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Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco, located along the waterfront of Embarcadero and Powell Streets, is the ultimate tourist attraction, home to Pier 39, Ghirardelli Square and the famous resident harbor seals. Crowds, trinket shops, chilly breezes off the harbor (bring a sweater), street performers, t-shirt shops, food vendors and seafood restaurants, make up this tourist mecca. Popular museums such as: Musée Mécanique, Maritime National Historical Park, The Wax Museum and Ripley's Believe it or Not museum, are all located along Fisherman's Wharf.

The street performers are numerous here, from magicians, musicians, pantomimes, to the famous street performer known as, "The Bushman" who has been jumping out from the cover of trees scaring tourists out of their wits for 28 years. Fisherman's Wharf is famous for its clam chowders, and other seafood soups served in enormous bowls of hollowed out sourdough bread. Street vendors offer all types of Dungeness crab preparations. Cotton candy and candy apples are also available, which is fitting, as Fisherman's Wharf certainly has a fun, carnival like atmosphere.

Pier 39 is at the end of Fisherman's Wharf on Embarcadero Street that is home to hundreds of harbor seals who have made their home on the pier docks. Bleacher seating is available to while away the afternoon watching the delightful antics of the seals. This is also, where the boat cruises leave for bay tours and visits to Alcatraz Island. A popular aquarium and children's carousel are located on Pier 39. The crowds at this popular spot can get unbearable at times, so try to visit during a weekday.

Once you have had your fill of street food, try a few popular destinations for lunch or dinner. Pier 39 has many restaurants that offer prime viewing of the seals while enjoying cocktails and freshly prepared seafood. Try, Neptune's Sea Lion Café, that offers views of the sea lions as well as the San Francisco Bay, Golden gate Bridge and the infamous Alcatraz Island. The Bubba Gump Shrimp restaurant and Forbes Island are also popular spots for lunch and dinner. Boudin Bistro and Bakery at the other end of Fisherman's Wharf, is known for its delicious sour dough bread and casual meals.

Where is Fisherman's Wharf: Waterfront of Embarcadero and Powell Streets

How to get to Fisherman's Wharf: Cable car Powell-Hyde, bus 47, streetcar F


Fisherman's Wharf Pier 39, Carousel



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