Lombard Street
Known (erroneously) as the "crookedest street in the world," this whimsically winding block of Lombard Street draws thousands of visitors each year (much to the chagrin of neighborhood residents, most of whom would prefer to block off the street to tourists). The angle of the street is so steep that the road has to snake back and forth to make a descent possible. The brick-lined street zigzags around the residences' bright flower gardens, which explode with color during warmer months. This short stretch of Lombard Street is one-way, downhill, and fun to drive. Take the curves slowly and in low gear, and expect a wait during the weekend. Save your film for the bottom where, if you're lucky, you can find a parking space and take a few snapshots of the silly spectacle. You can also take staircases (without curves) up or down on either side of the street. In truth, most locals don't understand what the fuss is all about. I'm guessing the draw is the combination of a classic, unusually steep San Francisco street and a great photo op. FYI: Vermont Street, between 20th and 22nd streets in Potrero Hill, is even more crooked, but not nearly as picturesque.

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.

Grace Cathedral
Although this Nob Hill cathedral, designed by architect Lewis P. Hobart, appears to be made of stone, it is in fact constructed of reinforced concrete, beaten to achieve a stonelike effect. Construction began on the site of the Crocker mansion in 1928 but was not completed until 1964. Among the more interesting features of the building are its stained-glass windows, particularly those by the French Loire studios and Charles Counick, depicting such modern figures as Thurgood Marshall, Robert Frost, and Albert Einstein; the replicas of Ghiberti's bronze Doors of Paradise at the east end; the series of religious murals completed in the 1940s by Polish artist John de Rosen; and the 44-bell carillon. Along with its magical ambience, Grace lifts spirits with services, musical performances, and its weekly Forum (Sun 9:30-10:30am except summer and major holidays), where guests lead discussions about spirituality in modern times.

Hilton San Francisco Financial District
From the South: 101 North to San Francisco. Follow signs to Oakland Bay Bridge I-80 East. Take the 4th St. exit. Straight to 3rd St. and turn left. Follow to Market and crossover - changes to Kearny Street. Hotel is 7 blocks down on right side (corner of Washington & Kearny) From East: I-80 West to San Francisco and continue across Bay Bridge. Take first exit (Fremont St.), turn left on Mission St to 3rd St and turn right. Follow to Market St. and crossover - changes to Kearny St. Hotel ...

Carlton Hotel
The Hotel Carlton recently completed a $5 million renovation. The ambiance now can be best described as "International Vintage", featuring exotic and eclectic touches that celebrate the joy of travel. We are ideally located near shopping, theaters and cable cars. 163 rooms are available with either one queen, one king or two full beds beds and can accommodate up to 3 persons including children. Our Hotel Carlton also offers a number of inter-connecting rooms ideal for families. Rooms are ...

W San Francisco
Nearby Airports: * San Francisco International - 14 Miles * Metropolitan Oakland International Airport - 20 Miles * Norman Y Mineta San Jose International Airport - 40 Miles Nearby Cities: * Daly City - 8 Miles * Emeryville - 9 Miles * Sausalito - 10 Miles * Oakland - 13 Miles * San Bruno - 13 Miles * Berkeley - 15 Miles * Burlingame - 16 Miles * Millbrae - 16 Miles * San Rafael - 18 Miles * San Mateo - 20 ...