San Francisco

The best way to experience California is on the road along highway 101. Starting in LA with stops along the way and completing north of SF, this road-trip itinerary includes where to stay, eat and visit. Luckily this trip is doable year-round but my recommendation is late spring or early fall to avoid summer heat and tourists. From wineries to oysters on the water to boutique hotels, I hope this day-to-day guide will be an inspiration for your next CA road trip.

In May of 2024, I did a site visit at one of the city’s best addresses: The St. Regis San Francisco. This gem of a downtown hotel offers sweeping city views from all of its 260 rooms and suites, and the culinary delights that await are nothing but extraordinary and exquisite. Every team member is welcoming and professional, and this Forbes five-star hotel is the perfect place for business, leisure and everything in between.

San Francisco is a city that attracts all types of travelers with its incredible diversity in food, culture and topography. This itinerary is for the traveler that would like to see the city through the lens of a local. Come with me to explore some of San Francisco's loveliest walks, restaurants and neighborhood gems. We will wander with a relaxed pace that offers plenty of fresh air, vistas and delicious stops along the way. After all, not all SF visitors want to spend their time at Fisherman's Wharf!

Sonoma County is one of my favorite wine regions. A bit more low key than Napa, it still offers fabulous food and wine options. We usually fly into San Francisco, rent a car, drive over the Golden Gate Bridge and make our way to Sonoma. Assuming a later day arrival, the first evening can be spent at your hotel — where you can relax and enjoy a glass of wine or tasting. If you arrive early enough, take advantage of a relaxing spa treatment. This itinerary is for a 3-day, 4-night stay.

Nestled within the bustling heart of San Francisco lies a sanctuary where luxury intertwines seamlessly with sustainability. It goes beyond just being eco-friendly - 1 Hotel San Francisco has interwoven health, wellness and conscious impact into an ethereal haven, perfect for a good bit of good livin’.

San Francisco is my beloved birthplace and forever home, holding a special place in my heart. Its diverse neighborhoods, each with a unique character, offer much to be explored. The city's culinary scene is a global adventure and a paradise for foodies. This centrally located itinerary covers both iconic and trending hotspots for an unforgettable weekend away.

San Francisco is where I call home so I'm a tiny bit biased but the food and drink culture mixed with the massive parks and outside activities make it a place every foodie and outdoor lover should visit. SF is a great place to visit solo, with a group, or with your partner. If you want to get out of the city for the day, you can always hit up wine country, which is just an hour away. Bring layers though because Karl the Fog can sneak in at any moment!

I visited The Mansion on Sutter for a staycation. The authentic hospitality was welcoming and suggested some great neighborhood favorites. I had a wonderful stay and recommend it to anyone who wants to experience a real San Francisco visit.