Category: USA 🇺🇸

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City by the Bay: San Francisco Travel Series (Part 2) – Exploring Fisherman’s Wharf & Pier 39

Pier 39 at Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco with sea lions on docks, tourists, waterfront shops, and bay views at sunset.

Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 are among the most lively and iconic areas to explore in San Francisco. During our October visit, we stayed close to the waterfront and ended up visiting this vibrant neighborhood three times in six days. From watching playful sea lions at Pier 39 to enjoying panoramic waterfront views, the area offers a mix of history, entertainment, and food experiences. We explored the famous Pier 39 marketplace, stopped by the SkyStar Wheel, and enjoyed delicious meals at the legendary Boudin Bakery known for its sourdough bread bowls. A visit to Ghirardelli Square was another highlight, where we indulged in amazing chocolate desserts and enjoyed beautiful sunset views near Aquatic Park. Although we skipped attractions like Aquarium of the Bay and the USS Pampanito submarine museum this time, they remain interesting options for visitors. If you are planning a San Francisco trip, Fisherman’s Wharf is definitely a must-visit destination.

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City by the Bay: San Francisco Travel Series (Part 1) – Planning the Trip

Golden Gate Bridge spanning San Francisco Bay on a clear day

Discover our family trip to San Francisco in October 2025, inspired by a promise to finally visit the Golden Gate Bridge together. During our week-long stay near Fisherman’s Wharf, we explored Pier 39, Golden Gate Park, Alamo Square, Union Square, and more. From scenic bridge views and cable car rides to day trips to Sausalito and Napa Valley, this San Francisco travel guide shares where we stayed, what we visited, how we commuted, and practical tips based on real experience. If you’re planning a San Francisco itinerary, this post will help you organize your trip with confidence and clarity.

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Our Stay at Marriott Vacation Club, San Francisco

Ghibli-style illustration of Marriott Vacation Club San Francisco exterior at sunset with headline text

Honest review of Marriott Vacation Club San Francisco near Fisherman’s Wharf. Great location, spacious rooms, but laundry issues to know before booking.

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Discovering Downtown Little Rock: A Family-Friendly Guide to Museums, Riverfront Park & the Free Streetcar

Exploring Little Rock Downtown

Explore Downtown Little Rock with kids—interactive museums, historic landmarks, Riverfront Park, and a free streetcar ride across the twin cities.

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Our Family Stay at the Little Rock Marriott: The Good, the Bad, and the River Views

Arkansas River view from the room at Little Rock Marriott

An honest Little Rock Marriott review based on a real family stay—great river views, walkable location, but costly valet parking and no buffet breakfast.

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A Room with a View: Our Stay at Residence Inn by Marriott New York Manhattan/Times Square

Residence Inn Manhattan/Times Square

Our experience with Residence Inn by Marriott New York Manhattan/Times Square. Great location, Empire State views, kitchen, but a few drawbacks. Read our full NYC stay experience.

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New York City Travel Tips: Practical Planning Advice from Real Experience

Manhattan Skyline

Practical New York City travel tips based on our 6-day experience—where to stay, transportation, passes, money-saving ideas, and what we’d do differently next time.

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Departure Day in New York City: Visiting Grand Central Terminal & the New York Public Library

New York Public Library

Our final day in New York City was packed with iconic sights like Grand Central Terminal and the New York Public Library before a series of unexpected travel delays turned our 23-hour journey into a 30+ hour adventure. From exploring NYC landmarks to navigating flight disruptions, here’s how our departure day unfolded.

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Day 6 in New York City – Central Park & AMNH – Walking Route & Sunset Ferry

The Lake, Central Park

Day 6 in New York was all about exploring Central Park’s iconic spots, visiting the fascinating American Museum of Natural History, and ending the day with a breathtaking sunset ferry ride. From quiet green trails and dinosaur fossils to stunning skyline views from the water, this day was one of the most memorable parts of our NYC trip.

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Day 5 in New York City – Roosevelt Island, Intrepid Museum, Hudson Yards & Pier 57

Little Island Pier 54

Explore New York Day 5 with Roosevelt Island, the Intrepid Museum, Hudson Yards, The Vessel, the High Line, Pier 57, and Little Island in one perfect NYC itinerary.

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