How to spend a quick but fun weekend in San Francisco, California based on our adventures.

We worked for over six months in the Bay Area of San Francisco, California and spent several weekends exploring downtown. The busy atmosphere and hilly streets were everything we had ever imagined.

Visiting San Fransico has endless possibilities. There is always something to do sites to explore.

Where to Stay

Hotel Kabuki

This is by far our favorite hotel in San Fransisco. First off, you get a bottle of wine when you check in which is just amazing. Plus the rooms are by far the biggest we have seen downtown

The price is pretty good, especially for the room size. Our favorite part about the rooms is the shower because it is humongous.

It's located in Japantown which is a cool area to explore. You are within walking distance to Fillmore Street which has tons of little shops and restaurants. Parking is available in a garage right under the hotel which is very convenient.

Cornell Hotel De France

If you are looking for a vintage feel in the middle of busy downtown this is your best choice. The rooms are small but honestly, most rooms in San Fransisco are.

There is the coolest elevator and the style of the decorations help create an olden day atmosphere. Sometimes there is an adorable dog in the lobby as well which instantly makes any hotel a million times better.

The hotel is located close to union square which is almost always busy with tourists and shoppers. Not to mention all of the restaurants and bars within walking distance. You do have to use valet parking in the parking garage across the street but at a discounted rate.

Where to Eat

Tropisueno

This is a great place for authentic Mexican food. You go up and order as soon as you walk in then they bring you your food when it's ready.

There are some amazing vegan/vegetarian options including a tofu dish. They make the best Mexican rice so make sure to try some.

We didn't order any drinks when we went but they have a fully stocked bar. This means plenty of margaritas and tequila.

City Chop Sticks

Yummy Chinese food with good portion sizes. It's a pretty tiny restaurant but you could always get carry out if there's no seating available. The best part is they have $2 glasses of wine which they fill to the top.

** We have to give an honorable mention to Seed + Salt. This place was our favorite restaurant and we went there every time we visited downtown. They provided amazing healthy non-processed vegan options that were delicious. Unfortunately, they have recently closed but we are always holding out for a reopening.**

What to Do

Pride parade

If you like pride parades then you MUST go to the one in San Fransisco! It is unlike anything else. There are events all weekend long but the main parade is on a Sunday.

The atmosphere is amazing with love and acceptance everywhere around you. Don't forget to wear rainbow colors and feel free to dress as crazy as you'd like!

We went to the events on Saturday then the parade on Sunday. This worked best for us as we can get overwhelmed in crowds at times. This allowed us to see the performers and tents on Saturday without feeling too enclosed.

The parade on Sunday is insane and you cannot escape the crowds which are over 6 people deep on all the sidewalks. The parade takes all day as there are hundreds of participants.

Golden Gate Bridge

Of course, if you are visiting San Fransisco you have to check out the Golden Gate Bridge. It's a staple and icon of the city. There's even an emoji for it. This is probably the only touristy thing we have done downtown.

If you drive into the city using the bridge there is no toll but you will have to pay one going out. You can also walk or ride your bike along the bridge's sidewalk.

There is a visitor center and several spots that give you some nice views. Just keep in mind that fog is very common so depending on when you go you might not get a very good "view".

AT&T Giants Stadium

Even if you are not a baseball fan it's a pretty cool stadium to check out. It is downtown and right on the water. Keep in mind it will be chilly even in the summer once the sun goes down so bring a blanket!

The food is amazing with a ton of places to choose from. They have garlic fries since they are all the rage in San Fransisco. They also have typical baseball game staples like hotdogs but in vegan versions.

We hope our travel guide for San Francisco, California will inspire you and help you plan your next trip. From the busy steep streets to the beautiful waterfront. Happy Adventuring!