I moved to Bushwick in October 2014 after graduating from college in Boston. The only thing I knew about the neighborhood was its massive warehouse parties as depicted in an episode of Girls. Truthfully, I knew very little about Brooklyn — what I knew was what my dad told me about the Brooklyn he grew up in. But that was 50 years ago. A lot has changed.
Bushwick today is a diverse, thriving neighborhood. Its industrial past has given way to expansive artists’ lofts and production houses for artisanal products. Its bodegas have morphed into gourmet food stores selling $8 chocolate bars and kombucha. Many of the neighborhood’s longtime resident have expressed anger and frustration over the gentrification. Bushwick, like many other parts of Brooklyn is undergoing a rapid, transformation with consequences beyond the control of well-intentioned hipster newcomers.
The neighborhood is also becoming a popular tourist destination, thanks in large part to the Bushwick Collective, a street art project that commissions artists from all over the world to paint murals in the neighborhood.
So what is one to do in a single day in Bushwick?
A day in Bushwick
Images via Flickr Creative Commons
My ideal day starts off with a hearty breakfast or brunch. Luckily, the latter can be easily found along the L train. My brunch pick is Fritzl’s Lunchbox, a tiny shoebox of a restaurant on a quiet corner of Irving Avenue and Stockholm Street. On a recent visit, I ordered a crab cake omelette while my runny egg-averse companion munched a breakfast sandwich. The vibe is calm, the service friendly, and the wait is often shorter than most brunch spots in the neighborhood.
If brunch isn’t what you’re after, grab a chorizo tostada at Tortilleria Mexicana Los Hermanos (a favorite of none other than Anthony Bourdain). Place your order on an index card, and then await your order by the counter. The tortillas are some in the freshest in town as they’re made right in their factory on site.
Wake up and brunch
With a full belly, make your way to Bushwick’s claim to fame: street art. Strolling down the cluster of blocks off the Jefferson L train and you will understand why tourists from all over the world flock here.
From Stockholm Street, head west to Troutman Street to see the many incredible works of The Bushwick Collective, including a mural of Jay Z and Basquiat from New Zealand street artist Owen Dippie. Every first weekend in June, the collective hosts a massive block party in the neighborhood, drawing thousands of visitors to witness live mural painting and discover the area.
The Bushwick Collective was started by Bushwick native Joe Ficalora. It is now one of the most recognized street art collectives in the world.
Colorful street art in Bushwick
Alternatively, you could check out some of Bushwick’s many art galleries and studios. Since rent is significantly cheaper than Manhattan, many artists call Bushwick home. Don’t miss the studios at 56 Bogart Street (aptly named The BogArt) off the Morgan L that are often open to the public. Notable galleries include Luhring Augustine, SIGNAL and The Living Gallery.
If film is your preferred genre of art, you won’t be disappointed with a visit to Syndicated, a new restaurant and bar that happens to have a movie theater in back. For only $3, catch a flick while dining on tater tots and truffle popcorn.
The area surrounding the Morgan L Train is jokingly known as “Morgantown.”
It’s dinnertime, and Bushwick has plenty of options. The most obvious choice would be Roberta’s, the hipster pizza joint that practically put Bushwick on the map. If the wait is too long, head to Northeast Kingdom. The farm-to-table restaurant serves elevated comfort food in a low-key setting.
In hybrid-loving New York, Maite is an Italian-Basque-Colombian restaurant off the Central M train where the chef creates wildly unique dishes in a homey atmosphere.
Roberta’s
Nightlife is where Bushwick excels. From dive bars hawking $2 Genesee to all night warehouse raves, this is a party neighborhood. Start your night off at The Narrows, a speakeasy-style spot with a great little patio. El Cortez, from the owners of The Commodore in Williamsburg, combines Tex-Mex cuisine with a raucous party vibe.
If bar hopping isn’t your cup of tea, check out the programming at the House of Yes, a performance space hosting a wide variety of dance, circus, theater & cabaret performances.
Where to stay
The New York Loft Hostel
The New York Loft Hostel: A repurposed factory now houses a hip hostel complete with backyard patio and rooftop deck. New York Moore Hostel: Simple hostel accommodation with spacious rooms BKLYN House Hotel: Recently opened full-service hotel inspired by the creative, artistic community of Bushwick.
