There is so much to do in the San Francisco Bay Area!  We really hope you'll enjoy your time here, and make a fun visit out of it, and most hopefully, will fall as in love with it as we have (and then move here).

 

This historic tower was built with funds left by Lilly Hitchcock Coit to create something of beauty for the city, and was built to resemble the nozzel of a fire hose as a nod to Lilly's involvement with the SF fire brigade.  It is just blocks from Kerry's house, and sitting on the top of Telegraph Hill affords beautiful sweeping views of both the Bay Bridges and the City skyline. 

A place where we picniced on one of our first dates, and a frequented spot of ours this is also where Andy "popped the question" and we became engaged.  The back side houses The Filbert Street Steps and is full of quaint flats, lush gardens, and the famous Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill. 

 

The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art has a fabulous permanent collection, it's very own Blue Bottle Coffee, (be sure and have one while you're in San Francisco) and is where we went on our second date. This is where the tide turned as Andy wooed Kerry with his knowledge of Chinese culture relevant to modern art, and of his tolerance for naming untitled Mark Rothko paintings.

 

A foodie's paradise, San Francisco hosts TONS of great restaurants and bars. A few of our favorites include:

*Le Trappe (Belgian Trappist Pub-- delicious.  Where Kerry brought Andy for drinks on their first date, and where Andy brought Kerry for dinner upon engagement.)

*Bourbon and Branch --this old time speakeasy has no name on the door, and requires a secret code to get in. Once inside, it is possibly the most beautiful bar with the most crafted cocktails. Make a reservation to "dine" (no food, cocktails only, limit 6 people per reservation) and get your own secret password and booth, or know the magic words and stop by the library for a no commitment experience you won't forget. 

*Hotel Biron --this little wine bar / gallery is Kerry's favorite.  Great art, incredible cheese, and wine from around the world served in glamourous glasses.

 

Sonoma and Napa Valley are both only a quick hour drive across a bridge, and our favorite get away is a day in Sonoma County.  With the cold summers, getting out of the city becomes a must, and we have taken to Sunday afternoons of visiting our favorite wineries, picnicing, and swimming in the Russian River. Late September will be harvest season, and everthing should be gorgeous. Try our favorite varietals: Zinfandels from the Dry Creek Valley.

 

Our personal fave:  Francis Ford Coppola's winery in Geyserville (top of Sonoma County), right off the 101. Go and visit the new recreation center with a swimming pool, changing cabannas, THE golden telephone from The Godfather, and his actual Oscars, among other things.  Their wine is fantastic, and they are the MOST fun. Be sure and taste: Directors Chardonnay, Directors Cut Pinot Noir, and Sophia sparkling wine (created by Francis for Sophia's wedding).

If you're going to Napa, don't miss Rubicon Estate, Francis's Estate winery, and also where he lives.  If you're lucky, you might get to see him and Roman sitting outside, drinking an espresso and smoking a cigar...