Stars Fell On San Francisco

Anyone who has been to “The City” knows that San Francisco is the perfect place for romance. The Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, rolling fog and crisp air are truly a love potion. One good Valentines choice is the 25-minute ferry trip between San Francisco and Sausalito. A recent poll by the Society of American Travel Writers ranked the Sausalito ferry with its Golden Gate and San Francisco skyline views as the second best ferry ride in the world. Sausalito is a good choice too for a romantic dinner with a number of charming restaurants within walking distance of the ferry. Or stay in San Francisco and get your Valentine's Day chocolate fix at Ghirardelli Square where the candy company made their sweets until the 1960s but today offers a variety of boutique stores including a Ghirardelli ice cream store and more views of the bay. Nearby Haight-Ashbury is a good choice for a little retro romance and nostalgia. It is all really just like Tony Bennett said.

2901 Broadway is a classic four-story estate - something you might see in a San Francisco movie when the director really wants to astonish the audience. This 1920s-era Italian Renaissance Mansion in Pacific Heights with post-card views from the Golden Gate Bridge to the East Bay was originally built for Milton Ray - a renowned bird scientist who did extensive research work on the nearby Farallon Islands. Mr. Ray was a published poet whose books of poetry were dedicated with love to his four daughters. Just a few of the home's romantic touches include the curved drive and east portico, huge leaded-glass windows, grand reception hall and winding marble staircase. This home is truly a poetic masterpiece!

Perched on top of the Gold Coast in Pacific Heights, San Francisco, this Italian Renaissance Mansion, the 2007 Decorator Showcase home, has breathtaking views of the Golden Gate and San Francisco Bay. Offered for the first time, the impressive four-story residence was designed in 1927 by architect Henry Smith for industrialist Milton Ray. A grand reception hall opens to elegant formal rooms on the main level and include period features such as decorative hardwood and marble floors, ornate moldings and trim, stately fireplaces, high ceilings and leaded glass window. Formal dining room, library, music room, offices and playroom. Seven bedrooms, seven and a half baths. Private tennis court and patio.