San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf
San Francisco Sightseeing Attraction
San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions, and an exciting, interesting part of San Francisco. Famous for the seafood, and some of its individual attractions, Fisherman’s Wharf is fun and a little crazy, and the perfect way to spend a day.
Fisherman’s wharf stretches from Ghirardelli Square at Van Ness street to Pier 35 at Kearny St. Along this stretch of San Francisco waterfront, you can find restaurants, stores, and famous attractions, and take in San Francisco’s eccentric beauty. Ghirardelli Square is world famous for its chocolate. Founded in 1893 by Domingo Ghirardelli, the Ghirardelli Chocolate Company continue to make world famous chocolate to this day. In the early 60s, the original Ghirardelli headquarters at Fisherman’s Wharf were in danger of being torn down. But they land was bought by native San Franciscans the Roths. They had an architect maintain the historical Square while converting it into a restaurant and retail complex, making it the first adaptive re-use project in the US. The Ghirardelli Chocolate Shop offers incredibly delectable chocolate concoctions. Pier 39 is world famous as a historical piece of San Francisco, and as a tourist’s haven. Small boutiques selling souvenirs and Knick knacks, restaurants, a large games arcade, and a carousel make Pier 39 a destination for families and people of any age. The San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park, The Musee Mecanique, Ripley’s Believe It or Not and the Wax Museum all offer different views of history and allow people to interact with the exhibits. The Maritime Historic Park of Fisherman’s Wharf offers a look at the fishing industry in Northern California, and how it became so important in the history of San Francisco. The Musee Mecanique is a museum and funhouse of old-fashioned arcade games from San Francisco’s legendary Playland at the Beach. It is a collection of games and exhibits that highlight Playland’s history and give people an insight into old San Francisco. Ripley’s Believe It or Not is a novelty museum, displaying bizarre and startling artifacts from around the world. The Wax Museum features wax recreations of famous people, along with explanations of their lives.
Fisherman’s Wharf also offers a unique shopping experience. From the high-class boutiques at The Cannery and in Ghirardelli Square to the small street front stores lining the thoroughfare, Fisherman’s Wharf offers any level of souvenir or present. The Cannery also offers live music on weekends and is a wonderful place to enjoy the atmosphere of Fisherman’s Wharf.
Fisherman’s Wharf is also famous for its cuisine. Starting with the fresh Dungeness crab served in restaurants and from street stands alike, Fisherman’s Wharf is renowned for its fresh, delicious seafood. From Pompeii’s, and Alioto’s #8, San Francisco restaurants that have been in the same family for generations, to smaller, newer restaurants, the seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf is unbelievable. Another Fisherman’s Wharf favorite is Boudin’s. Boudin’s is a high-quality bakery and restaurant famous for their clam chowder in a bread bowl. High quality food at a reasonable price, Boudin’s is a delicious and fun experience. The restaurant offers a delectable menu and a classy, fun atmosphere. Fisherman’s Wharf boasts some of the best seafood you will ever have, not to mention a great time for all.
Transportation in the area can also be a fun experience. The F Market runs from Market St. to Fisherman’s Wharf. The F Market is a special line that uses old-fashioned trains from all over the US. Also, The Cable Cars run near Fishman’s Wharf. The Powell-Hyde line runs to Aquatic Park at the Wharf’s edge, and the Powell-Mason Line runs just a few blocks away.
Fisherman’s Wharf is also easy to get to from near-by neighborhoods like North Beach and Chinatown. Also, taking a cab or the train to Fisherman’s Wharf is a good idea, because the area is usually very busy with cars, so parking could be a problem if you drive.
When you’re at Fisherman’s Wharf, look out for the World-Famous Bushman. He’s a friendly neighborhood street performer who’s been in the neighborhood for 25 years.
Fisherman’s Wharf is a beautiful, vibrant part of San Francisco. It offers all sorts of entertainment, and amazing food, so that everyone who goes can have a great time and enjoy great cuisine. San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf is an important part of the city’s history, and a fantastic place to visit.
