From Wikitravel

The Golden Gate area is in the northern section of San Francisco. It is made up of two National Historic Landmarks - The Presido and Fort Mason, as well as several upscale neighborhoods including Pacific Heights, Cow Hollow, the Marina and Sea Cliff. It is roughly bounded by the San Francisco Bay to the north and west, Lake and California Streets to the south, and Van Ness Avenue to the east. The Golden Gate Bridge connects this district with Marin County across the Bay to the North.

[edit] Understand

Pacific Heights, located 370 feet above sea-level and overlooking the Bay, was little more than a sandy hill until 1870, when the Cable-Car line was extended and connected the area to downtown. Today, with it's panoramic views of San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge and the Presidio, an abundance of opulent Victorian mansions, historic Chateaus and foreign embassies, and finally with its many upscale restaurants - it has long been a favorite among visitors. Some of the buildings date back as far as 1853, with the majority being constructed after the 1906 earthquake. Considered today to be the home of "old money" families and young urban professionals, it was first settled by the "nouveau riche" of the late 1800's. The neighborhood is predominantly peaceful and residential with most of it's activities centered around Fillmore Street. The neighborhood was also home to the 1990 movie "Pacific Heights" starring Melanie Griffith.

Cow Hollow derived it's name form the many dairy farms that were established there in the mid-1800's. However, as San Francisco thrived with it's famous Gold Rush, the area flourished. Prominent San Franciscans began to settle the area and erected grandiose well-appointed Victorian, and then later Edwardian mansions. By 1891, the area had become so popular that all the dairy farms were closed down. Today, this once luscious grazing land is now more renowned for it's impressive mansions and it's eclectic mix of antique stores, art galleries, bars and restaurants. Union Street is the main street, where the Union Street Festival is held annually.

The Marina district was built on landfill -- some of it wreckage of the 1906 earthquake -- in the early 20th century to provide a fairgrounds for the 1915 World's Fair (also called the Panama-Pacific Exhibition). Its poor foundation made it the focus of most of the damage (and media attention) in the Loma Prieta Earthquake of 1989. Today it is an affluent, residential neighbourhood where all its charm is on glorious display. Bounded by the Bay, the neighborhood actually has a marina, which is home to the Golden Gate Bridge and several yacht clubs. Marina Green, a stretch of green grass running along the edge of the Bay, is a favorite place for jogging, strolling, picnicking, and kite flying. Only a few blocks away, Chestnut Street is where shoppers can peruse boutiques or people watch while sipping on a latte. Culture vultures collectively gather at Fort Mason, with its array of musuems, art galleries and quirky theatres.

[edit] Get in

[edit] By Car

The main entryways are Van Ness Avenue from the south and Bay Street from the east. From the north and west, take Highway 101 through the Presidio to Lombard Street. Chestnut Street, one of the main shopping and restaurant streets, is one block north of Lombard. Parking is scarce. The best choice for parking may be the free area in Fort Mason, at Beach and Buchanan streets, another 4 short blocks north of Chestnut. Union Street, being Cow Hollow's main street, is three blocks south of Lombard Street.

[edit] By Bus

Public transportation, provided by MUNI [1], is plentiful and frequent.

• Cross Town Routes. The 28 bus gets you along Lombard street into Fort Mason from the Daly City BART station, traveling first a long way up 19th Avenue and through the Presidio by the Golden Gate Bridge. Buses 29 and 43 traverse much of the western part of San Francisco before terminating in the area, with the 29 stopping in the Presidio and the 43 running through the Presidio before stopping in the Marina district. The 22 Fillmore bus (24-hour service), from the 16th Street BART Station, goes north on Fillmore street all the way to the Marina Green.

• From Downtown. From the CalTrain station, traveling through downtown past the Powell Street BART station, the 30 Stockton bus (which runs about every 6 minutes during the day, until 1 AM) gets you to Chestnut Street and near the Palace of Fine Arts. You can also take the 41, 45 (both serve Union Street), 76 and 12. Routes 1, 2, 3 and 4 serve Pacific Heights and Lower Pacific Heights.

In addition to the many MUNI routes, there is also the free PresidiGo shuttle service with two lines: a Downtown line [2] that runs directly between the Transbay Terminal in downtown to the Presidio, and an Around the Park line [3] which runs throughout the park.

[edit] On Foot

If you enjoy walking, you can take the Historic F-line street car from downtown, along the Embarcadero, to Fisherman's Wharf, and walk along San Francisco Bay past Fort Mason -- it's a bit of hill -- to the Marina Green.

[edit] Get around

With six lanes, going east-west, Lombard Street is the main road and considered (along with north-south Van Ness) to be part of Highway 101. The winding section of Lombard street is due east, on Russian Hill.

This is a great area to either walk or cycle through as it is predominantly flat and also because its a very safe area. Given the area's popularity with joggers, walkers, power-walkers and cyclists -you will definitely not be alone. Chestnut Street is the business section of the Marina and considered among the poshest of San Francisco's streets. Union Street and Fillmore Street are the other two main shopping areas in this district. To the north, along San Francisco Bay, runs Marina Green. Your walk can continue along the bay to the west, through the Presdio, along the restored Crissy field marshes, all the way to the Golden Gate Bridge; or to the east, a short climb through Fort Mason and down into Fisherman's Wharf.

