Destination Guide
San Francisco
Where West Coast vibe collides with the electric energy of the city.
Destination Guide San Francisco
How I See San Francisco
Get ready for the ultimate urban adventure. The 49 square miles that make up San Francisco are filled with breathtaking cityscapes and vibrant cultures from across the globe. From an innovative food scene to unexpected street art on every corner, the City by the Bay has something for everyone.
When In San Francisco, You Must
EAT
Pawn Shop
993 Mission St
DRINK
Elements
165 O'Farrell St
SEE
16th Avenue Tiled Steps
16th Ave
DO
Golden Gate Park
19th Avenue
Know Before You Go
FIT
Our state of the art fitness center features all types of equipment to fuel your workout. Whether you're into boxing, yoga, strength training, or cardio, we've got you covered.
Talk Like a Local
Learn the slang from the city.
Karl
/kahrl/ noun
The nickname locals have given to the fog found rolling throughout the city. Yes, Karl even has its own Instagram: @karlthefog
When its a sunny out, you know Karl decided to take the day off.
Neighborhoods to Explore
When in San Francisco, do as San Franciscans do. Mingle with the locals, sip on Fernet and chill out at Dolores Park.
1. The Mission
Murals, taquerias, and buzzing nightlife – take your pick. The Mission District is one of San Francisco’s many melting pots, where you can shop at a high end boutique and cross the street to eat at an authentic taco stand.
2. The Sunset
Those who like to venture deep into the city explore here. Hipster coffee shops, authentic Asian cuisine, and peaceful parks are among The Sunset’s many hidden gems. Head far west to Land’s End at sundown for breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s not called “The Sunset” for nothing!
3. Embarcadero
San Francisco is famous for its picturesque bay-front views. Take a walk down the Embarcadero, the waterfront district, to discover some of the city's best viewpoints and seafood restaurants.
4. SoMa
The perfect blend of work and play. Home to most major tech companies and W San Francisco, SoMa has a happy hour haven for everyone. Visiting the city for leisure? Hit up the city’s many museums during the day and mingle in its vibrant club scene at night.
wsanfrancisco.com
Ultimate Access to San Francisco
Live it up San Francisco like a local.
Cold Drinks
644 Broadway
Located secretly above the ever-popular restaurant China Live, this North Beach lounge boasts a Shanghai-Jazz era vibe and intimate atmosphere.
Vanessa Mina / Insider
Follow the bats painted along the wall to locate this ultra exclusive speakeasy.
Kitchen Story
3499 16th St
No trip to San Francisco is complete without a boozy brunch. Kitchen Story is one of many locally famous restaurants serving up award-winning cuisine and bottomless mimosas.
Vanessa Mina / Insider
If you have a sweet tooth, opt for their Mascarpone-Stuffed French Toast. You won't regret it.
Yank Sing
49 Stevenson St
A favorite among locals and tourists alike, Yank Sing whips up some of the city's best dim sum.
Vanessa Mina / Insider
Don't forget to place a couple orders of the Xiao Long Bao (traditional soup dumplings).
Museum of Ice Cream
1 Grant Ave
Immerse yourself in the most unique art exhibit San Francisco has to offer. Don't believe us? The rainbow sprinkle pool might change your mind.
Vanessa Mina / Insider
Be sure to reserve tickets/time slots on their website in advance! Two weeks out is recommended.
Either/Or
DETOX
Mission Cliffs
2973 16th St.
Whether you are trying climbing for the first time or still have a box of pitons tucked away in your attic, you’ve come to the right place!
Packing List
1. Wind & rain resistant jacket
Anyone who’s visited San Francisco knows how crazy the constant weather changes can be. Keep warm and look cool with a lightweight jacket.
2. Sneakers
Whether you’re running to catch Muni or hiking San Francisco’s urban hills, stay fit and fashionable with a pair of sneakers.
3. Backpack
Keep with the commuter lifestyle and bring a backpack that can hold all the essentials.
4. Wide-angle lens for your phone
Catch all 7×7 square miles of San Francisco with this must have tech accessory.
W San Francisco
Retreat to the smart style, dynamic design and cool comfort of our
downtown San Francisco Hotel.
Spotted in San Francisco
W San Francisco
Raise your glass to a New Year with 5 exclusive holiday cocktail recipes from our W bartenders around the world.
Secrets of San Francisco with Emily Holt
Emily Holt, a fashion writer, entrepreneur and owner of the new boutique Hero Shop, shares the places and things that are distinctly SF.
Freda Salvador
2416 Fillmore St
Get a taste of Spain in the heart of SF with handcrafted leather shoes at Freda Salvador.
Rocha Art Gallery
466 Brannan St
Always supporting emerging artists and creating community based program, Rocha Art stands out as a place to see and experience artwork in a truly inviting gallery setting.
1760
1760 Polk St
Take a swig of cocktail culture at its best at 1760, where mixing drinks is an art form. Try the house gin and tonic with mint, cumin, and mezcal for a new twist on a classic.
Insider Tour
