One of San Francisco's most popular tourist areas is Fisherman's Wharf. This old section, once the Little Italy of San Francisco, is an area known for its shops, restaurants, and beautiful setting along the waterfront. As the name suggests, there are fisherman who still operate out of here and visitors can arrange fishing charters. For something a little more relaxing there are also cruises that will take visitors on tours of the area, including sunset and evening cruise with spectacular views of the city.
Some of the main attractions in the area are the Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf and Ghirardelli Square. Pier 39, located in this general area, is home to over 130 stores and many unique places to eat. There is always something going on here with a variety of entertainment. In addition there are great views from the pier looking back onto the city.
This is usually the first place visitors head if they are new to the city.
It's a fun place to stroll around and get a flavor for the city. For those with only a day or two to spend in San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf is a good place to start.
Fisherman's Wharf used to be not only a flourishing fishing harbor but also a real "Little Italy", the Genoese who made their homes here towards the end of the 19th century having been joined in due course by Neapolitans, Calabrians and Sicilians. Even now this Italian influence is still in evidence.
Though the harbor itself has become somewhat run down, few of the 12 million tourists who come to San Francisco each year depart without visiting Fisherman's Wharf with its many shops, restaurants, waxworks and other such attractions. And there are still some fishermen, many of whom welcome paying tourists on their fishing trips (from the quay north of Jefferson Street between Jones Street and Leavenworth Street). Catches include crayfish and crabs, soles, salmon, etc. Most of the fish are destined for local restaurants.
Address: Fisherman's Wharf, THE CANNERY at Del Monte Square 2801 Leavenworth Street 2nd Floor B-16, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States
Phone: 1 (415) 673-3530, Fax: 1 (415) 673-2527
The Museum of Vision, founded in 1980, is a unique attraction dedicated to preserving the history of ophthalmology and celebrating its contributions to science and health. The museum's collection, dating from the third century B.C. to the present, includes artifacts, rare books and archives. The museum is located at the headquarters for the American Academy of Ophthalmology - the largest association of eye doctors in the United States.
Address: Museum of Vision, 655 Beach Street, Suite 300, San Francisco, CA 94109-1336, United States
Phone: 1 (415) 561-8502, Fax: 1 (415) 561-8567
Hours:
9am-5pm; Closed: Sun, Sat
Tips: Appointments are recommended, please call ahead to assure staff availability.
The Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum in San Francisco has some 2,000 curiosities from all corners of the globe.
Address: Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum, 175 Jefferson Street, San Francisco, CA 94133-1201, United States
Phone: 1 (415) 771-6188, Fax: 1 (415) 771-1246
Disability Access: Full facilities for persons with disabilities.
Teatro ZinZanni is a blend of cabaret, live music and a gourmet meal all under one roof. Interactive theater and fine art bring the room to life for actors and audience.
Situated on Leavenworth Street in this shopping and leisure center is one of San Francisco's latest attractions. There are nearly 50 shops and restaurants on various levels, as well as a hotel in a delightful architectural setting.
The center of the complex is an inner courtyard, where buskers from all parts of the city perform in a mini-amphitheater.
Address: The Anchorage, 2800 Leavenworth Street, San Francisco, CA 94133-1121, United States
Phone: 1 (415) 775-6000, Fax: 1 (415) 441-4209
Turbo Ride features hydraulic seats that move in sync with the action on the big-screen. Dino Island II, Haunted Mine Ride and Extreme Log Ride are three of the adventure rides available.
Address: Turbo Ride Simulation Theater, Pier 39, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States
Phone: 1 (415) 392-8872, Fax: 1 (415) 392-8412
Hours:
10:30am-9pm; Sun:10:30am-10pm; Sat:10:30am-10pm
Tips: The multi-ride ticket costs $18 for adults, and $14 for seniors and children.
To the east of the Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum in San Francisco is the Wax Museum at Fisherman's Wharf, with over 200 wax figures imported from England on a show.
Exhibits include the Chamber of Horrors, Hall of Religion, Library of U.S. Presidents, Recreation of King Tut's Tomb and the Palace of Living Art.