The neighborhood surrounding the ballpark is in the midst of a mini explosion of development. We just might actually call it "hot." The revitalized China Basin area has been under construction for the past few years and is now filled in with shiny new low-rise buildings and businesses. As a result, the surrounding area is peppered with new restaurants, bars, and art galleries.
If you're heading towards AT&T Park, hopefully a Giants game is in your future. The 2010 World Series champions have a loyal following and ticket prices are sure to rise. However, this is one of the most beautiful ballparks in America, nothing beats looking out at the Bay Bridge over the left field fence. Look for gourmet food options and expensive microbrews, but the sophisticated experience is worth it, only in San Francisco.
There are quite a few small parks near the ballpark with stellar views of the Bay. South Park is a quiet, shady nook hidden amongst a residential neighborhood. Office workers gather here during weekdays, and on the weekends it's not crowded at all. Dogs and children will love China Basin Park and South Beach Park. For a really memorable experience, rent a kayak with City Kayak. They run tours around the piers of the Embarcadero as well as trips further afield to Alcatraz and the bridges. It's a fantastic way to take in the downtown skyline or to watch fireworks over the Bay. McCovey Cove fills with kayakers during Giants games, each hoping to catch a fly ball.
The Dogpatch neighborhood is a short train ride away down 3rd St. Not as well-known as other iconic San Francisco 'hoods, the Dogpatch is bustling with new commerce as restaurants, wine bars, and artists have infiltrated the once blighted area. Some of the oldest houses in San Francisco are here thanks to the neighborhood's survival of the 1906 earthquake.
24 Willie Mays Plaza
Home of the Giants...
South Beach Harbor, The Embarcadero, Pier 40
Urban kayaking...
South Park Street and 2nd Street
European-Style Park Tucked Away...
United States
Small park near the ballpark...
Simple park along the Embarcadero...
411 Brannan Street
Urban Art House...
680 2nd St
Chronicle Books retail store...
700 4th Street
Commuter rail between San Francisco and San Mateo and Santa Clara counties...
2 S. Park
Between Bryant and Brannan Sts at Second St
Discount Designer Fashions...