[edit][add listing] See

[edit] Fort Mason

Fort Mason [4] was a U.S. Military coastal defense post for over 100 years. In 1985, it was designated a National Historic Landmark, for its vital role as an embarkation point for troops and supplies during World War II and the Korean conflict. Today, it is part of the Golden Gate National Recreational Area. Situated on a headland, Upper Fort Mason has great views of the Golden Gate Bridge and of Alcatraz. Lower Fort Mason, which comprises approximately 13 acres, is the site of the former military port and today houses the Fort Mason Center, which is devoted to nonprofit and cultural activities with a focus on the visual and performing arts, humanities, education, ecology, and recreation. It has three museums and six theaters and hosts more than 15,000 events each year. The activities are provided at litte or no cost. The small, specialized museums in Fort Mason include:

• Museo ItaloAmericano, Fort Mason Center, Building C, ☎ +1 415 673-2200 (sfmuseo@sbcglobal.net), [5]. Tu-Su 12PM-4PM, Mondays by appointment. Hosts photo exhibits and art of modern Italian artists. Free Admission.  edit

• African American Historical and Cultural Society, MacArthur Avenue, ☎ +1 415 441 0640. Noon-5pm Wed-Sun. Displays historical and contemporary African-American arts. Free - On the first Wednesday of every month.  edit

• San Francisco Museum Of Modern Art - Artists Gallery, Fort Mason Center, Landmark Building A, ☎ +1 415 441-4777, [6]. Tue-Sat 11:30am-5:30pm. Housed over two floors, the SFMOMA displays the art, in a variety of styles and media, of over 800 emerging and established Northern California artists. Free Admission.  edit

• The Long Now Foundation Museum, Landmark Building A, ☎ +1 415 561-6582 (services@longnow.org, fax: +1 415 561-6297), [7]. Monday - Friday: 10:30am to 5:00pm, Saturday - Sunday 11:00am to 6:00pm. The Long Now foundation was established to foster a better understanding of a "slower/better" mind set as opposed to "faster/cheaper" one. As well as holding many seminars and talks, they also have a museum and store at their premises. edit

[edit] Architecture

Architecture buffs will definitely enjoy taking a stroll through the Pacific Heights and Cow Hollow neighborhoods where ornate Edwardian and Victorian mansions are on display. Many are privately owned but some are open to the public. If you are a fan of the Spanish Colonial Revival-style, continue your tour into the Presidio where you will find many fine examples (listed separately under the Presidio section below).

• The Octagon House, 2645 Gough Street, ☎ +1 415 441-7512. Dating from 1861, this eight-sided house with its cupola top, dormer windows and roof lanterns was built in the belief that such octagonally shaped houses promote healthier living. Today, the building houses a museum of American Colonial and Federal Era decorative arts and historical documents. It is run by the National Society of the Colonial Dames. Staffed by volunteers, Octagon House is open to the public on the second Sunday of every month, and the second and fourth Thursday of every month, from noon to 3 p.m. For more information about the house, call. edit

• The Leale House, 2475 Pacific Ave. Built in 1853 and is one city's oldest residences. A ferry-boat captain known as Captain Leale bought the house three decades later and remodeled it in the popular 'Italianate' style.

• Haas Lilienthal House, 2007 Franklin St., ☎ +1 415 441-3004, [8]. This is a 11,500 square foot Queen Anne Victorian, built entirely out of redwood in 1886 for William Haas. It has been fully preserved as per it’s original design. It presently houses the San Francisco Architectural Heritage who offer tours of the house and surrounding grounds. edit

• Spreckles Mansion, 2080 Washington St. This 'Beaux-Arts' limestone mansion was built in 1913 by sugar baron Adolph Spreckles. It has 55 rooms including a Louis XVI Ballroom. The mansion is currently a private residence which is owned by the famous romance-novelist, Danielle Steele.

• Atherton House, 1990 California St. An 1881 Victorian mansion that was built for Mrs. Doming de Goni Atherton by an unknown architect. It was one of the first Queen Anne residences in San Francisco. It is reported to be haunted, and is a stop on the haunted tour of San Francisco.

[edit] The Presidio

The Presidio [9] was founded in 1776 and was the longest-running military post in the U.S. before closing as a base in 1994. It is now a part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area [10] and Congress has designated it a National Historic Landmark District, which is the highest historic designation that can be given in the U.S. The Park itself is about 3 square miles of mostly hilly and wooded areas.

The Presidio has around 800 buildings within its perimeter, many of which are of historical significance. Some of the buildings have residential tenants, others commercial ones. At the end of 2005, about 2,500 people lived in the Presidio and it is home to the headquarters of Lucasfilm (owned by George Lucas, the creator of 'Star Wars'), a unique situation for a national park. Part of their drinking water comes from Lobos Creek (Rio de los Lobos), the last free-flowing creek in San Francisco. The Presidio Trust, that manages the majority of the Park, is currently renovating the remainder of the buildings, with a view to increasing its list of residents to 5,000.

The Presidio has many attractions for travelers, there are great nature walks through the Park and some fantastic vistas over the San Francisco Bay. Eleven miles of hiking trails and 14 miles of bicycle routes crisscross through the expanse of the Presidio. Along the way there are also many historical and architectural points of interest.

VISITOR CENTERS AND MUSEUMS

• Exploratorium, 3601 Lyon Street, +1 415 397-5673, [11]. Tu-Su 10AM-5PM. A great kid friendly option, with lots of interactive exhibits teaching about science, with intriguing displays about the mind, natural systems, sound, sight, and much more. $14 adults, $11 students/seniors/teens, $9 children, under age 3 free (free admission on first Wednesday of each month).

