Pier 39

Pier 39 Review

The city's most popular waterfront attraction draws millions of visitors each year who come to browse through its vertiginous array of shops and concessions hawking every conceivable form of souvenir. The pier can be quite crowded, and the numerous street performers may leave you feeling more harassed than entertained. Arriving early in the morning ensures you a front-row view of the sea lions, but if you're here to shop—and make no mistake about it, Pier 39 wants your money—be aware that most stores don't open until 9:30 or 10 (later in winter).

Follow the sound of barking to the northwest side of the pier to view the sea lions that flop about the floating docks.

Parking (free with validation from a Pier 39 restaurant) is at the Pier 39 Garage, off Powell Street at the Embarcadero.

Sales of the excellent books, maps, and collectibles—including a series of gorgeous, distinctive art-deco posters for Alcatraz, the Presidio, Fort Point, and the other members of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area—at the National Park Store help to support the National Park Service. 415/433-7221.

Brilliant colors enliven the double-decker San Francisco Carousel, decorated with images of such city landmarks as the Golden Gate Bridge and Lombard Street. $3 per ride.

At Aquarium of the Bay moving walkways transport you through a space surrounded on three sides by water filled with indigenous San Francisco Bay marine life, from fish and plankton to sharks. Many find the aquarium overpriced; if you can, take advantage of the family rate ($39.95 for two adults and two kids under 12). 415/623-5300 or 888/732-3483. www.aquariumofthebay.org. $16.95. June-Sept., daily 9-8; Mar.-May and Oct., Mon.-Thurs. 10-7, Fri.-Sun. 10-8; Nov.-Feb., daily 10-7.

The California Welcome Center, on Pier 39's second level, offers Internet use for $5 per half hour. 415/981-1280. www.visitcwc.com. Daily 10-6.