Answer: It’s definitely sad to see Fog City closed after such a long history in San Francisco. For over 40 years, it was a favorite for locals and visitors alike, particularly for its Embarcadero location with quality seafood and American cuisine. The sudden closure without a public explanation has left many fans disappointed, especially since the employees reportedly found out through social media as well.

Answer: When looking for an Airbnb in San Francisco for a family with preteens, safety, convenience, and proximity to attractions are key factors. Since you have a car, you can expand your search to neighborhoods a bit further from the downtown core, but it’s still best to stick to areas that are known for being safe, residential, and family-friendly.

Answer: Visiting the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco on your way to Napa Valley is a great idea, and there are several options for viewpoints and parking north of the bridge. Since you’ll have luggage in your car, it’s wise to be cautious and not leave valuables visible, even in the trunk.

Answer: For your California trip, starting with a night in San Francisco is a smart choice. Since you’re flying in around noon, you’ll have time to settle in and perhaps enjoy a short walk or casual sightseeing in a safe, central area.

Answer: Given your plan to attend both a Stanford game and a 49ers Monday Night Football game, splitting your hotel stays is a smart strategy to minimize driving and maximize enjoyment. Here’s a detailed approach:

Answer: San Francisco, particularly around tourist-heavy areas like Fisherman’s Wharf, has a high incidence of car break-ins, often referred to locally as “bipping.” Vehicles with visible luggage, electronics, or valuables are especially attractive targets. Since your car will be packed with suitcases, taking extra precautions is essential.

Answer: Visiting San Francisco in May is a great time for sightseeing, and there are several excellent options for viewing the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and experiencing the iconic cable cars.

Answer: Yes, it is definitely possible to use your mobile phone in the U.S. for data, calls, and texts, but since your current Tesco O2 plan from the UK does not include U.S. roaming, you’ll need a local solution. Buying a U.S. SIM card is one of the easiest and most cost-effective options for a three-week trip.

Answer: If you’re near San Francisco City Hall and looking for brunch options, Peacock Pansy is a great choice, especially if you want a visually fun and colorful environment. It’s known for its vibrant interior, including a giant butterfly wall sculpture, a fake flower wall, and neon signs, making it a perfect spot for photos. The restaurant is open until 2pm during the week, so it’s ideal for a late morning or early lunch.

Answer: Traveling as a Canadian to the U.S. is generally straightforward, especially under the visa exemption scheme (commonly the Visa Waiver Program, or for Canadians, direct entry without a visa). Since you already have an I-94 record in the system, this indicates your prior entries were properly recorded. The recent changes as of April regarding I-94 electronic records primarily affect arrivals requiring automated collection, but Canadians remain largely exempt from pre-registration under ESTA for short visits. Therefore, for your planned May travel to meet friends in the U.S., you should not need additional registration, provided you carry your valid Canadian passport and meet all standard entry requirements.

Answer: If you’re planning a short stop in San Francisco and your main priorities are Alcatraz and a quick tour of the major sites, staying in Sausalito can be a very appealing option, especially if you are driving. Sausalito is scenic, quieter than the city, and offers easy access to the Golden Gate Bridge, with the bonus of beautiful waterfront views and charming cafes. However, keep in mind that from Sausalito you’ll need to either drive or take the ferry to reach Alcatraz and other central attractions, which adds some transit time.

Answer: Hop-on-hop-off bus tours in San Francisco are a convenient way to see the city at your own pace, and the good news is that you can typically board at multiple locations depending on the operator you choose. Most major tour companies have several designated stops that serve as starting points.

Answer: Three full days in San Francisco can be enough to see many of the city's highlights if your itinerary is focused, though it won’t allow for a very relaxed pace. You could comfortably cover key attractions such as Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz, Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown, North Beach, the Mission District, and a couple of museums. If you prefer a more leisurely experience or want to explore neighborhoods in depth, an extra day is ideal, but three days is workable.

Answer: Yes — your planned route from Lands End to the Coastal Trail and ending at the Golden Gate Welcome Center is absolutely doable for active people in their mid-60s, especially since you’re skipping the stairs down to the beaches. This is one of San Francisco’s most beautiful urban hikes, and doing it on a Sunday afternoon is very reasonable.

