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IN: Travel

Visiting San Francisco: A Recap of My 7 Day Trip

January 28, 2020 By Melanie No Comments

Hey friends! It feels so good to be home after a fun-filled week spent on the west coast! My husband started a new job at Dropbox and had to attend orientation at their HQ in San Francisco. So, naturally, I decided to tag along — even if that meant I would be exploring solo for the majority of the time. Thankfully, there was no shortage of things to do. I of course documented most everything on Instagram Stories but based on the messages I received, it seems like a full recap is necessary! If you plan on visiting San Francisco, I hope this recap will give you some great ideas of how to spend your time there.  

Before we jump in, I just want to preface that when I first visited SF 3 years ago I was less than impressed. In fact, I downright hated it. I didn’t have high hopes for this trip but decided to go with an open mind and three simple rules based on what I knew: 

  1. Stay out of the Tenderloin neighborhood
  2. Don’t walk anywhere alone after sunset
  3. When in doubt, use Uber/Lyft

These three rules worked well for me and honestly… I had the best experience. 

Turns out, San Francisco won me over! 

If you know where to go, you’ll see the city is dripping with charm. From the colorful townhouses situated on rolling hills, to the old-school cable cars, gorgeous botanical gardens and delicious food. There really are so many wonderful things to see and do. 

Instead of breaking down my recap day by day, I’m going to categorize it based on the types of things you can do while there. Read on and enjoy! 

Map thanks to Wanderlog, a trip planner app on iOS and Android

DELICIOUS EATS

Media Noche 

Located in the Mission, this little restaurant serves up some delicious cuban sandwiches and bowls (vegan options too!). Their aesthetic is also super Instagrammable with the most beautiful tiled floors, natural light and greenery. It’s a short walk away from Clarion Alley Mural Project which is worth taking a peep at. 

Sons & Daughters

Alright ya’ll, this place is fancy. Michelin star fancy. Which also means the tasting menu is major $$$$ but also a superb fine dining experience in a cozy Nob Hill restaurant. If you’re celebrating something special and willing to dish out the dough, this place is well worth it. 

Greens Restaurant

Named one of the Bay Area’s top restaurants, this organic, farm-to-table vegetarian restaurant, offers up more than tasty meatless dishes. It’s located right on the water and the floor to ceiling windows give you a stunning view of the Golden Gate Bridge and marina. 

Scoma’s Restaurant

This “pier to plate” restaurant in Fisherman’s Wharf is the real deal and has been a SF establishment since 1965. The food is super fresh, literally brought in by local fisherman that morning. Try the crab bisque. It was divine! 

Matcha Cafe Maiko

In the mood for a sweet treat? Head to Chinatown or Japantown and get a matcha/vanilla swirl cone from Matcha Cafe Maiko. If soft serve isn’t your thing they also have shaved ice, lattes, and parfaits, all featuring matcha of course. 

Smitten Ice Cream

This was seriously the BEST ice cream I’ve had in a long time. Not only do they only use unprocessed, locally sourced and sustainable ingredients but they also have their own propriety “Brrr” machine that churns the ice cream right in front of you. 

Four Seasons MKT Restaurant

Situated above market street near Union Square, this “market to table” restaurant inside the Four Seasons offers up a fun city view and delicious food. I came for breakfast and even though it was on the pricier side, ($12 for a green juice and $13 for oatmeal), I felt like the view and excellent service made up for it. 

FUN SIPS

Home Cafe

If you’re looking for an Instagrammable latte, this place is for you! There are many fun ones to choose from (Cookie Monster, Nutella, Red Velvet, etc.) but I went for their most popular — the birthday cake latte. Pro tip: cut the sweetness by subbing condensed milk for oat milk and asking for only 1/2 pump of the hazelnut + vanilla syrups. 

Cafe Reveille

I wasn’t necessarily super impressed with this cafe but thought it was aesthetically pleasing and offered up some quality coffee and yummy juices. Overall, its cute and if you need a quick pick me up and maybe a pic at a pink table, it’s worth stopping in! 