• Fort Point National Historic Site - [12]. From its vantage point overlooking the spectacular Golden Gate, Fort Point protected San Francisco harbor from Confederate & foreign attack during & after the U.S. Civil War. Its beautifully arched casemates display the art of the master brick mason from the Civil War period. It is best approached from the Marina District along the water through the kites and bay-views of the connected Crissy Fields Park. Video orientations, guided tours, self-guiding materials, exhibits, and publication sales are offered Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

HISTORICAL POINTS OF INTEREST

• Letterman Complex - Established in 1898 to care for sick and wounded soldiers, it is the Army's oldest named general hospital and during WWII it became the largest Army hospital in the country.

• Main Post - The Main Post is at the heart of the Presidio. It marks the site of a Spanish garrison established here in 1776 and it is home to the oldest buildings in the Presidio, dating back to 1861.

• San Francisco National Cemetry - The Park is also home to a cemetary where many military personal have been buried over the years, including a General from the American Civil War and 35 Medal of Honor recipients.

• Battery East - This fortification weas built in the 1870s, to withstand newer and heavier ordinance. You can view the earthen works and brick-lined magazines built to protect large Rodman guns and their ammunition.
• West Coast Memorial to the Missing of World War II Overlooking Baker Beach and the Pacific Ocean, this memorial commemorates the missing service members of WWII. It is carved out of California granite and bears the names of 413 members of the Armed Forces who lost their lives or were buried at sea in the offshore Pacific coastal waters.

ARCHITECTURE

• Palace of Fine Arts, 3301 Lyon Street, +1 415 567-6642, [13]. The only structure remaining from the 1915 World's Fair, it features a classical Roman rotunda (1,100 foot wide, 162 feet high) with curved colonnades (30 Corinthian columns frame a wide walkway in the colonnade) situated in a idyllic park setting with a classical European-Style lagoon. It's a great place to unwind, have a picnic and watch the swans float elegantly by. It also has a theater offering a variety of shows, musical and cultural events.
• Fort Scott - Built in 1912 it features Spanish Revival style buildings, with a U-shaped parade ground.

• Golden Gate Club - Built in the Spanish Colonial Revival-style.

• Officers Club - Originally built by the Spanish with adobe walls, it was remodelled in the 1930's in the Spanish Colonial Revival-style adorned with with rustic Spanish-tile gable roofs, heavy, rough timber lintels and beams, and decorative ironwork.

• Old Post Hospital -Built in 1864 it displays both Italianate and Greek Revival architectural styles. It is one of the oldest standing buildings in the Presidio.

NATURE AND RECREATION

Nature lovers will adore the Presidio - it's geology, climate and geography, combined with the Army's decison not to overdevelop the Park, mean that it has some of the most intact natural habitats on the San Francisco peninsula. It is home to many rare species of flowers including Raven's manzanita and Franciscan thistle as well as mammals like the coyote, gray fox and the Fox Squirrel. Bird lovers will be pleased to know that there are a great varitey of birds to seen including Gulls, Sandpipers, Plovers, Ducks, Herons, Loons, Pelecans and Kingfishers.

• Crissy Field -[14] Known by many names - 'The City's Front Yard' and 'The Golden Gate Promenade' - this used to be one of the country's most active and strategic military airstrips. Today, under the of care the Golden Gate National Parks Association, the 28 acre site has been transformed into recreational space for joggers, cyclists, walkers and picknicers. There is also a significant project underway to return 18 acres back to it's original tidal marshlands. With this effort, Crissy Field is fast becoming a great place to see local wildlife such as migrating long-billed curlews, semipalmated plovers and western sandpipers.

• Baker Beach - A beautiful, immaculately kept 1 mile stretch beach, set just behind the Golden Gate Bridge. Unfortunately, due to strong currents, the beach is not very safe for swimming but it does have many outdoor barbeques and designated picnic areas to relax at.

• Coastal Bluffs - The Presidio has many trails that wind along its wind-swept coastal bluffs. From the top you are afforded excellent views of the Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge and the Marin Headlands. The bluffs are also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna and scattered amongst them you will find the old abandoned gun batteries that were built in the 1890s as coastal defenses.

• Lobos Creek Valley Contains the last free-flowing stream in San Francisco that provides water to the inhabitants of the Presidio.

[edit] Golden Gate Bridge

US 101 (from Park-Presidio or Lombard Street entrance), +1 415 921-5858 (Email: bridgecomments@goldengate.org) [15]. Open 24 hours, occasionally closed Sunday morning for events. $5 (toll driving south into San Francisco; free on foot or bike)

Vehicular traffic in both directions share a single deck; yellow pylons are used to allot lanes to one direction or the other depending on traffic conditions. Observation areas and parking lots are provided on both the north and south sides of the bridge; the best way to enjoy the bridge is to park and walk across, not least because you don't have to pay a toll. Note that winds are high and it can be cold and foggy; dress appropriately. Bikes can also be difficult to navigate in the high winds and narrow pathway.

The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most iconic bridges in the United States, and has been called one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. The bridge spans the Golden Gate, a strait between San Francisco and Marin County to the north, and is one of the major road routes into and out of the city.

