the montague on the garden This restored 1890s Italianate Victorian has views of Downtown and the Bay. Accommoda tions are a mi

Aquariums Part of Golden the montague on the garden Gate Park s California Academy of Sciences (see pp22 3), the Steinhart Aquarium is a big hit with kids. The darkened corridors are filled with softly glowing tanks in which some of the weirdest creatures on the planet disport themselves. the montague on the garden Then there s the Touching Tidal Pool if kids want to get up close and personal with their finny friends. At Fisherman s Wharf, UnderWater World gives an even greater undersea experience, with walkthrough transparent tunnels surrounded by sea life (see p13).

Randall Museum Perched above the city, in Corona Heights Park, this small, welcoming complex is primarily a petting zoo, with farm animals, raccoons, reptiles, and birds. the montague on the garden But it also offers hands-on experience with woodworking, pottery, painting, theater, photography, model railroads, storytelling, gardening, and more. The aim is to teach children respect for nature and the environment. d 199 Museum Way, off Roosevelt Way, Buena Vista Map E4 (415) 554-9600 the montague on the garden Open 10am 5pm Tue Sat Free www.randallmuseum.org

Combining the elegance and gentility of an Edwardian home, just up from the Marina and right on fashionable Union Street. The individually decorated rooms are all spacious, with original antiques and art, fine linens, and complimen tary chocolates, fresh flowers, and fruit.

This restored 1890s Italianate Victorian has views of Downtown and the Bay. Accommoda tions are a mixture of contemporary furniture, original art, and plants. The kitchen is equipped with dishwasher, clothes washer, and microwave.