<div><span style="font-size: 16px;"> Discover the Ideal Parking Spot Near the Ferry Building and Philz Coffee Shop for Your City Adventure</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">Conveniently located on the same block as the beloved Philz Coffee Shop, this parking spot offers the perfect starting point for your urban exploration. While the hourly rate stands at a premium of $12, or $6 for a half-hour, the overall daily cap of $37 ensures that your parking expenses won't break the bank, even if you choose to embark on a full day of adventure.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">For food enthusiasts planning to savor the culinary delights at any of the restaurants situated above the parking lot, there's good news! Take advantage of the validation service offered, which significantly reduces your parking costs. Enjoy the first hour for just $3, and extend your stay up to three hours for a mere $8. This option not only makes your dining experience more enjoyable but also more affordable.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">Whether you're in for a quick coffee stop at Philz or a leisurely day around the city, this parking spot is your go-to choice for convenience and affordability.</span></div>

Covered Parking

<div><span style="font-size: 16px;"> Free parking on street on Sundays.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">Use these coordinates to find street parking near the ferry building.&nbsp;When I visited on a Sunday, there was plenty of street parking available around this area.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">Monday through Saturday street parking is $.50 per hour compared to three dollars per hour if you park in the parking lot that I suggested. </span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">However, please note that there is some peace of mind that can be obtained by parking in a covered lot, versus parking in the street especially when considering the reputation San Francisco house for a car break-ins.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">When I visited on a Sunday, there was plenty of street parking available around this area.</span></div>

Parking On Street

<div><span style="font-size: 16px;"> Philz Coffee is a San Francisco-based specialty coffee chain founded by Phil Jaber in 2003. It began as a corner grocery store where Phil spent several years experimenting with different coffee beans and brewing methods. The goal was to create unique coffee blends tailored to individual preferences, and eventually, the corner store transformed into a full-fledged coffee shop. Phil's son, Jacob Jaber, now serves as the CEO and has been instrumental in expanding the brand.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">The Philz approach to coffee is unlike many other coffee shops. They specialize in drip coffee and offer no espresso-based drinks. Each cup is individually brewed by the baristas who are trained to customize drinks according to the customers' specifications. The chain is famous for its special blends like "Tesora," and unique drinks like the "Mint Mojito Iced Coffee."</span></div><div><br></div><div><strong style="font-size: 18px;">Here are 5 Reasons First-Time Visitors to San Francisco Should Experience Philz Coffee</strong></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">1. Immerse Yourself in Local Culture</span></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">Philz Coffee is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a San Francisco institution. Established in the city's vibrant Mission District in 2003, it has deep roots in the community. Visiting Philz allows you to get a taste—quite literally—of the local culture. It's not uncommon to find a diverse group of patrons, from tech professionals and students to artists and tourists, all enjoying a cup of handcrafted coffee.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">2. Discover a Unique Coffee Experience</span></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">If you’re used to chain coffee shops where your interaction with the barista is limited to a quick transaction, Philz will be a refreshing change. The Philz way involves a barista walking you through the menu, discussing your taste preferences, and even letting you sample your coffee before adding any final touches. You're encouraged to be part of the brewing process, which sets it apart from any other coffee experience you may have had.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">3. Enjoy Specialty Coffee Blends</span></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">Philz offers a diverse menu of proprietary blends, each with its unique flavor profile. From the smooth and chocolaty "Philtered Soul" to the robust and complex "Jacob's Wonderbar," the coffee here is a far cry from your average cup of joe. For the adventurous, drinks like the "Mint Mojito Iced Coffee" offer a whole new take on familiar beverages.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">4. Perfect Spot for Diverse Needs</span></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">Whether you’re looking to catch up with friends, find a cozy corner to read, or even get some work done, Philz offers the perfect environment. With free Wi-Fi and a comfortable, welcoming space, it meets the needs of a broad range of visitors. Some Philz locations even have outdoor seating, letting you enjoy San Francisco's unique microclimates.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">5.Central Locations</span></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">Philz Coffee shops are conveniently located in various neighborhoods like Castro, Mission, and Soma, often near popular tourist attractions. This makes it easy to fit into your sightseeing schedule. Whether you're exploring the murals of the Mission or heading to a meeting downtown, there's likely a Philz nearby where you can take a break and enjoy some of the city’s best coffee.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">Visiting Philz Coffee is more than just a caffeine fix; it's an integral part of the San Francisco experience that first-time visitors shouldn't miss</span></div><div><br></div><div><strong style="font-size: 18px;">What First-Time Visitors Say About Philz Coffee</strong></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">"An Experience Unlike Any Other!"</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">First-time visitors to Philz often find themselves amazed by the personalized coffee-making experience. Unlike most coffee shops where you grab your cup and go, Philz encourages customers to taste their brew and adjust it until it's perfect for them. This level of customization is a delightful surprise for many.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">"This is NOT Your Average Coffee Shop"</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">Another common sentiment is the realization that Philz is not just another franchise coffee shop. </span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">The unique range of blends and handcrafted beverages make a lasting impression.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">"Wow, This is Strong!"</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">Given that Philz specializes in drip coffee that packs a punch, newcomers often comment on the strong, flavorful coffee. It’s a far cry from the watered-down versions many are accustomed to.</span></div><div><br></div><div><strong style="font-size: 18px;">What Regulars Say:</strong></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">"It's My Daily Ritual"</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">For Philz regulars, visiting the coffee shop becomes a daily ritual or an essential part of their routine. The experience goes beyond just buying a cup of coffee; it's an integral part of their day.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">"They Know My Order"</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">The personal touch keeps regulars coming back. At Philz, baristas often remember their regular customers' favorite blends and preferred tweaks, reinforcing the feeling of community and personalized service.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">"Quality is Consistent"</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">One thing that sets Philz apart is the consistent quality, whether you are getting a straightforward black coffee or a more complex blend. Regulars trust Philz to deliver the same great experience every time.</span></div>

