With temperatures warming up, there’s no better time to start planning your next vacation! With its beautiful weather, diverse landscape, and endless activities for young and old, San Francisco is the perfect destination. To make your planning stress-free, we’ve carefully curated the top must-see destinations at Fisherman’s Wharf, the premiere port to the Golden City. Favored by tourists and locals alike, Fisherman’s Wharf is the perfect blend of culture, history, and endless fun. Not to mention, the views of the Bay Bridge and iconic Golden Gate Bridge make it the perfect part of town to immerse yourself in for the day.
Take a stroll around Ghirardelli Square
The iconic square traces its history back to when the chocolate factory was first built by Italian immigrants in the 19th century. It now houses several retail shops and restaurants, while retaining the charm reminiscent of the olden days. Not to mention, it’s home to the famed Ghirardelli Chocolate Shop. There’s no better excuse to indulge in a delicious chocolate treat!
Watch the sea lions lounging at Pier 39
While the earthquake of 1989 originally brought the sea lions to Pier 39, they found they much preferred the location, and quickly made a home of it. There are estimated to be over 1,500 sea lions found sunbathing along the dock and floating on the wooden barges.
Take a selfie with your favorite celebrity at Madame Tussauds San Francisco
The world-famous wax museum opened its San Francisco location back in 2014, and has been attracting guests from around the globe ever since. With lifelike wax figures of your favorite movie stars, musicians, and athletes, such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Zendaya, and Serena Williams, there are plenty of photo opportunities for the perfect selfie. Coming this spring, for a limited time only, President Biden and Vice President Harris’s figures will be making their stately debut as they arrive at Madame Tussauds San Francisco. Much thought and attention to detail were put into the creation of the wax figures, who are dressed in recreations of the outfits worn at the 46th inauguration ceremony.
Sample the catch of the day at one of the many seafood eateries
San Francisco is a culinary capital with more restaurants in the city than any other major city in the U.S., with restaurants and cafes guaranteed to cater to every palate and budget. The seafood found in Fisherman’s Wharf is no exception, with savory soups, signature bread bowls, and fresh shellfish to devour.
Learn about the sea creatures at the Aquarium of The Bay
The aquarium is the best place to visit after a long day of exploring, as it offers an opportunity to relax as you learn about the diverse sea life in the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding Bay Area. Over 200 species of marine animals and plants call the aquarium home, with creatures ranging from sharks, fish, otters, turtles, and many shelled varieties.
Try to set a high score at Musée Mécanique
Musée Mécanique is treasured by tourists and locals alike. A scene straight out of another time and place, the beloved arcade houses over 200 old school arcade games, marionettes, and even fortune-telling machines. Each game is less than 50 cents, making it a budget-friendly activity for both kids and adults.
Take a quick trip to Alcatraz
No visit to San Francisco would be complete without visiting the infamous Alcatraz Island. A quick and relaxing boat trip to Alcatraz provides beautiful views of the city and the Golden Gate Bridge. If visiting the prison is not on your must-see list, there’s also an optional boat cruise that circles the bay along Alcatraz before heading towards Golden Gate Bridge, offering just as many opportunities to appreciate the city in its splendor
Whether it’s seeking a reprieve from the California heat or wanting a change of scenery from the other incredible sights San Francisco has to offer, Fisherman’s Wharf has something for everybody and every budget!