Answer: Verjus in San Francisco is a highly acclaimed restaurant located in Jackson Square, a historic area known for its cobblestone streets and charming architecture. Situated near the foot of Columbus Avenue and across from TransAmerica Pyramid Park, Verjus is run by the same culinary team behind Quince and Cotogna, both of which have earned Michelin stars for their innovative and sophisticated cuisine.

Answer: If you’re attending the Laver Cup in San Francisco, choosing a hotel near the Chase Center in the Mission Bay or SoMa area will be most convenient. You’ll have easy access to the arena, as well as restaurants and nightlife for before or after the matches. Public transit and rideshares are also straightforward from these areas.

Answer: With a late Friday arrival and 2.5 days in San Francisco, your itinerary is ambitious but manageable with some refinements. Since you’re staying at Stanford Court, you are centrally located on Nob Hill, which makes access to many neighborhoods easier without relying too heavily on a car.

Answer: Great question. Both Muir Woods and Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park offer wonderful redwood-tree experiences, but they feel quite different — and given your trip logistics (starting in SF, ending in Monterey), one might be more practical or meaningful for your exchange student. Here’s a breakdown of each, plus pros and trade-offs, and my recommendation.

Answer: For an 11-hour layover at SFO, you have enough time to see the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman’s Wharf, but you’ll want to plan efficiently. Both BART and rideshares are viable, but they differ in convenience, cost, and travel time.

Answer: Great plan — you’ve picked a compact, walkable set of neighborhoods that fit together well. Below is a practical, grouped, and time-smart plan for May 23–26 that uses public transit / walking / rideshare, plus quick notes on the specific places you listed and a few food + bookstore + game-store suggestions for your group.

Answer: Booking a room at Club Donatello versus the regular Donatello hotel generally comes with a few subtle differences, but for a short stay like yours, most guests don’t notice much difference. The Club Donatello units are part of a timeshare program, but when you book through a standard platform like Agoda, the stay functions similarly to a regular hotel booking: you’ll have access to your room for the duration booked without being obliged to attend any timeshare presentations.

Answer: San Francisco has some excellent seafood restaurants with stunning views of the Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the waterfront. For a high-end lunch experience, you’ll want a place that combines fresh seafood, great service, and a memorable setting. Here are some top options to consider:

Answer: If you have a 1 pm ferry to Alcatraz and are looking for quick service restaurants near Pier 39, Fisherman’s Wharf, or Pier 33, you’ll want places where you can get a fast, satisfying meal without long waits. San Francisco’s waterfront has many options catering to tourists, ranging from seafood to casual American fare.

Answer: Taking the ferry to Angel Island is a fantastic way to spend a San Francisco summer day, but capacity and crowds do vary by season and day of the week. The 9:25 AM ferry is a popular departure, especially during summer, when both locals and tourists head out early for hiking, biking, and avoiding afternoon winds.

Answer: San Francisco offers several ways to explore the city without extensive walking or being crammed into a large tour bus. Small group tours, e-bike tours, and Segway options are all excellent choices for those looking to experience the city comfortably.

Answer: It sounds like you’ve created a truly engaging tribute to San Francisco through your AI-generated music and mixed footage. The concept of combining your own shots with copyright-free and Creative Commons content allows you to showcase the city in a dynamic and visually appealing way, while the AI-driven music adds a personal, emotional layer that reflects your vision of the city.

Answer: Flying in and out of Oakland while staying in San Francisco is quite common, but the Bay Area traffic can be heavy, so timing your drives around rush hour is important. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Answer: Your itinerary looks ambitious but quite reasonable if you pace yourselves and account for some flexibility. Paying for hotels twice is a smart move — it avoids long drives and maximizes time in the regions you want to explore.

Answer: For a 2-night stay in San Francisco prior to your stay at the Luma near Oracle Park, it’s great to pick a neighborhood that is walkable with plenty of dining options and local attractions. Since you’re already covering the ballpark area later, consider exploring a different vibe in the city.

Answer: Yes, taxis at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) do frequently provide rides to San Jose, but there are a few things to keep in mind before choosing this option. The ride is approximately 45–60 miles depending on your exact destination in San Jose, and traffic can significantly affect the travel time, especially during peak hours.

Answer: Fisherman’s Wharf is one of San Francisco’s most iconic neighborhoods, especially for first-time visitors. It’s bustling with tourists, shops, and seafood restaurants, and it offers easy access to waterfront views, historic piers, and attractions. While some areas can be crowded and touristy, there are still plenty of must-see spots and dining options that make it worthwhile.

