Posted By:
Mark SteinbergThe show is ok, but not huge. You should find some neat stuff there if you are patient and do a little scavenging.
Regarding the ballpark, there is not a bad seat in the house. It is my absolute favorite of the newer stadiums. It is a rather small place, so sitting high up is not a problem. I prefer sitting between 1st and 3rd base, and high up vs. sitting low down and towards the outfield. Plus, this gives you a great view of the surrounding bay, sailboats, and other beautiful scenery.
The food at the ballpark is the best I have had, but a bit pricey as you'd imagine. They have lots of ethnic varieties (Thai, Teriyaki, Seafood, Italian, etc) in addition to the traditional (Hot Dogs, Italian Sausages, Bratwurst and Burgers). I would save the Burgers and Brats for a game in the "heartland" and go the more eclectic route while in S.F.
Or better yet, have lunch or dinner in the North Beach section of town (a short cab ride away). There are tons of good restaurants and bars along Columbus Ave... mostly Italian, and all of which are great. The Stinking Rose (325 Columbus Ave.) is a classic informal Italian place, and a "must" if you love garlic.
If you want to go the more "touristy" route, there is Chinatown and Fisherman's Wharf... not world-class food, but a lot to see. Then perhaps an "after-game" Irish Coffee at the famous and historic Buena Vista (where the Cable Car route ends).
There is too much else to mention here - but this would be a good start if you are there for only one weekend (and have never been). Hope this helps!
Edited to say that to a native San Franciscan, this will all sound "touristy"... I visit fairly often, but perhaps someone who actually lives there can shed some light on even better local spots.
I will add one thing (since you're there for a baseball trip...) Lefty O'Doul's in Union Square is a kick. They have some amazing and huge photos on the walls... mostly of PCL and Major League Baseball players from the '30s and '40s. They even have an autographed team sheet from the Tour of Japan hanging on the wall, and signed by Ruth, Gehrig, Foxx, etc. (barely protected under plastic, and anyone can touch it!) Union Square has some great shopping... so if you're nearby, be sure to make time for a beer or cocktail at Lefty O'Doul's.