How about a budget vacation in the city by the bay?

We LOVE San Francisco...

Over the past several years, our San Francisco vacations have begun with a BART stop at the Civic Center and a short stroll to the Renoir Hotel. Located in the Tenderloin, it sometimes receives unflattering reviews from Yelpers, but we love the corner rooms of this “flat iron” style hotel. The convenient location puts you in position for the best transportation choices in the city. The Renoir staff is always friendly and helpful.

The recently opened Neptalia Restaurant is located adjacent to the hotel lobby. We went in around 9am. The breakfast is good and fairly priced. The down side is that the restaurant is currently only open Wednesday through Sunday.

Harry Denton’s Sunday’s a Drag at the Sir Frances Drake Hotel in the Starlight Room. A salute to old-fashioned variety shows Harry Denton and Donna Sachet are reviving the spirit of the drag show, picking up where the legendary Finocchio's left off. Donna Sachet hosts each of the 45-minute brunch performances, showcasing the talents of a variety of San Francisco Drag Queens. The Divas will perform stand-up comedy routines, female impersonation acts and lip-sync performances. “This will truly be a magical experience,” says Sachet. “Whether you’re gay, straight, or anything in between. People won’t forget it!”

This classic brunch with an attitude, offers two seatings every Sunday (noon and 2:30pm), each limited to 100 people. The price of brunch is $44.95 per person, which includes: dazzling entertainment, brunch, coffee, tea, and fresh juices. A full bar is available and all adult beverages will be added to the check.  Please note you must be 18 years and older to attend.

Enjoy meeting and having your photo taken with the stars of the show. Harry is there to meet and greet you.

Teatro ZinZanni —

Now is in its tenth sensational season, Teatro ZinZanni continues its blend of European cabaret and cirque artistry, intertwined with a five-course gourmet dinner. The show features an amazing roster of renowned singers in the role of hostess Madame ZinZanni; the return of the silent but eloquent audience favorite Ukrainian illusionist, Eugeniy Voronin (this guy is amazing); and Bay Area juggler/comedian, Michael Davis as the Chef. It also introduces The Randols, an amazing high-speed rollerblade acrobatic duo making its United States debut. 

Known throughout Europe as The Randols, perform an extraordinary dynamic roller-blade act, combining high speed and charisma, and aptly displaying their personal chemistry and amazing technique. Ukrainian illusionist Voronin, an original ZinZanni cast member performs his role of a mysterious traveler. Tickets range from $117 to $195. Treat yourself. You won’t regret it.

San Francisco Architecture Walking Tour —

This memorable two-hour walking tour includes not only an introduction to some of San Francisco's most famous downtown buildings but, you will also discover hard to find rooftop gardens, unique open spaces and historic landmarks. The San Francisco Architecture Walking Tour will be one of the most fascinating tours you've ever taken. Adults: $20 per person. Fee collected at beginning of tour.

Alcatraz Island Tours —

2009 marks the 100 the anniversary of Alcatraz Island serving as a prison and with a new cruise that explores more of the bay, a new audio tour on the island and newly open sections of the cellhouse.

The tour has 14 daily departures to Alcatraz Island. There are two night tours on Thursday through Sunday. We strongly urge you to make your reservations online in advance. The tour leaves from Pier 33.

City Sightseeing Tours —

They offer really fun and informative tours of San Francisco. The flexibility offers you the opportunity to jump on and off the bus at a variety of locations throughout San Francisco. City Sightseeing provides on-board tour (the other bus tours don’t) that share lots of trivia.

A word about public transportation. Muni Passports are good for unlimited rides on Muni, including cable cars. 3-day and 7-day Passports are good for three or seven consecutive days. Passports may be purchased in advance at several locations including San Francisco International Airport and the street car turnaround at Market and Powell Streets. Currently the Passports are $11 for a one day; $18 for a three day and $24 for a seven day Passport.

There are so many things to do and see in San Francisco you’ll want to return to the city by the bay.