If you’re going to San Francisco in California , put a flower in your hair and head over to Pier 39 – that’s where everyone is. Adjacent to Fisherman’s Wharf and along the bay, Tourists and locals both flock to this bayside attraction, filled with something for everyone. However, before you get caught up in 39 Pier attractions, why not learn about the best places to go?
Getting to Pier 39 isn’t difficult and parking is generally easy to find – though you may have to pay higher fees the closer you are the actual 39th Pier. Some find great parking options right along the Embarcadero Street that the pier is located on, while others like to park directly across the street where parking fees here are steep and are charged hourly. This area can be easily accessed from the highway 101 that runs through the city, though you will want to note that it changes into Lombard Street (as well as Van Ness) when you’re driving through San Francisco proper.
Once you’ve gotten situated at Pier 39, you will want to start exploring. There are two levels of Pier 39, and we recommend your first stop to be at the California Welcome Center on the second story. Here you can rent strollers, get free maps, discount booklets and tons of visitor information. The friendly staff will give you all the insiders tips to seeing Pier 39 as well as your trip to San Francisco. On the second floor, you will find additional shops as well as a viewing deck from which you can see the bay as well as the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and Sausalito.
On your way back down from the top level of 39 Pier, you can purchase tickets for the adjacent Aquarium on the Bay which features an aquarium that surrounds you on all sides. To the left rear of Pier 39 is one of San Francisco’s tourist hotspots, the place where the sea lions like to gather. You’ll be able to tell where this is from the crowds as well as the loud barking of the sea lions themselves. Take a few moments to read the literature along this part of Pier 39 as well as take a few pictures of these world renowned animals. After looking at the sea lions at 39 Pier you will find a number of eclectic shops that offer everything from Italian charms to ice cream and Russian dolls. There is an arcade and theater as well on the bottom level. There is an Aquarium, a two-story carousel, a magic carpet ride, and Turbo Ride, thrilling adventure through the magic of films and sophisticated simulation technology where the hydraulic seats move in sync with the action on the big-screen. But what you really want to see is the street performers on the central stage of Pier 39. They perform daily from 11:00am on and involve the audience in everything from singing and juggling to magic tricks and other wacky shows.
Don’t forget to hit the Hard Rock Café on your way out of the first level of the Pier 39 center as well as the inexpensive souvenir gift shop that’s directly across from the café.
Not only is Pier 39 one the Bay area’s best attractions but it’s good clean fun for the whole family.
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