Check SF Gate's local weather before you go out. Drinking and Smoking Liquor laws allow sale of beer, wine and liquor from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily, although some places are only licensed to sell beer and wine. But bar-going smokers should be prepared to smoke outside. That's still legal, in most places . If you're driving, it's a good idea to keep an eye on the traffic reports .
Rush hour is a serious event here.
Then there's what to do with your car when you've arrived at your destination. If you manage to find a parking spot, read the parking signs carefully, or you could end up visiting the city tow. Be especially wary of neighborhood permit areas and bus zones. Cars are extremely useful for trips outside the city, but can be a liability around town. Use our handy guide to public transit and save yourself some grief.