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Best U.S. Cities to Experience Culture

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These five are just a few of the favorite American cities where culture is never in short supply.

These five are just a few of the favorite American cities where culture is never in short supply.

Ranking U.S. cities can be mind-boggling, when you consider categories ranging from the hippest spots in the U.S. to the best cities for families, for instance.

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If it’s culture you’re after in this country, then you might consider the long list of great locations for living an artistic life.

To save some time, we have scoured our sources and come up with a short list of cities where culture is not hard to find. You might want to check these out for yourself.

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Moving in San Francisco

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A San Francisco move has its ups and downs – on Lombard Street, literally!

Making a move to the City by the Bay?

Moving in San Francisco offers its own unique challenges. 

This 49-square-mile metropolis boasts more than 50 hills within the city limits, including the famous Lombard Street, with eight hairpin turns climbing a steep terrace. While the city’s famous cable cars boldly scale streets like these without a problem, you may not find it quite that easy to move your things in and around this picturesque city.

Hiring movers
San Francisco moving takes special skills to traverse the hilly terrain and navigate the city’s neighborhoods. You definitely want to make sure you choose a reputable company that is insured and knows the city well. Also, because finding the perfect apartment in San Francisco can take some time, you might want to choose a moving company that offers storage options.

Here are a few highly-rated San Francisco movers that have received complimentary reviews on Yelp: 

Settling in
The final frontier for a San Francisco move is getting your utilities and other necessities set up. Check out these links for a few of the essentials you’ll need to get settled in: 

Feeling at home
Some other ups and downs for residents of San Francisco are its high rents and low temps.

Living in San Francisco is typically expensive. On average, renters spend a higher proportion of their paychecks to rent an apartment than in many other cities. You’ve heard it’s easy to leave your heart in San Francisco: it’s likely you’ll leave your wallet there, too!

If you enjoy a cool climate paired with a mysterious, romantic fog, you’ll feel at home here. This chilly city averages 28 days a year where temperatures exceed 75 degrees. With mild temperatures and quick weather changes, locals advise newcomers to get rid of their heavy winter coats and invest in layered clothing. 

Any good San Francisco guide will point out the highlights of this vibrant place. Beautiful spots like the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and Alamo Square provide a backdrop for living in this city, setting a scene that is recognized worldwide. And San Francisco’s many unique neighborhoods make this city a fascinating place to explore. 

Fans of culture get their fill at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, the San Francisco Opera, the San Francisco Ballet or the downtown art galleries. Sports fans have plenty of picks, too, as San Francisco is home to the 49ers NFL team and the Giants major league baseball club. 

San Francisco is a cool place to put down roots. Have fun getting to know your new — and historic — home!

Photo Credit: Shutterstock / kevin connors

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Things to Do With Your Children in San Francisco

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San Francisco is an amazing city, with lots to see and do. But what are some great places to go if you have children? Below are some of the best places in San Francisco for kids.

Musee Mecanique

Located on Pier 45 at the foot of Taylor Street in Fisherman’s Wharf, Musee Mecanique is one of the world’s largest privately owned collections of coin-operated mechanical musical instruments and arcade games. Every game is still in its original working condition, and you can play them! Admission is free every day.

Where: Pier 45, Shed A, San Francisco, CA 94133

CuriOdyssey

Formerly called Coyote Point, CuriOdyssey in nearby San Mateo is a place where kids can connect with the Earth and learn about the nearly 100 animals onsite—from golden eagles to rubber boas. They hold numerous activities throughout the year, and even host birthday parties. Find out more at www.curiodyssey.org.

Where: 1651 Coyote Point Drive, San Mateo, CA 94401

San Francisco Zoo

What child doesn’t love animals? Spend the day viewing hundreds of animals from all over the world. For hours and admission fees, visit www.sfzoo.org.

Where: 1 Zoo Road, San Francisco, CA 94132

Go for a Cable Car Ride

San Francisco is famous for its cable cars, and even if you’ve lived in the city your whole life, your children will still get a kick out of taking a trip on a national landmark.

Where: Visit www.sfcablecar.com for route information.

Chinatown

Have fun and learn a little about Chinese culture at the same time. Tour the many little shops, watch fortune cookies being made, or check out the amazing, colorful kites at the Chinatown Kite Shop.

