Things to Do at Pier 39 in San Francisco, CA
Pier 39 is a famous tourist attraction in San Francisco, Calif. The pier, located at the edge of the Fisherman's Wharf area, is filled with shops, restaurants and street performers. Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay Bridge are just a few of the internationally-known attractions that visitors can see from the pier. An arcade, virtual 3D rides and a carousel make Pier 39 a popular destination for families with children.
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Sea Lions
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Sea lions populate many different parts of the bay area, but their home at Pier 39 is the most well-known. They gather here in large groups to lounge, sunbathe and entertain visitors with their sing-song barking. Beginning around 1990, the sea lion population began to explode around the pier. During the winter months, the population can grow up to 1,000 sea lions. The nearby Marine Mammal Center's Interpretive Center provides more information about the pier's sea lions. Admission to the center is always free, so check it out on your trip to the pier.
Magowan's Infinite Mirror Maze
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For about $5 per person, treat the whole family to one of the newer attractions at Pier 39. This maze consists of confusing corridors, dead ends and loops to find your way out of. The mirrors are lit up with multi-colored lights, making the experience even more exciting. The entrance fee allows you to leave and re-enter the maze as many times as you like for the day, so take a few trips inside to see all that it has to offer.
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San Francisco Carousel
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This carousel was handcrafted and hand-painted in Italy to depict famous scenes from San Francisco. Paintings of Chinatown, Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge, among others, adorn this carousel. Unlike most carousels, you can choose between dolphins, sea lions, pandas and several other animals to ride on, or you can take a seat in one of the spinning tubs. The carousel is on the first level at the Bay end of Pier 39. As of 2010, the cost is $3 per ride.
Blue and Gold Fleet
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This fleet of boats will take visitors on tours of the San Francisco Bay. You can take a speed boat ride, a tour of Alcatraz, or a leisurely trip to Angel Island for hiking and picnicking. Buy tickets in advance online at BlueandGoldFleet.com.
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- Photo Credit pier 39 image by Stephen VanHorn from Fotolia.com San Francisco Sea Lions image by Candi from Fotolia.com
