Where to Go in 2015: San Francisco

There's no denying it: The City by the Bay is both a gay historical mecca as well as an ever-changing hotbed of culture, food and nightlife. First-timers should arrive with their must-see checklist, including the National AIDS Memorial in Golden Gate Park and Pink Triangle Park. Head to the LookOut in the Castro District for late-night antics and a rotating roster of themed parties.

For Art's Sake
More than 130 of seminal gay pop artist Keith Haring's works of art have been curated for this U.S. premiere, which highlights the influential artist's interpretations of racial inequality, nuclear war, capitalism and more. Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco's director Colin B. Bailey notes, "We are particularly pleased to profile Keith Haring's artwork in San Francisco; we sense that it will appeal to a younger generation who will appreciate his honest and passionate commitment to addressing contemporary issues through art." Through February 16, 2015.

Best Bite
Debuting in July 2014, Causwells has reinforced San Francisco's presence as the ultimate food town. Unpretentious yet technique-driven cuisine from chef Adam Rosenblum is the calling card drawing hungry diners to this Marina District establishment. Nearly everything is made in house, including Rye Parker House Rolls and cultured butter. Share small plates like grilled octopus with chili vinaigrette or go for the Schmitz Ranch New York Strip served with potato confit, salsa verde and pimenton aioli.

Play Fair

Plan your Golden Gate getaway around one of the city's major festivals for an additional adrenaline boost. Outside Lands (August 2015) promises another lineup of live performances, outsider art, and GastroMagic - a food fantasia not to be missed. For fetish fabulousness, the Folsom Street Fair (September 2015) delivers more than 400,000 attendees and an eclectic (if not jaw-dropping) snapshot of local culture.

Life Is a Cabaret
Michel Feinstein wasn't diminished when his club closed at New York City's Loews Regency. Instead, he picked himself up, dusted himself off, and started all over again - this time in partnership with the Hotel Nikko. You can catch an A-list act nearly any night of the week at the elegant yet intimate 140-seat venue. Past performances have included Sutton Foster, Cheyenne Jackson and Jeremy Jordan.

You're the Top
The iconic hotel property (recently purchased by Loews Regency) that resides in the top 11 floors of 345 California Center has received a makeover thanks to S.F.-based designer BAMO. Be sure to check out the spa for treatments such as "The Cure," a deep cleansing facial based on a cutting edge enzymatic detoxification.

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