Carry-on luggage is a basic need when travelling. It’s meant for weekend trips, for carrying basics on the airplane, and for overall comfort. With that in mind there is so much to consider: hard sided or soft? To get wheels or will a simple strap suffice? To suit your needs, we compiled a list of the ten best bags you can use as a carry-on. Remember that packing efficiently is a craft that must be mastered.
Track your luggage via GPS and charge your gadgets via USB
This is first suitcase to connect to your smartphone so you can always keep your belongings tracked. The built-in tracker lets you know where your bag is, anywhere in the world. So if for some reason you get separated from your carry-on, you’ll be able to find it. Plus, there’s scale built into the handle so you can just pick it up and it’ll tell the app how much it weighs. You can also remotely lock the bag or set it to auto-lock if you get separated from it. The charging dock, with two USB ports, lets you power your phone up to six times. It’s $399 and worth every penny.
This very feminine bag has a cotton canvas exterior, leather handles and straps, and bi-directional zippers. It comes in mustard, charcoal, and black so it can easily combine with any outfit. Recommended on various expertly selected websites, the Weekender bag is $150.
This clean and classic duffel-style bag has a very unique zippered side shoe compartment. It comes in a variety of colors and is really malleable. You can hold on to the synthetic leather carry handles or the (removable) padded strap. It’s $85, so this is your bag if you’re not looking to spend too much.
Our experts have nicknamed this “The Mary Poppins bag.” It looks small, but can definitely fit a lot. That’s not to say the bag is designed for women only! The versatile look will appeal to everyone. Available in classic colors like military green and navy blue, the water-repellent nylon bag has leather handles and a removable strap. You’re looking to spend $98 on it.
Our first bag with wheels, this is a favorite among experts because of its practical design that allows you to hang up items on the side. The ballistic nylon outer fabric is durable and low-maintenance. It’s got two wheels and plenty of compartments. You can get it in either black or military green for $599.
This bag boasts that it can travel big and store small. It’s a nylon four-wheeler that comes in a bunch of fun colors and can be neatly folded away when you’re not using it. Plus, it was on Shark Tank, so that’s pretty cool. This really practical piece is $199.
This is the perfect carry-on for those who love to compartmentalize even within the confines of a small bag. The two-wheeler has a bunch of different pockets both inside and outside. It comes in black, and has the signature Tumi signature on the wheels in a deep red. Experts say it’s the most durable carry-on bag. For $595, it better be.
Wear it like a duffle, backpack, or as an addition to your checked bag.
This sporty unisex bag stretches is great because it can stretch a lot. In fact, the name references how the bag can expand to the maximum dimensions allowed as a carry-on. Plus, the compression pocket and laptop pouch offer a lot of packing space for your short trip. The Patagonia is $179.
This carry-on is a classic that sports plenty of zippered compartments and features a retractable handle too. Filson bags are usually deep shades of maroon, brown, mustard, and red. Made with water-resistant nylon and a wide wheel-base for stability, this bag is $595.
A successful Kickstarter and IndieGogo campaign can’t be wrong.
This bag got over $140,000 funding from Kickstarter investors. It’s innovative design ensures that you have 19 different spaces to keep your belongings. Like a true duffel, this leather bag has straps but no wheels. Available in oak, navy, and black, you can pre-order it now for $290 on indiegogo.com. The first delivery is estimated for July 2016.
Drake has said, “When I think of myself, I think of Toronto. My music would never sound the way it does if it weren’t for Toronto.” Growing up in the suburbs outside Toronto, Drake’s love for his hometown shows no bounds. The rapper is set to release his long-awaited fourth album Views from the 6 this month, once again referencing his city. Recently, he was given the key to the city by mayor John Tory at the NBA All Star Celebrity Game, held for the first time outside the U.S.
Despite having multiple cribs in LA, NYC and Miami, Drake often makes his way home, either hitting up Joso’s for seafood or hiding out at the Hazelton Hotel. If you’ve got love for the 6 God, then we have the ultimate guide to exploring Canada’s largest and most culturally diverse city to the soundtrack of its most treasured export.
