Playing Tourist: North Beach, Fishermen's Wharf, and Aquatic Park,at dusk.

San Francisco's northeast waterfront is mostly known for its hordes of tourists, but when they're not there, we can experience its beauty and charm, and take a peek into the city's past.

We meet at Washington Square Park near the playground. WE BEGIN WALKING AT 5:30 on the dot. Please arrive a few minutes early to check in and use the restroom.

This walk hits lots of spots normally reserved for the tourists, but filled with beauty that's hiding in plain sight. We'll discover the gardens of Aquatic Park, Pier 39 , and Ghirardelli. Let's find mansions on Russian Hill, and secret pathways to North Beach. We'll get to see the twists and turns near Lombard Street. We'll walk along the waterfront towards sunset and find the fishermen of the wharf.

The middle of the walk has a bit of uphill, and a couple of stairways, but it's downhill back to Washington Square Park and mostly flat the rest of the time.. The walk should take about 2 hours, plus break time. We walk in a loop, so we end on Columbus, across from our starting point.

GETTING THERE: Washington Square Park is between Columus and Stockton, at Union. We will be closer to the Filbert Street entry.
Bus lines #8 (Excelsior), #30 (Stockton), and #45 (Union) all stop at the park. BART users should exit at Powell and transfer to any of these lines. The "T" underground's Chinatown\Rose Pak stop is about 5 blocks away.
Parking is neighborhood and can be tricky. There are several paid garages nearby. One is literally part of the police station- check out the view from the roof.

ATTENDANCE: We expect our members to follow our RSVP policy. Please do not RSVP "yes" unless you are able to attend. No-shows and late cancels can be removed from the group without warning. We note chronic placeholders and we may remove you from an event. Crashers will be turned away. This walk is only open to San Francisco City Steps members.

Dogs are always welcome on my walks. They must remain on leash and not be disruptive. Please observe our Doggie guest rules.

You are responsible for your own safety on all City Steps walks. Your yes RSVP confirms that you have read and agree to the liability waiver that can be found at the bottom of every Meetup.com page.

WHAT TO BRING:
Tourists freeze at the wharf, but we locals know to bring a jacket and dress for the ever-changing weather. The forecast calls for cool, but dry.
Wear sturdy shoes.
Bring water (and extra for your pup).
A snack you can eat while walking -we won't be taking a snack break, but we end in North Beach with plenty of options.
Feel free to bring your camera- we love to see your photos!
Bring your sense of adventure, camaraderie, and fun.