Where: Grant Ave. and Bush St., San Francisco, CA 94101

Pier 39

Near Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39 offers several attractions that will interest little ones. Children can ride the double-decker Venetian carousel, view several free performances on the stage at the end of the pier, and watch sea lions sunning themselves in the small marina beside the pier. There’s also the Aquarium of the Bay (www.aquariumofthebay.com), a unique underwater attraction featuring 300 feet of tunnels where you can view over 20,000 marine animals from San Francisco Bay and other nearby waters.

Where: The Embarcadero and Beach St., San Francisco, CA 94133

These are just a few of the many wonderful things you can do with your children in San Francisco. With a little research and creativity, you can find enough things to do in this amazing city to keep your kids busy every day of the year.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/jasantiso

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Best Vegetarian Restaurants in California

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California’s healthy, eco-friendly mentality is so prevalent that it spreads to practically every aspect of the lives of its residents, so it’s no surprise that some of the best vegetarian restaurants in the country can be found in this sunny state. If you want your plate to be filled with healthy, meat-free options, check out these vegetarian restaurants in California.

Rutabegorz

Formed in 1970, Rutabegorz was a small “hippie joint” that only served coffee and desserts. Since then, it has grown into one of California’s most popular health-conscious restaurant chains. Now, with three locations to serve local vegetarians, vegans and health nuts, Rutabegorz serves good, fresh food at decent prices. The Orange location is quaint and cozy, in a converted old house, and the menu is massive, but locals swear by the Southwest Quinoa Bowl, chock full of fresh vegetables. Or, try the Peasant Mushrooms, a hearty creation featuring mushrooms stuffed with a vegetable medley of zucchini, bell pepper and carrots, topped with melted cheese.

Where: 264 North Glassell St., Orange, CA 92866

Elf Café

Intimate and elegant, Elf Café is perfect for a special occasion dinner for those who enjoy vegetarian cuisine. The menu is heavily influenced by Mediterranean culture, with offerings like the Vegan Shwarma Sandwich, Spicy Moroccan Kale Salad and Moroccan VegetableTagine. Make sure to make reservations in advance, as this popular spot can fill up on nights and weekends.

Where: 2135 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90026

Evolution Fast Food

If you’re looking for good, healthy food fast, check out Evolution Fast Food. The concept of a gourmet fast food place may be foreign to you, but we can guarantee that you’ve probably never seen a gourmet vegetarian fast food restaurant. Evolution offers a selection of gourmet burgers, wraps, sandwiches, fries, smoothies, shakes and desserts made with no animal ingredients, refined sweeteners or artificial flavors. Additionally, the restaurant is plastic-free, as all containers and utensils are made from non-bleached paper or biodegradable food starch.

Where: 2965 5th Ave., San Diego, CA 92103

Noble Vegetarian

This little hole in the wall Asian fusion restaurant is a little out of the way for centrally located Sacramento residents, but it’s worth the drive. Primarily drawing its inspiration from Vietnamese cuisine, Noble Vegetarian is known for its faux meats in standout dishes like Orange Vegken, Roti Drumstick and Ruby Pearls. The mock chicken, beef and pork is so delicious and convincing that even those of the carnivorous persuasion sing its praises. Make to save room for a slice of their Vegan Sheese Cake – you won’t even miss the dairy.

Where: 5049 College Oak Drive, Sacramento, CA 95841

Source

Known as one of the best vegetarian restaurants in San Francisco, Source believes in serving hand-selected, quality organic food, with a menu comprised of vegan and vegetarian handcrafted sandwiches on freshly baked bread, healthful salads brimming with delicious ingredients, unique casseroles and hearty brick oven pizzas. If you’re on a raw diet, choose offerings like the Live Lettuce Taco or the Live Platter, featuring hemp tabouli, marinated mushrooms, green goddess salad, lettuce tacos and living chips.

Where: 11 Division St., San Francisco, CA 94103

Photo credit: iStockphoto/Ildi_Papp

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Step Inside These San Francisco Parks

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Here are a few beautiful San Francisco parks you won’t want to miss.

If you are moving into a San Francisco apartment or planning to visit the city, you’ll want to take advantage of some of the area’s wonderful parks and green spaces. Here are a few beautiful San Francisco parks you won’t want to miss.

