San Francisco's Best Proposal Spot 2008

A remnant of San Francisco’s glorious past, this exquisite arts-and-science complex thrives in the Marina District.

Reviews:

• “Absolutely beautiful architecture”
• “I love the place”
• “A San Francisco Treasure…”
• “Enchanting”
• “what a view!!!”

Tips: There’s a free lot at Bay and Lyon streets.

Palace of Fine Arts

A turn-of-the-century time capsule.

Reviews:

• “Disappointing experience!!”
• “Beautiful Painted Lady, Elegant "
• “Most romantic Victorian Bed and Breakfast and great staff makes it hard to leave and go home”
• “My favorite B&B!”
• “nice place to stay at”

Chateau Tivoli Bed & Breakfast Inn

Hear the decent menu and casual bar, but heed to the house specialty: stellar ocean views.

Reviews:

• “Just visit, don’t eat”
• “Well…We did get our table even though we were an hour late…”
• “Great View, Poor Service, below average eats”
• “wonderful!”
• “Snooty service and average food.”

Tips: Try the excellent homemade Bloody Mary at the attached Zinc Bar.

Cliff House

This historic hotel atop Nob Hill provides opulent accommodations for the ruling class.

Reviews:

• “A Major Problem—But the Hotel Response Was Swift "

Tips: If you’re feeling particularly flush, reserve the penthouse. This eight-room suite with its own maid, butler and limousine rents for $10,000 a night.

Fairmont Hotel San Francisco

A-list guests are cocooned in luxury at this modern French haven.

Reviews:

• “Its too bad….”
• “Impeccable Service, Excellent Food and Wonderful Ambience”
• “Romantic Special Occasion Place”
• “A nice place to go, definitely worth the visit”
• “Beautiful food served in a beautiful room”

Tips: Opt for a lovely bottle of wine over expensive, overrated wine pairings.

Fleur de Lys

After a decade, this impressive destination still turns out exquisite seafood in a plush setting.

Reviews:

• “Disappointing”
• “Definitely Not Worth The Hype Or The Cost”
• “Avoid when it’s busy!”
• “Not at all worth the price”
• “Forced to either spend a minimum of $72 or $102”

Tips: Valet is $8. Or, try parking at the Embarcadero Center.

Aqua

An eye-catching landmark featuring WPA paintings and beautiful views.

Reviews:

• “A must see”
• “Great views!”
• “A MUST”
• “Sites and Low Money”
• “Visit on a clear day”

Tips: It’s available but limited, and traffic jams are common. Walk or take public transportation.

Coit Tower

A sophisticated, sparkling locale for high-end, well-crafted Cal-French cuisine.

Reviews:

• “I’m not sure what the fuss is about….”
• “Dining at Nordstrom’s during their semi-annual sale; terrible service and cold food!”
• “Stunning”
• “The Supper Club experience at its best”
• “Avoid valet, if possible”

Tips: The downstairs dining room can get noisy. Request an upstairs table for greatest dining enjoyment.

Jardiniere

Rent pedal and row boats by the hour at Golden Gate Park’s Stow Lake. Bikes include cruiser, mountain, carriage, more.

Reviews:

• “Friendly, mellow staff.”

Tips: A maximum of four passengers can fit in a boat, and one person must be at least 16 years old. Dogs are only allowed on row boats.

Stow Lake Boat & Bike Rentals or email Stow Lake Boat & Bike Rentals