San Fran and Surrounding Areas

[SpunGirl]

The husband and I are taking a year off from trying to please both families (both my large family and his fucking insane, lunatic, horrible person of a mother) and spending Christmas by ourselves. We're staying in Hercules for six nights and there are a few things we want to see, but what I want are suggestions from people who really know the area. Out-of-the-way places in the area to eat/visit and things to see. I looked at getting tix for Book of Mormon but they were in the area of $500 (wtf?) and we're going to do a night tour of Alcatraz. We plan to do some wine country driving but I understand it will be very quiet, off-season and all that. I'm also hoping for suggestions about boutique non-huge wineries that are fun to visit. That's all we've got so far.

-K

[Liagala]

I know nothing about wine, so I can't answer the question you're actually asking.

That said, eat here: http://www.crabhouse39.com/ Get whatever you want for your meal (it's all good), and order the tiramisu for desert.

http://thestinkingrose.com/ <-- also good (and good for a laugh), but I wouldn't recommend it if you're planning a romantic evening afterward.

[Latrinsorm]

Tom Seaver has a winery somewhere in California! My vote is to go there.

[Drakefang]

Just as an option, there are several Indian casinos relatively close (at least as close as Napa, basically) that could be worth a visit if you all are inclined. Christmas is a rough time in the Bay area...lots of moisture, foggy mornings. I know more about the South Bay than the North. San Fran is always chilly round that time of year with the mornings be especially nippy. Do make sure to pack a variety of clothing as day time temps can be mild. I wish I had suggestions but while I only lived 45 minutes or so from the city, I only visited it twice. Good luck gathering your information.

[SpunGirl]

I'm actually excited for the cold weather. We visited Amsterdam over Christmas two years ago and have not had a use for our mittens, scarves, and heavy jackets since then. It's November and it's still 80 GD degrees out here.

-K

[SHAFT]

Find a beer garden if you like beer. There's one near Laguna and haight that is my favorite. Beer, German food, and picnic tables. Fucking excellent. There a number around the city but that one is my favorite.

That entire area of Hayes valley is awesome. There's a butcher around there that has prosciutto that is like candy. I just want to smear it all over my body.

[soybean]

If you or hubby are at all science-y, go to the California Academy of Sciences. They do an evening thing with alcohol and I think some food on Thursday nights, so you can have a drink and a wander and play with the exhibits.

http://www.calacademy.org/events/nightlife/

[SpunGirl]

THAT sounds amazing, thanks Soybean. I teach science, anything I can translate into my classroom is welcomed. Obvs not the part with alcohol but a girl can dream.

-K