Pier 39
PIER 39 is a multilevel waterfront complex a few blocks east of Fisherman's Wharf. Constructed on an abandoned cargo pier, it is, ostensibly, a re-creation of a turn-of-the-20th-century street scene, but don't expect a slice of old-time maritime life. This is the busiest mall of the lot and allegedly welcomes 11 million visitors per year. It has more than 100 stores, 11 bay-view restaurants, a two-tiered Venetian carousel, a Hard Rock Cafe, and arcade and aquarium entertainment for the kids. And everything's slated toward helping you part with your travel dollars. It's the place that locals love to hate. That said, it does have a few perks: absolutely beautiful natural surroundings of bay views, fresh sea air, and hundreds of sunbathing sea lions lounging along its neighboring dock.

Ghiradelli Square
This National Historic Landmark property dates from 1864, when it served as a factory making Civil War uniforms, but it's best known as the former chocolate and spice factory of Domingo Ghirardelli (pronounced "Gear-a-deli"), who purchased it in 1984. The factory has since been converted into a three-level mall containing 50-plus stores and 11 dining establishments. Scheduled street performers entertain regularly in the West Plaza and fountain area. Incidentally, the Ghirardelli Chocolate Company still makes chocolate, but its factory is in a lower-rent district in the East Bay. Still, if you have a sweet tooth, you won't be disappointed at the mall's fantastic old-fashioned soda fountain.

Ferry Building Marketplace (and Farmers' Market)
There's no better way to enjoy a San Francisco morning than strolling this gourmet marketplace in the newly renovated Ferry Building and snacking your way through breakfast or lunch. Tasty tenants, open daily, include many of the best of Northern California's gourmet bounty: Cowgirl Creamery's Artisan Cheese Shop, Recchiuti Confections (amazing!), Scharffen Berger Chocolate, Acme breads, Wine Country's gourmet diner Taylor's Refresher, famed Vietnamese restaurant The Slanted Door, and myriad other restaurants, eateries, and wine bars.An added bonus and San Francisco favorite is the Farmers' Market, which is open alfresco on Saturdays from 8am to 2pm and Tuesday and Thursday from 10am to 2pm. Drop by to peruse stands hawking the finest Northern California fruits, vegetables, breads, dairy, flowers, and readymade snacks by a few local restaurants. You can also pick up locally made vinegars and oils -- they make wonderful gifts. Drop in on Sunday from 8am to 2pm for the gardener's market, which focuses on plants but also has a bit of produce. Even when the market's closed, the glistening Ferry Building is now a worthy stop thanks to its new restaurants and shops.

Radisson Hotel Fisherman's Wharf
As the only Hotel Located directly on Fisherman's Wharf, the Radisson is a prime location for exploring San Francisco's famous landmarks and attractions. The Hotel has many guest rooms that offer exciting waterfront views and is located directly across from Pier 39 and the Alcatraz Tour. Some guest rooms feature balconies overlooking a garden courtyard with an outdoor heated pool. The best unobstructed panoramic view of the San Francisco Bay, Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island can be seen ...

Renaissance Stanford Court Hotel
The Renaissance Stanford Court Hotel is located atop prestigious Nob Hill overlooking the dramatic San Francisco skyline. The hotel sits where railroad millionaire Leland Stanford's mansion once stood and his legacy lives on throughout the hotel. Our lovely brick courtyard has a beaux-arts fountain and garden setting. The lobby features a colorful Tiffany-inspired glass dome, turn-of-the-century antiques and three hundred sixty degree mural depicting early San Francisco history. Luxurious ...

Warwick Regis Hotel
Built in 1913, the Warwick Regis Hotel is one of San Francisco's oldest and most exquisite hotels. Located in the heart of theater and shopping district, the hotel is just two blocks west of Union Square. Recently renovated in 2002, the hotel features 80 rooms including 20 suites and is furnished with Louis XVI antiques from France and ...