Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco
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Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco
What is there to see at Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco? I say plenty if you venture a few blocks in all directions. There is enough to keep you busy all day.
This area of San Francisco is crowded and looks touristy but the back drops and bay water give it an unique look. There is the feeling that you are visiting the one-of-kind city near the dock of the bay. Not once do you feel like you are in an enclosed area reserved only for paid admittance.
On Rodeo Drive you do not feel like stepping into a store. Each side of the entrance has a suited young man. How can you browse and maybe buy something? I have experienced that one time. No thanks, Beverly Hills, is not for me. On the other hand I have visited Fisherman's Wharf, at least, on five occasions.
The Row designated One Fisherman's Wharf looks a little shabby, at this point in 2010. The original seafood marketers are on the sidewalk, and the two or three higher end restaurants badly need updating to invite the new younger crowds in. The round cafe across the street needs work, too. It certainly isn't an artist's enclave, but the city definitely hosts the vibe and I come away feeling entertained. The digital photos I brought home from Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco are enjoyable. Many of the pictures are posted here.
Pigeons and Boudion Bread Dining at No.8 Fisherman's Wharf by Paperfacets
One Fisherman's Wharf may not seem very inviting. As you look down toward the water the whole sidewalk is lined with seafood vendors. Seafood displayed and cooked in all methods. This is where you might buy a couple of oysters or fried clams to munch or buy the crab or lobster that you want to prepare at home.
There is a lively business going here, but it is attractive to only the die hard seafood lover. Between the outdoor stands and the buildings are the entrances to the older dining establishments that were famous in the fifties and sixties. It is true that Fisherman's Wharf is all about eating seafood. They are located on the second floors for the views. The one we dined at, No. 9, had fabulous chowder and crab legs at a good price. It looked rather tired and dated but the service and drinks were good. It did not have outdoor dining that is popular now, but we had a window table with a view.
The Wharf
As I looked at the fisherman's boats from our dining table, at No.9 Fisherman's Wharf, I thought of Cannery Row by John Steinbeck. Old boats that belong to seasoned fisherman or their sons. Romantic.On the street beyond is the crowds walking in both directions and restored electric street cars stopping to eject riders and take new ones on. The over done entrances to the Rainbow Cafe and The Wax Museum calling out with faux theme structures and bright colors.
The Boston Clam Chowder and bread was good and my partner shared some of his crab. It was a good dinner.
Above right are boats docked at One Fisherman's Wharf. You can tell these are fisherman's boats by the tall net booms on each side. Someone had to tell me that. This is the view from Fisherman's Grotto Restaurant.
No.9 Fisherman's Grotto
Official Web Page
- No. 9 Fisherman's Grotto-Fisherman's Grotto Restaurant
- You are greeted with the voice of Tony Bennett singing "Welcome to my world. Won't you come in?" 2010 is their 75th Anniversary Year. The food is good.
Other Long Time Restaurants
Many of the older buildings have a modern streamline look. This one says since 1957.
No.8 in the background to the left is Alioto's. The one time Mayor's seafood restaurant.
Fisherman's Wharf Eateries- Modern Art Deco Eatery - Francsican Crab Restaurant
- From this Franciscan page go to their FB page for the latest news and events.
- No.8 Fisherman's Wharf-Alioto's Restaurant
- The sidewalk stands were the first eateries at the wharf. Here is a quote from the Alioto website. Go there for more history.
"What grew to become an institution in San Francisco dining actually began as a fresh fish stall, founded in 1925 by Nunzio Alioto, Sr., a Sicilian immigrant. At the time, the Wharf consisted of an enormous lumber yard, train tracks, a union hall, canning plants and wholesale fisheries. At Stall #8, Nunzio sold steamed crab, and shrimp and crab cocktails to the Italian laborers."
Just Walking Was a Pleasure
Walking allowed plenty of picture taking.
One Fisherman's Wharf is a bit run down but there is plenty else to see within a half mile. There is a lot of renewal and Boudin Bakery has a new establishment with store, bakery and restaurant. A big window on the sidewalk gives you a view of the bread being made and a baker giving information by way of a speaker to the outside. Here you can see how the animal and seafood shapes are done.Nice landscaping along the sidewalk toward Pier 39. Here you can get a ferry to anywhere in the bay by Bay Cruises and Ferries.
No matter which way you turn there is a view of the hilly city or the calm bay with glimpses of the white Oakland Bay Bridge or the bright orange Golden Gate Bridge.
This is western American culture at its peak.
The Small Ferry Port
One Block From Fisherman's Wharf
Bay Cruise Ferry
Links To the Websites of the Features Mentioned Above
I will be including on this page important links to the official web sites of the locations mentioned here.
- The Boudin Bistro
- This place speaks San Francisco.
- Bay Cruise and Ferry
- A colorful map illustrates where you can go. Visit the other tabs on this sight for more information.
- Alcatraz
- There are many Internet sites for tickets. This one has many of them all together so it is easy to compare and pick the best one for your visit.
