With only one full day in San Francisco we decided to take a Hop On -Hop Off bus tour to see the main sites of this city. We hopped on the double decker bus and head for the uncovered top portion for the best views. First stop the Golden Gate Bridge. We were warned that it was cool and breezy on the top deck but we thought it can’t be that bad. Well…as we approached the bridge I could barely keep my camera still as the wind tried to blow it out of my hands. This is one of the better pictures taken from the moving bus on the south side of the bridge.
Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, CA
Next Stop: Golden Gate park, which you would think would be located pretty close to the bridge but not so. A 20 minute drive later we were dropped of in front of the De Young Museum. We headed inside to warm up and see the sites of the city at the top of the tower located in the museum. From there we headed next door to the Japanese Tea garden. This was a stunning garden that is said to be the largest in North America.
Japanese Tea Garden, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, CA
Hopping back onto the bus we headed to Union Square. After hopping off the bus again we headed to Chinatown. We were limited for time and have decided to make another trip back at a later time. Catching the last bus of the afternoon we headed back to Fisherman’s Wharf. On the way we passed the famous painted ladies. The most recognizable picture of victorian homes can be seen in tv shows and movies showing San Francisco.
Painted ladies with San Francisco skyline
For dinner we headed to Pier 39, stopping to see the seals that congregate there on the docks. Looking out into the bay from this vantage point gives you a good view of Alcatraz island. We opted to forgo this touristy attraction this time. As night fell we headed to Boudin for some soup served in a bowl made of sourdough bread. Yummy. With our tummies full we headed down the street for a sweet treat at Ghiradelli’s. No one should pass this chocolate place up. Although the chocolate can be found anywhere in the city it is worth the trip up to the square itself, especially at night.
Ghiradelli Square, San Francisco, CA
This ends our only full day in San Francisco.