Philz Coffee

<div><span style="font-size: 16px;"> The Ferry Building in San Francisco is a vibrant, historic public market and a must-visit destination for first-time visitors. </span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">If you prefer to skip Philz, there are two coffee shops inside the ferry building including Blue Bottle Coffee. Blue Bottle is another iconic coffee shop and local favorite. Unlike Philz, this coffee shop offers espresso. To me their blends seem more high end and natural. Not sure how Philz does it but their coffee is very flavorful, making me think they may use oils to spice up their coffee, but please do not quote me on that. Blue Bottle coffee tastes like fresh roasted natural coffee beans.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">While here, this would be a great place to grab a sandwich or other snack item to take with you to Alcatraz island. That way you can find a bench at the island and take in the views while having lunch. </span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">Housed in an iconic building along the Embarcadero at the foot of Market Street, the Ferry Building offers a unique blend of experiences.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">1. **Culinary Delights**: The Ferry Building is renowned for its diverse array of artisanal food vendors and restaurants. From gourmet cheeses and freshly baked bread to local seafood and organic produce, the marketplace is a paradise for food lovers. You can sample a variety of cuisines, grab a coffee from a local roaster, or enjoy a fine dining experience with views of the Bay.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">2. **Historic Architecture**: The building itself, dating back to 1898, is a piece of San Francisco's history. Its grand nave, restored to its original grandeur, and the iconic clock tower are architectural marvels. The Ferry Building survived the 1906 earthquake and stands as a testament to the city's resilience.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">3. **Ferry Services and Views**: As a major transportation hub, the Ferry Building offers ferry services across the Bay, including to Sausalito, Tiburon, and Alameda. The backdrop of the Bay, with views of the Bay Bridge, Treasure Island, and sometimes the Golden Gate Bridge, makes it a scenic spot.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">4. **Farmer's Market**: The Farmer's Market held outside the building is a vibrant gathering of local farmers and producers, offering fresh, seasonal produce and goods. It's a community event where visitors can mingle with locals.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">5. **Shopping and Artisan Goods**: Beyond food, the Ferry Building is home to a variety of shops selling artisan goods, handcrafted jewelry, and unique gifts. It’s a great place to find something special to remember your visit by.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">Overall, the Ferry Building is not just a place to eat or shop; it's a sensory experience that captures the essence of San Francisco’s food culture, history, and beautiful waterfront location.</span></div>

Ferry Building

<div><span style="font-size: 16px;"> Line F runs along "The Embarcadero," the street you'll cross when heading from Philz Coffee to the Ferry Building. Right as you cross the street to reach the Ferry Building, you'll easily spot the bus stop for this line. It's conveniently located for catching a bus to your next stop, Pier 33.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">Keep in mind that Pier 33 is about a 30-minute walk from the Ferry Building. Although walking is an option, I recommend taking the bus to save your energy for exploring Alcatraz Island.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">The fare for riding this bus is $3.</span></div>

