Ghirardelli Square, San Francisco

One of my favorite things in the world is chocolate so I thoroughly enjoyed my time here. I was greeted with a complimentary milk chocolate and caramel square and then I walked around and saw fresh chocolate being made. I was chilly so I ordered a hot chocolate and it was the most delicious hot chocolate I have ever had. I also got a cookie but the drink was so filling I couldn’t even eat it. I loved the mermaid statue in the square as well as the corn hole games the kids seemed to be enjoying.

The double Ghirardelli shops are busy, chocolaty fun. Breathe in the sweet air. Order something from the awesome chocolate bar. Other interesting spots include Yap, with its variety of quality (and actually comfortable) pet accessories, and the pretty mermaid fountain. Great views of the wharf and harbor from some spots. Parking in the underground garage is simplest, but small vehicles rule in the tiny passages, and it's not cheap, even with validation.

This might've been our favorite part of San Francisco. We stopped here after Pier 39 to see if they would have good ice cream, but there was so much more. There are little kids play stations in various corners of the square. My son loved the bouncy balls, bouncing them to other visitors and, well, he was kind of making friends. Pretty cool for 20 months! My 5yo daughter played with the magnetic wooden blocks for over an hour, showing off her creations to others who complimented her. Then, yes, we did get ice cream and it was outstanding; a huge banana split! Chocolate, vanilla and strawberry with pineapple sauce and whipped cream - perfect! From there, we took a short walk to the shore and dipped our toes in the cool water.

Easy walking distance from Fisherman's Wharf hotels this place has a cool vibe and lots to do. We had some drinks at the brewery bar, shopped plus of course sampled some chocolates. Was great to sit in the sun having a coffee on a clear morning. The place photographs really well too.

Parking is a nightmare and pedestrians just cross whenever and wherever. Better off parking far away and taking a long walk. On busy days the line is long to get into the ice cream shop but Ghirardelli makes the best sundaes I’ve ever had so it’s worth it. Maybe a second level of seating would help. Also the shops around the square are cute but nothing really unique. Outdoor games were fun.