Answer: If you’re looking for an authentic American diner experience in San Francisco, Orphan Andy’s near Castro & Market streets is a classic choice that combines both traditional diner fare and friendly neighborhood vibes. The diner has been a local favorite for decades, known for its mostly 24-hour operation and welcoming staff who recognize regulars and make visitors feel at home.

Answer: The Presidio is a fantastic place to spend a few hours, especially if you enjoy walking, history, and scenic views. Since you’ll be having lunch at Piccino in the Presidio, you’re already in a great spot to explore several nearby attractions without needing a car.

Answer: For a family visiting San Francisco with older children, the best areas to stay are those that combine safety, easy walking access to food and shops, and convenient public transit to the city’s major attractions. Several neighborhoods fit this well, and each offers reliable mid-range, no-frills hotel options perfect for a short stay.

Answer: For a day trip from San Francisco to Monterey, there are several tour operators, each offering different experiences depending on your preference for group size, pace, and stops along the way. Since you are interested in Monterey and the surrounding area, including the potential for Big Sur, here’s a detailed overview.

Answer: Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea are popular day trip destinations from San Francisco, and they offer a very different experience compared to the beaches you’ll visit later in Southern California. While LA and San Diego have warmer, bustling beaches, the Monterey Peninsula is known for its rugged coastline, scenic drives, charming small towns, and marine life.

Answer: Attending a San Francisco 49ers game at Levi’s Stadium is a fantastic experience, especially as a family, and having your family brick on the fan walk adds a personal touch. Since you’re budget conscious, choosing seats wisely is important to balance cost, view, and overall experience.

Answer: Driving into San Francisco for a day trip can be manageable with some planning, especially if you want to avoid the worst traffic and have an efficient parking plan. Here’s a detailed breakdown based on your questions:

Answer: For a short stay of one night in San Francisco, it often makes sense to turn in your rental car soon after arrival, especially if you will be staying in a central location. Driving in SF can be challenging due to traffic, steep streets, and limited/expensive parking, so relinquishing the car allows you to enjoy the city without stress.

Answer: Haight-Ashbury and the Castro are two of San Francisco’s most iconic neighborhoods, each with a distinct vibe and history. Here’s a detailed overview to help you plan your visit.

Answer: San Francisco has several options for purchasing designer handbags at discounted prices, though it’s true that downtown stores like Macy’s near Union Square rarely offer deep discounts on brands like Coach, Michael Kors, Kate Spade, or Tory Burch. Outlet malls are generally the best bet for discounted designer items, but they are a bit outside the city.

Answer: For a family of 3 flying out of San Francisco (SFO) and returning a rental car to Alamo, staying at an airport hotel is a very practical choice. You’ll want convenience, a comfortable room, and ideally easy access to the rental car return and airport terminals.

Answer: It sounds like your second walking tour in San Francisco’s Corona Heights neighborhood is a rich blend of history, pop culture, and local intrigue. Corona Heights itself is a fantastic area for walking tours, with its unique topography, secret stairways, and stunning views of the city and the Pacific Ocean. Combining historical landmarks with more lighthearted pop culture references can appeal to both local enthusiasts and visitors looking for a unique experience.

Answer: San Francisco is a fantastic choice for a last-minute Labor Day weekend trip, especially for a couple in your late 20s. The city offers a blend of iconic sights, unique neighborhoods, excellent food, and cultural experiences, all compact enough to explore in a short timeframe.

Answer: Driving from SFO to Muir Beach offers a few great options for a convenient and scenic lunch stop before hitting the Tennessee Valley trail. Since you’re traveling with teens and want a casual spot that’s easy to reach with a car, here are some options along your route:

Answer: For a first-time visit to San Francisco with a family of four, it’s important to balance convenience, safety, and access to public transportation. Since one of your kids will be exploring UCSF Mission Bay, it makes sense to pick a location that is reasonably close to that area while still allowing you to enjoy the main sightseeing spots like Fisherman’s Wharf, Golden Gate Park, and Union Square.

Answer: Spending July 4th in San Francisco is a fantastic experience, as the city has a mix of traditional American celebrations, fireworks, and community events. Since you’ll be in town from July 2nd to 5th, you can enjoy both the lead-up and the main Independence Day festivities.

Answer: Deciding between a taxi and Uber from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) depends on your priorities: cost, convenience, and wait time. Both options are widely used and reliable, but each has pros and cons.