TORONTO, ON - FEBRUARY 12: Drake and Toronto Mayor John Tory attend the 2016 NBA All-Star Celebrity Game at Ricoh Coliseum on February 12, 2016 in Toronto, Canada. (Photo by George Pimentel/WireImage)
Drake receiving the key to Toronto from Mayor John Tory.
No relation to Toronto’s favorite rapper, but you’d be hard-pressed to find a more apt hotel to stay in. Concierge.com says “for anyone who wants to live hard, party with locals, and see the city’s younger, hipper side, there’s no better place to lay your weary head.” With only 19 rooms, the Drake may be small in size, but “epitomises bohemian luxury” according to Insight Guides. A popular rooftop patio, comfort food restaurant, and nightclub will make you never want to leave. Rooms from $166. Listen: “Best I Ever Had”
As sleek as one of Drake’s whips, the NY-based hotel chain made its Toronto debut in 2010, quickly becoming an “adult amusement park” according to BlackBook. Located in the fashionable King West Village, the hotel is a stone’s throw from art, entertainment and shopping, not to mention nightlife (the hotel even has its own underground club). Of the hotel, Gayot says “guests who choose one of the Toronto Thompson Hotel’s spacious 102 rooms or suites can enjoy floor-to-ceiling window views and such amenities as marble bathrooms with heated floors.” Rooms from $230. Listen: “HYFR”
Drake references this Four Seasons outpost in his latest single “Summer Sixteen,” and why not? Standing 55 floors tall with 259 rooms, the hotel is perfect for holding court with your crew, “looking like a damn football team.” Located in the upscale Yorkville neighborhood, Jetsetter says the Four Seasons is “a scene-stealing skyscraper with a talked-about restaurant and stellar spa in downtown’s swankiest ‘hood.” It’s nice being so high up, huh? Rooms from $367. Listen: “Summer Sixteen”
The Hazy, as it’s affectionately known, made not one but two appearances on Drake’s fourth mixtape If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late. A favorite among high rollers, the luxury hotel in Yorkville features rooms decked out in black and gold (Drizzy’s colors of choice). “Sophisticated, dramatic and sexy, this hotel is small enough (62 rooms, 15 suites) to make you feel like the someone special that we all know you are (Lonely Planet). Rooms from $289. Listen: “Used To” “10 Bands”
We’d like to imagine Drake toasting his first record deal with his crew at this Toronto institution for more than 30 years. Consistently stellar food and fantastic views of the Toronto skyline make this one of the best places for a celebratory meal. “Up on a hillside overlooking the dazzling downtown lights, Scaramouche is the perfect hideaway for falling in love with food or your dining companion” (Forbes). Main courses from $39. List: “Crew Love”
This ivy-covered temple to seafood in Yorkville has been serving the freshest catch of the day since 1977. “Artistic objects, sensuous paintings of nudes and the sea, and signed celebrity photos line the walls at this two-story seafood institution that might catch you off-guard with its eccentricity” (Fodor’s). You might recognize the restaurant as the ornate setting for Drake’s Take Care album cover (and a mention in “5AM in Toronto”). Main courses from $28. Listen: “Take Care”
To get in touch with his Jewish side, we can imagine Drake taking his mom to one of the city’s best delis serving corned beef and pastrami (called smoked meat here). BlackBook says “Zane Caplansky’s old school deli has become the de facto spot for Jewish comfort food thanks to his luscious cured beef.” Listen: “You & The 6”
We wouldn’t be shocked to see Drake sipping vino at this Italian spot in King West (he references two other Italian joints, Il Mulino and Sotto Sotto in “Pound Cake” featuring Jay Z). Zagat says “at his high-end, hard-to-find Italian in King West, chef Rob Gentile serves upscale takes on rustic fare, using charcuterie, sausages and pastas made in-house.” Main courses from $21. Listen: “Pound Cake”
For a near-guaranteed Drake sighting…
Fring’s
https://www.instagram.com/p/BAlJ1IWPDQR/
