The Neighborhood

A must-visit San Francisco landmark, Fisherman’s Wharf offers fresh sourdough bread bowls full of clam chowder, street performers, and waterfront charm, just two blocks from Hotel Zoe. Stroll the bustling piers to watch sea lions bask in the sun, browse local artisan shops, or sample fresh Dungeness crab from waterfront vendors.

Just a short stroll from the hotel, Pier 39 features bay views, shopping, family attractions, and the famous sea lions lounging by the docks. It’s a little touristy, but the sea lions are just too cute to pass up.

Indulge in handcrafted chocolate and boutique shopping at this historic square, only minutes from Fisherman’s Wharf. Originally the site of the first Ghirardelli Chocolate factory, today you’ll find cool boutiques, waterfront restaurants, and, of course, the famous sundaes from the Ghirardelli Ice Cream Shop.

Conquer San Francisco aboard a piece of the city’s history. Ride up steep hills for Alcatraz and Golden Gate views, enjoy scenic descents down the Powell-Hyde line, and explore hidden gems on the California Street line, a local favorite. Picture-perfect panoramas await at every turn, whether it’s through historic neighborhoods with Victorian-era mansions or classic Bay Area seascapes.

Drive or walk to the “crookedest street in the world,” known for its steep, zig-zag turns and postcard-worthy views. This iconic San Francisco landmark is about a 20-minute walk or an 8-minute bike ride from Hotel Zoe. Rent one of our electric bikes if you don’t want to brave the hills.

Perched on Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower offers murals, city history, and one of the best 360° views in San Francisco. Take the elevator up to see the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Downtown San Francisco and panoramic views of the Bay Area. A must for architecture lovers.

This historic theatre lives and breathes San Francisco’s unique air. Started as a social club for immigrants, Club Fugazi has been a performance space for the Beats in the early 60s, the home of the longest running musical, and the recording “studio” of Thelonius Monk’s famous “Thelonius Alone in San Francisco.” Today it carries on that same spirit. Definitely worth a visit.

This iconic independent bookstore helped define the Beat Generation and remains a cultural touchstone in North Beach. A “literary meetingplace since 1953,” City Lights still has that anti-establishment attitude that made it so famous all those years ago.

Located on the Embarcadero, this hands-on science museum offers immersive exhibits for all ages. This isn’t your typical “look but don’t touch” museum. Everything here is designed for you to experiment with and figure out how the world works. From optical illusions to fog bridges to exhibits about human behavior, it’s a genuinely good time, no matter how old you are.

A foodie’s paradise on the Embarcadero, featuring artisanal vendors, a bustling farmers market, and scenic ferry views. This historic 1898 landmark is packed with local treasures like Cowgirl Creamery, Blue Bottle Coffee, and Hog Island Oyster Co., all famous in their own right. Don’t miss the Saturday farmers market either.

A striking, photo-worthy Greco-Roman structure built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition, this landmark has become a popular spot for photos and people watching. Find it in the Marina District near Crissy Field.

This landmark needs no introduction. Home to some of the country’s most notorious gangsters, like Al Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly, Alcatraz is brimming with stories. Catch a ferry near Pier 33 to visit this legendary island prison with panoramic views and gripping historic tours.