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-   -   Worthwhile in San Francisco (https://www.fodors.com/community/united-states/worthwhile-in-san-francisco-1440910/)

Dukey1 Jun 28th, 2017 10:29 AM

Worthwhile in San Francisco
 
Just thought I'd ask. Will be in town between 30 June and 5 July (we leave for home that morning). Have opera performances on the evening of the 30th and 1st; matinee on the 2nd followed by what has become (for us) an obligatory performance of Beach Blanket Babylon.

Otherwise daytimes completely free; no car. Am thinking of museum shows/exhibits; possibly a trip to Sausalito which we have never done. Alcatraz been there/done that. Have looked at the Chron for ideas, too. Fireworks I know and have asked (here) about already.

Unique and possibly memorable are always good and thanks in advance. Am determined to prove that air travel is not always stressful this trip.

Fodorite018 Jun 28th, 2017 10:52 AM

We saw BBB a few months ago and they did a great job with the current politics. I was there with a relative that lives in the area, so have been there many many times, and even with that we did one of the hop on hop off buses and it was actually pretty fun. Or rent bikes and ride over to Sausalito.

Surfergirl Jun 28th, 2017 11:01 AM

This being the 50th anniversary of the San Francisco "Summer of Love", there are all sorts of exhibits and events going on, from pop festivals to museum exhibits. Highly recommend the "Summer of Love" exhibit on at the De Young. But by googling that phrase and san Francisco, you will come up with a panoply of events going on relating to this.

SAB Jun 28th, 2017 11:08 AM

Have you done any of the SF Library walking tours?

Terribly touristy, but biking to Sausalito and taking ferry back?
Saturday at the Ferry Building Farmer's Market?
Brunch in any neighborhood, Noe Valley, Cole Valley, Fillmore, Valencia?
The Asian Art Museum (one of the only world class collections in SF)?
Summer of Love at the De Young? Or Friday Night at the DeYoung
(afterhours art "happenings)?
Stern Grove on Sunday?
Edvard Munch at SFMOMA?
And finally have you looked at Stu Dudley's SF suggestions?

k_marie Jun 28th, 2017 11:12 AM

Have you been to the expanded and remodeled SF MoMA? We will be going during our visit in August especially for the Calder exhibit.

The Asian Art Musem is in the Civic Center complex in the building that was formerly the central library. Endlessly fascinating. We never miss an opportunity to visit with the now seven year old grandson.

http://www.asianart.org/

Dukey1 Jun 28th, 2017 11:31 AM

<B>As always</B> you guys are THE best. To answer a couple of questions: no, I have not consulted Dudley's recs lately and no have not been to the expanded/remodeled MoMA. All of your suggestions seem wonderful and thank you so much for taking the time to make them.

Underhill Jun 28th, 2017 02:44 PM

"Unique and memorable"? I give you the Columbarium:

http://www.tridentsociety.com/columbarium

denisea Jun 28th, 2017 03:34 PM

Lands End (especially if it is sunny) and agree with a Sat AM at the Ferry Terminal.

Dayenu Jun 28th, 2017 05:29 PM

If going to MOMA, plan on having lunch at the top floor restaurant. All 4 of us ordered different things, and loved them. In good weather, they have outside seats.

You can combine BBB with the visit to the Beat museum, I think. I still have it on my list to visit, and I live here. Shame on me :)

International art museum of America on Market and... I think 7th street. When we were there 2-3 years ago, they had a room of lesser known European paintings, interesting Chinese paintings, and to exit you go through a "Japanese village" - we had an enjoyable visit.

DebitNM Jun 28th, 2017 05:56 PM

I have done probably 30 of the SF Guides walking tours. They are excellent; just pick the ones that match your interests. Can't go wrong.

Nelson Jun 28th, 2017 06:35 PM

Don't know if this is your cup of grog, but in the '70's I worked as a rigger on the square-rigged ship Balclutha. The San Francisco Maritime Museum could be something different and certainly unique to SF.

https://www.nps.gov/safr/learn/histo...ic-vessels.htm

(I now see the Balclutha is closed for renovations, but there is plenty of other stuff to see.)

Dukey1 Jun 29th, 2017 02:49 AM

Thanks once again for these additionals. I would have sent this message sooner but the site simply doesn't cooperate at times.

Since we are once again (after bouncing around from place to place, reservation-wise) staying at the Hyatt Embarcadero (and the price got reduced yesterday for a change so even better) we will almost undoubtedly try the Ferry Bldg again.

The last time the place seemed mobbed which is understandable and it is at times like that when I feel like fleeing on the Muni to somewhere on the other side of Twin Peaks where it'[s quiet.

I'd write a trip report but suspect few would be interested since we travel in such an ordinary way.

Anyway, thanks again for all these.

gailscout Jun 29th, 2017 05:41 AM

Looking forward to the report and I live here!
Ferry building may be less crowded during the week if no farmers market and the Giants are out of town. Bring a warm jacket - the fog is in!

Dukey1 Jun 29th, 2017 06:45 AM

Gailscout, fear not! We have down jackets packed and at the ready.

maitaitom Jun 29th, 2017 07:45 AM

This was a big surprise, but we loved the Walt Disney Family Museum, an interesting visit showcasing Disney's entire life...his innovations (of which there were man) and some controversy to boot. All in all, a really enlightening experience.

<B>http://travelswithmaitaitom.com/walt-disney-family-museum-san-francisco/</B>

((H))

DebitNM Jun 29th, 2017 08:07 AM

+1 Disney Museum. Combine with SF City Guides Presidio walking tour.

k_marie Jun 29th, 2017 10:19 AM

Tour of City Hall--

http://sfgov.org/cityhall/city-hall-tours

Our docent stressed that it really is the people's place and it is there to serve the public. When we arrived at the mayor's office, he was conducting business (Was it a phone call or a meeting? I don't remember.). Our group walked through his office anyway because, after all, it's there for the people.

And while we're in the neighborhood, I'd go for dinner at Plaj. Scandinavian leanings--salmon, herring, aquavit, among other offerings. (I realize you did not ask for restaurant recommendations--perhaps you have already made your plans.)

Dukey1 Jun 29th, 2017 11:06 AM

K_marie,

Thank you very much for this suggestion.

sf7307 Jun 29th, 2017 12:08 PM

Our docent stressed that it really is the people's place and it is there to serve the public.

Sure it is! (Sarcasm intended, from a long-time city resident)

sf7307 Jun 29th, 2017 12:09 PM

I should add though - it is a very beautiful building. Many weddings are held there.


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