You can thank Drake for one of the hottest spots in town – he did, after all, give Fring’s its name. Helmed by celebrity chef Susur Lee, the new restaurant in King West opened late 2015 and has already seen a bevy of famous faces come to taste its global cuisine and see its uber-cool interior. Combine that with the best song of 2015 (we may be biased) and your night is set. Listen: “Hotline Bling”
For that “irie” taste…
The Real Jerk
https://www.instagram.com/p/BC9TwSPk8fL/
You want authentic Caribbean flavor in Toronto? The Real Jerk is the answer. It recently played host to Rihanna and Drake for her “Work” music video, although we can imagine the weekly vibe is a little more sedated than what’s depicted in the video. Listen: Work
TripExpert’s top rated attraction in Toronto also happens to be one of Drake’s favorites, too: he has a tattoo of the tower inked on his arm and was seen riding its elevator in “Headlines.” At 1,815 feet, the CN Tower soars above Toronto skyline, much like the Empire State Building in NYC. Lonely Planet says “riding those glass elevators up the highest freestanding structure in the world (553m) is one of those things in life you just have to do.” Listen: “6 God”
Home of the Toronto Blue Jays, Rogers Centre was prominently featured in Drake’s “Headlines” music video and is a signature feature on the city’s burgeoning waterfront. While Time Out says it resembles “a giant white beetle,” the view of the CN Tower from the stadium can hardly be beat. After seeing a game, wander around the Queens Quay, a new urban revitalization project with green space and public art. Listen: “Headlines”
Air Canada Centre
Image: Dave Gillespie
Image: Dave Gillespie
Drake’s Sher Club
You’ll likely catch Drake cheering on the Toronto Raptors at this stadium – he is their official global ambassador. Whether or not you have thousands to spend on floor seats, it’s worth seeing a game and witnessing the city’s passion for sports. In 2015, Drake opened an exclusive, members-only club in the Air Canada Centre, Sher Club. Listen: “Energy”
For a chill time on the water…
Mariposa Private Harbor Cruise
Private Harbor Cruise
Toast the city on a private charter on Toronto’s harbor, champagne glass in hand.
For the night owl…
Drake Underground
https://www.instagram.com/p/3Ws495S55i/
Located in the basement of The Drake Hotel, the subterranean venue is “beloved by many by many for the intimate opportunities it offers to see genre-spanning artists and DJs on its red curtained stage,” according to blogTO.com. Time to be on your best (worst) behavior. Listen: “Worst Behavior”
Muzik
https://www.instagram.com/p/BBur3P3AHT4/
Drake has hosted many after parties at this sprawling nightclub on the waterfront, where the Dom Pérignon flows all night long. VIP or not, you’ll feel like a motherf***in legend at this sleek and sexy outdoor/indoor club. More recently, the club played host to the NBA All Stars afterparty. Listen: “Legend”
Between the 1940s and 1960s, Palm Springs became ground zero for Modernist architects like Richard Neutra and John Lautner who were attracted to its lunar terrain and proximity to Los Angeles. Their design aesthetic, which came to be called desert modernism, forever shaped the tableau of the desert city. While sadly you can’t stay at their famous homes, these ten hotels and spas are the next best thing.
The Parker, set against the San Jacinto mountains on 13 lush acres, oozes style and seclusion. The Le Meridien-owned property is a favorite of celebs when they’re in town and the pool area is notorious for star-spotting (Angelina Jolie has been seen lounging by).
Formerly The Horizon, L’Horizon reopened in 2015 after a multi-million dollar refresh by celebrity designer Steve Hermann. The 1950s gem played host to Hollywood legends (and even a few presidents) back in the day and does so today. Each of the luxurious 25 guestrooms is like staying in private Palm Springs home.
Fun and festive describe the Saguaro (pronounced sa-wah-roh), a 245-room hotel decked in pink and orange. If you’re looking for a party-friendly home base for Coachella, this is it. Daily yoga, an Olympic-sized pool and a shuttle to downtown seal the deal.
Jaded city folk should head to this hotel, a former Motel 6 turned high-style hangout. Like its NYC and L.A. counterparts, the Ace has all the amenities you could want, plus an on-site restaurant, bar and spa.