The masterwork of architect Joseph B. Strauss, whose statue graces the southern observation deck, the bridge took seven years to build, and was completed on May 27, 1937. Not actually golden in color -- a common misconception -- the bridge is painted a deep red-orange. Erroneous legend has it that the bridge is continuously painted, with crews starting at one end and, on getting to the other end, turning around and starting over again. In fact, the bridge is only painted once every few years, with some touch up done continuously.The masterwork of architect Joseph B. Strauss, whose statue graces the southern observation deck, the bridge took seven years to build, and was completed on May 27, 1937. Not actually golden in color -- a common misconception -- the bridge is painted a deep red-orange. Erroneous legend has it that the bridge is continuously painted, with crews starting at one end and, on getting to the other end, turning around and starting over again. In fact, the bridge is only painted once every few years, with some touch up done continuously.

The San Francisco end of the bridge is accessible by the Muni 28 bus line from Fort Mason in the Marina District near Fisherman’s wharf. The fastest way to reach it from downtown is to take the the 38 or 38L up Geary to “Park Presidio” (after 12th ave) and transfer to a Fort Mason bound 28. Golden Gate Transit buses serve the bridge on request, but buses are very infrequent and unpredictable except at afternoon commute times, when they are crowded.

[edit][add listing] Do

• Exercise and Play, Marina Green is a long, flat strip of grass at the front of the Marina that runs along the Bay, equidistant between the Presidio and Fort Mason. The 'Green' teems with joggers, cyclists, dog walkers, kite flyers, volleyball players, frisbee throwers and rollerbladers all getting their health kick while exercising in an iconic location. The activities continue all the way through Crissy Fields ('The City's Front Yard') to the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge where you will find surfers patiently waiting for that next 'big-one'.
• Steps at Broadway and Lyon - If you climb these steps you can get a breathtaking view of the Palace of Fine Arts, the Marina and the Bay. The Steps are known locally as the "San Francisco Stair Master".
• Walking Tours. There are a number of themed walking tours available in the area including; edit

• Heritage Walks, 2007 Franklin Street, ☎ +1 415 441 3000 (natasha@sfheritage.org), [16]. These architectural tours of Pacific Heights and Cow Hollow are given by the San Francisco Architectural Heritage Foundation and focus mainly on its abundunce of "painted ladies" (Edwardian and Victorian mansions) as well as the historical underpinnings of the area. They offer several different tours of varying lengths so check their website for specific details. edit

• San Francisco Ghost Hunt Walking Tour, Depart from the lobby of the Queen Anne Hotel, 1590 Sutter Street (corner of Sutter and Octavia), ☎ +1 415 922 5590 (sfghosthunt@yahoo.com), [17]. Six nights a week at 7:00pm, Closed Tuesdays. Visit places long suspected being haunted by ghostly visitaions on this one hour guided tour. Reservations not required; Adults $20, under 16's $10.  edit

• Farallon Islands Nature Cruises, San Francisco Yacht Harbor/Marina Green (just outside the Harbormaster's office), ☎ +1 800 326 7491 (Oceanic Society), [18]. Office Hours: M-F 8:30am-5pm Cruise: Departs Saturday and Sundays, Check-in time is 7:30 am, boat leaves 8:00 a.m.. Learn about the importance of preserving our natural environment on a 8 hour cruise to this National Wildlife Refuge, 27 miles off the coast of San Francisco. The Islands are home to Sea-Lions, Tufted Puffins, Pigeon Guillemots, Rhinoceros Auklets, In total, twenty three species of marine mammals, including 18 species of whales and dolphins reside in these waters. Adults $105.  edit

[edit] Theater and Performing Arts

• BATS Improv at Bayfront Theater, Fort Mason Center, Bldg B, 3rd floor, ☎ +1 415 474-8935, [19]. BATS is an improvisational theater company, and hosts Theatresports and other improv formats. They also hosts guest improv groups and conduct classes. edit

• Blue Bear Performance Hall, Fort Mason Center, Bldg D, 2nd floor, ☎ +1 415 673-3600, [20]. The Blue Bear Performance Hall is used mostly for school performances, improvisational theater, and also independent stage productions. edit

• Cowell Theater, Fort Mason Center, Middle Pier (behind Herbst Pavilion), ☎ +1 415 441-3400. Hosts dance, theater, and film festivals. edit

• Magic Theatre, Fort Mason Center, Bldg D, 3rd floor, ☎ +1 415 441-8822 (boxoffice@magictheatre.org), [21]. The Magic Theater is widely recognised as a great American playwright’s theater. They present substantial new plays by writers such as Pulitzer Prize-winners Sam Shepard and David Mamet, as well as innovative work by emerging writers. edit

• Young Performers Theatre, Fort Mason Center, Bldg C, 3rd floor, ☎ +1 415 346-5550, [22]. The Young Performers Theatre is a professional children’s theater. It hosts seven or eight shows each year and offers classes in the dramatic arts. edit

• Palace of Fine Arts Theatre, 3301 Lyon Street, ☎ +1 415 567-6642 (info@palaceoffinearts.org, fax: +1 415 567-4062), [23]. Visit their website for a schedule of upcoming events and shows. edit

[edit] Events and Festivals

• Ethnic Dance Festival, Palace of Fine Arts, ☎ +1 415 474.3914 (info@worldartswest.org, fax: +1 415 474.3922), [24]. The festival is held over three to four weekends in June, and celebrates traditional ethnic dances like Flamenco, Balinese, Fuego Nuevo, Irish and YaoYong. It's colorful, energetic and exciting. Free.  edit

• Union Street Art Festival [25]Local artists have found a fun way to display their art at this festival whilst live jazz and classical music plays. The Festival is one of San Francisco’s largest annual free events, and attracts in excess of 100,000 attendees each year. It's held between Union and Gough Street. This year the east entrance of the festival, (beginning at Gough Street) will feature an organic farmer's market, arts and crafts created with recycled and sustainable materials and eco-friendly exhibits. Additionally, the Festival showcases 150 arts & crafts booths, 20 gourmet food booths, two stages of live entertainment and bistro style cafes.

