American Academy of Opthalmology Annual Meeting 2009 - Spouse and Guest Activities

Alcatraz

“No longer a prison for some of America's most dangerous offenders, Alcatraz is part of the National Park Service and is a must-see for visitors to the city. Once on the island, you will certainly be captivated by its history and its incredible beauty. Take your camera because regardless of the view, a photo opportunity awaits. Also, dress in layers (even during the summer months) because the island can be breezy and inside the prison walls it is cold and damp. If you want to scare your kiddies into good behavior, there is a cellhouse audio tour of Alcatraz; for more info check out the website. Ferries to Alcatraz depart from Pier 33, run by Alcatraz Cruises. See website for up-to-date schedule and complete visitation particulars.”

Golden Gate Bridge

An engineering masterpiece, this bridge, built in 1937, towers with sturdy grace over the Golden Gate. Stretching over 4,200 feet, it is every bit as awesome an accomplishment in suspension-bridge engineering today as it was over half a century ago. Pedestrians and bike riders can access the east entrance for a jaunt on one of the world's most famous corridors. For photos, or to view the bridge in its entirety, try the spectacular lookout points located at the southeast and northeast ends. Don't miss the historic Roundhouse, a gift shop/visitors center, which boasts a fine selection of souvenirs, and an informative exhibit about the bridge's construction and history.

Bistro Jeanty

Locals flock here at Bistro Jeanty nightly, while tourists are abundant during the weekends. The decor is rustic, taken right out of the French countryside. The service is attentive and knowledgeable. The menu pays homage French home-style cooking. The Coq au Vin is a knockout while the chicken and the mushrooms are engrossed with the rich flavor of the red wine reduction sauce. The dish is presented in a pristine white serving bowl, a beautiful contrast to the vibrant burgundy color of the dish. No trip to Bisto Jeanty is complete without the Citron Givre, lemon sorbet. This desert showcases the chef's personality and commitment to refined homey foods. The lemon sorbet is served in a hollowed lemon, presumably the same lemon used to make the sorbet. The lemon is plated whole, reconstructed on the plate. The presentation is whimsical and the sorbet is a perfect balance of sweet and tart. Throw in a world-class wine selection and you have completed a wonderful dinner by a renowned chef from the Champagne region of France. In 2007, the inaugural year of the Michelin Guide San Francisco, Bay Area & Wine Country, Bistro Jeanty was awarded a Michelin Star.

Balmy St

Balmy Alley has found a spot in just about every guidebook, and deservedly so. The fences and garage doors along this block-long back alley are covered with murals, but don't be deceived by the bright colors: Most of these paintings carry strong political messages, deploring human rights violations or capitalist greed in Latin American countries. Try to decipher their meaning on your own, then head to Precita Eyes Mural Arts & Visitors Center (2981 24th Street), where a worker will explain the context of any particular mural. The center offers tours on Saturday and Sunday.

-Courtesy of Emily King

Sam's Anchor Cafe

For one of the best brunches in the Bay Area, hop a ferry from SF and head to Sam's Cafe in Tiburon. The bloody marys are delicious and the views are truly amazing. It's a crowded but fun mix of locals and tourists though service can get slow. Definitely be in the mood to relax, take your time, and shell out quite a bit for your meal, though for Marin County it's pretty average prices. Some of the best Cioppino in the Bay.

Legion of Honor

This museum houses more than 87,000 paintings, sculptures, decorative arts and tapestries. Some pieces date back 4,000 years. The main floor is dedicated to the museum's permanent collection, much of which features the works of Rodin. European and ancient art are also on display. The lower garden level features temporary exhibitions, ranging from Andy Warhol to Francis Bacon. Take a break in the museum cafe, which features light snacks and has outdoor seating. The gift shop, though small, has a nice selection of postcards, books, posters, jewelry and some reproductions from this and other fine arts museums.

Jardiniere Restaurant

This collaboration between two of The City's most famed restaurateurs, Pat Kuleto and Traci des Jardins, is one of the most famous, most loved gourmet rooms in the Bay Area. It is an example of sophisticated Californian cuisine. The menu changes daily, but all of the dishes are likely to be excellent, if not perfect. Past offerings have included Herbed Lamb Loin and Filet of Beef. This is definitely a luxury dining experience.

Pier 39

This San Francisco landmark features some of Fisherman's Wharf's best shopping and attractions. Ride the carousel or watch the sea lions. There are more than 25 one-of-a-kind gift stores that carry automobile, Hollywood, and rock 'n' roll memorabilia, as well as flags of the world, Russian dolls, collectible knives, hammocks, kites, and more. But that's not all. You will find more than 30 more stores, including the famous Na Hoku to shop for clothing, jewelry and toys. It is a great place to pick up high-end San Francisco souvenirs. Credit card acceptance varies by store. Pier 39 is a magnet for locals and tourists for many reasons, including their nearly year-round calendar of special attractions for the whole family like the Tulipmania tulip festival held in late February on both levels of pier 39 or the Holiday Tree Lighting in November.