Summary
Introduction to Pier 39
Pier 39 is one of the most popular destinations in San Francisco. An abundance of reviews and social media posts highlight its significance. Many regard it as the iconic pier in San Francisco, particularly if they can’t recall the specific number.
Essentially, Pier 39 serves as a major tourist attraction. Visitors can engage in a variety of activities (which are detailed below) and find numerous places to shop and dine.
Is Pier 39 part of Fisherman’s Wharf? While the pier is situated within the wharf area, it represents just one of many attractions in that vicinity. It differs from the area where you can observe charming boats docked and sample treats from sidewalk seafood stands.
The majority of visitors to Pier 39 are shoppers and souvenir hunters, or those simply enjoying a leisurely stroll. The pier is renowned for the barking sea lions nearby, a captivating sight that never fails to entertain. Additionally, the view of Alcatraz from the end of the pier is among the finest available from land.
However, as tourism has evolved, some individuals believe the experience at Pier 39 feels less vibrant than in its early years.
Things to Do at Pier 39
In general, Pier 39 hosts a variety of restaurants, souvenir shops, and boutiques offering quirky vacation mementos that visitors often question later. Some of the best shopping options include the chocolate store and clothing items.
- Sea Lions: The Pier 39 sea lions made “K” dock their home in 1990, immediately becoming a tourist favorite. You can see them from Pier 39, or opt for Pier 41 for a better view. In the summer months, don’t be surprised if the docks appear nearly empty; even sea lions migrate south for breeding and return in August. You can also visit the Sea Lion Center, where you can touch a sea lion pelt and compare your size to a real sea lion skeleton.
- Musical Stairs: For an unforgettable selfie or vacation photo, make sure to check out the musical stairs, an interactive art exhibit by artist Remo Saraceni, who also created the floor piano featured in the Tom Hanks film “Big.” These stairs can be found ascending to the second level in the middle of the pier.
- San Francisco Carousel: Carved and painted in Italy, this carousel uniquely features art representing its home city.
- Street Performers: Some of San Francisco’s finest street performers present shows multiple times a day. To find them, stroll toward the Alcatraz viewing area and look for the performance stage.
- Pier 39 Marina: On the quieter east side of the pier, venture behind the stores to appreciate stunning views of the marina, Treasure Island, Bay Bridge, and Berkeley.
- Theater 39: This intimate theater showcases a diverse array of performances. Check out current shows.
- Aquarium of the Bay: Experience a “diver’s-eye” view of marine life inhabiting San Francisco Bay. Visitors traverse clear acrylic tunnels on a moving walkway through 707,000 gallons of bay water, coming face-to-gill with various marine creatures. Admission fees apply.
- DarkRide: This 7-D experience combines the thrills of a rollercoaster with an engaging shooting game.
- Magowan’s Infinite Mirror Maze: An updated take on classic carnival funhouse mirror mazes, perfect for getting delightfully lost for a while.
Pier 39 Tips
- For a more tranquil view of the sea lions without the crowds, avoid the pier’s main viewing area. Instead, stroll along the east side of Pier 41. While you may not get as close, the experience will be far less busy.
- Navigating Pier 39 with a stroller can be difficult during peak times. Consider arriving early or late to sidestep the crowds, or go without if possible.
- Pier 39 offers free restrooms, which you may not find again nearby soon. The restrooms on the upper level tend to be less crowded and cleaner.
- Don’t overlook the upper level. Half of the shops are located there; it’s quieter, and the views are impressive.
- Utilize the upper level to traverse from the front to the back more efficiently on busy days, or explore the outer walkways behind the stores.
- If stairs prove challenging, look for the elevators discreetly located in the side corridors.
- Celebrate Independence Day with fireworks near Pier 39. One of the best vantage points is from the top floor of the parking garage across the street.
What You Need to Know About Pier 39
Pier 39 is open daily, but operating hours for shops may vary. Visiting the pier itself is free, though some attractions, like the aquarium, require an admission fee. For more information on available shops, restaurants, attractions, and their hours, refer to the Pier 39 website.
Pier 39 is located on Embarcadero Street along the waterfront, nestled between the Bay and Golden Gate Bridges. If you are already in the area, consider taking the historic “F” trolley from Market Street and the Ferry Building. For those coming from Union Square and Chinatown, the Powell-Mason cable car provides a scenic route.
If driving, follow your GPS for directions to Pier 39. Numerous signs in tourist-heavy areas will guide you there (or to the adjacent Fisherman’s Wharf). However, if the San Francisco Giants are playing at home, it’s advisable to avoid taking Interstate Highway 280 and Townsend Street, as traffic tends to be heavy due to game day crowds.
There is a multi-story parking facility across from Pier 39. While it can be costly, validation discounts are available with any purchase.
