Fun things to do at Pier 39 & Fisherman’s Wharf

These fun things to do at Pier 39 & Fisherman’s Wharf covers the best attractions, stores and restaurants at these famous pier in San Francisco.

San Francisco is full of iconic landmarks: the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Lombard Street, the Painted Ladies. But for me, I always remembered a teacher of mine showing us photographs of the sea lions sprawled over wooden planks floating in the sea. Nothing beats a visit to Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39.

This is a great area to stay in San Francisco, so we have broken down the best and fun things to do at Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf, so you can make the most of your time in the area.

Fun things to do at Pier 39

Meet the Sea Lions

One of the most famous attractions at Pier 39 is the colony of sea lions lounging on the floating docks. These playful and noisy creatures have made the pier their permanent home, delighting visitors as they bark, dive, and bask in the sun. Watching them is completely free, and it’s a must on your USA bucket list and one of the best fun things to do at Pier 39.

Ride the Carousel

Families with kids love the two-story vintage carousel located at the entrance of Pier 39, one of the best family-friendly things to do in San Francisco. Its brightly painted animals, sparkling lights, and festive music make it a whimsical attraction for all ages. Even if you don’t hop on for a ride, it’s worth admiring as part of the lively atmosphere.

Explore the Aquarium of the Bay

Located right on Pier 39, the Aquarium of the Bay lets you get up close to San Francisco Bay’s marine life. Visitors can walk through glass tunnels surrounded by sharks, rays, and swirling schools of fish, or check out the touch pools for a hands-on experience. It’s a fun and educational stop for families and one of the best fun things to do at Pier 39.

Enjoy the 7D Experience

The 7D Experience is an interactive ride that combines a 3D movie with video game-style shooting and motion effects. Visitors strap into seats that move with the action while competing against others to score points by blasting virtual enemies. It’s a thrilling, family-friendly fun things to do at Pier 39, that’s especially fun for older kids and teens.

Check Out the Musical Stairs

Hidden near the end of Pier 39 are the Musical Stairs, a whimsical feature that plays different notes as you step on them. Designed like a giant piano, the stairs invite kids and adults alike to run up and down making their own tunes. It’s a small but charming surprise many visitors love to stumble across.

Try the Mirror Maze

Magowan’s Infinite Mirror Maze is a dazzling, colorful labyrinth of mirrors and lights that challenges you to find your way out. With psychedelic colors and reflections in every direction, it’s an optical illusion adventure that’s both disorienting and entertaining. Families especially enjoy this quirky stop.

Relax with Bay Views

Pier 39’s location makes it one of the best spots to take in views of the San Francisco Bay. From the pier, you can see the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Angel Island, and the city skyline, one of the fun things to do at Pier 39. Many visitors grab a snack or coffee and simply relax while watching the boats and sea life. This can be an especially fun things to do in San Francisco at night.

Catch a Show at the Pier 39 Stage

At the heart of the pier, the open-air stage hosts live entertainment throughout the day, which is another one of the fun things to do at Pier 39. From magicians and jugglers to musicians and family-friendly acts, performances are free and draw lively crowds. It’s a fun way to take a break while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.

Watch Street Performers

Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf are buzzing with entertainers showcasing everything from music and comedy to acrobatics. Crowds often gather around these performances, adding to the lively and festive energy of the waterfront. It’s a great way to experience the local culture for free.

Things to do in Fisherman’s Wharf

Try Fresh Seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf

No visit to Fisherman’s Wharf is complete without tasting the area’s world-famous seafood, the most popular food in San Francisco. Classic dishes include clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl and freshly caught Dungeness crab. Street vendors and waterfront restaurants alike make this a must-do culinary experience.

Hop on a Bay Cruise

From Fisherman’s Wharf, you can board a scenic bay cruise to see San Francisco from the water. Popular routes sail under the Golden Gate Bridge, around Alcatraz Island, and along the city’s skyline. It’s a relaxing way to capture unforgettable views of the Bay Area.

Visit Musée Mécanique

This quirky museum houses a massive collection of vintage arcade games, mechanical instruments, and coin-operated curiosities. Most games still work, so visitors can play old pinball machines, fortune-tellers, and other historic amusements. It’s nostalgic fun for kids and adults alike.

Stop by Ghirardelli Square

Just a short walk from Fisherman’s Wharf, Ghirardelli Square is a chocolate lover’s paradise. The historic factory has been transformed into shops and restaurants, but the highlight is indulging in Ghirardelli’s rich sundaes, hot fudge, and signature chocolate treats.

See Historic Ships at Hyde Street Pier

Part of the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, Hyde Street Pier lets you explore beautifully restored historic ships. Visitors can step aboard old sailing vessels and steam ferries to learn about the city’s seafaring past, making it a unique stop for history buffs.

