In “5 Things,” I’ll ask some of my favorite bloggers in cities all over the country to share insider travel tips on where to eat, shop, stay, and play in their neighborhoods (plus, what to pack to make the adventure complete). This week, Liz Stanley of the wonderful Say Yes shows us the sights in Western SF.
5 Things: Western San Francisco
Liz Stanley of Say Yes
I’m Liz Stanley of Say Yes, and I live with my husband and two kids on the western side of San Francisco, in a neighborhood called the Richmond District. We love it here because it’s safe, quiet, just across the street from Golden Gate Park, and close to some great elementary schools. It’s not considered hip—and it’s certainly foggier than other parts of the city—but we’ve managed to find a few secret gems in and around our ‘hood that I’m excited to share with you today!
EAT:
4505 Burgers & BBQ, 705 Divisadero, (415) 231-6993
This new BBQ joint just opened in the NOPA neighborhood, serving up amazing beef brisket, pulled pork sandwiches, and baked beans. Oh, and you’ll be sorry if you don’t get the chocolate chip cookies for dessert—unless you’re into ice cream from Bi-Rite, which is just across the street. It’s a tough call (better do both).
SHOP:
General Store, 4035 Judah Street, (415) 682-0600
General Store in the Outer Sunset might be my favorite place to shop in all of San Francisco. Everything has that amazing Northern California vibe, and the store is curated to perfection—the outdoor space is lovely, too. A true must-see.
STAY:
Cavallo Point, 601 Murray Circle, (415) 339-4700
I actually don’t know of any hotels in our sleepy neighborhood, but right across the bridge—and ten minutes away in Sausalito—is Cavallo Point. It’s made up of army quarters that have been turned into beautiful rental units, and it’s an incredible place to stay. It’s five minutes from the city, but still feels peaceful and serene, right under Golden Gate Bridge. Don’t forget to schedule a spa treatment there—it’s my favorite place to get a massage or facial.
PLAY:
Stow Lake, Golden Gate Park
I love going to Stow Lake with the kids on a foggy day in Golden Gate Park. There are ducks to feed, boats to rent, and the newly renovated boat house is a great place to reserve for a simple birthday party.
PACK:
Weather in San Francisco is unpredictable, particularly in this part of the city—so be sure to pack a comfy scarf that can double as a blanket if you head out for a bonfire at the beach (or just find yourself in a spontaneous wind tunnel!).
Thank you so much, Liz! Aron lived in the Inner Sunset for a brief time graduation and I wish I’d had these suggestions in hand when I’d go to visit! Looking forward to checking them out now that we’re back in Northern California!
Thank you to Shoko Wanger for her help with this series. (BBQ photo by Liz Stanley; General Store images by Leslie Santarina; Cavallo Point photo by Thayer Gowdy; Stow Lake photos by Kaley Ann; scarf photo by Sara Albers.) Similar: plaid scarf.
P.S. 5 Things North Beach, SF, and How to Ride a Cable Car. Also, where to go vintage shopping in SF.
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