line F to Pier 33

<div><span style="font-size: 18px;"> Alcatraz Island is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and is managed by the National Park Service. It’s a U.S. National Park site that includes the former federal prison, as well as the island’s natural features and other historic elements. The island is a popular tourist destination and offers a range of activities, including ranger-led tours and self-guided walks, in addition to the ferry ride to and from San Francisco, which offers spectacular views of the city and the Golden Gate Bridge.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 18px;">Depending on your goals, you can choose an independent booking company like Viator to get tickets to Alcatraz. However, those will come at a premium and not sure they add much additional value. Below is the direct source to purchase tickets.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 18px;">Per the nps.gov website: “For additional information on schedules, prices, and to purchase tickets in advance (tickets are made available about 90 days in advance) please visit Alcatraz City Cruises.”</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 18px;">**Weather**</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 18px;">Alcatraz Island can get quite chilly, especially during the late afternoons and evenings. There are several factors that contribute to the colder conditions:</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 18px;">1. **Marine Influence:** Being located in the middle of San Francisco Bay, the island is exposed to the cooling effects of the surrounding waters. Ocean currents, particularly the cold California Current, influence the local climate.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 18px;">2. **Wind:** The island is often subject to strong winds, which can make temperatures feel even colder than they actually are.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 18px;">3. **Fog:** San Francisco is famous for its fog, which can roll in quickly and drop temperatures significantly. The fog is often more prevalent during the summer months due to the temperature difference between the inland areas and the ocean.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 18px;">4. **Microclimates:** The San Francisco Bay Area is known for its microclimates, where weather conditions can vary greatly over short distances. Alcatraz Island has its own microclimate that tends to be cooler than the mainland.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 18px;">Because of these factors, visitors to Alcatraz are often advised to dress in layers and be prepared for a range of weather conditions, even if the mainland is experiencing warmer temperatures.</span>		</div>

Alcatraz City Cruises

<div><span style="font-size: 16px;"> As you make your way to the coordinates I’m providing here to get to the line 39 bus stop, you will be at Pier 39. Pier 39 is right next to Fisherman's Wharf. As such, you might be tempted to hang out around Pier 39, perhaps even have lunch there, or even venture all the way out to Fisherman's Wharf. If that’s what you prefer for the day, that is an option.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">I decided to go up to Coit Tower, mainly to enjoy some views of the city. In addition, Coit Tower is walking distance to the neighborhood referred to as North Beach. North Beach has really great Italian restaurants and many many options to enjoy a slice of pizza.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">The fare for line 39 is $3 or $2.50 when paying with clipper card.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">For those of you who would like to walk to Coit Tower, that is definitely a possibility, though please be aware that although the walk may only be 15-30 minutes, it is mostly uphill. While, I would not discourage anyone who wants a workout from doing the walk, just know it will be a fairly strenuous walk and may not be advisable for anyone with an injury, travelling with children, or those who do not wish to have a little sweat on them for the rest of the day. </span></div>

Line 39 to Coit Tower

<div><span style="font-size: 16px;"> Coit Tower is a popular attraction in San Francisco for several reasons:</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">1. **Panoramic Views:** The tower offers stunning 360-degree views of San Francisco, including landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the Bay Bridge.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">2. **Historic Significance:** Built in 1933, the tower is an Art Deco monument that is part of the city’s rich history. It was constructed with funds bequeathed by Lillie Hitchcock Coit, a wealthy socialite who had a fondness for San Francisco’s firefighters.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">3. **Artwork:** The ground floor of the tower is adorned with murals painted by artists funded by the Public Works of Art Project, a New Deal program. These murals depict various aspects of life in California during the Depression era and are considered significant works of American public art.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">4. **Accessibility:** Located in Pioneer Park on Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower is easily accessible by car, public transit, or even by foot for those looking for a more challenging climb up the Filbert Steps.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">5. **Nearby Attractions:** The tower is close to other San Francisco points of interest like Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, and North Beach, making it convenient for tourists.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">6. **Wildlife and Flora:** The surrounding area is home to the famous parrots of Telegraph Hill, as well as beautiful gardens and walking paths, providing a nature escape within the city.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">7. **Photo Opportunities:** Whether you’re an amateur with a smartphone or a professional with a high-end camera, Coit Tower provides numerous picturesque opportunities.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">8. **Educational Aspect:** Guided tours offer deeper insights into the murals and the history of the tower, enriching the visitor experience.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">Because of these various elements—view, history, art, and more—Coit Tower is a multifaceted attraction that appeals to a wide range of visitors.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">**How much time to allocate**</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">The time you might spend at Coit Tower can vary depending on your interests and whether you decide to go inside the tower.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">1. **If You Do Not Enter:**</span></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">&nbsp;&nbsp;- If you’re just stopping by to take in the views from the base of the tower and maybe snap some photos, you could reasonably expect to spend around 20-30 minutes.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">&nbsp;&nbsp;- If you want to explore the nearby paths, admire the murals on the ground floor, or simply enjoy the views a bit longer, you might want to allocate about 45 minutes to an hour.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">2. **If You Enter:**</span></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">&nbsp;&nbsp;- The elevator ride to the top and time spent enjoying the views could take around 30-45 minutes, depending on wait times for the elevator and how long you wish to stay at the top.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">&nbsp;&nbsp;- If you decide to take a guided tour, which often includes more in-depth information about the history and murals, plan for an additional 30-45 minutes.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">Overall, if you’re entering the tower and also spending time outside, you might want to allocate around 1.5 to 2 hours for your visit to Coit Tower. If you’re just admiring from the outside and taking some quick photos, 20-30 minutes should suffice.</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">**Fees**</span></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">- $10 - Elevator Fee</span></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">- $10 - Full guided tour</span></div><div><span style="font-size: 16px;">- $5 - Second floor only guided tour</span></div>

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