[edit][add listing] Buy

The three main shopping thoroughfares are Union Street (Cow Hollow), Fillmore Street (Pacific Heights) and Chestnut Street (The Marina). Most stores here are of the small specialist boutique type - reflecting the upscale nature of the neighborhoods. Union street is unquestionably, one of the best streets in the City to window shop on, so take a slow stroll down Union street and enjoy the vibrancy and atmosphere of the shops, galleries, eateries, cafes and passers-by. With a friendly, neighborhood feel, Fillmore St displays its charm through eclectic Victorian buildings that the stores are housed in. The street has a relaxed vibe, shopping here is a leisurely activity - many stores don't open until 11 AM, some are closed on Mondays and most are closed on holidays. Chestnut Street is the one-stop street for anything you could need, so slip on your walking shoes and wear a 'shop to you drop' attitude. Keep energized with a coffee from Peets while popping in and out of the mix of unique and trendy chain shops. Word to the wise, watch out for all the double-wide and double-decker baby strollers... they'll run you down.

• Ambiance, 1864 Union St, ☎ +1 415 923-9797, +1 415 923-9796, [26]. Mon - Fri 11am-7pm Sat 10am-7pm Sun 11am-7pm. The store has a great selection of womens clothes and jewellery  edit

• Girlfriends, 1824 Union St, ☎ +1 415 673-9544, [27]. Mon - Sat 10am-8pm Sun 11am-6pm. To help you prepare for bikini season, this store has all you need to accessorize for the beach. The store has been visited by some famous 'Girlfriends' including Courtney Cox, Gwenyth Paltrow and Britney Spears. edit

• Bee Market, 3030 Fillmore Street, ☎ +1 415 292-2910 (beemarket@earthlink.net), [28]. M-F 10AM-6PM, Sa 10AM-4PM. Owned by French woman Virginie Wallace, this European classic and modern fusion furniture store, always has something interesting on offer.Their focus is on furniture wth beautiful design, architectural lines and minimalistic esthetic.  edit

• Images of the North, 2036 Union Street, ☎ +1 415 673-1273 (gallery@ImagesNorth.com), [29]. Tue - Sat 11-5:30 & by appt. Features a eclectic collection of prints, sculpture and jewelry from Alaskan and Canadian Inuit artists. Focus of images is to depict Arctic culture as interpreted through art.  edit

• Wonders of Tibet, 1771 Union Street, ☎ +1 415 409 2994 (wot@wondersoftibet.com), [30]. M-F 10AM-6PM, Sa 10AM-4PM. A Tibetan inspired gallery where you will find all kind of original Buddhist treasures like; jewellery and beads, rugs, Dharma, Antiques, artifacts and gifts.  edit

• Hourian Art Galleries, 1843 Union Street, ☎ +1 415 346-6400 (houriangallery@aol.com), [31]. has an interesting collection of Persian Miniatures that were crafted using arabesque, linear detail, fantasy color and delicate form.  edit

• Gallery of Jewels, 2101 Union Street, ☎ +1 415 550-0226,877 639-0226 (shawn@galleryofjewels.com), [32]. M-F 10AM-6PM, Sa 10AM-4PM. Gallery of Jewels is dedicated to creating and managing a specialized retail jewelry marketplace. They represent and sell limited edition, handcraftedjewelry by local and International Jewelry Designers. The Gallery presents each artist individually and collectively has an good variety of silver, gold and platinum accessories. edit

• Margaret O'Leary, 2400 Fillmore Street, ☎ +1 415 771-9982. High-end knits and accessories. edit

• Nest, 2300 Fillmore Street, ☎ +1 415 292-6199. French-inspired furniture, gifts and accessories. edit

• Vino!, 2425A California St. (between Fillmore St & Steiner St), ☎ +1 415 674-8466. Mon-Fri 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.,Sat 10:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.,Sun 11:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.. They have a great selection of wines (300 varieties )to suit every budget. edit

• Oliviers & Co., 2208 Fillmore St. (near Sacramento Street), ☎ +1 415 474-1408. Boutique store that sells provincial olive and balsamic vinegars from all over the world - like Sicily and Haute Provence. edit

• Safeway, 15 Marina Blvd (between Beach St & Buchanan St - near Fort Mason), ☎ +1 415 563-4946, [33]. Mon-Sun 12:00 a.m.-12:00 a.m.. Large, local Marina Safeway. edit

• Red Dot Chestnut, 2176 Chestnut St., ☎ +1 415 346-0606, [34]. Selling designer goods at a discount - clothes, shoes, bags and jewlery. They also have some unique items like vegan handbags. edit

• Books Inc, 2251 Chestnut St., ☎ +1 415 931-3633, [35]. Sun-Thu: 9:00am-10:00pm,Fri & Sat: 9:00am-11:00pm. Unconventional book store that holds a storytelling hour for kids every Sunday afternoon. edit

• House of Magic, 2025 Chestnut St., ☎ +1 415 346-2218. They have a great selection of costumes and gags all year round including wigs, face paint, and prosthetics, as well as starter kits to help you become a magician.  edit

[edit][add listing] Eat

Most eateries are on Chestnut Street, Union Street and Fillmore Street.