Answer: With a 5-hour layover landside at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) between Terminal 1 and Terminal A, you have a few good options for cafes and restaurants where you can comfortably work while waiting to check in for your international flight. Since your bags aren’t checked through and you’ll stay landside, you can move between terminals via the AirTrain or by walking landside.

Answer: Your plan to avoid the rental company’s toll program is absolutely reasonable and very common for visitors. Since your only unavoidable toll is the southbound crossing of the Golden Gate Bridge, you can safely and cheaply pay it yourself without using Hertz’s toll service.

Answer: Attending your first NFL game at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara can be an exciting experience, especially with the 49ers playing against the Arizona Cardinals. Here’s a detailed guide for your visit on September 21st:

Answer: With a 10-hour layover in San Francisco, you have enough time to see the highlights if you plan efficiently. Accounting for airport arrival, customs, and security, you might have roughly 6–7 hours to explore the city.

Answer: San Francisco has plenty of unique, short experiences that can fit into a 1-2 hour window and give you a structured, engaging glimpse of the city without committing to a full-day tour. Since you enjoyed the Theo’s Chocolate tour vibe, there are several similar options combining food, local culture, and behind-the-scenes experiences.

Answer: Yes — it is absolutely possible to walk only partway across the Golden Gate Bridge and turn around whenever you like. The pedestrian walkway is completely open and does not require you to complete the full span. You can walk out for a few minutes, take photos, enjoy the views, and then return the same way.

Answer: Top of the Mark is one of San Francisco’s iconic rooftop bars, offering panoramic views of the city and the bay. Deciding between brunch or a sunset visit really depends on the kind of experience you want to have.

Answer: For a nice mid-priced restaurant in San Francisco where your 13-year-old granddaughter can feel a bit dressed up, there are several excellent options that combine good food, a pleasant atmosphere, and a welcoming vibe for families.

Answer: San Francisco is a city of diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique experience. For a 4-night stay with your interests—nature, scenic drives, sunsets, good food, and some cultural architecture—you’ll want to balance convenience, ambiance, and safety. Renting a car is fine for coastal drives, but parking in the city can be challenging, so staying somewhere walkable with access to public transit can also be advantageous.

Answer: For a short 2-day stay in San Francisco using public transportation, Union Square is generally the most convenient hotel location. It has excellent access to BART from the airport, multiple Muni lines, and cable cars, making it easy to reach major attractions like Chinatown, the Ferry Building, and Fisherman’s Wharf.

Answer: Keeping a car in San Francisco for a week can be quite expensive, especially with hotel valet rates around $67 per night. However, there are several alternative strategies to reduce costs while maintaining the flexibility to drive for day trips outside the city.

Answer: Your San Francisco itinerary is a solid start, especially with a toddler in tow. San Francisco is very walkable in many areas, but keep in mind that the city is hilly, which can be tiring for little ones and adults alike. Since you’re staying near Oracle Park, you have a convenient starting point for exploring both the Embarcadero and South Beach areas.

Answer: For a two-week trip to San Francisco in July, you’re likely to experience the classic San Francisco summer weather: generally mild with cool mornings and evenings, often with fog rolling in from the bay. Daytime highs are usually in the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (18–22°C), while evenings can feel quite chilly, especially near the water, so layering is essential.

Answer: For a weeklong family trip to San Francisco and Yosemite with teens and tweens, you’ll want a mix of convenient, safe lodging in SF and a manageable driving plan for Yosemite. Renting a car makes sense, especially for the Yosemite portion, but in SF you may prefer to use public transport or walk to avoid the city’s challenging parking.

Answer: San Francisco is famous for its iconic streetcars and cable cars, but these can indeed get crowded, especially during tourist season and peak commuting hours. Waiting times can be long, so it’s good to know some strategies to save time and make your travel more efficient.

Answer: If you’re looking for a quick and affordable way to see the Golden Gate Bridge and get to Battery Spencer for iconic views, using public transportation is your best option.

Answer: With only about 24 hours in San Francisco, you'll want to maximize your time while keeping things manageable. Since you're arriving late on Friday night, it’s best to stay somewhere central, safe, and convenient for walking or short rides to key spots. Areas like Union Square, Embarcadero, or Fisherman’s Wharf are ideal. Most mid- to upper-range hotels in these areas can accommodate luggage storage if you arrive early or after check-out.

Answer: Meeting someone at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is straightforward if you know a few key points about the airport layout and options for arrivals.

