what to do in SFO pre cruise

We are doing Alcatraz on 9-30, early and then we wouldbe done there at about 12noon. what to do the rest of the day and the day of the cruise...any suggestions

 

Thanks

Hey, Wasup, we'll be in SF the weekend before you!

 

By the time we check into our hotel, we'll only have a half-day to see SF the day before our cruise, but FWIW:

 

We plan on doing a walking tour of Chinatown, take the cable car down to FW and walk around to Pier 39, head up Embarcadero and check out the public market at the Ferry Building. By then, we figure it'll be time for an early dinner (perhaps Tadich Grill or Sam's), then return to hotel for a late-night cocktail. Next morning, we plan on going for a walk/run, go for dim sum, check out of hotel, pick up some wine, then board the ship.

 

ell :)

We will only have short time in SF before cruise and decided to take cable car ride and explore FW area. Hopefully we will be at Sheraton at FW by 3 pm and will have some time to explore and then the next morning. Also, called Sheraton and asked for a late check-out and they gave us to 2 pm -- which is great!! Need help with good places to eat -- where is Sams? Also, plan on visiting Safeway grocery store that is close by and stocking up on cokes, etc for cruise. Any more advice greatly appreciated.

Need help with good places to eat -- where is Sams?

Sam's Grill is at 374 Bush (corner of Kearny & Bush) in the Financial District. It's supposed to be similar to Tadich Grill - i.e. an old style SF seafood house. Got these recommendations from the SF Bay area Chowhounds. Hayes St Grill is also recommended, but further than we want to go for dinner as we want a place that's walking distance to our hotel.

 

ell

For those staying in Fisherman's Wharf (FW) area, if they wish to try some convenient areas other than FW for dinners:

 

Slanted Door (French Vietnamese) -- at the Ferry Building. Impossible to get reservations there but give a call once you are checked in and you may luck out. The F-line (very crowded) Street Car goes along the Piers (Embarcadero) to the Ferry Building. It is about 1.5 miles from the FW hotels.

 

North Beach (Italian) -- easily accessible by bus from FW. Great area to walk around. North Beach has umteen terrific Italian Restaurants and coffee shops. North Beach is also adjacent to Chinatown. Also about 1.5 miles from FW hotels.

 

If you plan to use Public Transit -- exact fare of $1.25 is required. You pay at the cash box near the bus driver. You may use coins or a dollar bill plus coins. The Cable Car is now $3 (I think) and on that the conductor will make change.

 

Ask the hotel concierge for details. /Sultan