Styled after pensiones in the Mediterranean, the Korakia has all the makings of a seaside retreat — without a sea in sight. A complimentary cooked breakfast is served in the sun-dappled courtyard, one of the many features of this dreamy destination.
Four bars, a restaurant, an 11,000 sq-foot spa – not to mention 398 rooms and 73 suites – the Riviera is as big as it gets in Palm Springs. You won’t be bored here. It’s location in downtown means easy access to everything Palm Springs has to offer.
Like something out of The Jetsons, Orbit In is a retro fantasy come to life. Studio rooms are appointed with Eames furniture and record players, while extras include two saltwater pools and a complimentary happy hour. Their extensive spa menu offers relaxing massages, mat Pilates and yoga therapy.
If Nancy Meyers designed a hotel, it would look a lot like the Alcazar. The Spanish colonial-style inn, located in the hip uptown design district, is decked in sumptuous white linens. Reserve a room with a private patio and let the calm set in.
A hotspot for movie stars in the 1930s,the Spanish Colonial-style hotel was opened by former mobster Al Wertheimer and served as his private club until the 1940s. To this day, the Colony Palms offers guests an indulgent stay, with beautifully appointed suites, a restaurant and spa.
This adults-only property is like a real-life Flintstones set. Built in 1947 by William F. Cody, the hotel was named a Class 1 historic site in 2012. Lounge on a bright orange sun chair or cozy up to one of the hotel’s many inviting common spaces that encircle the saltwater pool.
Originally built in 1935, the Albert Frey designed Movie Colony Hotel combines iconic mid-century modern architecture with a location just one block from downtown Palm Springs. The mostly white boutique hotel has both rooms and townhouses and was a favorite of Sinatra back in the day.
Tired of the mid-century modern aesthetic? Sparrows Lodge is the answer. The restored lodge, built in 1952, is mountain cabin meets desert resort. With No TVs or telephones, it makes for the perfect getaway. The on site restaurant, The Barn Kitchen, serves breakfast, lunch and supper.
Every spring, the world is gifted with the sight of cherry blossoms. In Japan, the tradition of cherry blossom season is known as hanami. But the centuries-old tradition extends beyond the shores of Japan, with many more cities across the world holding annual festivals celebrating the precious pink bloom. From quintessential Kyoto to lesser-known Macon, Georgia, these are the 10 best cities in the world to see cherry blossoms and where to stay.
Kyoto
Kyoto
Named one of our most romantic cities in the world, Kyoto is heralded around the world for its cherry blossoms. While the trees can be viewed throughout Japan during spring, Kyoto is the most picturesque. To really see the blooms in action, visit the Imperial Palace or the Philosopher’s Path.
Westin Miyako Kyoto
Located just outside Kyoto, the Westin Miyako Kyoto embodies the serenity of its surroundings.
Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C.
Outside of Kyoto, D.C. is the best place for premium blossom viewing. Each year, the National Cherry Blossom Festival is held over a five week period on the National Mall. Crowds can get uncomfortably large, but luckily there are several places in D.C. to see the blooms.
Mandarin Oriental
See cherry blossoms without leaving your hotel at the Mandarin Oriental, with incredible views of the Tidal Basin.
Every April the Brooklyn Botanic Garden hosts Sakura Matsui, the Japanese tradition marking the end of hanami (aka cherry blossom season). The two-day affair includes a cosplay fashion show, bands playing traditional tunes and dance performances.
Can’t make it to Brooklyn? Take a scroll through the gardens instead.
NU Hotel
Access the Botanic Garden easily from the NU Hotel, a hip haven in nearby Downtown Brooklyn.
Macon, Georgia
Macon
Little known fact: Macon is the cherry blossom capital of the world. With more than 300,000 trees, the city is practically awash in a baby pink. Its annual festival, ending in March, is earlier than most because of the warmer climate down south.
Stonehurst Place
Stay at Stonehurst Place, a charming bed and breakfast in Atlanta.
The Opus Hotel in Vancouver’s trendy Yaletown district is no doubt one of the best in the city.
Stockholm
Stockholm
In 1998, 63 Japanese cherry trees were planted around one of most central parks, the Kungsträdgården (King’s Garden). 18 years later, the trees have become a can’t-miss sight in the Swedish capital every mid-to-late April.
