Three Must-Visit Spots in San Francisco for a Quick Escape

2018 has been a year focused on achieving a healthier work-life balance. Even though running my own business from home lets me set my own hours, I often feel like I'm working nonstop. With mental wellness and stress management now top priorities, I've been consciously setting boundaries and disconnecting when needed—especially during creative slumps. Whenever I need to step away from my laptop or I'm already out for a meeting or event, I carve out a couple of hours for “me” time at some of my favorite San Francisco haunts. Parking in the city is notoriously difficult, so I use my Uber app to request rides and schedule pickups from each destination, thanks to the convenience of Uber’s Scheduled Rides. This way, I can enjoy a brief escape and still get home to put in a few more hours of work before calling it a day. It’s all about balance, right? Here are a few places around town that give me that short but meaningful respite . . . and honestly, just make me happy. Where do you like to unwind?

THREE GEMS, de Young Museum

Not many people are aware of James Turrell’s Three Gems. Even fewer realize that experiencing the renowned artist’s “skyspace” is completely free. This underground installation is hidden in the Osher Sculpture Garden of the de Young Museum. Follow the signs down a sloping path, and you’ll encounter a massive cylindrical retaining wall surrounding a concrete stupa. Inside the domed structure, look up to see an oculus where sunlight pours in—and suddenly, you’re enveloped in light and sound (try a soft “hum” and you’ll understand what I mean). Take a seat, watch, listen, and soak in nature’s interplay.

20th CENTURY CAFE, 198 Gough Street

A stop at 20th Century Cafe is a must whenever I’m in Hayes Valley. Even if I only have time for cake. Specifically, a divine slice of their 10-layer Russian honey cake. Trust me, it’s heavenly. On this particular morning, I had a breakfast date with Todd, so we indulged in a delicious spread of Eastern European–inspired favorites—perfect for two. If you visit this charming corner cafe, don’t miss owner and chef Michelle Polzine’s housemade bagels, potato knish, and poppyseed babka. And the honey cake. Whatever you do, don’t forget the honey cake.

PEEPHOLE CINEMA, 280 Orange Alley

The Mission District is packed with hidden treasures. After years of exploring the neighborhood, I still stumble upon delightful new finds each time. I recommend getting dropped off on bustling Valencia Street and discovering the incredible boutiques, cafes, and flower shops on foot. You might even find a hole-in-the-wall theater. Literally! At the end of Orange Alley is—believe it or not—a dime-sized hole in a wall that plays a continuous stream of silent film vignettes. Blink and you might miss it. For a brief two minutes, you can immerse yourself in cinema and appreciate such a creative, brilliant public installation.

(photography by Todd Wagner; this post was created in partnership with Uber, all opinions are my own; Mara Hoffman coat available here, Freda Salvador mules available here, Saint Laurent hat similar here)

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