Golden Gate Park
Larger than Central Park in New York, this park has many features that will attract San Francisco residents and visitors alike. Golden Gate Park is home to the California Academy of Sciences, de Young Museum and the San Francisco Botanical Gardens, to name just a few of the park’s attractions.

There is plenty of room to roam the park: just ask the herd of bison that calls the park home. (Don’t worry; they stick to their paddock). There are also many different activities you can engage in, from enjoying one of the many freshwater lakes to playing a round of disc golf. No matter what your pleasure, you are bound to find a good time outdoors at Golden Gate Park.

The Presidio
A former military base, the Presidio can be found at the northern end of San Francisco. The park is not just a green space; it also surrounds many businesses and a residential area, as well, forming its own neighborhood. And the Presidio boasts a fantastic view of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Yerba Buena Gardens
Located in San Francisco’s artsy SoMa district, Yerba Buena Gardens is a green oasis in the middle of a bustling urban area. There are many pieces of public art to enjoy in this San Francisco park. One of the main features is the memorial to Martin Luther King, Jr., whose statue is seated behind a beautiful, 50-foot waterfall.

Alamo Square
Alamo Square, located in the Haight-Ashbury area, is one of the most recognizable spots in San Francisco. Its famous “Painted Ladies” Victorian houses have been seen in many postcards, movies — and in the opening credits of the sitcom “Full House.” Alamo Square offers a nice view of the city, including a good look at the Beaux Arts dome of City Hall.

Candlestick Park
Candlestick Park in the Bayview Heights area of San Francisco is not really a park. It is the outdoor stadium which is currently home to football’s San Francisco 49ers. The Stick’s position on the western side of San Francisco Bay makes windy weather for games and outdoor shows in the venue. The Beatles famously played their last public performance here in 1966.

Alcatraz
Alcatraz Island isn’t just a former prison; it’s a legitimate San Francisco park. You can come for the tour of the prison facilities and hear the history of the famous prisoners, but that is not all this park has to offer. There are gardens to visit and wildlife to encounter. In fact, the island has become a sanctuary to several species of birds, including the snowy egret.

Washington Square Park
San Francisco’s Washington Square Park is a wonderful spot to while away an afternoon people-watching and taking in the sights of the bustling city. The park is situated near a selection of authentic Italian food purveyors on nearby Grant Avenue. And you can’t miss the twin spires of beautiful Saints Peter and Paul Church towering above the trees.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock / JPL Designs

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Cities With the Highest Rent Hikes

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From a tech hub to one of the fittest cities in the nation, here are the six metropolitan areas where rentals costs have spiked the most in the past year. Despite the rent hikes, people are still moving to these cities for various reasons; Miami has gorgeous beaches, Indianapolis is a sports fan’s paradise and Farmington Hills is one of the safest cities. What is one city characteristic that overshadows high rent for you?

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Best Baseball Parks

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What better way is there to spend summer than spending it with your family at a ballpark? Check out these must-see stadiums and cross it off your bucket list.

It’s summer, and we are well into baseball season. Summer plans may include visiting the ballpark with your family and having hot dogs, cheering on your favorite team and bonding with your kids. But if you’re a sports enthusiast, you know that there’s more to a ballpark than just some seats, cold brews and hot dogs; it’s about which park is rich in history, has lots to offer baseball fans and has unique features. Here’s our list of must-see baseball parks around the U.S.

Fenway Park, Boston
To get here, you may need to grab that Rolodex to see if you have a contact whose dad’s former boss inherited tickets from his or her grandma. OK, so it’s not that bad, but tickets sell out quickly for a Red Sox game and rightfully so. Fenway Park is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, and although the outfield is oddly shaped, this is a ballpark for baseball fans. The stadium has basically remained in the same style and shape since it was built. The experience you’ll get at Fenway is second to none; it’s a true baseball experience. Including the hand-operated scoreboard to “Green Monster” in left field, Fenway will create a memorable baseball experience for you. Learn the lyrics to “Sweet Caroline” and be sure not to wear any Yankees gear, and you’re set.
4 Yawkey Way, Boston, MA 02215

