Places to Check Out in SF

So, since some of you may be staying the weekend here in San Francisco, I thought I'd compile a short overview of some the highlights of SF. One of the great things about SF--as all great large cities--is that there is a plethora of unique and distinct neighborhoods that one can visit, each with their own identity and vibe. I highlight some of my favorite below.

- The Mission - very close to my heart with its vibrant hispanic community. If you go, you're likely to hear Spanish being spoken left and right, as well as see it on billboards, etc. There are great margaritas, burritos, and some really great parks (i.e. Mission Dolores Park) to lounge around and enjoy a beautiful sunny day (The Mission is consistently the sunniest part of the city.) If you're looking for some great restaurants and some good night life, this is also a great place (from 16th and Valencia all the way down to 24th.) Another great thing is it's accessible by BART.
- The Haight (i.e. Haight and Ashbury) - This is also a great place for night life and good eats. It is known to outsiders as the hippie part of the city. There's a great belgian beer bar, Toranado, and its super close to Golden Gate Park (SF's "Central Park", if you will), which is great for a stroll.
- North Beach - the Italian part of the city with lots of great Italian restaurants, and again another good area for bars, albeit a bit more expensive and swanky.
- The Castro - another SF legend, being the gay mecca of the US. You'll see rainbow flags flying everywhere. But beyond it's gay notoriety, it's also a great place for yet more good restaurants and bars--just be aware of what kind of bar you're heading into, so you don't have any surprises. :)

All in all, SF is an amazing city, and having Spring MRS here every year is a great idea! I hope you enjoy it!