Hotel Diplomat
Hotel Diplomat, located on the grand boulevard Strandvagen, makes for a refined stay.
Seoul
Seoul
In Seoul, the Yeouido Spring Flower Festival brings thousands of visitors to the city’s national assembly building. More than 1,600 cherry trees bloom along the Han River, in addition to nearly 90,000 flowers including azaleas, forsythias and spireas.
Rakkojae Seoul
Skip the chain hotels in favor of the Rakkojae Seoul, a traditional hanok dating back to the 1870s.
San Francisco
San Francisco Japanese Tea Garden
Some 30 cherry blossom trees will bloom in San Francisco’s Japantown. Happening at the same time is the Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival, which celebrates the city’s rich Japanese culture and heritage and draws over 200,000 visitors a year.
Hotel Kabuki
Keep in the Japanese theme by booking a room at Hotel Kabuki.
Paris
Paris
One of the many glorious aspects of springtime in Paris is the cherry blossoms along the Parc du Champ De Mars, an expansive green space at the foot of the Eiffel Tower in the 7th arrondissement. On sunny days (a rarity in Paris), there’s no better place to while away an afternoon. Picnics are encouraged.
Hotel du Champ de Mars
Stay at – where else? – Hotel du Champ de Mars, an affordable boutique hotel in the 7th.
Salem, Oregon
Salem
The capitol of Oregon was once known as Cherry City, a nod to the cherry orchards that once surrounded the valley town. Nowadays, the only remnant of Salem’s once-bustling cherry business is the double row of cherry trees outside of Oregon’s capitol building.
Hotel Monaco
The Hotel Monaco is playful and sophisticated in downtown Portland, about an hour away from Salem by car.
Even if you don’t have much time, you won’t forget Hong Kong. It’s a cosmopolitan, multicultural playground that will leave you hoping for your next visit. Even if you just have a day’s layover or a few hours, make sure you get out and explore. Especially at night. The skyline is pretty amazing.
The Peninsula Hong Kong, stunning views from Victoria Peak, dim sum from Tim Ho Wan and the Man Mo Temple
To kick off a great stay, it’s vital to pick the best hotel Hong Kong has to offer. TripExpert ranks The Peninsula Hong Kong as the best one. The colonial building has rooms with “chic, residential-style elegance and have been updated to feature new guest-oriented technology, including multiple bedside adapters, LED touch-screen wall panels (available in five languages), interactive digital tablets, and wireless phones,” according to Fodor’s. The Peninsula boasts character, so staying here for a couple of nights will be memorable. Rooms are $513 a night. As a first stop, you must visit Hong Kong’s most famous landmark: Victoria Peak. If you’re short on time, this is the one place to check out. It’s Hong Kong’s highest point, and gathers “sweeping views of the vibrant metropolis, verdant woods, easy but spectacular walks,” says Lonely Planet. An Uber from the Peninsula will be around $28, or you could take the ferry and see how many locals travel daily. Admission to Victoria Peak is free, and to top off the perks, you get to take a funicular tram to the top. Take a tour of the Peak and make sure you get pictures from your 1800 ft (550 m) view of the cityscape. For lunch, we suggest you taste the dim sum. The best place to find it is at Tim Ho Wan, which is a $20 Uber ride away from Victoria Peak. “The world’s cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant, Tim Ho Wan serves up some of the finest and best-value dim sum you will ever eat,” says Conde Nast Traveler. Indeed, you will not spend more than $25 at Tim Ho Wan. The barbecued pork buns are a favorite here. It’s always busy, so try to schedule your lunch outside of peak hours at this spot. Just a short, $8 ride away is the Man Mo Temple, which you should definitely visit during your trip. Hong Kong’s oldest temple, built during the 1840s, is a Taoist gem. According to Frommer’s, “what makes this evocative temple particularly memorable are the giant incense coils hanging from the ceiling, imparting a fragrant, smoky haze — these are purchased by patrons seeking fulfillment of their wishes, such as good health or a successful business deal, and may burn as long as 3 weeks.”