Camden Yards, Baltimore
This huge ballpark somehow creates an intimate experience for baseball fans. When Camden Yards was built in 1992, it set the standard on how modern day ballparks should be designed. Most of the new parks constructed after 1992 mimic Camden. The ballpark is located in downtown Baltimore, and it was constructed over an old railroad station. One of the most noticeable things about this park is the B&O Warehouse which creates a backdrop in right field. For the full Orioles experience, enter Camden Yards through the Eutaw Street entrance, where you can mingle with other fans, drink a few beers before the game and have a pit beef sandwich from Boog’s Barbecue. If you’re looking for the Maryland staple, crabcakes, you can grab a Maryland crabcake sandwich on Eutaw Street.
333 W. Camden St., Baltimore, MD 21201

AT&T Park, San Francisco
One visit to AT&T Park and you’ll understand why tickets are sold out almost every night. There really isn’t a bad seat in the house. To get a good view of all of the action from the game, check out the field seats. If you’re looking for a great view in addition to the game, sit on the second deck looking out toward right field. The views from these seats include San Francisco‘s McCovery Cove, the Bay Bridge and Oakland Coliseum. For the kids, the park includes a giant Coca-Cola bottle slide and a 26-foot by 30-foot wide baseball glove. And, if you want to commemorate your visit to the park, create a stuffed teddy bear at the Build-A-Bear Workshop in the outfield. Don’t forget to stop by Orlando’s and get an order of garlic fries.
24 Willie Mays Plaza, San Francisco, CA 94107

Wrigley Field, Chicago
One of baseball’s oldest ballparks, the home to the Chicago Cubs is a must-see for baseball fans. It has become a staple and a major part of Chicago’s landscape. The atmosphere is addicting. Whether the Cubs are winning or not, the fans come out and show their support. As for the stadium, you’ll notice the ivy walls that still grow on the outfield walls, and the scoreboard is still hand operated. Before entering the ballpark, check out the restaurants outside of the field where you’ll meet lots of die-hard Cubbies fans and learn more about why they still root for a team who hasn’t won a World Series in more than 100 years. Then, take a stroll around the park to see statues saluting greats such as Ernie Banks, Billy Williams, Ron Santo and Harry Caray. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see and hear a local legend or a famous Hollywood A-lister sing “Take Me Out To the Ballgame,” a tradition started by Harry Caray. Whatever you do, don’t bring up stories about goats, and if it looks like the outfielder can jump up and make the catch, try not to steal it from him.
1060 W. Addison St., Chicago, IL 60613

Yankee Stadium, New York
Although it’s home to a team that is the most hated in the MLB, Yankee Stadium is also a place where fans come together to share their love affair with baseball. The new Yankee Stadium is a re-creation of the old stadium, and it doesn’t seem like much has changed. The Yankees won their 27th World Series the same year they played in the new Yankee Stadium. The Yankees may be one of the most hated teams, but they have played host to some of the most legendary players of the game, including Babe Ruth, Joe DiMaggio, Mickey Mantle and Lou Gehrig. You can check out the history of those players, as well as other great Yankee teams and players from the past in the Yankees Museum, located inside of the ballpark. Trying to find the best seat in the house? You don’t have to worry about that; almost every seat offers a great view.
1 E. 161 St., Bronx, NY 10451

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/jgroup

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Top Five Cities to Visit with Your Pet

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Fido loves to travel just as much as you do, so check out these great pet-friendly cities.

If you’re a pet owner, you know that some of the most rewarding experiences can be had when you travel with your pet. So read on to discover our list of the top five cities to visit with your pet.

 

Seattle

If you and your pet love the outdoors and historical points of interest, you’ll love knowing that Seattle is vibrant and full of things to do for pets and their owners. And this city’s residents have a devoted love for animals, making it one of the most pet-friendly cities in the United States

 

What to Do: For a quaint neighborhood vibe, take your dog to beautiful Green Lake, where you can stroll around an expansive lake in the heart of one of Seattle’s most charming and quiet neighborhoods. For a beautiful view, head out to Discovery Park, which is situated on Magnolia Bluff and offers spectacular views of the Puget Sound. You might even be treated to some wildlife sightings, as the neighboring waters and forests are home to harbor seals, California sea lions and Townsend’s chipmunks. If you’re hungry, chow down on some good eats at Norm’s Eatery and Ale House on 36th St., a laid-back pub that was named after a dog and welcomes pets.

