It may seem crazy, but in the six years I lived in California, I only made it to San Francisco once. And unfortunately that visit, erm, wasn’t the most favorable (due to my host, not necessarily the place itself.)

As a result, let's just say I was dying for a work trip there so I could experience the city in a new light.

This time around happened to fall on the hottest day SF has experienced in 10 years (which would happen...😂)

Despite the insane temps, I was able to meet up with a dear college pal of mine for part of the day, who played tour guide for me and more than compensated for the not-so-fab experience I’d had before.

Whether San Francisco is a jumping off point to a further destination across the Pacific, or you’re headed to NorCal’s wine country or national parks and have time to spare, here are some ways you can spend a day in SF - and log some serious steps along the way:

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Hit up Chinatown.

San Francisco's famed Chinatown happens to be the oldest in North America - not to mention, the largest outside of Asia. So, you could say it's kind of legit.

Wander around the sloping streets of this amazing cultural district, exploring the shops, temples, and markets located beneath a showcase of ornate Chinese gates and lanterns. It's a neighborhood of dim sum dreams and tea tastings - and quite frankly it's magnificent, which might explain why it's more visited than the Golden Gate Bridge.

A cute spot to check out is the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory, located along narrow Ross Alley. You can sample freshly baked cookies and watch them as they’re being made, then peruse a selection of the famous wafers dipped in chocolate or dusted with sprinkles.

Walk along The Embarcadero.

Snaking along the eastern shoreline of the city, The Embarcadero is one of the liveliest boulevards in town - and it's an easy route to follow to catch some of the best sites in San Francisco.

From Chinatown, cut through the Financial District (about a 20-minute walk) until you reach the Ferry Building, signified by its iconic clock tower. Dually a ferry transit hub and a foodie's paradise, this historic location is just the beginning of The Embarcadero's slew of noteworthy stops.

Visit the sea lions at Pier 39.

These outspoken marine friends laze along the docks at Pier 39, flopping in the water, fighting for command of their respective spots, and just generally showing off. You can hear them before you see them, and when you catch a glimpse you may be surprised at the sheer number of them (fun fact: the most sea lions spotted here at one time was over 1,700!)

While Pier 39 is, admittedly, touristy AF...these cute little creatures are too entertaining to pass up a visit at least once in your life.

And besides, touristy crowds or not, you can't deny Pier 39's got some serious views. Wander to the end of the dock and catch some iconic Bay Area sights - like Alcatraz, the ultra-scenic Marin County, the Bay Bridge, and - of course - the Golden Gate Bridge.

Head over to Fisherman's Wharf.

If you keep walking along the water from Pier 39, you'll hit Fisherman’s Wharf, which features enough crab shacks and souvenir shops to feed any tourist fancy. If you can, catch a tour of Boudin’s Bakery, and afterwards indulge in one of their famous bread bowls.

Located within the Fisherman's Wharf area is scenic Ghirardelli Square. Admire the sloping lawns stretching up to the three-story former chocolate factory (now home to dozens of vendors and restaurants), and perhaps treat yourself to a decadent ice cream sundae from Ghirardelli itself.

You can also opt to wander through the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. With a Visitor Center, a Maritime Museum, and a curving pier chock-full of bay views and sweeping panoramas of the city, it's at once beautiful and educational.

Soak up the views at Fort Mason.

The former US Army post features 49 historic buildings comprising of galleries, theaters, and restaurants, as well as parks and gardens for visitors to relax in. Part of the site is built atop a headland, which offers an elevated lookout over the bay.

It was here that I turned on music and sat for a while just staring at the view. The fresh scent of juniper and pine lingered in the air, and the shade proved an invaluable barrier against the day's uncharacteristic heat.

Wander around the Palace of Fine Arts.

Originally built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition, the magnificent landmark stuns amongst lagoons, gardens, and winding pathways.

Movie fans may remember it from its appearances in titles like Vertigo and Twisted. Mainly, it’s just a fascinating spot to explore the architecture grandeur and feel inspired, like SF's very own version of Roman ruins. And best of all? It's completely free to visit!

Make a pit stop at the Walt Disney Family Museum.

The Walt Disney Family Museum specializes in the life and legacy of one of entertainment's most famous creators - Walt Disney. There’s a cafe, gift shop, animation classrooms, and a pretty fascinating little lobby display where you can catch sight of things like the Oscar for Snow White and other Disney memorabilia.

The Museum is located in The Presidio, a 1,500-acre expanse within an old military post that features a beach, trails, forests, and amaaaaazing Golden Gate views.

Catch golden hour over the Golden Gate Bridge.

It is, after all, the crown jewel of a city overflowing with beauty.

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