New Years in San Francisco?

[amym2]

Thinking about possible trips to take after Christmas with extended family to celebrate my sister's 40th birthday (and mine 2 years late!). We'll have DS13 and DD10 as well as my parents who are in their late 60's. My hubby mentioned San Francisco, as United just started non-stop service from Indianapolis to SF. I haven't been to that area since I was in high school. I remember Alcatraz, the Exploratorium, and the orange French toast at JoAnn's in South SF. We also visited Lake Tahoe, but I'm sure it was in the summer. Would we be crazy to head to SF that time of year, and where else around there would we want to go if we had say a week?

With all of the snow this year, I was really thinking more along the lines of a Caribbean cruise or all-inclusive, but the prices are CRAZY due to the holiday. Plus we'd have to take multiple flights to get anywhere.

 

[bcla]

The North Coast isn't bad around Marin, Sonoma, and Mendocino. Or maybe south to Santa Cruz and Monterey.

Of course I'm from the area, but I like Yosemite in the winter. Yosemite Valley looks spectacular with a dusting of snow.

 

[SammiL]

In and around sf itself, I'd suggest checking out the ferry building, palace of fine arts, brunching in Hayes valley, checking out the museums in golden gate park, and visiting twin peaks for the best view.

When in need of a break from the city...I would head north along the coast towards bodega bay where you can find some peace and quiet. I also agree on maybe visiting napa or sonoma but can't promise the teens will enjoy it as much. Mostly dining and wine tasting although a new casino just opened in rohnert park. Santa Cruz can be fun - there's the boardwalk - but wouldn't go out of my way if carnival rides won't intrigue your family.