Pick up souvenirs at the Temple Street Night Market
Make another stop before you indulge in some of Hong Kong’s cuisine. The Temple Street Night Market is a place to look for knick-knacks, grab a local snack, or just people watch. “You’ll also find a surfeit of fortune-tellers, herbalists and, occasionally, some free, open-air Cantonese opera performances,” says Lonely Planet. It’s been a long day, but dinner will not disappoint. TripExpert recommends the Cantonese restaurant Lung King Heen. It’s a $10 Uber ride away from the Night Market, where you’ve hopefully built up an appetite amongst the shopping. Forbes Travel Guide says, “seafood figures prominently, along with delicacies such as bird’s nest and abalone, but meat and poultry (including a sublime roast chicken) are treated with aplomb, too.” It doesn’t hurt that the views are spectacular. There’s a set dinner price of $200 at Lung King Heen. Hong Kong is a fast-paced city, and visiting all of its top spots in a day can be difficult, but can be done. This itinerary is perfect for someone who has a day to spare in Asia’s financial capital.
The Bay Area is having a renaissance — and I don’t mean just San Francisco. Aside from that stunning metropolis, the Bay Area’s other two cities across the East Bay, Oakland and Berkeley, offer a wide variety of wonders (both culinary and visual) that are worth exploring.
To aide in your NorCal trip, we’ve complied a guide to the best long weekend filled with attractions and good eats. From San Francisco’s best dim sum to the ultimate record store in Berkeley, we think having this guide in your back pocket would be a hella good idea.
Day 1
photo.ua / Shutterstock.com
nito / Shutterstock.com
Hotel Zetta, Boulevard, City Lights Bookseller, Ferry Building Marketplace,
Start your weekend off by checking in to the fun and tech-savvy Hotel Zetta, located in the SoMa neighborhood. Frommer’s says it “embodies San Francisco’s young professionals’ “work hard, play hard” motto.” Gayot says Hotel Zetta “emphasizes interactivity with its services,” which include an interactive lobby with Mac computers and a Plinko game wall. San Francisco is, after all, the home of such tech luminaries like Twitter, Airbnb and Uber, so why not stay at a hotel that reflects the city’s innovators? Rooms from $260 a night. From the hotel, hop in a quick 10 minute cab ride or Uber ($8) to City Lights Booksellers & Publishers, one of the last great independent bookstores in the city, opened in 1953. Peruse the aisles for hard-to-find titles in world literature, arts and politics. While you’re there, you might even catch their weekly author reading series. After City Lights, it’s a short walk to the Embarcadero, home of the Ferry Building Marketplace. Originally built in 1896, the building is now host to a marketplace featuring merchants like Blue Bottle Coffee, Cowgirl Creamery and Acme Bread Company. Lonely Planet says “hedonism is alive and well at this transit hub turned gourmet emporium, where foodies happily miss their ferries slurping local oysters and bubbly.”
Every Saturday morning, locals pile into the Ferry Building for the farmer’s market to scoop up fresh produce, local cheeses and meats.
While you could just make a meal out of provisions found at the Ferry Building, if you’re feeling more of a sit-down dinner, walk to Boulevard, where chef Nancy Oakes is known as one of the first to put a fine dining spin on American cuisine. According to Time Out, “Since 1993, this Belle Epoque restaurant has been a consistent favorite: From the service to the cooking, there’s seldom a misstep.” The menu is full of sumptuous, seasonal-focused dishes like Quail with Roasted Forest Mushrooms & Cauliflower Panzanella. Main courses from $27. End the day with a nightcap at Hard Water, a restaurant and bar carrying up to 180 different American whiskeys. Opened by Charles Phan of The Slanted Door, Hard Water’s “compact space featuring a central horseshoe-shaped bar is best for socializing over ‘after-work drinks,’ ” says Zagat. We’d say sipping an Old Fashioned by the water is a pretty stellar way to cap off the night.
Day 2
Oakland Museum of California
It’s Saturday morning — and that means brunch. While you could wait in hours-long lines for pancakes and eggs, we’d rather hit up our pick for city’s best dim sum, Ton Kiang. Take the 38R bus down Geary Boulevard (it’s a long walk from the hotel) and stop when you see a snaking line outside of the bi-level restaurant. While inevitably busy, rest assured that you’ll be in and out as quick as the servers can cart their shumai and sesame balls.
