Winchester Mystery House

When we decided to go to San Francisco, I knew I wanted to visit the Winchester Mystery House. I was fascinated after watching numerous television shows that highlight Sarah Winchester and her mansion. If you don't know the story, you can read it here. Beautiful and tragic, the Winchester house stands - seemingly unchanged - since Sarah's death in 1922.

The mansion is located in San Jose, California. It was a 45 minute drive from San Francisco, and incredibly easy to find. We began our tour at about 10:00. And by the time we finished, the waiting area was full. If you do have to wait, take some time to stroll around the gardens or visit the Firearms Museum.

Both of my guys agree - this was the best tour of our vacation. It even scored better than Alcatraz!

Alcatraz - The View from the Bay

Last week, we took a cruise around San Francisco Bay. No surprise, it was very foggy. But, toward the end of our adventure something suddenly appeared -- Alcatraz. The setting seemed appropriate -- a desolate, deserted island emerging quietly from the fog. What do you think?

Chinatown - San Francisco

Aquarium of the Bay

The Aquarium of the Bay is located on Pier 39 in San Francisco. Which, by the way, is filled with loads of restaurants and shopping.

When you first walk into the aquarium, there are numerous small tanks, holding tropical fish, anchovies, and jellyfish.

Once we left this area of the aquarium, we took an elevator to the main exhibit. An automated sidewalk took us through the underwater tunnels -- we could see the fish up close. This exhibit focuses on marine life in San Francisco Bay.

The last stop on the tour was the 'petting zoo.' Here we were able to touch skates, leopard sharks, and a lot of different starfish and sea cucumbers.

This tour is great for families -- even those with small children.

For a quick lunch before or after your tour, I recommend the Bubba Gump Shrimp Company for delicious seafood and a relaxed atmosphere.

San Francisco - Update #1

We are having a great time -- but the hills take some getting used to!

Riding the cable car is a good way to get around.

Lombard Street is absolutely gorgeous.

The view from the top of Coit Tower is fantastic. From the Golden Gate Bridge to Alcatraz -- you can see it all.

Next Stop: Aquarium of the Bay

Reading in San Francisco

I have gathered up some books from my TBR pile to take with me to San Fran. Now, I know it sounds like a lot for a week - I like to have a few to choose from.

I have packed:

Lost & Found by Jacqueline Sheehan

Anybody Out There? by Marian Keyes

Out of Africa by Karen Blixen

But Inside I'm Screaming by Elizabeth Flock

Deafening by Francis Itani

The Final Confession of Mabel Stark by Robert Hough

San Francisco Here I Come

We are leaving tomorrow for San Francisco! My husband has some great things planned, such as a nighttime tour of Alcatraz, a bay cruise, and a day spent at the Winchester Mystery House.

I hope to be able post while I am away and share the fun with you. Until then, have a great week!