Back in the ‘60s, the remaining 19th century Ghirardelli chocolate factory building was vacant and slated for imminent destruction after the chocolate manufacturing business moved out of town; a group of concerned – and benevolent – San Franciscans stepped up to save the day, rescuing the grand old complex and creating within the factory walls a unique collection of shops and restaurants , officially open to the public in 1964. Today, visitors to the fabled Fisherman’s Wharf area in the City by the Bay can still partake of a bit of that restored Old World ambiance with a stop at the lovingly restored landmark; visitors sample squares of Ghirardelli chocolate as they enter this favorite San Francisco attraction, where the intoxicating perfume of sweet, warm waffle cone fills the air. Browse fabulously eclectic boutiques and upscale shops, hop onto a twirly red vinyl stool and up order your favorite soda shop classics or treat yourself to a meal of expertly-prepared fresh seafood. Absolutely convinced nothing but an ooey –gooey “whipped cream and nuts with a cherry on top” hot fudge sundae served up in a frosted old-fashioned parfait glass will do? This is the place-savvy travelers flock to the Square for the old-fashioned ice cream, alone; the sundaes are phenomenal! If frozen confections aren’t on your menu, how about a yummy fresh-baked treat and your choice of famously delicious specialty drinks to enjoy with those killer views of Alcatraz and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge? Hint: before you leave, be sure to snap up a little secret stash; you can never have too much chocolate!