Monday, January 19, 2026

SFO - To Do 17Jan25 (Russian Hill-Macondray Lane, The Original Swensen's, Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption, Sunsets in SFO)

San Francisco - To Stay
San Francisco - To Do
San Francisco - To Eat

SFO - To Do
This place is more of a healthy upslope walk rather than a pure look out place. Moist of the view points are largely blocked by tree growth. 

However there still are some great views of Alcatraz and the bay area. There are many other locations within the Bay Area to get great views. Okay if looking for exercise and/or intending to check out the Original Swensen's after. Click here for ABBA Location of The Original Swensen's
You maybe interested in Lombard Sunrise or views from Golden Gate Promenade.
You maybe interested in amazing Panoramic views from Coit Tower.

The Original Swensen's
(opened in 1948)
*The original and last store in the USA*
*Not your standard flavors.*
Swensen’s started in 1948 in San Francisco, founded by Earle Swensen, and became famous for quality ice cream and big sundaes. 

This is one for the memories as the first and the very last Swensen's in the United States. Iyt is still  found at the original location in the Russian Hill neighborhood. Worth checking out if you're a fan of their brand and their ice-cream flavor range and quality are equally amazing!
*Bordeaux cherry flavored.*
Samples are available and a basic cone with a single scoop ice-cream goes at USD5.45.
Click here for ABBA Location of The Original Swensen's
 
Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption
0730am/9am Sunday Mass


*"Morning Neighbor. Welcoming church attendees in the morning.*

*Morning service*

Designed in the spirit of Vatican II, the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption breaks from traditional cathedral styles with a bold modern form that emphasizes openness and community. 
*The organ was designed specifically for St.Mary by the
Ruffatti Brothers in Padua, Italy. 4,842pipes total.*
*(L)The Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe, (R) The Crucifixion.*
*One of the four pillars built deep into the bed rock to support the church's structure.*
Simply beautiful with their unique center piece being 14 tiers of triangular aluminium rods, symbolizing the love and grace from god to his people. 


This is my first time enjoying and exploring such a modern looking church. Attending the first service at Golden Hour offered some really nice picture opportunities.

*Neighboring St. Mark's Lutheran Church at 7am in the morning.*


*View of the valley with the Sunrise reflecting of the Cathedral of Saint Mary.*

*Post service at 830am*
A little effort to manage attending the service that suits your timings but it was well worth the sunrise, the quiet, changing colors and the interior stained glass illuminating as the sun rose!

(Click here for views at Sunrise from the Golden Gate and short cycle another well worth activity in SFO) Look to their website for organ performances and mass timings. (Click here for official info)
You may also be interested in these other churches in SFO.
- Grace Cathedral in SFO
- Saints Peter and Paul Church SFO

As this Church is dedicated to the Vigin Mary, one has to check out the Chapel of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal in Paris where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to Saint Catherine in 1830, giving her the design for medallion worn by millions. (Click for the full write up.)

Sunsets in SFO
Some sunset shots whilst on the way back from Russian hill and on second day along Pier39.
Taken On:
17Jan26 

*Packing up for the day.*

*Fishing equipment along the wharf.*
Taken On:
18Jan26
*Hanging decorations in the setting sun.*
*Enjoying the sunset together.*

*Sunset through the SkyStar Wheel*

*Blue&Gold Ferry making its way out.
Click to find out more about a half day Sausalito trip with a boat ride back.*
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