Answer: For a party of four coming from Mill Valley and planning a full day in San Francisco including a city tour and Alcatraz, deciding whether to drive or take Uber involves balancing cost, convenience, and stress related to traffic and parking.

Answer: Your itinerary for San Francisco with your 13-year-old granddaughter is very well-planned, balancing iconic sights with walking and transit. Here’s detailed feedback and suggestions to help make the most of your time and address your dining and timing questions.

Answer: Taking the ferry from Tiburon or Sausalito into San Francisco is a wonderful way to start a day of sightseeing, and walking to Sts. Peter and Paul Church gives you a chance to enjoy both iconic views and charming city streets. Here’s a detailed guide to make the most of your walk and add nearby sights along the way.

Answer: For a short overnight stay near SFO with a focus on quiet surroundings, good dining, and a relaxing atmosphere, there are several excellent hotel options. Most of them offer convenient airport shuttles, comfortable rooms, and either on-site restaurants or easy access to nearby quality dining.

Answer: Staying near Golden Gate Park can be convenient if your main goal is to attend a concert at the Polo Fields, but the immediate area around the park has limited hotel options. Most of the hotels near the park are mid-range or budget, so depending on your preferences, you might want to consider other nearby neighborhoods with better hotel selections and easy access to public transport.

Answer: Thank you for sharing your short trip report! It’s great to hear that your visit to San Francisco was enjoyable and that your apprehensions about safety did not materialize. Landing during the 4th of July fireworks must have been an unforgettable start to your trip, setting a festive tone right from the airport.

Answer: San Francisco’s Chinatown is one of the oldest and most vibrant in the U.S., offering a wide range of authentic Chinese cuisine. Whether you’re looking for dim sum, traditional Cantonese dishes, or regional specialties, there are plenty of standout options.

Answer: San Francisco is a beautiful city with many safe and enjoyable neighborhoods, but like any major city, there are areas where visitors should exercise extra caution, especially if you are walking or parking a hire car. Car break-ins and petty theft are unfortunately common, so knowing which areas to avoid or be vigilant in can make your trip much smoother.

Answer: Your San Francisco itinerary is ambitious but manageable if you prioritize walking, public transport, and strategic timing. Since you’re fit and active, most of your plan is doable, but some adjustments can make it more enjoyable without feeling rushed.

Answer: Cycling across the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito with kids is a classic San Francisco activity, and it’s very safe if you follow the designated bike paths. The route is well-marked and separates cyclists from motor traffic, so there’s no risk of accidentally ending up on freeways.

Answer: Both Staypineapple in Union Square and Hotel Zoe at Fisherman’s Wharf are popular mid-range options, but they offer different advantages depending on your priorities of convenience, safety, and overall experience.

Answer: For your early morning transfer from Fisherman’s Wharf to Emeryville Station on a Sunday, booking an Uber is definitely a good option. Here are some details and other potential options for your transfer:

Answer: Good question. No — Muir Woods is *not* completely “open without tickets” right now. While the park itself is operating, you do need a reservation for parking (or shuttle) in order to visit.

Answer: Alcatraz Island is one of San Francisco’s most popular attractions, so planning ahead is essential, especially for a visit in early August, which is peak tourist season.

Answer: San Francisco's Chinatown is one of the oldest and most vibrant in the United States, offering a wide variety of authentic Chinese cuisine as well as some modern fusion spots. Whether you’re looking for dim sum, noodles, or a more upscale dining experience, there are options for every taste and budget.

Answer: Hello,

Answer: This is a very common question for visitors driving into San Francisco, and the short answer is: it is generally not safe to leave luggage in a car while dining anywhere in the city. Car break-ins are frequent, fast, and often occur even in busy, “nice” neighborhoods. Thieves specifically target rental cars and vehicles with visible luggage. Because your dinner is just a few hours before a late-night international departure and you cannot risk losing your luggage or documents, it’s smart to plan around this.

Answer: Fisherman’s Wharf is one of San Francisco’s busiest tourist areas, but there are some great restaurants nearby that feel more authentic and less crowded. Since you’re looking for a mix—ribs/steaks for you and seafood for your partner—there are a few spots that balance both preferences while giving you a comfortable first-night experience.

