As you know from either reading this blog, living in this city or simply knowing a few things about Northern California — the weather can sometimes, (and I use that nonchalantly) be somewhat unpredictable.
So when the temperatures hit above 70 by the Bay, the entire city pretty much transforms into a warm wonderland that has many of us running for the outdoors and maximizing the minutes of wearing those cute floral maxi dresses.
A few weeks ago, I got on a bike and explored my city on two wheels and 10 speeds. Considering the amount of hills and crazy traffic, I was a bit apprehensive at first, but after thinking about it for two minutes, I decided to give it a spin.
I picked my bike from Park Wide Bike Tours and Golden Gate Park early in the morning. It was one of those days when the sun beamed, but wasn’t too hot, and there was a little bit of wind to keep the breeze going. I started at the park, headed towards Laurel Heights and continued west to Land’s End. This gorgeous park, which is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, has incredible views of the Bay, the Pacific Ocean and of course, San Francisco’s gem the Golden Gate Bridge. Aside from all the incredible and inspiring vista points, the park also offers a variety of hiking trails, landmarks and even a World War II memorial for the USS San Francisco.
I finished my trek at the Sutro Baths, which were built in the 19th century for San Francisco residents to enjoy but after some financial mismanagements, only a few structures remain. It’s still amazing to see how a once-thriving pool near the ocean is now a historical landmark.
If you are planning a trip to the Bay Area, make some time for some biking, as there are many neighborhoods, trails and incredible destinations that can be further explored. Other incredible adventures include riding to Sausalito via the Golden Gate Bridge, exploring Fisherman’s Wharf and, of course, riding to Ocean Beach from Golden Gate Park. The possibilities are endless.
Thanks to Park Wide Bike Rentals and Tours for a fantastic urban experience combined with a killer workout and glorious sites. After all, what’s not to love about San Francisco’s charm?
Ryzenberg On, is Signing Off
Ready, Set, Go: Park Wide Tours offers excellent bicycles and tour ideas. They have a few locations across the city and plenty of options to recommend.
This is the end?!?: Well, not really, just part of San Francisco’s Land’s End with is surrounded by gorgeous trees, incredible flora and of course, the Pacific Ocean.
Biking Sartorialisms: Madewell shirt (from 2011, similar here) | Super Sunglasses | Timex watch c/o | Paige ‘Jimmy Jimmy’ cropped jeans | H&M military hat (from 2006, similar here) | Kohls Earrings | Urban Outfitters belt (from 2001, similar here)
San Francisco’s Belle of the Ball: These two pictures really do no justice of how majestic the Golden Gate Bridge is. Its ‘International Orange’ hue can pretty much be seen from anywhere (unless Karl the Fog makes an appearance) and it’s quite a welcoming sign into one of the most beautiful cities. If you are wondering if this view ever gets old — well it doesn’t.
Remembering the USS San Francisco and Guadalcanal: There is an incredible memorial honoring the USS San Francisco and World War II soldiers at the end of Land’s End. It explains 1942’s naval Battle of Guadalcanal in the Pacific, which was a turning point for the Americans during the war.
Let’s Take a Bath: This was the ‘it playground’ for city dwellers back in the early 1900s, but after financial ruins — this is all that’s left of Sutro Baths. Still worth checking out and its views are rather impressive (especially on a clear day)
Life’s a beach: I must say — this view will never get old!