MARINA DISTRICT. Almost a mirror image of Union Street (as far as appeal goes), Chestnut Street has a distinctive personality, created by Art Deco architecture and hip, professional patrons. Plenty of shopping and dining venues are available, and brunch, followed by a lazy stroll, is a favorite pastime on quiet weekends. If you're looking to window-shop, hang out at a local cafe, or just soak in some local color and people-watch, head a few blocks north of Union Street to this exciting area.

CHINATOWN. Whether you make the grand entrance into Chinatown beneath the dramatic portal at Grant Avenue and Bush Street, or perhaps just happen upon the district while making your way about San Francisco, you can't help but be impressed by this city-within-a-city. Along its streets, exotic ingredients are hawked, silks and jade are proffered, and colorful mementos are sold to tourists. The community is more than show, however, and residents celebrate the Chinese New Year with verve, take pride in their beautiful Miss Chinatown, and hold fast to time-tested traditions. Give yourself over to it all while you're there, even if it's just to nibble on dim sum delicacies, and be swept away by the bustle and the fun.

SAN FRANCISCO. Squeezed largely between Jackson and Geary Streets, this stretch of Fillmore Street features an assortment of fascinating shops that offer everything from skin care products to fresh-ground coffee and specialty teas. A theater, a club, and an assortment of restaurants and home design places draw folks to the trendy area too.

FISHERMAN'S WHARF. Like the cable cars and the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf is quintessential San Francisco. It's often the first destination for tourists, and its particular brand of energy mixes newcomer excitement, retail kitsch, a strong maritime heritage and a vibrant West Coast welcome. Fisherman's Wharf invites passers-by to sample Dungeness crab and clam chowder, to cruise the Bay, to pick up requisite souvenir t-shirts, and ­ best of all ­ to soak in the temperate sunshine or marvel at the fog as it rolls in across the water. While it's likely not the most sublime experience you'll have, Fisherman's Wharf is definitely an unmissable opportunity to see local color, commerce and cool.

FISHERMAN'S WHARF. At charming Ghirardelli Square, you'll find a variety of gift, specialty, and souvenir shops for the entire family. The open-air complex affords great views of Angel and Alcatraz Islands, and seagulls pass by overhead, dividing their time between Ghirardelli and nearby Fisherman's Wharf. Art galleries, clothing shops, upscale restaurants, and informative walking tours are among the other attractions you'll find. Located between Beach and Larkin Streets.