Insider’s Guide to San Francisco

I have known Weezie Boudreau since I was in pre-school; I lived in San Francisco until I was six, before my family and I moved to Los Angeles. Over the years, the two of us have remained extremely close friends. I feel immensely lucky to have such a special friendship that dates all the way back to when I was just three years old! Weezie still lives in San Francisco and  is a rising high school senior, and she is one of the kindest, trendiest, smartest people I know. I am so excited to feature her on The Zeitgeist this week as travel guest editor! xo

EAT: 

Blue Barn
Blue Barn is my go-to spot for lunch with my friends. It’s easy, quick, and has amazing salads and sandwiches. I recommend the Spring Salad!

Off the Grid
Off the Grid is a group of food trucks that come to different locations around the city. It is one of my favorite things to do for lunch or dinner because there are so many options! Check out their website to look at the schedule.

Roam
Roam has every type of burger that you can think of. They are delicious and the service is great!

Basik
Basik Café is known for their smoothies and acai bowls. They use fresh fruit and granola and their acai bowls are great on warm days.

SHOP: 

Chestnut Street
Chestnut Street is a long street in the Marina neighborhood of the city. There are lots of well-known stores, boutiques and restaurants like Blue Barn and Roam. Chestnut Street is my ultimate favorite place to spend the day with friends.

Union Square
Located in downtown San Francisco, Union Square is one of the more touristy places in the city. If you are looking for stores like Forever 21 or H&M, I would recommend going to the Westfield Mall, which is two blocks from Union Square.

Haight Street
Haight Street is well-known for being a “hippy” street. The street has a lot of bohemian and cool stores that have really unique clothing. You can find crazy stuff here!

SEE: 

Alcatraz
I would highly recommend seeing Alcatraz if you have the time because it is one of the most unique places in the city. There is really cool history behind the island/former prison, and taking the ferry there can be fun!

Academy of Sciences
The Academy of Sciences is a museum in Golden Gate Park. It is a really innovative museum that has a cool aquarium and rainforest exhibit.

Painted Ladies
If you are a Full House fan, go to Alamo Square and see the Painted Ladies!

DO: 

Land’s End Trail
One of my personal favorite things to do is walk the Lands End Trail on a sunny day. The trail provides amazing views of the ocean and Golden Gate Bridge.

Fort Mason’s Farmer’s Market
If you are in the city on a Sunday morning, go to Fort Mason in the Marina. There is a farmer’s market that has amazing local fruit and produce!

Walk Across the Golden Gate Bridge
This may sound a little bit touristy, but walking across the bridge is a really cool experience, and the views are awesome!

 

Image Sources: Cal Academy of Sciences, Detraveling, Late Night Snack, San Francisco Days, Travel Digg, Lori Corn Messer, Uncommon Goods, and Instagram.