South Park (not the show) and China Basin

South Park, between 2nd and 3rd Street in South Beach is amazing. Snuggled between a variety of apartment and business buildings and a few restaurants, this park has a kid's play center and plenty of benches and tables to relax at. Maybe it's just me, but not enough places have benches for everyone.

This park attracts everyone from young professionals, to families and hipsters. I visited the park my second time in South Beach, and I've been back nearly every trip. South Park is crowded most days, especially when it's a nice day, and everyone is friendly. It's clear that locals come here to get a bit of greenery amidst the towering skyscrapers a parking lots of South Beach. I love this park...it's cute, it's friendly, and it's unassuming. If you're in the area, go visit there. I guarantee you will meet a friend.

I visited the China Basin last week for the first time in my three years living in San Francisco. It's like another world across the 3rd Street bridge. As I walked past the proud AT&T Park displaying World Series posters, I was greeted by vast parking lots and grande residential and corporation buildings.

There is little to no foot traffic, a rarity in the city, and hardly no noise. There is only one Muni train that ventures out there. It's much quieter in the China Basin, and slightly underdeveloped, although there are several constructions sights in progress.

The best part was walking along Mission Creek Park. It was a beautiful day when I visited, and people lined the Mission Bay canal. The house boats located there are beautiful and diverse, but gated and i've had little success meeting anyone who live there.

All in all I really enjoyed this area. China Basin is like the best of both worlds. Although there are hardly any eateries or shopping centers there, all are accessible just a bridge away.