Loews Hotel Magazine Spring/Summer 2015 | Page 27

FISHERMAN’S WHARF PHOTO COURTESY OF SAN FRANCISCO TRAVEL ASSOCIATION/JACK HOLLINGSWORTH; CLARION ALLEY, MISSION DOLORES AND MISSION DOLORES PARK PHOTOS COURTESY OF SAN FRANCISCO TRAVEL ASSOCIATION/SCOTT CHERNIS; COCKTAILS PHOTO COURTESY OF HOG & ROCKS IMAGES OF THE TRANSAMERICA PYRAMID USED WITH PERMISSION OF TRANSAMERICA CORPORATION Day One MORNING No stay in the city would be complete without a stroll through Fisherman’s Wharf, a wide-ranging mix of shops, restaurants and attractions sprawled out over a colorful section of old fishing piers. Catch an early morning cab or an F-line trolley to beat the crowds. This popular area is where you’ll find some of San Francisco’s staples (enjoy clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls from Boudin, snack on fresh chocolate from Ghirardelli, say hello to the local sea lion population), but you will definitely want to save time for two unique activities: a tour of Alcatraz Island and some time in the Musée Mécanique. Boats for the tour of Alcatraz leave from the wharf, although you’ll have to book reservations online a few weeks in advance to secure a spot (alcatrazcruises.com). The audio tour is a must on this fascinating jaunt through the history and lore of the closed federal penitentiary. The ride to the island and back doubles as a harbor cruise with dazzling views of the skyline and Golden Gate Bridge. Musée Mécanique, a peculiar and unique arcade of old penny show machines, is located just behind Boudin, near the USS Pampanito. A private collection of more than 300 pieces makes up the interactive museum, which offers free admission. The machines can be played for a quarter or two, including such favorites as the working carnival and the legendary Laffing Sal. AFTERNOON As crowds start to roll into the wharf, travel inland to the Mission District, home to countless murals and community artworks that pay homage to the neighborhood’s Latino heritage and independent art roots. Start at either the 16th or 24th street BART station and navigate through Clarion Alley, Balmy Alley and 24th Street east of Valencia Street for glimpses of these unique pieces. For more in-depth examination, the Precita Eyes Mural Arts and Visitors Center hosts guided mural walking, biking and bus tours on weekends or by private appointment during the week. The nearby South of Market (SoMa) neighborhood is also home to Electric Works and SOMArts, both great places for local arts events on Friday evenings. After indulging your artistic side, indulge your palate with coffee, sweets or craft beer (or all three). Philz Coffee on 24th Street hand-pours delicious coffee that’s become a sensation. Although you’ll likely encounter a line at Tartine Bakery & Cafe and Bi-Rite Creamery, they’re both well worth the wait for masterful baked goods and artisanal ice cream, respectively. The establishments are near Mission Dolores Park and its namesake, a massive church that’s one of California’s historic Catholic missions. EVENING Just a couple miles east of Mission Dolores Park, Anchor Brewing calls Potrero Hill home. Reserve a place on the brewery tour a month in advance, then enjoy generous samples of beer on tap and a history lesson about one of America’s Clockwise from top: Sea lions sunbathing at Fisherman’s Wharf; Clarion Alley, one walkable stretch where visitors can find colorful murals; Mission Dolores in the Mission District oldest craft breweries. If you miss out on the tour, the new Southern Pacific Brewery, back in the Mission, features a spacious industrial location with an indoor garden, great food and a spread of house-brewed beers. This part of town also hosts four of the city’s most beloved restaurants. Choose between Delfina and Foreign Cinema: The former is known for pizza and pasta while the latter has a romantic patio (along with classic films projected on a large brick wall once a month). Or, a short cab ride will bring you to Bernal Heights, where you’ll find Ichi Sushi + NI Bar and The Front Porch. Ichi showcases in-season, sustainable catches. Sit at the counter, where chef Tim Archuleta prepares “omakase” dinners (meals made up of a series of plates selected by the chef ). The Front Porch, on the other hand, serves up comfort food with a cozy ambience. After dinner, sample some of the city’s best cocktails and nightlife. The Mission’s Hog & Rocks features an inventive menu of craft drinks and candlelit seating. In Bernal Heights, head to either Rock Bar for bourbon concoctions or Iron & Gold for its swanky vibe. A cocktail at Hog & Rocks (left) and some lounging with locals in Mission Dolores Park (right) are great ways to kick off a weekend in San Francisco. LOEWS MAGAZINE LO5_SF-e_v5-e_v6_v7.indd 27 27 4/14/15 9:43 AM