[edit] Budget

• Ace Wasabi Rock and Roll Sushi, 3339 Steiner St. (just north of Lombard), ☎ +1 415 567-4903. Mon-Thu 5:30pm-10:30pm, Fri-Sat 5:30pm-11pm, Sun 5pm-10pm. This Sushi place is popular with the locals, offering good sushi with a rock and roll theme. edit

• Andale Taqueria, 2150 Chestnut Street, ☎ +1 415 749-0506. An atmnospheric but quick service restaurant serving more affordable options. They also have outdoor seating. $8 to $12.  edit

[edit] Mid Range

• Fuzio's, 2175 Chestnut Street, ☎ +1 415 673-8804, [36]. Worldwide pasta is how it bills. This modern and affordable restaurant has some unique flavors, such as the Barbwire Chicken. edit

• Home Plate, 2274 Lombard Street (between Pierce St & Steiner St), ☎ +1 415 922-4663. Mon-Sun 7:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.. Wonderful brunch place on Lombard. Always busy on weekends. Great homemade scones with homemade jam. edit

• Green's Restaurant, Building A, Fort Mason Center, ☎ +1 415 415-771-6222, [37]. Located in Fort Mason, is a firm favourite among the vegetarians and health conscious. Fresh, tasty food that appeases all appetites. Dinner Entrees $16-$23.  edit

• Isa, 3324 Steiner Street (just off of Chestnut), [38]. Monday -Thursday 5:30 -10:00 pm, Friday - Saturday 5:30-10:30 pm. Comfortable environment with an innovative menu made up of small plates that blend French style with Asian flavors. Owner Luke Sung is one of San Francisco's most celebrated young chefs. $4-$17.  edit

• Pacific Catch, 2027 Chestnut Street, ☎ +1 415 440-1950, [39]. 11:00am -10:00pm daily. There isn't much seating in this place, but that doesn't seem to matter for the patrons that come here to taste Asian/Pacific cuisine. The tuna bowl comes highly recommended. $4-$14.  edit

• Bistro Aix, 3340 Steiner, ☎ +1 415 202-0100 (fax: +1 415 202-0153), [40]. A great date restaurant with intimate and comfortable seating and a romantic decor. Entrees $12-20.  edit

• Dragon Well Restaurant, 2142 Chestnut Street, ☎ +1 415 474-6888 (fax: +1 415 775-9888), [41]. 11:30 am - 10:00 pm, daily. Light, modern chinese food - not your typical oily dishes. Dinner Entrees $9-$12.  edit

• Capannina, 1809 Union Street, ☎ +1 415 409-8001 (info@capannina.us), [42]. Open Tuesday through Sunday evenings, from 5:00pm, Closed Mondays. A new Italian restaurant that focuses on familiar tempting classics of Italian cuisine. $30 and under.  edit

• Pomodoro, 1875 Union St, ☎ +1 415 771-7900, [43]. Featuring risottos, pastas, meats, and seafood, this restaurant has also a nice open garden patio in the back and a full bar. edit

• Betelnut Pejiu Wu, 2030 Union St, ☎ +1 415-929-8855, [44]. 'Pejiu Wu' - meaning side street beer house, and along with oversized mugs of beer you will find "street food" made with fresh local ingredients and regional spices. The food here tends to be quite hot. With it's Asian Fusion cuisine, it has become a Cow Hollow establishment. Look out for the long lines though. $9-$21.  edit

[edit] Splurge

• Eastside West Restaurant, 3154 Fillmore St. (At Greenwich St), ☎ +1 415 885-4000 (eswrawbar@aol.com, fax: +1 415 885-4001), [45]. Dinner: Thursday - Saturday: 4:00pm - 12:00am, Sunday - Wednesday: 4:00pm - 10:00pm Brunch: Saturday & Sunday: 10:30am - 4:00pm. Perfect for appetizers and drinks on a weekend afternoon. $30 and under.  edit

• Izzy's Steaks & Chops, 3349 Steiner St, ☎ +1 415 563-0487 (izzys3345@aol.com), [46]. Mon-Thu 5:30pm-10pm, Fri-Sat 5:30-10:30pm, Sun 5-10pm. Classic steak restaurant with wood floors, saw dust, booths, steak sauces, and the requisite cowboy hat. Their pricing is affordable and their steaks big and tasty. $31 to $50.  edit

• Perry’s, 1944 Union St (between Charlton Ct & Laguna St), ☎ +1 415 922-9022, [47]. Breakfast is served Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 12 noon. Lunch & Dinner menu is offered continuously from 11:00 AM to 12 midnight on Friday and Saturday, and until 11:00 PM Sunday through Thursday.Brunch is served Saturday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM and Sunday from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.. over 40 years old, this restaurant is a Cow Hollow tradition and is known for it's classic American Cuisine. Entrees $15-$30.  edit

• Rose’s Café, 2298 Union Street, ☎ +1 415 399-0499, [48]. Mon-Thurs 7:00am-10:00pm Friday 7:00am-11:00pm Saturday 8:00am-11:00pm Sunday 8:00am-10:00pm. features Italian fare created using organic local produce, fresh seafood, humanely raised meats, and free-range poultry. It's a very romantic spot and a favourite among locals! Entrees $16-$26.  edit