Answer: A food and walking tour of San Francisco’s Chinatown can be a very rewarding experience, especially if you want more than just casual sightseeing. Chinatown is one of the oldest and most vibrant Chinese communities in the U.S., full of history, culture, and authentic cuisine. A guided tour helps highlight interesting stories, hidden alleys, historic temples, markets, and culinary gems that you might otherwise miss on your own. Given that you’ve already been to Chinatown but weren’t very impressed, a structured tour could make it more engaging by adding context and curated tastings.

Answer: San Francisco Proper is located in downtown San Francisco, which is convenient for sightseeing, restaurants, and shopping. Like many urban centers, some parts of downtown experience higher rates of petty crime, such as theft or panhandling, but it is generally safe during the day and in busy areas. Staying in a well-known hotel like San Francisco Proper typically comes with added security measures, which can help provide peace of mind.

Answer: Your understanding is mostly correct. The Clipper card is a reloadable transit card that can be used for BART, Muni buses, streetcars, and other Bay Area transit systems. You can load stored value or passes on it, but not all pass types are compatible in the way you might expect.

Answer: Alcatraz tickets should always be purchased through the official site, which is operated by Alcatraz Cruises. The official website is the only authorized seller of tickets to the island. Any third-party site, including alcatrazislandtickets.com, is not officially affiliated and may not provide valid access.

Answer: Having only 1 hour to change planes at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is quite tight, especially if your incoming and outgoing flights are on different airlines or terminals. SFO is a large airport, and while domestic-to-domestic connections can sometimes be managed in under an hour, there is little room for delay. Here are some considerations:

Answer: Staying in Union Square is still a convenient choice for first-time visitors to San Francisco. It’s centrally located with easy access to public transportation, shopping, restaurants, theaters, and cable cars. Hotel Zetta is modern, well-reviewed, and close to many attractions, so from a logistical standpoint, it’s a solid base.

Answer: Driving from San Francisco to Monterey along the coast is a scenic route with plenty of great stops for views, food, and activities. Since you’re skipping San Francisco, you’ll head south on Highway 1 (Pacific Coast Highway) or a combination of US-101 and CA-156/Highway 1. Here’s a detailed guide for a long weekend drive.

Answer: San Francisco is a compact, walkable city with lots of iconic sights and activities, so it’s possible to see much of it without a car. Since your family will be staying at the Argonaut Hotel near Fisherman’s Wharf, you are in a great location for many tourist activities and easy access to public transportation. The hotel itself is well-suited for families, offering spacious rooms and a great waterfront location, so it should work fine for your stay.

Answer: Great question! Yes, there are several very good tour companies and packages in San Francisco that offer inclusive pick-up and drop-off, especially if you prefer a stress-free experience without driving or navigating public transportation for your sightseeing. Here are some recommended options, plus tips for how to choose based on what you want to see and how you like to travel.

Answer: San Francisco is still a fantastic and fun destination for families, and most visitors—domestic or international—continue to have excellent experiences. The city has gone through ups and downs, but the places where tourists spend their time remain lively, safe, and full of things to do. With a bit of normal big-city awareness and choosing the right neighborhoods, you can absolutely have an enjoyable trip.

Answer: Your trip report captures a mix of the charm and the challenges of visiting San Francisco and the Bay Area during a busy conference week. It’s clear that both the events and local conditions are shaping visitor experiences significantly.

Answer: Staying near SFO at the Courtyard Marriott gives you access to a variety of restaurants within a short Uber ride. Since you’re looking for dinner and drinks on a Friday night, here are some convenient and highly recommended options:

Answer: During a federal government shutdown, certain federal sites, including Muir Woods National Monument, may be closed to the public. Muir Woods is managed by the National Park Service, so its operations are directly affected by federal funding status. Visitors should always check for the most current updates before planning a trip, as closures can happen with little notice.

Answer: Planning a day that includes Fisherman’s Wharf, a Giants game at Oracle Park, and a 9pm flight from SFO is totally doable — but you’re right to be cautious about logistics, luggage, and transportation. A few choices will make the day much smoother, especially given San Francisco’s well-known car break-in issues.

Answer: Celebrating a 40th birthday in San Francisco offers a ton of options, especially if your partner is into adventure, nature, and memorable experiences. Since the Giants game is in the evening, focusing on daytime activities that are fun and unique would be ideal.

Answer: With a layover of roughly six hours at SFO (arriving 11:00, domestic flight at 17:00), you do have time for a short outing into San Francisco, but there are several important considerations before deciding to leave the airport.