You will never have to worry about a lack of interesting things to do on Labor Day in San Francisco--the city offers a great array of distractions. There are many opportunities to enjoy walking tours, cruises and other types of activities. The weather is typically mild, and you might even decide to walk to your destinations, if they are within a suitable range of your hotel. Much of the walking in San Francisco is uphill, so be sure to bring along comfortable shoes.
Sonoma Wine Country Weekend
Sonoma Wine Country Weekend is held on Labor Day weekend and includes a full schedule of activities. Friday, activities are at various winemaking facilities, and include winemakers luncheons and dinners. Saturday, more than 150 Sonoma County wineries will offer wine tasting along with food provided by more than 60 of the areas best chefs. Sunday holds the Harvest Wine Auction, with proceeds going to benefit several charities in the Sonoma County region.
Sonoma Wine Country Weekend www.sonomawinecountryweekend.com
Alcatraz Island
A cruise to Alcatraz Island for a tour of the former prison is another interesting way to spend a few hours on Labor Day. Located in San Francisco Bay, this facility housed criminals, including the infamous Al Capone, for almost 30 years. Tour the property and hear stories of attempted escapes, and keep an open mind as you walk through--some believe Alcatraz Island is haunted by convicts who died there. To add interest, make it an after-dark tour, if you dare.
Alcatraz Cruises Pier 33, Alcatraz Landing San Francisco, California 94111 (415) 981-7625 alcatrazcruises.com
Chinatown
Take an enjoyable and educational stroll through Chinatown. You will see pagoda-style buildings and learn their history and visit an ancient Buddhist temple, filled with antiques. It is a unique building with a touch of mystery, enhanced by urns filled with incense and lit with red lanterns. You will learn about the temples, private clubs and secret societies of Waverly Place. Step into the Herbal Pharmacy for some unusual remedies such as pearl pills that beautify hair and energizing gecko lizards. Take a stroll through the food markets to find the most exotic foods in San Francisco, and tour a fortune cookie factory. End the tour with a dim sum luncheon.
All About Chinatown Walking Tours P.O. Box 640145 San Francisco, California 94164-0145 (415) 982-8839 allaboutchinatown.com
Union Square
Spend Labor Day shopping in the Union Square area of San Francisco. Look for that one-of-a-kind piece of artwork in several galleries, or search for an unusual antique piece. Visit gift shops and book stores, and stop for coffee or a drink in one of several coffee houses. More shopping might find you rummaging for clothing, lingerie or something for the kids. The many stores offer a large variety of items such as cigars, liquors, ice cream and sweets, jewelry, home furnishings and shoes. All the energy you spend shopping can leave you hungry, but area restaurants offer everything from sandwiches to Mediterranean cuisine. Take advantage of special Labor Day discounts offered by all merchants in Union Square. The discount varies but is generally 10 to 25 percent off the entire purchase at each shop.
Union Square Shops 323 Geary St. #408 San Francisco, California 94102-1819 (415) 781-7880 unionsquareshop.com
