I will be in San Francisco for a 3-day weekend at the end of January. Never been there and I have a really long list of what I'd like to do. I get there on wednesday pm and so I wanted to spend Thursday getting to know the city and all the little "touristy" things. Then friday going for a drive along highway 1 to Big Sur. I'd like to also go to Death Valley. Any suggestions for must-sees? I'm not big on night life but I would love to see natural wonders.

Thanks in advance for all the help.

Take a look at a map. Death Valley is not remotely close to San Francisco. Save that for your trip to L.A.

Even Big Sur from San Francisco is a loooong drive. The scenery in route and return is exceptional. So, if you just wanted to see the countryside from your car, it could be done. But, if you are going to be in San Francisco, there is so much to see in the Bay Area, e.g., Marin Headlands, view from Mt. Tamalpias, Sonoma to the Coast, Muir Woods, etc., all in addition to scenic wonders in San Francisco, why spend such a short period of time confined to your car?

It may be a good idea to start with a city tour. Sausalito is beautiful and close, you may take Golden Gate Transit bus to get there and return by ferry. If you like great views and thrill driving in the mountains then Stinson Beach is definitely for you. The wiew from Twin Peaks is great, and Castro area is near. Don't miss the hippy street - Haight.

Keep in mind that our weather has been really wet in the SF area this fall and early winter. January is in the middle of our rainy season, so it's likely to be wet when you're here. Driving down to Big Sur is no fun in the rain. Joe has given you great advice: Enjoy SF.

Take the first poster seriously: LOOK AT A MAP! The three days you are planning will keep you in a car for 3 days. I doubt if you will have time to eat so take a box lunch.

My recommendation would be to spend all 3 days in SF and get to know the City. I live here and still find new things to see and do on every trip. The journey in a car from SF to Big Sur is probably about 2 1/2 hours....if you are lucky and have no problems. Just stay in the City and enjoy.

Alcatraz is fun to see and you need advance reservations usually. Do not wait to do the day of...get reservations in advance. City tour is also a good way to get a feel for SF. Drive or walk the Golden Gate Bridge. Also go to SFChronicle.com for local events that will be happening during your visit.

But first of all: GET A MAP!