Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco

The USS Pampanito is a WWII submarine that is today a National Historic Landmark and part of the San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park. The submarine was active during the war, sinking and damaging Japanese ships. Visitors can tour the submarine and learn all about the history. There are even overnight educational programs for kids.Although it was built in 1943, the Pampanito is in the process of being fully restored to resemble its 1945 state, when it was active during the war. The project has been on going but successful as various parts were located and acquired. If you want to see or tour the submarine it is located at Pier 45, Fisherman's Wharf.

Since its opening in 1978 this complex has proved a great attraction. Pier 39 itself was completely rebuilt using timber from old ships; nearby jetties were demolished to create room for small craft moorings.On both levels of the more than 1,000ft/300m-long pier all is bustle and activity. Entertainment of one sort or another is virtually continuous throughout the day and there is always an enticing array of goods on display.Magnificent views of San Francisco's skyscrapers are obtained from the end of the pier and from the restaurant jutting right out over the bay. Pier 39 is also the venue for a unique film show called "San Francisco Experience".Pier 39, in the Fisherman's Wharf area, is a great place to wander through stores or enjoy a meal in beautiful surroundings. The pier is always bustling with activity and has a great location on the waterfront with nice views over the water, particularly on sunny days. This is a pedestrian only area with wooden walkways and traditional looking low rise buildings. The pier is made of timbers from old ships giving it a very historic look.There are all kinds of unique shops, primarily targeted at visitors. There is also often some form of outdoor entertainment happening, be it street performers or live bands. Sea lions can often be seen sleeping or swimming in the area. When you're tired of shopping and taking in the sights you can stop for a meal at one of the many restaurants overlooking San Francisco Bay.

The construction of the Navy/Marine Corps/Coast Guard Museum on Treasure Island was begun at the time of the United States Bi-centennial Celebrations, With displays, documents and pictures the museum illustrates the part played by the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps in the Pacific. A special attraction is the huge mural by Lowell Nesbitt.Wonderful views of the skyscrapers of San Francisco may be enjoyed during the drive over the San Francisco-Oakland Bridge and especially from Treasure Island. Treasure Island is, it must be added, a man-made island; that is to say, it is a part of Yerba Buena Island which has been reclaimed from the sea. The project was carried out for the 1939 Golden Gate Exhibition.Museum now closed.

Since 1967 The Cannery has been an interesting complex with fashion houses, food shops, boutiques, art galleries, cafés and restaurants that have been developed on the south side of Fisherman's Wharf, in what used to be the premises, now nearly a hundred years old, of the Del Monte fruit canning factory.There are similar developments at Ghirardelli Square and Pier 39. Open-air concerts, poetry readings and other shows take place here.The Cannery is a fine example of the contribution being made by San Francisco's architects to urban renewal.Musicians and entertainers perform in an inner courtyard where the olive trees are almost a hundred years old.On the third floor Cannery Casuals boasts a notable Byzantine mosaic ceiling. From the Cannery there is also a splendid view of the harbor.

The Musee Mecanique, previously located at the Cliff House, can now be found at Pier 45 at Fisherman's Wharf. This unique San Francisco museum contains what it claims to be the "world's largest privately owned collection of mechanically operated musical instruments and antique arcade machines".The museum may well be more popular with adults who enjoy the nostalgia than with children but both seem to enjoy the games. Since these are antiques they are not expensive, often still set at the original price. The collection spans the 20th Century with a wide variety of items.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

ATTRACTION IS CLOSED.The Guinness Museum of World Records in San Francisco has displays from the world famous record breaking book.

North Point Center in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf district has a full service grocery as well as theaters and restaurants.

The Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum in San Francisco has some 2,000 curiosities from all corners of the globe.

The Tattoo Art Museum has tattoo memorabilia dating back to 1898 as well as photos on this unique art form.