Crown and Crumpet

My friend and I stumbled upon this little gem in Japantown totally by accident! I’m so happy we did! The whole vibe is super girly and fun, very Victorian inspired. The “Stardust” tea was my favorite and it came with a plate of 5 different sweets for just $15. Stop in for afternoon tea and then walk across the street to see the Peace Pagoda. 

The Buena Vista

My husband and I were obsessed with this place! Get an irish coffee (or the “Nutty Irishmen” which is irish coffee with Baileys) and sit at the bar for the best experience. The bartenders are hilarious and watching the drinks get made was super entertaining. When you’re done you can even take it to-go! 

Alchemist Bar & Lounge

A little strange and kind of feels like it’s straight out of a Tim Burton film… but it’s cool. And the cocktails are quite tasty, even if they have names like “Zombie” and “Raised by Wolves.” I’m into it. 

FITNESS STUDIOS

MNT Studio 

The most gorgeous Pilates and Barre studio in SF. I took the reformer pilates class and it was challenging (some former reformer experience would be good) but the instructor offered enough modifications to make it accessible for all levels. 

Yoga Garden SF

Loved this little gem of a studio near Hayes Valley! It’s located inside an old Victorian home with studios named after various elements (earth, wind, fire, air). I took Roy’s vinyasa class and found it to be fun, challenging, and unique. They do have a very strict tardy policy so be sure to get there early. 

Bodyrok 

Alright, so technically this megaformer class isn’t specific to San Francisco. But it’s still well worth paying a visit if you’re looking for a full body, core strengthening, low impact workout! I even brought my husband along! 

Others: There is no shortage of amazing fitness studios in the Bay area. Some NYC favs that I also saw in SF are Rumble, Flywheel, Corepower Yoga and over 30 more. 

RELAXING DESTINATIONS 

Japanese Tea Garden

 This tranquil attraction tucked inside Golden Gate Park is a must visit. There are beautifully landscaped paths, monuments, mini waterfalls, and lots of greenery. After strolling through the garden stop at the tea house for a cup of matcha. 

Kabuki Springs & Spa

Such a hidden gem! My friend and I came here on Friday (which is a women only day) for a day spa experience. For just $30 you have full access to their sauna, steam room, hot & cold pools, salt scrubs and showers. It was very clean and super calming. Just a heads up, bathing suits are optional and most people opted out. 

Cocoon Urban Day Spa

Since I was staying in SoMa and needed to do my nails, I booked a signature mani/pedi on Classpass. I wasn’t sure what to expect but this little day spa is so cute! They had great service and did a fantastic job with my nails. The aesthetic is very beautiful and the nail service came with complimentary tea. 

MUST-SEE PLACES

Baker Beach

Located in the Presidio, this beautiful beach offers a stunning view of the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s a mile long and located at the foot of some very high cliffs, making it a beautiful nature escape while still within the city. Apparently the rip currents are awful so if you’re looking to swim, this isn’t the right place. 

Fisherman Wharf / Pier 39

Although being very very touristy, it’s a fun little boardwalk and a chance to see a few sea lions sunbathing on the docks. Come hungry as there are plenty of food stands and restaurants offering up clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls, fresh crab, and plenty of fish. There’s also a great view of Alcatraz with lots of boats offering up tours of the famous island prison.  

Conservatory of Flowers

Sadly the conservatory was closed for repairs when I visited BUT that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t check it out! They offer free admission every Tuesday (it’s usually $9) and the large greenhouse is home to a plethora of exotic, endangered and absolutely gorgeous plants. It’s also within Golden Gate park so there’s plenty of places to explore nearby when you’re done. 

Lombard Street

A short walk from Ghiradelli Square, this super famous curved street is basically the photo opp equivalent of Washington Street in Dumbo, Brooklyn. My husband and I decided to walk up the hill (great way to get those steps in!) and snap a pic from the top before walking down to the bottom. 