I’ve been coming here since I was 5. It’s my family’s favorite.
With a full belly, it’s time to explore the city across the bay, Oakland. From Ton Kiang, take a 20-minute BART train ride to the Oakland Museum of California. Specializing in natural science, history and art of the great state of California, Lonely Planet says the museum is a must-see. “Relevant, fascinating exhibits have included knockout Yosemite photography and interactive Great Quake rooms.” The museum’s mid-century modern design is worth seeing just on its own. General admission is $15.95. Alternatively, you could see a matinée film at the historic Paramount Theatre, one of many Art Deco-era movie palaces in Oakland. The Paramount is known for showing classic films, as well as being a host to music performers in town. It’s dinner time, and there are few better places in town to indulge than Camino. While on the pricey side, this restaurant with a wood fire grill does simple, Californian cuisine at its finest. Lonely Planet says the restaurant “showcases the best of local organic produce and meats, most cooked over an open fire in slow-food-meets-California-now style.” Main courses start at $30. Grab an Uber ($30) or hop on the BART back to San Francisco. It’s been a long but adventurous day!
Wake up early and head to Tartine Bakery, an unquestionable institution in San Francisco with long lines to match. Famous for its European-style bread (which you can order up to 3 days in advance), the bakery and cafe also serves an astonishing variety of pastries, cakes, tarts and sandwiches. This is nirvana for those who love a flaky croissant or morning bun.
Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be less crowded than weekends.
Take your pastry and coffee and walk over to Dolores Parkfor a great vantage point of the city. Recently reopened to the public after extensive renovation, the park remains a favorite among locals with picnics, offering unparalleled views of the city. Frommer’s says it’s “the scene of modern bohemia,” and we’d have to agree. SFer’s know how to relax.
Mission Dolores Park, Berkeley, Chez Panisse
But enough splendor in the grass. Hop in 30-minute a cab or Uber ($20) and spend the afternoon in the other city across the bay, Berkeley. Berkeley is foremost a college town, so you would be remiss in not visiting the University of California, Berkeley. Stroll around the leafy campus, made famous in the ‘60s for its Free Speech Movement and opposition to the Vietnam War. After soaking up collegiate vibes, make your way to Telegraph Ave, one of the city’s thoroughfares and historic center of hippie culture. Drop by Moe’s Books (it’s been around since 1959) for browsing new and used books, then walk over Amoeba Music, a record collector’s dream carrying hundreds of thousands of CDs and LPs.
You may recognize Amoeba Music for the “What’s In My Bag?” series on YouTube.
When the hunger pangs begin, make your way to Chez Panisse. Opened in 1971 by Alice Waters, the restaurant practically invented farm-to-table cuisine. “Californian cuisine is so much a product of Alice Waters’s genius that all other restaurants following in her wake should be dated A.A.W. (After Alice Waters),” says Frommer’s. Yes, this restaurant is one of the best known in the country, and yes, you’ll need a reservation, but we think Chez Panisse is an absolute must when in Berkeley. Prix fixe menus at dinner start at $75, while the cafe serves an a la carte menu. Don’t leave Berkeley without seeing the stunning nighttime views over San Francisco bay at the Lawrence Hall of Science.
Day 4
Be sure to catch some Golden Gate views before heading home.
Sadly, your weekend in the Bay Area is coming to an end, but before you leave, don’t miss viewing San Francisco’s top-rated attraction – the iconic, elegant, Golden Gate Bridge. For the best views, Travel + Leisure has you covered: “Do yourself a favor and see the Golden Gate Bridge the way it was meant to be seen: from below.”
With that last view, your long weekend in the Bay Area is over. You stayed at one of the best hotels, ate at some of the best restaurants, and saw some of the best attractions. Once you’ve experienced SF, Oakland and Berkeley once, you’ll be planning a trip back very soon. It’s just that kind of place.
Pro tip: Consider buying a Go San Francisco Card, an all-inclusive pass to the city’s top museums, attractions and tours, including a cruise around the Golden Gate Bridge.
