Steamed for Romance Around the Bay
Published: February, 2005
San Francisco Bay Area is the one of the most romantic locations in the world. Even on a foggy day the images and sights of the Bay area capture the imaginations of painters, photographers and help to make the hearts of lovers soar.
San Francisco is surrounded by equally unique, fun and romantic cities that rim the Bay providing the area with many romantic options for places stay, fun events to attend and dining unparalled dining options. The ferry is a great way to see it all, while enhancing the romantic mood.
Ferry to Alameda
· Rosenblum is the most recognized vintner of Zin. Open House, Feb 19-20, 12-5pm.
Ferry to Oakland.
· Love Mission to Mars by taking a simulated trip to the Red Planet at the Chabot Science Center in the Oakland Hills on Feb 12th between 12-9pm. (510) 336-7300
· Gondola Servizio takes lovers on 25 minute or 55 minute tours of Lake Merritt. Lovers can experience the grace and charm found in Italy’s most romantic form of transport. (510) 663-6603.
· Jack London Square Music Scene, Enjoy a wide variety of music at Jack’s Bistro, Yoshi’s Jazz Club, The Fat Lady or Kimball’s Carnival. Rock, jazz, salsa and blues are within easy walking distance of the ferry landing.
· Lover’s are Special at the Waterfront Plaza Hotel. A great place to start enjoying the Oakland nightlife next to the ferry landing. Their views of the sunset are stunning. Jack’s Bistro with music, fine dining, a bakery and wonderful Sunday Brunch is located in the hotel. Stay right in the middle on the water at Jack London Square. (510) 836-3800
Ferry to Tiburon or Sausalito
· Tiburon’s shop for Asian artifacts is Gallery 108 just across Main Street from the Ferry Landing is worth the trip. Once there, why leave? There are two hotels in town, Tiburon Lodge and Waters Edge and it is an easy pace for dining breakfast to dinner, shopping, enjoying the walks and views.
· Sausalito’s Casa Madrona Hotel and Spa was selected by the Bachelor to woo his lady. Their super Valentine’s special includes a visit to the spa and a sail on the Bay. (888) FOR ROCK
Ferry to San Francisco.
· Chinese New Year Festival – Celebrating Chinese New Year, Feb 9th, Year of the Rooster.
The festivities include: Chinese New Year Flower Market held February 5th 10am-8pm 6th 9am-6pm. Located on Grant Ave from Broadway to Clay. Chinatown 10K/5K Run/Walk. (415) 576-9622. The Miss Chinatown USA Pageant held on February 11 at 7:30pm. Contestants come from all over the US. Held at the Palace of Fine Arts, 3301 Lyon Street. (415) 397-8988. Chinese New Year Carnival lasts from Feb. 12-Feb 20th at Walter LumPlace, at Washington and Clay. Chinese New Year’s Parade on February 19 is a fantastic parade starting at Market and Second Street making a loop then down Kearny to Columbus Avenue, including the 201’ golden dragon and 600,000 firecracker finally. It starts at 5:30pm. Bleacher seats are available for $30 (415) 982-3000
· Pacific Orchid Exposition. The 52nd annual show dazzles with breathtaking collections and theme Art of Orchids. Over 60 exhibitors have designed exhibits to allow visitors to walk inside the painting. Held at Fort Mason, the Gala party is on Friday evening from 6pm –10pm. The show runs Feb. 19th to 22nd hours 10-6 on Friday, 9-6 on Saturday and 10-5 on Sunday. 415 665-2468.
· Tulipmainia at Pier 39 See more than 39,000 tulips of a stunning variety from all over the world, coupled with free guided tours. Feb. 19-27
Revisit this wonderful place with lover’s eyes in the month of February. There are breath taking views, laughing children, people young to old kissing in quiet corners, and fun things to do that bring people together everywhere.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
