Saturday, February 25, 2012

San Francisco Trip 2012

San Francisco was a BLAST!!

Joe and I have traveled to many places together, and we both agree, that San Francisco was one of our favorite trips!

We had the best time exploring new things, site seeing, and being together....

Day 1: Alcatraz Tour and Pier 39-Fisherman's Wharf

We began our trip with a VERY busy day. That morning we woke up bright and early and walked the 2 plus miles from our hotel to the pier.




sites seen along our walk to the pier

We had a 9:30 ferry ride to catch to take us over to Alcatraz Island.



The weather was beautiful and perfect for a day walking around the old remains of Alcatraz. I would have to say that this was my favorite part of the trip! I love hearing about history and the stories behind Alcatraz are fascinating.

Joe and I explored the island for about 3 hours! We took the "audio" tour of the old jail house, walked around the run-down buildings, and took in the view!! There were so many interesting things to look at and take pictures of :)










After our tour of Alcatraz we headed back to land and walked over to Pier 39. Fisherman's Wharf was packed and full of sites to see. Joe and I stopped at Boudin San Francisco Bakery! This bakery is known for their homemade sourdough bread. We decided that me had to try some... so we bother order sandwiches! Let's just say... they live up to their reputation!!





While on the Wharf we watched many musicians, enjoyed the Sea Lions, and SHOPPED!!


After a long day we headed back to the hotel to get ready for dinner. I took Joe to the Famous John's Grill that night (yummy food)! We then headed to The Haight area of San Francisco. Joe wanted to visit the Amoeba music shop to buy some CDs.... I was glad he was able to buy his music.... but I was not a fan of the area :)



Day 2: Painted Ladies, San Francisco Mission, Castro, First Bridge Visit

We began Day 2 with some breakfast at Lori's Diner. Joe made me take the picture below of the motorcycle hanging from the ceiling of the diner. He thought his dad would find it interesting (sweet boy).

After breakfast we headed to Alamo Square Park to walk off our food and check out the Painted Lady homes. When I think of San Francisco... I always think of FULL HOUSE. These are the homes seen at the beginning of each episode :) I loved walking around the park and enjoying these beautiful Victorian homes. I might have asked a few times... "Can I have one?"


We then walked over to the San Francisco Mission. I had to smile because Joe's mom loves to visit missions and this just shows Joe takes after her a bit. We took the tour of the mission and loved reading the history behind it.



Then we were off to Castro. This is another interesting district in San Francisco. I really enjoyed Castro! Joe and I walked around, looked in many shops, and stopped for some coffee.

We finally ended our day with a drive to the Golden Gate Bridge. We had planned to see it the next day, but were so glad we went this afternoon! The sun was shining and the view of the bridge was beautiful. I was so amazed at how our pictures turned out... they looked like a PAINTING!!



Cable wires seen at the Cable Car Museum

After our visit to the bridge, we stopped by Twin Peaks. This is a windy road that takes you to a scenic view of the city! It was so neat to see San Francisco from above!


 
Day 3: Bridge Visit 2, Muir Overlook, Sonoma, AT&T Ballpark

Day 3 was our day to get out of the city and explore!

On our way out of the city we took another trip to the Golden Gate Bridge. It was rainy outside and so we were glad we had seen it the day before as well. Despite the rain, we still got out of the car and explored. I of course took lots of pictures :)



After a stop at the bridge we drove over the bridge and began our drive up PCH. The Pacific Coast Highway is much different up north! I was in awe of the amazing views we saw from our car. We were basically driving on the cliffs overlooking the ocean.




We stopped off at the Muir Ocean Overlook. This overlook at a trail that took you out to the very tip of the cliff. You could walk out and look straight down at the ocean. It was so AMAZING!





Joe and I then headed to Sonoma. Many know how much I love wine.... so I was very excited. I could totally live in Sonoma! It is the cutest little town. Wine is everywhere and the shops are to die for!! Joe and I walked around the town square and found so many things to check out. Here we found the last of the California missions, a fort, and an old hotel that was open for tour.









I truly LOVED Sonoma!

When we arrived back into San Francisco, Joe and I took the "F train" down to AT&T Ballpark. Joe just LOVES baseball and has to visit every ballpark when he is in a new town. Of course the park was not open, but we walked all around it and enjoyed its beauty. Joe was very excited and now wants to go back to see a game!






We also stopped by a local brewery called 21st Ammendment. It was a really neat place! Joe and I had a few beers and realized after the fact that each beer contained 9% alcohol. That is ALOT for beer.... but it sure tasted good :)


We ended our trip back at Pier 39 for some San Francisco Sea Food! Joe had to have some lobster and the last night was our chance. We enjoyed a very romantic dinner overlooking the water. Perfect end to a Perfect trip!!

I was so impressed with the city of San Francisco. I had the best time seeing new things and enjoying my husband. Cant wait to go back!!!