A 48-Hour Guide to San Francisco

Our Ideal Weekend, Starting at Stanford Court

Staying at Stanford Court puts you right where San Francisco feels the most San Francisco. Cable cars out front. Neighborhood parks across the street. Iconic views in every direction. If I were planning the perfect 48 hours for a friend visiting the city, this is exactly how I’d do it.

No rushing. No overthinking. Just the good stuff.

Day 1: Waterfront Wandering & Classic SF Energy

Morning: Breakfast + a Photo Moment

Start your day downstairs at The Mixing Room with breakfast—either the buffet (always a win) or something à la carte. Take your time. You’ve got a full day ahead.

When you’re done, step right outside onto California Street for a quick photo. Cable cars clanking by, skyline views behind you—it’s one of those effortlessly iconic SF scenes.

From there, hop on the California Street cable car and ride it all the way downtown toward the water. Sit back. This is part of the experience.

Late Morning: Ferry Building Browsing

Get off near the Embarcadero and head straight to the Ferry Building Marketplace. This is one of my favorite places to wander—equal parts food hall, shopping stop, and people-watching heaven. Inside you’ll find:

• Local restaurants and bakeries
• Specialty food shops and edible souvenirs
• Cute boutiques perfect for gifts or “I found this in SF” moments

Plus if you visit on a Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday before 2PM you'll catch the Farmer's Market! This market is widely acclaimed throughout the country as one of the top farmers markets to visit. On any of these days, but especially Saturdays, some of San Francisco’s best-known chefs, and most notable farmers, can be seen shopping and socializing. Grab a snack if you’re hungry or just browse your way through.

Afternoon: Embarcadero to Fisherman's Wharf

From the Ferry Building, either stroll along the Embarcadero (it’s flat, scenic, and breezy) or hop on Muni to head toward Fisherman’s Wharf.

Once there:

• Say hi to the sea lions lounging at Pier 39
• Ride the SkyStar Wheel for sweeping views of the Bay, Alcatraz, and the city

Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s still fun.

Evening: The Scenic Ride Home

When you’re ready to head back, take the Hyde–Powell cable car for the most scenic return route. You’ll pass Lombard Street, climb the hill, and get some of the best sunset views in the city along the way.

Back at Stanford Court, call it an early-ish night—you’ve earned it.

Day 2: Neighborhood Living like a Local

Morning: Coffee + A Local Pause

Start slow. Grab a complimentary coffee from Stanford Court’s tea and coffee service, then take it across the street to Huntington Park.

This is where you’ll see real Nob Hill life—locals walking dogs, friends catching up on benches, the city easing into the day. It’s one of my favorite low-key morning moments.

Late Morning: Chinatown Wandering

From there, head downhill into Chinatown. Wander the markets, peek into bakeries, and let yourself get a little lost.

Grab some dumplings or buns for an easy, casual lunch—the kind you eat while walking and immediately want more of.

Afternoon: Marina District Detour

In the afternoon, catch Muni and ride west toward Chestnut Street in the Marina District.

Chestnut Street is great for:

• Boutique shopping
• Coffee stops and wine bars
• A relaxed, neighborhood feel that’s still very SF

It’s close enough to be easy, but different enough to feel like a change of scenery.

Evening: Hyde Street Dinner & Dessert (non-negotiable)

Head back toward Nob Hill for dinner on Hyde Street. Abrazo is a great pick—warm, cozy, and perfect for lingering over wine and a good meal.

And then—this is important—walk a few blocks to Swensen’s Ice Cream.

Swensen’s is a Russian Hill classic and absolutely deserves a spot on this itinerary. Order whatever looks good, enjoy it on a night stroll, and fully lean into the moment.

Finish the night by hopping on a cable car back up the hill to Stanford Court—one last ride to end a very solid weekend.

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This is San Francisco without trying too hard. Iconic sights, local favorites, great food, scenic rides—and a home base that keeps everything feeling easy. Don't sleep on San Francisco, book your next stay with us and don't forget to check out our special offers to make sure you take full advantage of what a stay in the city can bring: https://www.stanfordcourt.com/special-offers