DOGGY DAY OUT Alert: Always be sure your dog is well-walked before you head out for a day of adventure! Never leave home without a pooh bag!! (And paper towels!) City regulations dictate "that dogs must be leashed at all times when not on their owner's property."

Palace of Fine Arts -- The 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exhibition provided many wonderful memories, and it contributed an amazing structure which still stands today. Like everything else in the exhibition, it was scheduled for demolition but thanks to philanthropist, Walter Johnson, and hundreds of other local citizens, the Palace was saved. Today it stands majestically next to a tree-shaded lagoon hosting flocks of ducks, and an occasional swan or two. At night, the Palace is lighted, transforming it into a romantic dreamland. Bring your lunch and enjoy a stroll. Or, visit one of the charming Chestnut Street sidewalk bistros. On weekends, you'll often see a wedding party having their pictures taken. (Don't let your dog interfere with the bird-feeding!)

"Neighborhood Strips" -- One of the best ways to get a feel for San Francisco's unique neighborhoods is to stroll along its shopping streets, taking in the unique store windows, charming sidewalk cafe's, or just hanging out to people-watch. (See Pet Friendly Stores & Restaurants)

Chestnut Street -- situated in the heart of the Marina, between Fillmore & Divisadero, there are lots of shops, restaurants and cafe's. On a sunny weekend, you'll find the whole neighborhood hanging out somewhere along this strip.

Union Street -- located between Fillmore & Gough Streets, this is the "heart" of Cow Hollow. Gingerbread Victorians have been turned into boutiques, art galleries and restaurants.

Fillmore Street -- Lots of shops, restaurants & cafe's in this Pacific Heights area, especially between Sacramento & Geary Streets. If you like vintage clothing shops, there are several to investigate on the way.

Wow! What a View!! -- The summit of Pacific Heights, at Fillmore & Broadway, offers the most spectacular view of the bay that exists! On clear days, you can see Angel Island, Sausalito, the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz. On foggy days, the view is still enchanting as the white, swirling stuff wipes out everything but the towers on the Bridge. Walk a little farther to Jackson Street and tour the neighborhood that boasts a number of "mighty mansions." (See Alta Plaza Park)

The Wave Organ -- George Gonzalez and Tomus Lipps created this structure using both recycled granite from old street blocks and headstones recovered from four ancient cemeteries. It has three granite "listening posts" that change pitch as the tide rises and falls. When the tide is at 5' or more, you hear a soothing baritone sound as the water rolls against the shore. Then, as the tide goes out, the pitch gradually changes from a low to the highest!! To get there, go to the Marina Green and walk along the waterside of the Yacht Harbor, past the St. Francis and Golden Gate Yacht Clubs, until you come to the end of the promontory. The tide must be just right to do the Wave Organ justice, but even if you pick the wrong time, the 360-degree view is worth it!