Nina Bai

San Francisco’s a city other cities wish they could be more like. With a small footprint and a profusion of different neighborhoods with their own identities—if you mention Chinatown, the Mission or Nob Hill, people instantly understand the vibe you’re referencing—San Francisco makes it all work with an overall identity of being free spirited, fun and curious. Our mostly sunny and cool weather—plus some very atomspheric summer fog—lets us be outside throughout much of the year, enjoying urban rambles over those steep hills and hiking trails by the seaside. (Hot tip: San Francisco’s winter weather can sometimes be warmer than its notoriously cool summers.) The dining scene ensures you’ll be constantly surprised by the goodness on your plate, with food trucks, mom-and-pop restaurants and neighborhood favorites and a surprising 28 Michelin starred restaurants across our 47 square miles. Have a fondness for architecture? You’ll love the iconic Victorians throughout the city (and the famous Painted Ladies at Alamo Square) plus some more modern buildings with instant recognizability in the city skyline, like the Transamerica Pyramid and Coit Tower. Admire the Golden Gate Bridge—and then walk or ride your bike across it. Visit the famous prison island Alcatraz or neighboring Angel Island; the ferry ride provides a beautiful chance to see the bay waters close up. Linger in one of our world-class museums then ride the cable car—and make it all mellow with a special glass of something