San Francisco

San Francisco is one of America most distinctive cities, built on 43 named hills with the Pacific Ocean on one side and the San Francisco Bay on the other. Contrary to popular belief, summer is actually the foggiest and coldest season — September and October deliver the city best weather with warm, clear days in the 70s, a phenomenon locals call Indian Summer. Spring (April-May) is also excellent, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.

The Golden Gate Bridge remains the city iconic centerpiece, but San Francisco rewards those who explore its neighborhoods. North Beach serves as the city Italian quarter with excellent cafes and City Lights Bookstore. The Mission District delivers world-class burritos and vibrant murals. Chinatown — the oldest in North America — pulses with dim sum houses and herb shops. Fisherman Wharf and Pier 39 draw tourists, but savvy visitors head to the Ferry Building Marketplace for artisan food vendors. A visit to Alcatraz Island, bike rides across the Golden Gate, and strolls through Golden Gate Park round out the experience.

Points travelers will find hotels across major loyalty programs, concentrated in Union Square, SoMa, Fisherman Wharf, and the Financial District. Standout properties include the Palace Hotel (Marriott), the St. Regis San Francisco, and the Hyatt Regency on the Embarcadero waterfront.