfortably.

We began our trip with the quintessential landmark of the bay city, the Golden Gate Bridge. I'd visited the bridge before but never made the trip across so we decided to rent bikes for the day.  This is definitely the way to cross this beauty. Although at times I felt like I may take out a pedestrian straying into the bike lane, the ride was enjoyable and allowed for the perfect amount of time spent on the bridge. Walking seemed as though it would take an inordinate amount of time and with the wind, biking kept us warm. Fisherman's Wharf is right by the bike rentals as well. Being the most touristy pocket of the city, I couldn't stay here for long, but when one must come check it out during a trip to SF. Great sea food and kitschy surroundings round out this area of the city.

Safety first kids!

Haight-Ashbury proved to be my favourite area of the city. Cute shops, cheap eats, and a bohemian feel make this legendary hippie area super fun to explore. We stumbled upon a bar with $3 beers and Cards Against Humanity which kept us busy for quite a few hours. 

Haight-Ashbury Intersection, complete with legs

We also made the trip to see the Painted Ladies, the Victorians seen during the opening of Fullhouse.

Although not an overwhelmingly interesting sight for the boys, Michelle and I turned into our 10 year old selves, fan-girling out over the nostalgic houses. Definitely a highlight of our trip so far and recommended if the Tanners were your second family.

Everywhere you look (everywhere), there's a heart, a hand to hold on to!

Alcatraz was another essential sight this time around as we did not get the chance to experience it last time we visited. If you are wanting to go, make sure to book this at least a month in advance!This is always sold out at least 2 weeks in advance so don't be let down and scrambling a few days before! the famed previously high security prison is worth the planning. We took in the super earie sights while listening to a fascinating audio tour that kept our attention the whole 45 min. It's a weird experience wandering around a prison with hundreds of people who are completely silent learning about what went down in the rock 50+ years ago. 

The Escape Route

Although we were sad to leave this spectacular city, we were ready for the warmth and the wine that awaited us in Napa. On the road we went!