San Francisco, California: This hilly city — known for its cable cars, Victorian homes, and the Golden Gate Bridge — is also home to some enlightening communities. San Francisco offers a bit of everywhere to everyone who’s willing to experience it.
The Life of Luxury in the Marina District
The expansive views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and yachts on the water make the Marina District a neighborhood you must make time to visit. Visit Fort Mason, a former military base turned multifaceted arts complex, or experience the romantic backdrop provided by the palace of the fine arts lagoon.
Enjoy the surrounding bars and restaurants, including Alegrias for authentic Spanish tapas, Baker Street Bistro for affordable French fare, or Barney’s Gourmet Hamburgers to experience the lineup of best burger rewards. Stay close to amazing restaurants, breathtaking views, and the fine arts when you book a room at one of InterContinental Hotels Group’s featured San Francisco hotels.
Enter the Southward Facing Gates for Good Feng Shui
Image via Flickr by Anthony G. Reyes
Take a walk through Chinatown’s Dragon Gates on Grant Avenue and enter a world of good feng shui. This 24-square-block neighborhood began with Chinese individuals seeking small fortunes during the gold rush and, today, has grown into a popular cultural attraction in San Francisco.
Stop by the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Company, established in 1962, to tour where this beloved cookie had its home. Make your way to St. Mary’s Square for t’ai chi ch’uan to experience this graceful, meditative martial art. Venture over to Stockton Street for authentic markets including fish, meat, and produce. The Bay City Guide has deemed a stay in San Francisco incomplete without a visit to this neighborhood.
Up-and-Coming Urban Flair
Mission Bay is known for its extravagant spaces. These urban amenities with outdoor recreational opportunities create a youthful energy that allows for the ideal balance of work and play, according to Great American Country.
Only a stone’s throw from AT&T Park, you can watch a baseball game from a stadium seat, kayak, or the grass of a nearby park. If the stadium food doesn’t do it for you, head to ATwater Tavern and enjoy the view from an industrial-style bar and bistro featuring locally sourced California fare. Looking for something slightly more low key? You’ll appreciate locally crafted beer alongside an enticing menu of pizzas, sandwiches, and salads at Oda Restaurant and Brewery.
Travel Across the Pacific Exploring Six Blocks
Sushi and sweets lovers alike can look no farther than Japantown. Known for the conveyor belt-style sushi bars, such as Tenroku Sushi, you simply can’t get enough. Don’t forget about your sweet tooth: Remember to indulge in traditional Japanese desserts at Uji Time and design your own crepes at Belly Good Cafe. Do some shopping at the Japanese clothing boutiques. Sweet Lolita has a super feminine, frilly vibes while the ever-popular Alice and the Pirate adds a darker touch to otherwise girly styles. End your stay here with a relaxing day at Kabuki Springs and Spa, a traditional Japanese bathhouse that offers services such as facials, massages, acupuncture, and more.
The San Francisco Bay Area is home to a multitude of cultural experiences waiting to be encountered.