• Liverpool Lil's, 2942 Lyon Street, ☎ +1 415 921-6664, [49]. Sunday 10am-11 pm Monday 11am-11 pm Tuesday-Friday 11am-1am Saturday 10am-1am. was established in 1973 and has a good atmosphere and fantastic views over the Presidio from the curbside tables. Entrees $11-$25.  edit

• Brazen Head, 3166 Buchanan Street, ☎ +1 415 921-7600, [50]. serving wholesome American cuisine including their signature dish 'Certified Angus Beef NY Pepper Steak' - this restaurant is a very well kept local secret! Entrees $16-$27.  edit

• Quince, 1701 Octavia Street, ☎ +1 415 775-8500, [51]. Occupying the space originally held by The MeetingHouse, Quince is a neighborhood restaurant on the high end of the price scale. Quince serves up locally grown, organic meals in its menu that changes every day. Entrees $27-$39.  edit

[edit][add listing] Drink

[edit] Bars

There is a wide variety of drinking establishments available here, from upscale winebars, to sports bars and dance clubs.

• California Wine Merchant. Formerly just a wine retail shop, the California Wine Merchant is now a hip little spot where you can enjoy a few glasses of wine, watch people go by on Chestnut, or pick up a few bottles to bring home.
• The HiFi Lounge, 2125 Lombard St, ☎ +1 415 933-6299, [52]. is where people come to dance the night away. It also features live DJs, games, and big screen TVs. Happy hour begins at 5 pm and they offer $2 Budweisers and $3 Well Drinks. Their "Girls of Taste" (Wine Tasting for women) is not to be missed and is held once a month. edit

• MatrixFillmore, 3138 Fillmore Street, ☎ +1 415 563-4180, [53]. Open nightly 5:30pm to 2:00am. Originally a venue for the folk and psychedelic rock genre of the City, this place closed in the 70's but was resurrected in 2001 with a more hip and futuristic twist. Features local DJ's and bands nightly. edit

• Blue Light, 1979 Union St (between Buchanan St & Charlton Ct), ☎ +1 415 922-5510, [54]. 4:00pm-2:00am Monday Thru Friday, 11:00 am on Weekends. Their 'Taco Tuesday' is a long standing favorite amongst locals and features $3 Margaritas for the ladies. Guys are equally well served with $2 Coronas. And with $1 tacos, it's a price for all! edit

• Bus Stop, 1901 Union Street (between Charlton Ct & Laguna St), ☎ +1 415 567-6905, [55]. Mon-Fri 10am-2am Sat-Sun 9am-2am. has a 'down-home' comfortable bar atmosphere with 17 TVs, sports memorabilia and a twenty-something/thirty-something crowd. edit

• Nectar Wine Lounge, 3330 Steiner Street (just off Chestnut St), ☎ +1 415 345-1377, [56]. Mon-Thurs 5-10.30 pm, Fri-Sat 5pm - midnight, Sun 3pm - 10pm. Order your wine from the experts, this sleek wine bar comes complete with wine-connoisseur bartenders. Great stop off point before or after dinner. edit

• Bar None, 1980 Union St, ☎ +1 415 409-4469 (partybarnone@yahoo.com), [57]. Featuring Pool, Darts, Beer Pong, a good selection on the jukebox and the "Power Hour" - Sun-Thurs 9-10pm, $2 Wells and Drafts. edit

• Harry's Bar, 2020 Fillmore St. (between California St. & Pine St.), ☎ +1 415 921-1000, [58]. Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:00am Sat-Sun 10:00am-2:00am. Good neighborhood bar with casual atmosphere. Popular with local professionals. edit

• Marina Sports Bar and Grill, 2400 Lombard St., ☎ +1 415 440-2000. Mon-Fri 4pm-2am, Sat-Sun 9am-2am. Very large bar which is always popular on game night. Lots of sports memorabilia and 49ers photos adorning the walls.  edit

• The Comet Club, 3111 Fillmore St., ☎ +1 415 567-5589. Tue-Sun 5pm-2am. Good place to go if you like to shake it to the sounds of the 70's and 80's! Its a bit cramped though and can get crowded. edit

[edit] Coffee

• The Grove, 2250 Chestnut Street, ☎ +1 415 474-4843. Everyday 7am-11pm. Marina coffee house with a great selection of teas here as well as salads and pastries. Sidewalk tables give it a European flavor. edit

• Judy's Cafe, 2268 Chestnut Street, ☎ +1 415 922-4588. Monday - Friday 7:45am - 2:15pm, Saturday & Sunday 7:45am-3pm. Quaint European style Marina cafe with helathy portions. edit

• Tully's Coffee House, 2455 Fillmore Street (between Jackson St & Washington St), ☎ +1 415 929-8808, [59]. Good coffee and WiFi available. edit

• La Boulange, 1909 Union Street, ☎ +1 415 440-4450, [60]. Monday through Sunday, 7:00am to 7:00pm. Traditional french bakery and coffee cafe. The owner was born in Bordeaux and has a lifetime of baking experience. The cafe sells bread made of organic flour from their own wheat mill. edit

[edit] Juice Bars

• Jamba Juice, 1998 Union Street, ☎ +1 415674-0100, [61]. Chaon serving fresh fruit smoothies, hot vegetable soups, and high-nutrition breads. edit

[edit][add listing] Sleep

The neighborhoods in this District are really just that - neighborhoods. As such, you won't find many of the larger luxury chain-hotels. Many of the accommodations are located along busy Lombard, which runs east from Russian Hill to the Presidio in the West. Lombard Street actually forms an informal boundary between the Marina and Cow Hollow. Most of the accommodations along Lombard range from run down motor lodges to slightly more respectable bed and breakfasts.