Sunset District

This super cute neighborhood is filled with colorful town-homes, charming boutiques and a few notable sites. The famous 16 ave. Tiled Steps make for a great photo opp and the General Store  is an IG worthy, earthy shop featuring vintage finds and local California artisans. 

If you have any questions about my time in San Francisco or the things I’ve listed, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’d love to hear from you. In the meantime, happy travels and have the BEST time in San Francisco! 

PS: If you’re looking for another California adventure that’s a bit more off the beaten path, I suggest checking out my travel guide of San Luis Obispo! 

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Meet Melanie

Meet Melanie

Hi and welcome to Headstands & Heels! I’m Melanie — a Digital Strategist turned Wellness Entrepreneur, certified yoga instructor (RYT 200), dog mama, and content creator based in Denver. I hope to encourage others to follow their dreams and cultivate a healthy, balanced lifestyle filled with mindfulness and positivity. 💕 Send me a note at: mel@headstandsandheels.com

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You’ll never regret romanticizing your life… a
You’ll never regret romanticizing your life… and here are 10 simple ways to get started 

✨save for later✨

🌸 instead of rigid routines, try creating “feel good” rituals that you can incorporate into your daily life

🦋 surround yourself with things that bring you joy: candles, photographs, art, fresh flowers, etc

💫 set the mood for the evening with soft lighting (no overhead lights allowed!), cozy candles, and a relaxing playlist 

🌱 practice the art of noticing by taking intentional moments of silence — whether you’re taking a walk, eating a meal or driving in the car 

🍯 embrace your favorite  hobbies (and maybe learn some new one)  to help you slow down and connect with your inner child 

👠 wear clothes that make you feel confident and put on a little skincare & makeup every morning to make you feel your best 

📸 capture the tiny details, whether through photos, videos or even writing them down in a journal. It helps train your eye to find the beauty around you 

📖 celebrate the small wins and treat yourself to that good wine, fancy jewelry or nice candle that you’ve been saving for a special occasion 

🍋 do one thing you love every single day, simply because it makes your heart feel full 

💕 find small ways to embrace the change of seasons whether it’s through home decor, seasonal recipes, making bucket lists or hosting friends & family 

What are some small ways you #romanticizelife everyday? 

#softwellness #softgirl #softgirlaesthetic #pinterestgirl #smalljoys #colorfulliving #intentionalliving #happyandhealthy


One grand weekend to bid farewell to summer☀️⛵️ {📍Grand Lake, CO}

Throwing it back to the #erastour because I’m ju
Throwing it back to the #erastour because I’m just like every other basic B #swiftie who is sooo excited for TS12! 🥰🎶

Anyone else hoping “The Life of a Showgirl” is a full on girly pop album? 🤞🏼 

Sidenote this may have been my favorite outfit everrr and I need to come up with an excuse to wear it again ✨💖

#ts12 #romanticizeyourlife #summerconcert #summervibes #loverera #taylorswiftnation

Life with a little bestie >> 💕✨

#motherhoodi
Life with a little bestie >> 💕✨

#motherhoodismagic #newmomlife #girlmom


Celebrating 8 months with our little bundle of joy
Celebrating 8 months with our little bundle of joy and I can hardly believe how fast the time is flying ✨🎀

This time two years ago I said goodbye to our first baby at 11 weeks pregnant and I’ll never forget the kindness so many of you showed me. I still have many of your messages saved and thinking of them still brings me to tears 💛

If you are currently in the thick of fertility struggles, waiting, hoping and praying for your time — I see you and hope this gives you something beautiful to look forward to. Thank you for being part of my journey and I’m sending all the love your way 💫

My only goal this summer was to take notice of all
My only goal this summer was to take notice of all the little things that spark joy and do them as often as possible 💫

{soft living, wellness, new motherhood, happy habits, mindfulness, cozy hobbies, be present, Pinterest aesthetic, summer vibes, mood board, wellbeing}

We all know making time for hobbies is a healthy h
We all know making time for hobbies is a healthy habit that we can do more of. So if you’re wanting to make more time for yourself but not sure which hobby is right for you, this guide is for you!