 

Where to Stay: The Pensione Nichols Bed and Breakfast on 1st Ave. in downtown Seattle is one of the most pet-friendly accommodations in the city, as dogs and cats of all sizes are welcome to stay.

 

San Francisco

While it’s true that San Francisco was a revolutionary city in the counterculture movement in the 1960s, its attitude toward pets and pet owners is also impressive. In fact, in an effort to discourage unethical puppy and kitten mills, the city’s Animal Control and Welfare Commission is looking to outlaw pet sales in Richmond County.

 

What to Do: San Francisco’s natural beauty and vibrant, laid-back vibe makes it a winner for travelers and their pets. The city is a veritable playground, so start off at Point Isabel Regional Shoreline, located in the nearby suburb of Richmond. This dog park is the largest one of its kind in the country, with more than 20 acres of pet-friendly lawns, leash-free beaches and pet-friendly restaurants like the Sit & Stay Café. And of course you’ll want to check out the city’s most famous landmark, the Golden Gate Bridge. You and your pet are welcome to take a stroll across this iconic piece of architecture. You and your four-legged friend can also hop on a cable car and take a tour of the city.

 

Where to Stay: While there are a ton of great hotels for you and your pup to hang your head, you’ll want to book a room at the Hotel Monaco on Geary Street near Union Square, which elevates the experience of a night’s stay. Both dogs and cats receive beds and toys in addition to specialized, in-room menus. You can also take part in the Guppy Love program, which loans you a complimentary goldfish to keep you company in your room.

 

Portland

It may surprise you, but Portland is more than just a hipster paradise. This jewel of the Pacific Northwest is also a laid-back, eclectic melting pot of different cultures and lifestyles and is very accepting of animal lovers.

 

What to Do: As one of the most pedestrian-friendly city, Portland has the most dog parks per capita in the country at 31, according to Forbes. If you happen to be in town in the fall, head on over to the pet-centric festival, Dogtoberfest, which is a dog-washing charity event that now features a street fair with live music and locally brewed beer. And speaking of beer, head to the Lucky Labrador Brewing Company, which is a great place for beer-loving folks and their pets. The craft brews have dog-inspired names and cater to all palates. If you need a pick-me-up, check out the Iron Mutt Coffee Company to get a caffeine fix while your pup enjoys a complimentary biscuit.

 

Where to Stay: There’s no shortage of pet-friendly hotels in this city, but downtown Portland’s Heathman Hotel really knows how to pamper your pet. Your pet will be treated to such perks as the “Bark of Sleep” pet bed menu and an exclusive walking tour of the city. Not only that, but all four-legged guests receive a complimentary physical examination voucher with their stay, redeemable at any Banfield Pet Hospital nationwide.

 

Austin

While “pet-friendly” might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Austin (“Live Music Capital of the World” or “Food Truck Central” might be up there), but this vibrant southwestern city in the Lone Star State is incredibly welcoming of your four-legged friends.

What to Do: Austin is known for its sunny, warm weather, so you’ll definitely want to spend some time outside. The city has 12 off-leash parks where dogs can run and play. If your pup gets a little too hot, let him cool off in the natural creek in Bull Creek District Park and Greenbelt on Lakewood Drive. If you visit Austin in the summer, you and your pooch can head to downtown’s Zilker Park and check out a concert or fun festival, or tour the city in a historic horse-drawn carriage, where your dog is welcome to ride, too. With all this fun, you’re bound to work up an appetite, so head on over to B.B. Rover’s Café and Pub, which offers covered outdoor seating and water bowls for thirsty pups.

Where to Stay: Stay in the heart of downtown and treat your pet to some southern hospitality at The Driskill. The “Pampered Pet Program” provides a comfortable pet bed and designer doggie dishes in your room, as well as bottled water and gourmet treats from the 1886 Café & Bakery. And when you’re ready to explore the town, the concierge desk can provide you with city maps that highlight pet-friendly areas, leashes and collars.

New York

According to PetTravel.com, there are more than 120,000 dogs living in the Big Apple. So, obviously, the city that never sleeps is well-equipped for travelers and the pets traveling with them. This big and bustling city has so much to do, from the shops to the subway, and your pet is invited along every step of the way.

