- Fisherman’s Wharf’s many tourist attractions make it a top spot for all ages.
- From sea lions to seafaring adventures, Pier 39 on the Wharf is full of memorable experiences.
- Refuel with delicious seafood and bay views at Pier Market.
San Francisco’s Pier 39 has attractions and fun for every generation. But with so much to do, see, and eat, a little planning is important to keep your visit low-stress. Here’s a plan for a family day discovering the top Fisherman’s Wharf tourist attractions that ensures everyone—from toddlers to grandparents—has a great time.
Start Your Day Right
Fun takes fuel. So make sure you take in some calories at one of the pier’s delicious breakfast spots before you jump into your day. Our recommendations:
- Eagle Cafe: From delicious classics like omelets and French toast to specialties like Crab Cake Benedict, there’s something to please every eater on this iconic restaurant’s breakfast menu.
- Biscoff Coffee Corner: If you don’t have time for a sit-down meal, then grabbing a coffee or smoothie and some bakery delights from this cute shop is a great option.
See the Sea Lions
Morning is a great time to pay a call on the sea lions—a must-see attraction on Pier 39. As one of the top attractions for tourists visiting Fisherman’s Wharf, the crowds around these playful pinnipeds can get quite heavy in the afternoons.
Musical Stairs
Early in the day is also a good time to walk up—or down—the musical stairs. Little ones are enthralled by this magical Fisherman’s Wharf tourist attraction. Every step you take plays a piano note!
Mid-Morning
You’ve got a couple of hours before savoring a lunchtime feast featuring San Francisco’s must-try foods, so head on over to the Aquarium by the Bay. This is one of the top Pier 39 attractions, and it includes something every member of the family will love. Be sure to check out:
- The Touch Pools: Visitors get hands-on with sharks, rays, skates, anemones, and more.
- The Discover the Bay Gallery: View seven habitats featuring a wide variety of fish, including newly hatched “Bay Babies.”
- The Under the Bay Tunnels: From the amazing variety of species that make their homes in the shallows of the bay to the sharks and rays that inhabit the deeper points of the local waters, these tunnels immerse you in underwater ocean life.
Lunch Break
Hungry? Just like your breakfast choices, you’ve got midday options based on your time schedule.
For a quick bite, grab a Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog from the Wipeout Bar & Grill cart. But for something a bit heartier while you take a break from exploring Fisherman’s Wharf’s tourist attractions, the family-friendly Pier Market is the perfect choice.
This award-winning spot serves a raft of seafood specialties, many of which are cooked to smoky perfection on their mesquite grill. From a steaming sourdough bowl of clam chowder to a massive, shareable Shellfish Platter, hungry diners are sure to enjoy every bite. You’ll also find meat and chicken selections, savory sandwiches, and—of course—a kid’s menu.
Afternoon
On the Water
One of the most popular tourist attractions isn’t technically on Fisherman’s Wharf—it’s on the water! Taking a boat around the bay gives your family the chance to view San Francisco’s sightseeing landmarks from an entirely different perspective.
Back on Dry Land
Once you’re back on Pier 39, more attractions await. You can take things at a slower pace and browse the unique shops for souvenirs of your fun day, or sit and enjoy the pier’s street performers. If you—or your teens and tweens—still have a hankering for some excitement, check out the Flyer Thrill Zone.
Wrap Up Your Day
Whether you follow our family trip guide or put together an itinerary of your own, there’s no end to the fun you’ll have exploring Fisherman’s Wharf tourist attractions. For the perfect wrap-up to your day, head back over to Pier Market for one last sampling of the seafood delicacies San Francisco is known for.
Pier Market makes family dining easy. We save many tables for walk-in guests, or you can reserve a table on Yelp. Then sit back, take in the beautiful bay views, and reminisce over your amazing day spent enjoying the best food and attractions Pier 39 has to offer. We look forward to seeing you soon!