✨These 36 hobbies split across 6 categories are PERFECT for your 30s but can also be enjoyed at any age and are meant to help you discover new activities or reconnect with childhood favorites✨

PHYSICAL 
get you moving, support your health, release stress and give you a boost of endorphins

INTELLECTUAL
keep your mind sharp, expand your perspective and help you follow your curiosity 

CREATIVE
allow you to express yourself, tap into playfulness, relax and unwind 

OUTDOORSY
immerse you in fresh air, bring you scenic sights and foster your spirit of adventure 

SPIRITUAL
nourishment your inner world, allow you to feel grounded, connected and more present 

COMMUNITY FOCUSED 
provide a sense of belonging, foster connection, deepen relationships and encourage collaboration
 
Be sure to swipe through the list and SAVE for later! Let me know which ones you’ll be trying more of 💕

This is your sign to consolidate all of your arts
This is your sign to consolidate all of your arts & crafts into a little cozy hobby cart! ✨💛

My random art supplies have been scattered about in various rooms & closets in my home so I FINALLY got around to organizing them 🎨 

From scrapbooking, to coloring books, painting, and decoupage tools — these cozy crafts are now easily accessible and hopefully will make finding the time for creative hobbies to be a tad bit easier ☺️

Let me know if you’re also in your cozy hobby era! And let me know which hobby you want to make more time for 👇🏼

One of my goals is to make my evening routines scr
One of my goals is to make my evening routines screen free and as cozy as possible ✨💫

Last night, that looked like an everything shower, a hydrating face mask in my fluffy new strawberry robe, a hot cup of peppermint tea and watercolors in bed. Literally couldn’t think of a more perfect, relaxing way to unwind 

I finally organized all of my craft items into a little hobby cart that I’ll be sharing with you all tomorrow! And I hope to give you some ideas on how to slow down and make the most of the time you have for yourself because we all deserve a little coziness and self care ✨💫

#romanticizeyourlife #eveningroutine #eveningdiaries #selfcarediaries

My goal is to make my evening routines feel a litt
My goal is to make my evening routines feel a little more special this season with lots of self care and cozy hobbies ✨💛 

Last night, that looked like an everything shower, a hydrating face mask in my fluffy new strawberry robe, a hot cup of peppermint tea and watercolors in bed. Literally couldn’t think of a more perfect, relaxing way to unwind 

I finally organized all of my craft items into a little hobby cart that I’ll be sharing with you all tomorrow! And I hope to give you some ideas on how to slow down and make the most of the time you have for yourself because we all deserve a little coziness and self care ✨💫

#romanticizeyourlife #eveningroutine #eveningdiaries #selfcarediaries

I know so many people are already posting about Fa
I know so many people are already posting about Fall but am I the only one who is happy we still have a few more weeks of summer? ☀️ 

Since we have some time before we switch to cozy drinks, this #matchamonday is starring one of my absolute favorite combos… an iced mango matcha latte 🥭🍵

The sweet & earthy flavors work sooo well together, not to mention the layers are super pretty! 

