ellis island memorial wall Noe Valley In the late 80s, families began moving in dr oves into this hilly neighborhood south of t

MODERATE Blue Mermaid Chowder House AMERICAN/SEAFOOD Blue Mermaid offers a no-nonsense menu of cho wders, sandwiches, salads, and a fe w bigger main course options at pr etty reasonable prices. The decor plays on the r estaurant s location in The

Noe Valley In the late 80s, families began moving in dr oves into this hilly neighborhood south of the Castr o, transforming petite Victorians into stylishly r emodeled homes. You ll find a number of shops and cafes on 24th Street betw een D iamond and Chur ch streets. The playgr ound at D ouglass and 27th str eets, and the Walter Haas playground at D iamond Heights Boulevard and A ddison S treet, ar e both delightful. The neighborhood is otherwise pretty quiet.

In addition to a 775-seat theater , art galleries, and a 5-acre garden, you ll also find a children ellis island memorial wall s playground, an antique carousel, and other family-friendly attractions here. I f y ou hav e time, pop into Z eum, where the kids can make their o wn claymation- style film clips or create their own cartoon character. If you want some downtime, have the kids play at the playground or enjoy the fountain dedicated to M artin Luther King, Jr., while you savor the interesting architectural vantage points offered in this urban oasis.