- The Official National Park Service Website for Alcatraz Island
- If you plan on going to The Rock be sure to visit this web site.
- Alcatraz Cruises
- The official Park concessionaire for Rock tickets.
Skechers Shape Ups
Skechers Women's Shape Ups - Strength Fitness Walking Sneaker
Amazon Price: (as of 02/17/2012)
List Price: $100.00
I have not tried these yet, but there are 88 5 star reviews. There is a Mary Jane style too.
The Electric Car Comes in All Styles and Colors
Restored Electric Cars
I loved the refurbished electric cars. I wanted a pic of every color. Follow are some of them I saw around the Wharf.
SF Has a Line of Streetcars from Around the World
- SF Streetcar Fleet
- The restored streetcars have a story. Many of the colorful cars are from around the world. A working Museum. Learn more.
Put on Your Walking Shoes
Travel Modes at Fisherman's Wharf
I chose walking as my mode of travel. There are the double decker buses, little yellow bathtub cars, Segway type one person vehicle, and bikes galore. The old type electric cars are a new addition to San Francisco transportation. Those are very colorful. Two blocks over is the cable car turn-a-round. 
List to Modes of Travel
Many companies to choose from.
- Official Cable Car Website
- A three day pass is $20.
- The Yellow Go Car
- This is a bit pricey but would be lots of fun.
- Pier 39
- A list of Pier 39 attractions including the Carousel.
- Mr Toad's Ride
- Antique car ride from $35.
- Double Decker Bus
- Big red bus
Fisherman's Wharf Hotels and Hostels
- sftravel.com
- Extensive information about SF. Well organized and has information about transportation, hotels, eateries and more.
- Argonaut Hotel and Cannery Row
- Seafaring decor and original brick walls from the cannery give this hotel at the NHP charm.
- San Francisco Fisherman's Wharf Hostel
- Located in the Fort Mason Golden Gate National Recreation Area just west of Fisherman's Wharf. There are Hostels at SF City Center and Downtown, as well.
And Finally the Fisherman's Wharf Attractions
The Paid Attractions are here too. Bring the kids.- Wax Museum At Fisherman's Wharf
- I have not visited a Wax Museum in any city. Skipped this one too.
- Aquarium of the Bay
- An institution partnering in the "Change for the Bay" program.
- Musee Machanique
- Free Admission. Have quarters to play the mechanical amusement machines. A collection.
- Anchorage Square
- One place to get your bearings at Fisherman's Wharf. Information on how to spend your money on attractions. Watch your wallet. Figuratively speaking.
- Ripley's Believe It or Not
- About $20 dollars per person.
This Lens is Part of the Giant Squid Showcase 2010
Be Sure to Have A Camera
SF Maritime Museum NHP
Just three blocks from Fisherman's Wharf is the San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park. This NHP was established in 1988. It includes a WPA ship-like building and a circular port for ships and bathing. The Polar Bear Club members regularly swim here.At left is the Aquatic Park Bathhouse built by WPA.
As of June 2010 the grounds are almost finished for reopening. A white viewing staircase and a lawn area is featured for those that do not like the sand.
Another WPA project can be visit at right under related topics. See Dinosaur Hill, SD
From the Aquatic Park Bathouse
and Inside
The opening of the circular port with Alcatraz Island beyond.
Bathouse is an Art Deco Gem
The lobby of the bath house is painted with WPA murals of the oceanic variety.
The Official Website SF Maritime NHP
Over 10 ships to explore and learn about.
The park issues The Maritime News every three months with the latest going on in the park.
- Maritime NHP in San Francisco
- Located where the Cable Car turns-a-round. Just west of here is the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and Youth Hostel.
WPA Work
Orbitz!
See what Orbitz can do for your vacation.
Is Fisherman's Wharf your kind of place?
Visit the tab at the top "SF Maritime Museum" for more of Fisherman's Wharf.
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JaguarJulie
Oct 30, 2011 @ 2:33 pm | delete
- Say ... did I tell you that I was actually there ... once upon a time, oh so very long ago ... I think it was the Summer of '76. Didn't expect it to be so windy though.
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LikinTrikin
Jun 17, 2011 @ 10:25 am | delete
- Was in SF many years ago.. We'll be visiting again and spending a few days in September.. Thanx so much for the helpful info.
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MsSanFran
May 27, 2011 @ 6:35 pm | delete
- If you want to see some cool vintage pictures look at the pictures on the wall in The Franciscan restaurant. I can't remember offhand the actors names but there are lots of cool famous people pics from about 20 years ago. Fun! Scoma's is also a great restaurant too!
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JeremiahStanghini Feb 19, 2011 @ 2:33 am | delete
- I used to live at Fisherman's Wharf... in Victoria.
With Love and Gratitude,
Jeremiah
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JeremiahStanghini May 8, 2011 @ 4:29 pm | delete
- Lensrolled to my SF lens.
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by paperfacets
When spending a few days near Fisherman's Wharf I noticed quite a few English or Scot's accents at the hotel.
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