Travel like Samantha Brown - San Francisco

San Francisco, CA

Samantha Brown is all about discovering the best of a city - usually in just one weekend! Here's a quick guide to great things to do in San Francisco, so plan a weekend getaway just like Samantha!

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.

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.

Restaurant Gary Danko

The recipient of the coveted James Beard cooking award, chef Gary Danko practices his genius at his eponymous, 65-seat Gary Danko restaurant. Luxurious appetizers, flavorful entrees, and decadent desserts are the true crowd pleasers. Try the Lobster Salad with Fennel, Citrus, Avocado and Mustard Tarragon Dressing or an entree of Seared Maine Scallops with Black Truffle, Leek and Potato Puree. Indulge in the special Flambeed Pineapple with Macadamia Nuts and Cocounut Sherbet, prepared table side and with gusto. An outstanding wine list featuring hundreds of California and French bottles is available.

Tartine Bakery

This little place lends an undeniable taste of the French countryside to a bustling Mission District intersection. Though sweet items (cakes, pies, buns, cookies and pastry) may be Tartine's "bread and butter," the decidedly savory heartiest-and-most-Béchamel-drenched open-faced croque monsieurs you will ever have the pleasure of devouring keeps neighborhood folk lining up for more. And speaking of bread, if you arrive early enough, you just might score yourself a loaf of the divine rustic country bread served (and constantly raved about) at sister bistro Bar Tartine. Can't shake that sweet tooth? Opt for one of their beloved Morning Buns (marbled with cinnamon and orange) or the decadent Bread Pudding. Whatever you order, enjoy it at the big communal table gazing through the floor-to-ceiling windows at the energy of the 18th Street corridor.