Meet Dave Your San Francisco Storyteller Extraordinaire
At San Francisco Love Tours, our guides are more than just drivers—they’re passionate storytellers who bring the city’s rich history to life. Among them, Dave stands out as a guide with a lifetime of tales and a deep love for the City by the Bay.
Born in Omaha, Nebraska, Dave grew up traveling across the United States thanks to his father’s Air Force career. He lived in New York, Colorado, and Philadelphia before settling in San Francisco in 1979. Over the years, he’s embraced every aspect of the city’s culture, from its diversity and scenic beauty to its vibrant food scene. When asked to choose a favorite neighborhood, Dave can’t pick just one. “They’re all great,” he says, praising the beaches, museums, and unique energy of places like Chinatown.
For Dave, every day in San Francisco offers something new to discover. Whether he’s exploring with his family or guiding a tour, he loves sharing his favorite experiences, including indulging in mint chocolate chip ice cream from Swensen’s or grabbing a scoop at Ben & Jerry’s in Fisherman’s Wharf or Haight Street.
A Guide with Stories to Tell
Dave’s tours are more than sightseeing excursions—they’re journeys through history, culture, and personal anecdotes. One of his favorite stories is about his role in the 50th-anniversary celebration of the Golden Gate Bridge in 1987. As part of the city’s planning commission, Dave predicted far more attendees than expected. While the city prepared for 50,000 people, Dave’s foresight proved correct when a staggering 800,000 showed up for the event. “It was the party of a lifetime,” he recalls. For Dave, being part of such a monumental event cemented his place in San Francisco’s history.
Another unforgettable memory involves Broadway star Carol Channing. While working for ABC TV, Dave covered a massive event at Crissy Field with over 400,000 attendees. Amid the chaos, Carol Channing borrowed his pen backstage. Hours later, as she was leaving, Dave boldly called out for his pen, and to his surprise, she turned around and handed it back. “It was a big thrill,” he says, laughing.
These stories, along with his humor and creativity, make Dave’s tours both entertaining and memorable. “I love meeting people from around the world and sharing my beloved home with them,” he says.
A Holiday Lights Expert
Dave’s talents as a storyteller and guide shine brightest during the holiday season. As the primary guide for San Francisco Love Tours’ Holiday Lights Tour, Dave has become an expert in showcasing the city’s festive transformation. Whether it’s the twinkling lights of Union Square, the dazzling displays in the neighborhoods, or the magical views of the Bay Bridge’s light show, Dave knows exactly how to capture the holiday spirit.
He brings his signature humor and warmth to every tour, creating a festive experience filled with joy and wonder. Families, couples, and friends flock to the Holiday Lights Tour to see the city sparkle, and Dave makes each trip unforgettable by sharing stories about San Francisco’s holiday traditions and his own favorite seasonal memories.
Family Adventures and Pro Tips
As a proud father to his daughter Emily, Dave knows all the best places in San Francisco for families. Golden Gate Park, the Exploratorium, and the California Academy of Sciences are just a few of his recommendations. He also loves attending parades and seasonal events across the city, many of which are listed on FunCheapSF, a go-to resource for affordable and free activities.
For travelers seeking insider tips, Dave suggests calling the city’s 311 service. “You’ll get a live operator who can tell you about current events, traffic updates, and directions,” he explains. “24 hours a day. It’s a great way to stay in the know.” He also recommends checking out EaterySF.com for discovering the city’s culinary delights.
A Passion for Connection
Before joining San Francisco Love Tours, Dave spent a decade as a film editor with ABC TV and 25 years as a creative director for a photographic agency. His love for storytelling and creativity naturally transitioned into his role as a tour guide. “Being with the company is amazing—it’s such a good team that supports each other,” he says. “I love the art, the storytelling, and the creativity of it all.”
Dave’s tours are filled with laughter, thanks to his sharp wit and ability to find humor in every situation. He credits his sense of humor for keeping him young and cherishes the friendships he’s built over the years, some of which span over five decades.
Discover San Francisco with Dave
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for a new perspective, a tour with Dave is an experience like no other. His love for San Francisco, paired with his unique stories and personal touches, creates an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most iconic cities.
And if you’re visiting during the holiday season, don’t miss the chance to join Dave on the Holiday Lights Tour. From the festive lights to his captivating stories, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the magic of the holidays in San Francisco.
And if you’re lucky, he might even share his secrets for finding the best ice cream in town.