Here’s your sign to make one

All you need is: 

✨ 1 tsp ceremonial grade matcha mixed with 1/4 cup hot water 
✨ 1 cup your choice of milk 
✨ 1/2 ripe mango mashed

Whisk the matcha and hot (not boiling) water and set aside. Mash ripe mango and add to glass. Top with ice, milk and matcha! 💛

Let me know if you’ll be making this and if you’re currently hanging onto summer vibes or leaning into early Autumn

For all the women in your 30s — cheers to trying
For all the women in your 30s — cheers to trying new and old hobbies, connecting to your inner child, fully embracing all the things you love and feeling so much more confident in who you are 💕💫 

#romanticizeyourlife #lifeinyour30s 
#joyfulliving #smalljoys #cozyhobbies


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Currently Pinning

  • pumpkin patch, fall aesthetic, autumn vibes
  • fall reads
  • A cheerful garland made of felt hearts in shades of red, pink, and white. The hearts are strung on a jute twine and draped across a mantel, adding festive flair to the room.  ​  ​Why They Sell:  ​Garlands are versatile decorations for homes, offices, or parties, and they’re lightweight and easy to ship, making them perfect for online sales.
  • This peach burrata salad is the definition of summer elegance—creamy burrata, sweet ripe peaches, arugula, almonds, and balsamic glaze. Plated with style for brunch boards, fine dining, or romantic alfresco evenings. Save this aesthetic salad idea and recreate the perfect plate. #BeyondEveryBite

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You’ll never regret romanticizing your life… a You’ll never regret romanticizing your life… and here are 10 simple ways to get started 

✨save for later✨

🌸 instead of rigid routines, try creating “feel good” rituals that you can incorporate into your daily life

🦋 surround yourself with things that bring you joy: candles, photographs, art, fresh flowers, etc

💫 set the mood for the evening with soft lighting (no overhead lights allowed!), cozy candles, and a relaxing playlist 

🌱 practice the art of noticing by taking intentional moments of silence — whether you’re taking a walk, eating a meal or driving in the car 

🍯 embrace your favorite  hobbies (and maybe learn some new one)  to help you slow down and connect with your inner child 

👠 wear clothes that make you feel confident and put on a little skincare & makeup every morning to make you feel your best 

📸 capture the tiny details, whether through photos, videos or even writing them down in a journal. It helps train your eye to find the beauty around you 

📖 celebrate the small wins and treat yourself to that good wine, fancy jewelry or nice candle that you’ve been saving for a special occasion 

🍋 do one thing you love every single day, simply because it makes your heart feel full 

💕 find small ways to embrace the change of seasons whether it’s through home decor, seasonal recipes, making bucket lists or hosting friends & family 

What are some small ways you #romanticizelife everyday? 

#softwellness #softgirl #softgirlaesthetic #pinterestgirl #smalljoys #colorfulliving #intentionalliving #happyandhealthy
One grand weekend to bid farewell to summer☀️⛵️ {📍Grand Lake, CO}
Throwing it back to the #erastour because I’m ju Throwing it back to the #erastour because I’m just like every other basic B #swiftie who is sooo excited for TS12! 🥰🎶

Anyone else hoping “The Life of a Showgirl” is a full on girly pop album? 🤞🏼 

Sidenote this may have been my favorite outfit everrr and I need to come up with an excuse to wear it again ✨💖

#ts12 #romanticizeyourlife #summerconcert #summervibes #loverera #taylorswiftnation
Life with a little bestie >> 💕✨ #motherhoodi Life with a little bestie >> 💕✨

#motherhoodismagic #newmomlife #girlmom
Celebrating 8 months with our little bundle of joy Celebrating 8 months with our little bundle of joy and I can hardly believe how fast the time is flying ✨🎀

This time two years ago I said goodbye to our first baby at 11 weeks pregnant and I’ll never forget the kindness so many of you showed me. I still have many of your messages saved and thinking of them still brings me to tears 💛

If you are currently in the thick of fertility struggles, waiting, hoping and praying for your time — I see you and hope this gives you something beautiful to look forward to. Thank you for being part of my journey and I’m sending all the love your way 💫
My only goal this summer was to take notice of all My only goal this summer was to take notice of all the little things that spark joy and do them as often as possible 💫

{soft living, wellness, new motherhood, happy habits, mindfulness, cozy hobbies, be present, Pinterest aesthetic, summer vibes, mood board, wellbeing}
We all know making time for hobbies is a healthy h We all know making time for hobbies is a healthy habit that we can do more of. So if you’re wanting to make more time for yourself but not sure which hobby is right for you, this guide is for you!

