San Francisco, CA

Play: Knockout views. Appealing mix of people. Good coffee. Crissy Field at Golden Gate National Recreation Area gives you everything you love about San Francisco in one scenic package. A historic Army airfield transformed into a native plant-lined beach oasis, Crissy draws dog walkers, joggers with strollers, kitesurfers, picnickers, cyclists, fishermen, and 8-year-olds letting the cool bay water lap their toes. All this and the Golden Gate Bridge looming gracefully. nps.gov/goga

Eat: Snack on lattes and baked goods while browsing books at the Warming Hut (415/561-3040) cafe.