In your opinion, what are some of the best things to do regardless of the weather for a person like me (20 something) going to San Fran for the first time? I do love walking!
I will be staying at the Serano in Union Square and am wondering how far of a walk is it to Nob Hill and the Golden Gate Bridge?

Also, what would be the best time of day to
walk the Golden Gate Bridge to the other side? I love photography and am on a mission to find some of the best places to take photos.

Any and all suggestions are very welcome! Thank you!

It is a 6 block VERY steep walk up to Nob Hill. It's pretty far to Golden Gate park - I would not walk that far.

The best time to walk across the GG Bridge is in the afternoon, when the sun is behind you if you want to photograph the City from there.

Search on "Stu" on the US forum & you'll find lots of info about my favorite things to do in The City. You'll also find my suggestions for best views.

Stu Dudley

Hi renodsgnr, I walk from Union Sq. to NobHill almost every time I am in SF. Yes it is uphill but as a 20 something year old you won't have a problem. I enjoy the walk and I am a grandmother.

Stu Dudley is the local expert on San Fran. You need to review all of his posts on this site.

I just returned from San Fran 3 days ago. San Fran is such an awesome place to visit. There's a reason why Conde Nast Traveler magazine readers rank it as the most desirable destination to visit in the USA. Highlights of my trip include:
- Biking across the GG bridge to Sausalito
- Running 10 miles along the wharf
- The spectacular views from "Twin Peaks", from "Top of the Mark" lounge, and from the Marin Headlands
- Alcatraz
- Palace of Fine Arts
- Golden Gate Park
- Chinatown

If you have more than two days, you should rent a car and travel down Hwy 1 to Carmel. My photos are incredible!

Dear renodsgnr,
From Union Square to Nob Hill, just an uphill walk, though not such a long one. For the GG Bridge, I'd take one of the Muni buses that let you off near the south end (City side) like the numbers 28 or the 29. I'd go to the Marina district to catch either of these buses and proceed from there.

For neighborhood walks, I love Noe Valley, the Castro, and the Upper Haight. Lots of hills, views and architecture of all kinds. Also Valencia Street if you like a funky kind of hipness.

Like you, I am a walker and S.F. pleases me that way like no other town. Most of my routes would not interest a first-time visitor, but be assured that San Francisco has many places that feel undiscovered even to a long-time resident.

Take the advice above and take a look at Stu's past responses - you will get the detail you need for in-depth neighborhood exploration.

A hike in Muir Woods (redwood forest) should make your list. Fantastic photo ops as the sun is coming up. About 20 minute drive from the far side of the GG bridge, but well worth it. Taking a ferry over to Sausalito for lunch or cocktails & dinner is a fun excursion. Beach Blanket Babylon is a fun night at the theater. You'll have a great trip.