 

What to Do: Obviously, you’ll want to start off at the heart of New York: Central Park. Here, your pup can run and play while you engage in some great people watching. For some pooch-specific fun, make the trek out to Long Meadow Dog Beach in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park, where your dog can swim and have fun. Let Fido strut his stuff as you tour the city on the NYC Dog Walking Tour, which visits neighborhoods like Greenwich Village, Soho, Lower East Side and Little Italy. If you can afford it, treat your dog to a day of pampering, as New York has some of the best holistic pet stores, deluxe pet salons and posh doggie day care centers around.

 

Where to Stay: If you want to stay in the heart of it all, splurge on a room at The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park, smack dab in the hustle and bustle of the city. The staff goes above and beyond to make sure both you and your pet are comfortable.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/ktmoffitt

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Best Community Gardens on the West Coast

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Community gardens are a great way to get outside, socialize and preserve the environment.

With the cold days and dreary nights of winter behind us, the long-awaited higher temperatures of spring might have you itching to get outside. And if you have even the slightest green thumb, you know that tending to a garden can be one of the most fun and rewarding experiences during the warmer weather months. But if you’re living in an apartment, chances are you don’t have a yard of your own for planting flowers or vegetables. Luckily, cities across the nation are becoming hip to the idea of creating communal garden spaces for residents unable to garden on their own. Community gardening offers both physical and social benefits as well as enacting a positive change on the environment. If you’re on the West Coast, check out these great gardens where you can get down and dirty, as well as tips on how to start your own.

Stanford Avalon Community Garden

You might not believe that there are community gardens located within the urban sprawl of Los Angeles, but this city takes gardening very seriously. Emerging from the ashes of the beloved South Central Farm in Los Angeles, which was demolished in 2006 and was widely considered as the largest community garden in the nation, the Stanford Avalon Community Garden was founded by many of those displaced farmers and has grown to over 180 plots in its six short years of existence, running for 11 blocks in the Green Meadows neighborhood of the city. The garden has become so popular that there are nearly 100 families on the waiting list.

Location: 658 E. 11th Place, Los Angeles, CA 90059

Brentwood Community Garden

Portland is widely known as one of the greenest, environmentally-focused cities in the United States, so it comes as no surprise that there are over 40 community gardens in the city, with new plots being added regularly, providing fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to area restaurants and the chance to get outside and get back to nature. As the second largest community garden in the city, the Brentwood Community Garden was constructed in 1996 and features 78 garden plots, a fruit demonstration area, shed, gazebo with an 800 gallon water tank and five raised accessible garden beds.

Location: SE 57th Ave. and Cooper St., Portland, OR 97206

Fort Vancouver Garden

One of the more unique community gardens in Vancouver, the Fort Vancouver Garden is a volunteer-run, organic interpretive garden modeled after the type of garden that would have existed at the original Fort Vancouver in the 1840s. Many of the vegetables and flowers in the garden are varieties from that era, including beds of carrots, turnips, parsnips, roses and dahlias.

Location: 1001 E. Fifth St., Vancouver, WA 98661

Stone Soup Community Garden Project

Located in the ethnically diverse, lower-income Sacramento neighborhood of Del Paso Heights, the Stone Soup Community Garden Project was founded in 2003 to combat the rising rates of childhood obesity as well as provide a reliable source for fresh fruits and vegetables in the area. Named after the children’s book, Stone Soup, which is about two travelers who teach a village about the value of sharing ingredients and cooking food together, the garden is a community favorite.

Location: 3611 Del Paso Blvd., Sacramento, CA 05838

Hayes Valley Farm

Founded in January 2010, the 2.2-acre Hayes Valley Farm was founded by a group of San Francisco urban farmers, landscapers and gardeners after the area it’s located on fell into disuse after the Loma Prieta earthquake. In addition to the garden space, Hayes Valley Farm also hosts workshops such as bee keeping, garden design and composting. In the summer, the farm screens a farm film series and offers yoga classes.

Location: 450 Laguna St. & Fell St., San Francisco, CA 94102

Are you interested in starting up a community garden in your neighborhood? Here are some ideas to help you turn a local plot of land into something you can really dig.

