This week I visited San Francisco for the first time, although this was my second time visiting California this year. I was traveling to San Francisco for bachelorette festivities and my brother’s wedding! After a year of preparation, it was a miracle that this trip even happened due to the California Wildfires that took place in Sonoma and Santa Rosa counties the week before near the wedding location.

I was extremely saddened watching the news reporting on all the families who lost their homes and or family members in the fires the week prior. I could only imagine what they were going through and had the opportunity to speak to some of the people effected while visiting. My heart and prayers are still with them and anyone who was affected by the fires. I originally planned to stay longer, but shortened the trip for safety measures and due to the air quality.

Where To Stay:

I stayed in three different hotels during my trip. I spent part of my time in Downtown San Francisco, and most of my time in an area called Sebastopol for the wedding.

The first hotel called The Serrano Hotel had more of a classic vintage feel in Union Square downtown. This was the only hotel that was available downtown last minute although it ended up being cute. The rooms are small, but It was for one night the rooms were clean and they were located downtown nearby all the shopping and entertainment. If you like an old school feel I would stay here. They also have parking next door.

I also stayed in the Marriott Hotel in Downtown Union Square on Sutter street. This hotel was much bigger and I could upgrade to a suite. Super friendly staff, a big lobby area, plenty of things to do and located in the center of the city. It also had a great concierge lounge with a nice view of the city on the 28th floor. This was my favorite hotel during my stay.

The last hotel I stayed in was the Fairfield Inn in Santa Rosa Sebastopol. This was where a majority of my family stayed for the wedding nearby. It was really comfortable and had a lodge feel to it. This hotel also provided breakfast every morning downstairs, was clean and comfortable and the employees were beyond friendly and attentive.

Things To Do Downtown:

Westfield Centre – I had the opportunity to visit the Westfield San Francisco Centre which was perfect for shopping. I ran into H&M right after I landed in SF and purchased this coat because it was unexpectedly chillier than I thought it would be. I also enjoyed the Bloomingdales, Nordstrom, Godiva and Oak & Fort stores inside.

Tap 415 – Inside the mall I found this cute place called Tap 415 to grab some food. This place was amazing for drinks, burgers, and sandwiches after a long trip. I would recommend checking it out if you’re in San Fran. The food is SOOO good. The staff is friendly and it’s a comfortable chill spot to eat.

Shopping Downtown– I spent time walking around downtown and visited Macy’s, Barney’s, and Sephora. Downtown was similar to New York with a Starbucks on every corner so you will have the opportunity to get your fix every couple of blocks.

Cable Cars– I decided to take a ride on the cable car downtown once I realized how steep the streets were and how out of shape I was. It was really fascinating to see all of the hills people have to walk daily and parking on the slanted streets was unreal. The cable car is fun and makes stops throughout the city allowing you to jump on and off. It’s a quick way to get to different areas downtown about $7 a person one way.

Chinatown– I was super excited to visit Chinatown as everyone who goes highly recommends it. Between the food and the vibe it is labeled as a must see, and I must agree! Anyone who knows me knows I love tea’s and Chinese food, so I had to stop by and give it a try. I happened upon this random place on the strip, and I must say, THE FOOD IS AMAZING! The bar has been raised.

I also got a chance to visit a couple of great jewelry and furniture stores and see some of what they had to offer. I wish I had more time to shop, but I gives me more to do when I return.

Fisherman’s Wharf– I absolutely loved this area. If you love seafood and being near the water I would recommend stopping here. A lot of cute markets, restaurants, and places to take a ride on a boat. I enjoyed the stores at Pier 39 especially the Pearl Factory Hawaii’s original Pearl-In-the-oyster. It reminded me of when I was in Hawaii. There is also a spot to watch the seals and great views of the coast.

Soulva – Fun place to eat a little father from central downtown with an open outdoor area in the very back to sit and eat with friends. Amazing if you love salads and wraps. They have multiple locations throughout SF.

Black Cat – Very cute Jazz bar and restaurant with two levels. We really enjoyed watching the band play with the girls for a night out and drinks!

Things to do in Sebastopol:

The Powder Room – Amazing hair and makeup salon. The girls decided to get their makeup and hair done here the morning of the wedding. The staff was super friendly and did a great job on all the different looks we requested.

Hopmonk Tavern – Fun place to visit for food and drinks in Sebastopol. The location also has a backyard area which we rented out for the reception and was really pretty, comfortable, with multiple areas to lounge throughout.

Screaming Mimi’s – AMAZING ice-cream! If you love ice cream must stop by. The chocolate chip ice cream was amazing!!

Deja Vu Nails – This team was great at beautifying all the girl’s nails for the wedding.

Ramen Gaijin – Super cute local gourmet ramen and Japanese restaurant with music, unique deco and a bar in the back for food and drinks. I love Marvel and anime, and they featured Japanese inspired marvel art on the walls. The food was really good if you love soups and small plates.

Doran Beach – BEAUTIFUL BEACH to visit. The perfect spot to park and relax. We brought Jenga and games to the beach and had a picnic. Super fun!

Armstrong Redwoods State Park – I spent time exploring this park which was where the wedding was held. It was in a beautiful picnic area with huge trees some over 1,000 years old. If you love hiking and adventures, I would highly recommend.

There are also tons of cute local small shops around this area with great finds near the local whole foods.

Other Recommended Places To Visit I Did Not Get The Chance To Visit:

Sausalito

Japantown

Golden Gate Bridge

SF MOMA Museum

Eden & Eden

Exploratorium

I had the perfect trip, I only wish it was longer to complete more things on my list. I fell in love with California again during this trip. If you enjoyed this article, I will post another article on my recap and recommendations from my trip to San Diego earlier this year shortly. Subscribe for the latest updates. And if you have gone to San Francisco and can suggest further places to visit, let me know in the comments below!

Love Of Fashion

@msjenniferdanielle