Matador’s destination expert on San Francisco , California, lays out the city’s avoidable attractions…and what you should do instead. Photo: BlueLinden 1. Don’t… go to Fishermen’s Wharf Fishermen’s Wharf sounds like it was really cool 60 years ago, when fishermen actually sold the day’s catch to locals. Nowadays, it’s the most unabashed, soul-sucking tourist trap in San Francisco, filled with corporate chains, barking sea lions, and gutterpunks posing for photos with Japanese tourists. It’s also a haul from any other cool attraction. Do… go to the Ferry Building If you want to check out the piers and see how folks are eating in SF today, hit up the Ferry Building . The renovated landmark is home to local farm and food boutiques, and hosts weekly, year-round farmers markets. Foodie indulgences draw locals and tourists alike, but beware: the fancy cheeses and organic produce add up. Also, be sure to stop by cult favorite Blue Bottle Coffee . 2. Don’t… ride a double-decker bus Not because I have anything against seeing a city from atop a moving vehicle, but because it’s damn cold up there. Double-deckers are great for views, but they’re also great for catching damp gusts of fog and ocean wind. Those grim, purple-lipped faces are mildly amusing from the street, but you don’t want to be one of them. View from Dolores Park / Photo: dustinj Do… ride the J-Church One of the city’s best views is along the J-Church line , when the streetcar heaves up the steep incline to the top of Dolores Park. All of downtown, the Bay, the bridge, and the East Bay are splayed out in front of you, plus the sunning hipsters of San Francisco’s trendiest green space.

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