[edit] Budget

• Hostelling International-Fisherman's Wharf Hostel, in Fort Mason, Building 240, +1 415 771-7277, [62]. Even if you're unsure about hostels, you should still consider this place; the location alone makes it worth your while, as it is in a park-like setting with great views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz and is within easy walking distance of Fisherman's Wharf. It has a total of 150 Beds in dormitory style rooms. Quite clean and safe, with Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, lockers, and free breakfast. $23-$30 dorms, $60-$100 private rooms.
• Travelodge Golden Gate, 2230 Lombard Street, ☎ (415) 922-3900, [63].  edit

• Edward II Inn and Suites, 3155 Scott Street, ☎ 800 473-2846 (innkeeper@edwardii.com, fax: +1 415 931-5784), [64]. Check in: 3:00 PM; Check out: 12:00 AM. Average Price $92.  edit

• Greenwich Inn, 3201 Steiner St, ☎ +1 415 921-5162 (info@greenwichinn.com, fax: +1 415 921-3602), [65]. Budget hotel with free parking, located just one block from Union Street. It has 32 recently renovated guest rooms and offers an in-room coffee service and a complimentary daily newspaper. edit

[edit] Mid range

• Hotel del Sol, 3100 Webster St, ☎ +1 415 921-5520 (fax: +1 415 931-4137), [66]. Check in: 3:00 PM; Check out: 12:00 AM. Voted CitySearch San Francisco's Best Budget Hotel, Best Family-Friendly Hotel and Best Hotel Pool, 2006. Part of the fancy Joie de Vivre hotel group, this formerly nondiscript motor lodge was revitalized with some cool colors, interior design, and upgraded management. From $119 weekdays.  edit

• La Luna Inn, 2599 Lombard Street, ☎ +1 415 346-4664 or 866-900-0157 (fax: +1 415 346-4665), [67]. A 1960's Motor Inn combined with bespoke furiture creates a fun and fanciful atmosphere here. Average Price $128.  edit

• Buena Vista Motor Inn, 1599 Lombard St., ☎ +1 415 923-9600 or 800 835-4980 (info@buenavistamotorinn.com, fax: +1 415 441-4775), [68]. Check in: 3:00 PM; Check out: 12:00 AM. Average Price $141.  edit

• Chelsea Motor Inn, 2095 Lombard St, ☎ +1 415 563-5600 (fax: +1 415 567-6475), [69]. Check in: 3:00 PM; Check out: 12:00 AM. Features an English Tudor style building with a antique slate roof. Clean good quality rooms at a reasonable price. Nothing special, but it is certainly centrally located. $77-$145.  edit

• Lombard Motor Inn, 1475 Lombard St., ☎ 1 415 441-6000 (fax: +1 415 441-4291), [70]. Check in: 3:00 PM; Check out: 12:00 AM. $77-$135.  edit

• Marina Inn, 3110 Octavia Street, ☎ +1 415 928-1000 (info@marinainn.com, fax: +1 415 928-5909), [71]. Comfortable with a quiet B&B atmosphere. Complimentary continental breakfast and a newspaper. Average Price $176.  edit

[edit] Splurge

• Union Street Inn, 2299 Union St, ☎ +1 415 346-0424 (fax: +1 415 922-8046), [72]. Check in: 2-7 p.m. or by special arrangement. Edwardian home with spacious airy rooms and a quaint cottage garden in the back. 189-$329.  edit

• Hotel Drisco, 2901 Pacific Avenue, +1 415 346-2880 or +1 800 634-7277, [73]. Built in 1903, this is a higher-end, boutique hotel right in the heart of Pacific Heights. Average Price $337
• Laurel Inn, 444 Presidio Avenue, +1 415 567-8467 or +1 800 552-8735, [74].Built in 1963, this renovated hotel is a contemporary take on Mid-century style with a sophisticated and comfortable interior. Each guestroom is designed like a studio apartment and many have kitchenettes.
• Francisco Bay Inn, 1501 Lombard St, ☎ +1 415 474-3030 Toll-Free: 1-800-410-7007, [75]. Located conveniently on Lombard Street. All of the rooms and hallways are 100% non-smoking. Free Parking and newly renovated rooms. Average Price $197.  edit

[edit] Contact

• San Francisco Public Library - Golden Gate Valley Branch, 1801 Green Street, ☎ +1 415 355-5666, [76]. Sun Closed, M Closed, Tu 10-6, W 12-8, Th 1-7, F 1-6, Sat 1-6.  edit

• San Francisco Public Library - Marina Branch, 1890 Chestnut Street, ☎ +1 415 355-2823, [77]. Sun 1-5, M 10-6, Tu 10-6, W 1-9, Th 1-9, F 1-6, Sat 10-6.  edit

• San Francisco Public Library - Presidio Branch, 3150 Sacramento Street, ☎ +1 415 355-2880, [78]. Sun Closed, M Closed, Tu 10-9, W 1-9, Th 10-9, F 1-6, Sat 10-6.  edit

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