✨These 36 hobbies split across 6 categories are PERFECT for your 30s but can also be enjoyed at any age and are meant to help you discover new activities or reconnect with childhood favorites✨

PHYSICAL 
get you moving, support your health, release stress and give you a boost of endorphins

INTELLECTUAL
keep your mind sharp, expand your perspective and help you follow your curiosity 

CREATIVE
allow you to express yourself, tap into playfulness, relax and unwind 

OUTDOORSY
immerse you in fresh air, bring you scenic sights and foster your spirit of adventure 

SPIRITUAL
nourishment your inner world, allow you to feel grounded, connected and more present 

COMMUNITY FOCUSED 
provide a sense of belonging, foster connection, deepen relationships and encourage collaboration
 
Be sure to swipe through the list and SAVE for later! Let me know which ones you’ll be trying more of 💕
This is your sign to consolidate all of your arts This is your sign to consolidate all of your arts & crafts into a little cozy hobby cart! ✨💛

My random art supplies have been scattered about in various rooms & closets in my home so I FINALLY got around to organizing them 🎨 

From scrapbooking, to coloring books, painting, and decoupage tools — these cozy crafts are now easily accessible and hopefully will make finding the time for creative hobbies to be a tad bit easier ☺️

Let me know if you’re also in your cozy hobby era! And let me know which hobby you want to make more time for 👇🏼
One of my goals is to make my evening routines scr One of my goals is to make my evening routines screen free and as cozy as possible ✨💫

Last night, that looked like an everything shower, a hydrating face mask in my fluffy new strawberry robe, a hot cup of peppermint tea and watercolors in bed. Literally couldn’t think of a more perfect, relaxing way to unwind 

I finally organized all of my craft items into a little hobby cart that I’ll be sharing with you all tomorrow! And I hope to give you some ideas on how to slow down and make the most of the time you have for yourself because we all deserve a little coziness and self care ✨💫

#romanticizeyourlife #eveningroutine #eveningdiaries #selfcarediaries
My goal is to make my evening routines feel a litt My goal is to make my evening routines feel a little more special this season with lots of self care and cozy hobbies ✨💛 

Last night, that looked like an everything shower, a hydrating face mask in my fluffy new strawberry robe, a hot cup of peppermint tea and watercolors in bed. Literally couldn’t think of a more perfect, relaxing way to unwind 

I finally organized all of my craft items into a little hobby cart that I’ll be sharing with you all tomorrow! And I hope to give you some ideas on how to slow down and make the most of the time you have for yourself because we all deserve a little coziness and self care ✨💫

#romanticizeyourlife #eveningroutine #eveningdiaries #selfcarediaries
I know so many people are already posting about Fa I know so many people are already posting about Fall but am I the only one who is happy we still have a few more weeks of summer? ☀️ 

Since we have some time before we switch to cozy drinks, this #matchamonday is starring one of my absolute favorite combos… an iced mango matcha latte 🥭🍵

The sweet & earthy flavors work sooo well together, not to mention the layers are super pretty! 

Here’s your sign to make one

All you need is: 

✨ 1 tsp ceremonial grade matcha mixed with 1/4 cup hot water 
✨ 1 cup your choice of milk 
✨ 1/2 ripe mango mashed

Whisk the matcha and hot (not boiling) water and set aside. Mash ripe mango and add to glass. Top with ice, milk and matcha! 💛

Let me know if you’ll be making this and if you’re currently hanging onto summer vibes or leaning into early Autumn
For all the women in your 30s — cheers to trying For all the women in your 30s — cheers to trying new and old hobbies, connecting to your inner child, fully embracing all the things you love and feeling so much more confident in who you are 💕💫 

#romanticizeyourlife #lifeinyour30s 
#joyfulliving #smalljoys #cozyhobbies
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