Shop and Stroll Along the Piers

Beyond the big attractions, just walking around Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf is a fun experience. The area is filled with boutique shops, souvenir stands, and themed stores selling everything from local crafts to quirky San Francisco gifts. The lively waterfront setting makes shopping here especially enjoyable.

There is even a Christmas shop full of San Fran-inspired Christmas decorations! We also headed into a chili shop that offered hundreds of spicy delights – Calum enjoyed the samples but enjoyed watching my head explode with one gruesome finger dip of a sauce.

We did get ourselves some clam chowder – a must whilst in San Francisco! Served in a big ball of sourdough bread; it was awesome! As expected there is a load of seafood places around the Pier to visit as well as a few bars for the adults.

How to get to Pier 39 San Francisco

• By Car – If you’re driving, Pier 39 is located at Beach Street and The Embarcadero in the Fisherman’s Wharf area. The pier has its own large parking garage across the street, making it convenient to park nearby. Keep in mind that parking in San Francisco can be expensive, and spaces may fill up during weekends and peak tourist times.

• By Public Transit (Muni) – San Francisco’s Muni system makes it easy to reach Pier 39. You can take the historic F-Line streetcar along Market Street and The Embarcadero, which stops directly in front of Pier 39. Several Muni bus lines, such as the 8, 39, and 47, also stop nearby, making it an affordable option.

• By Cable Car – For a classic San Francisco experience, ride the Powell-Mason or Powell-Hyde cable car lines, both of which end within walking distance of Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39. It’s a scenic and fun way to arrive at the waterfront, though lines for cable cars can be long during busy times.

• By Ferry – If you’re coming from across the Bay, ferries to San Francisco stop at the Ferry Building, where you can transfer to the F-Line streetcar or take a short rideshare to Pier 39.

• By Bike or Walking – The Embarcadero waterfront is perfect for walking or biking, with scenic views along the way. Many visitors rent bikes to ride along the waterfront and across the Golden Gate Bridge, often starting or ending at Pier 39.

• By Rideshare or Taxi – Uber, Lyft, and traditional taxis are widely available throughout San Francisco. Simply set Pier 39 as your destination, and you’ll be dropped off right at the entrance.

Fisherman’s Wharf to Pier 39

• Walking – Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 are right next to each other, so the best way is simply to walk. Depending on where you are in the Wharf, it’s usually a 5–10 minute walk along the waterfront. The stroll is flat, scenic, and filled with street performers, shops, and restaurants along the way.

• By Bike or Scooter – If you’ve rented a bike or e-scooter to explore San Francisco, you can ride along The Embarcadero between the two spots. Bike racks are available near Pier 39 if you want to park and explore on foot.

Things to know before you go to San Francisco

Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf F.A.Q

What is Pier 39 best known for?
Pier 39 is most famous for its lively sea lion colony, waterfront dining, family attractions, and shops. It’s one of San Francisco’s most popular tourist spots and there are plenty of fun things to do at pier 39.

Are the sea lions always at Pier 39?
The sea lions are present year-round, but their numbers can vary. They are most plentiful in winter and spring, though you’ll usually spot some no matter when you visit.

Is Pier 39 free to visit?
Yes, entry to Pier 39 is free. You only pay for attractions, food, or shopping while you’re there. Watching the sea lions and enjoying the views doesn’t cost anything.

What are the best things to do at Pier 39 with kids?
There is so amny fun things to do at pier 39 for children; they love the carousel, Aquarium of the Bay, 7D Experience, mirror maze, and sea lions. Street performers and the Musical Stairs are also family favorites.

What time does Pier 39 open and close?
Most shops and attractions at Pier 39 open around 10 AM and close between 8–10 PM. Hours may vary by season and by business, so checking ahead is best.

Is Pier 39 the same as Fisherman’s Wharf?
Pier 39 is part of Fisherman’s Wharf but not the same thing. Fisherman’s Wharf is the larger neighborhood, with attractions like Ghirardelli Square, Hyde Street Pier, and Musée Mécanique, while Pier 39 is one entertainment hub within it.

Where can I park near Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf?
Pier 39 has its own parking garage, and there are several public lots and garages around Fisherman’s Wharf. Parking can be pricey, so many visitors use public transport or rideshare.

What food is Fisherman’s Wharf famous for?
Fisherman’s Wharf is best known for clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls and fresh Dungeness crab. You’ll also find plenty of seafood restaurants, street vendors, and sweet treats like Ghirardelli chocolate.

Can you take a boat tour from Fisherman’s Wharf?
Yes, boat tours and cruises depart regularly from Fisherman’s Wharf. Popular options include cruises to Alcatraz, Golden Gate Bridge tours, and sightseeing trips around the Bay.

How long should I spend at Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf?
Most visitors spend 2–4 hours exploring Pier 39 and at least half a day enjoying the wider Fisherman’s Wharf area. If you add a bay cruise or museum visit, plan for a full day.

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