  • Organize a “town hall” style meeting of people interested in starting a community garden and determine your needs, such as what kind of garden it should be, who will be involved and who will benefit.
  • Form a planning committee to tackle specific tasks like funding, construction, communication and youth activities.
  • Identify existing resources that can help you plan out the garden, and then approach a sponsor to aid in the donation of seeds, tools or money. Churches, schools and private businesses are good places to start.
  • Choose a site based on the amount of daily sunshine, availability of water and whether or not the site passes a soil test for potential pollutants. Determine who owns the land, and see if gardeners can be granted a lease agreement.
  • Organize volunteer crews to prepare and develop the land, and then decide how you are going to lay out the site, factoring in number of plots and pathways between them.
  • Set some ground rules, and put them in writing. Common issues that may arise are how the money will be used, how plots are assigned, who will handle maintenance and whether or not gardeners will share tools.
  • Develop a strong communication network to keep all participants abreast of any news. Create an email list, form a telephone tree or install a rainproof bulletin board in the garden to inform members of relevant information.

Photo credit: iStockphoto/youngvet

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Best Coffee Shops in San Francisco

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Creamy, dark and bold, coffee is the perfect pick-me-up drink.

Coffee. Is there any drink that is better? Rich and roasted, hot and delicious, coffee is one of the most enjoyable drinks around. A drink of Ethiopian origins, coffee has become an American staple, and can be found in many incarnations in coffee shops across the nation: you’ll find the dark, thick and spicy Turkish coffee to the standard yet delicious Italian-style espresso, to the sweeter, blended drinks such as Frappuccinos. To pay homage to this simple yet satisfying drink, check out these hot spots in San Francisco that are serving up some of the best brewed beans around.

What: Caffe Trieste
Why: A staple of San Francisco’s North Beach neighborhood, Caffe Trieste has been serving locals since 1956. Founded by Giovanni Giotta, now known as “The Espresso Pioneer,” a feisty Italian man who immigrated to San Francisco from the small fishing town of Rovigno, Caffe Trieste fuses Old World techniques with a chic West Coast sensibility, providing customers with an experience that brings them back time after time. One step into Caffe Trieste and you’re hit with a palpable sense of history, as it served as a meeting place for Beat movement writers such as Jack Kerouac, Alan Watts and Allen Ginsberg. In another claim to fame, Francis Ford Coppola wrote most of The Godfather in Caffe Trieste.  But the coffee is the real standout here. Sip on a cappuccino and let the history seep in.
Where: 601 Vallejo St., San Francisco, CA 94133

What: Ritual Coffee Roasters
Why: Located in the hip yet gritty Mission neighborhood, Ritual Coffee Roasters offers patrons a great cup of Joe with some of the best people watching in the city. The folks at Ritual roast their own beans and place heavy emphasis on the origin of said beans, meaning no funky, sub-par blends. What you’re getting at Ritual is a quality, conscious cup of coffee, in a posh and trendy atmosphere. Order up a perfectly crafted latte, or try a taste of the pure, unadulterated espresso, and rub elbows with some of the city’s most unique characters.
Where: 1026 Valencia St., San Francisco, CA 94110

What: Four Barrel Coffee
Why: Founded by one of the original owners of Ritual Coffee Roasters, Four Barrel Coffee is also located in the glamorous Mission neighborhood, and is in fact just down the street from Ritual. The same thinking goes into each cup of Four Barrel coffee: ethical sourcing, high quality green coffee, highly trained roasters and the pursuit of the perfect cup of coffee. What sets Four Barrel apart is a selection of artisan sweets from Dynamo Donuts, a local San Francisco bakery that uses organic, sustainable and local ingredients whenever possible. Grab a cup of drip coffee and enjoy a unique donut flavor such as Saffron Chocolate, Candied Orange Blossom or Molasses Guinness Pear.
Where: 375 Valencia St., San Francisco, CA 94103

What: Peet’s Coffee and Tea
Why: No list of San Francisco coffee shops would be complete without mentioning Peet’s. A hometown favorite, Peet’s was founded in 1966 by Alfred Peet in Berkeley. The chain has grown to nearly 200 retail locations within the United States, with most being located in California, although there are locations in Washington, Oregon, Colorado, Illinois and Massachusetts. A good alternative to Starbucks, Peet’s is famous for their dark-roasted brew.
Where: Multiple locations throughout San Francisco

Photo Credit: iStockphoto/creacart

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