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I'll be the first to admit it, I'm a sucker for a great steak. I've heard great things about the San Francisco steak and seafood traditions, so on my first trip out I had to see for myself. John's Grill on Ellis was a perfect destination. The cuisine perfectly matched my love for Italian food with my craving for quality cuts of meat. The historic decor provided a pleasant environment for my meal, and the staff was very friendly. Would definitely give this place another go!!

The Embarcadero is a beautiful scenic strip along the bay, with some of the best dining attractions I have ever encountered. One of my favorite stops for an early weekend breakfast was Captain Mike's Holy Smoke by the Ferry building. The sandwiches were a little pricey, but such is tourism! The breads were fresh-baked and delicious, and the smoked fish was a true delicacy. They turned a simple bagel smothered in cream cheese and lox into a culinary masterpiece.

Bay City Bike Rentals gives you a great way to get out and see this beautiful city while working off that lavish dinner you took down last night. You can rent your own bike and create your own adventure, but I opted to go with the guided tour. It leaves at 10 am, so you don't have to wake up too early, and it is well worth it. Take in great views of the bay as you coast down the California shoreline...the best part: no big hills make for a relatively relaxing trip!

Mason Street is packed with activity day in and day out. With bars and restaurants on every corner, its tough to find the gems. Biscuits & Blues at Union Square, however, rarely fails to disappoint. The food they serve is fried and fatty, just the way they like it in the South. You can catch live music performances almost any night of the week, with a fun night of dinner and dancing followed by drinks at the the bar. Be ready to pay for it though, this Southern Belle ain't cheap!!

In this energized area, one spot in particular stood out to me. Azul Lounge delivers just the right balance of sophistication with fun. With a distinctly European feel, this colorfully lit bar/lounge provides just the right mood for any night of the week. They play more than just the stereotypical hip-hop/electronica that club life has evolved into, while also not blasting your ears off. You can actually carry on a conversation while enjoying a cocktail and one of many delicious finger foods available to order.

Although Giants Stadium dominates this area, there is more to see on this busy street. San Francisco Open Studios is an annual program, usually occurring sometime in October, when hundreds of local musical artists and performers from all over the city host free shows at the studios. Great way to get a taste of the local music scene, and the independent musical industry that California as a state is renowned for. Many successful artists start here, so you may even get a sneak peak of future fame!!

Presidio Golf course is a public course located just minutes away from the action of downtown San Francisco. A little bit on the expensive side, but with group bookings available up to a year in advance, it is definitely worth it to make a reservation there for your next big vacation. Scenic views of the bay as well as full service pro shop, restaurant and other amenities make this a great golfing experience. I recommend an early tee time followed by a lazy late afternoon lunch at the clubhouse grill.

There is more to do than just shop!! I stumbled upon one of the most interesting museums I have yet encountered while walking down Sutter Street. The Museum of Craft and Design showcases a fantastic collection of cutting edge and contemporary modern design elements in the form of many art mediums. Everything from homemade craft jewelry to ornate modern sculptures captivate the imagination of the art-appreciative. Definitely stop in and check it out, admission is cheap!

Beach Street and the Fishermans Wharf are alive with activity twenty four hours a day. One of my favorite attractions in the area is the Aquarium of the Bay, located at Pier 39. This incredible aquatic refuge gives you a sneak peak into the beautiful waters of the San Francisco bay. You are able to walk through what feels like miles of underwater tunnels, exposing you to the most exotic wildlife the Pacific Ocean has to offer. Tons of learning activities for the whole family!

The Golden Gate Bridge in Northern California is truly a spectacle to behold. This bridge is the symbol of San Francisco, and anyone visiting the area has to go check it out. There are a few lookout spots where you can take in the vast grandeur, like Crissy Field, where you can watch wind surfers and kite-riders flying around its tall peaks. Or if you want to get a little more up close and personal, the view from Fort Point gives you a little idea of just how gigantic the structure is. A must-see.