Pier 39

Pier San Francisco, California, United States
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What to expect

Pier 39 is a shopping center and popular tourist attraction built on a pier in San Francisco, California. It features shops, restaurants, a video arcade, street performances, the Aquarium of the Bay, virtual 3D rides, and views of California sea lions hauled out on docks on Pier 39's marina. The pier is also home to a two-story carousel and offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the Bay Bridge. The area is family-friendly, with many kid-friendly activities and attractions, making it a popular destination for families with children. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of dining options, including seafood restaurants and casual eateries

Plan your family visit to the Pier 39 with these blog insights 👇

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3 Nights in San Francisco with Little Kids

3 Nights in San Francisco with Little Kids
This family's experience:

Activities: We headed down to Pier 39 and found a cute playground by the marina. Played a bit and then took a walk along the water and through the shops at the Pier. Lots of food choices, plus a ton of sunning sea lions who climbed all over each other and barked

Highlights: The kids adored the sea lions, who climbed all over each other and barked ✨

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San Francisco with Kids

San Francisco with Kids
This family's experience:

Activities: We spent some time watching the sea lions at Pier 39, they were so funny and loud!

Highlights: The kids loved watching the sea lions bark and play, and we even watched the live webcam of the sea lions before the trip! ✨

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21 FUN Things To Do In San Francisco With Kids

21 FUN Things To Do In San Francisco With Kids
This family's experience:

Activities: We spent a day at Pier 39, a bustling entertainment hub with lots of shopping, dining options, and stunning views of the Bay. It was a great place to spend a day with kids

Highlights: The kids loved seeing the sea lions and the many other attractions at the pier. It was a fun and exciting place to spend a day ✨

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The sea lions at Pier 39 in San Francisco

The sea lions at Pier 39 in San Francisco
This family's experience:

Activities: We went to Pier 39 to see the sea lions. We parked near Ghirardelli Square and walked along the pier. We asked the children to be quiet to listen for the sea lions. "Soon we hear the characteristic barking of the sea lions"

Highlights: The children were delighted to see the sea lions, especially when the males showed off. "The tired sea lions at Pier 39 seem to be about as early risers as our little family." It was a great experience ✨

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What to do in San Francisco with family: the essentials

What to do in San Francisco with family: the essentials
This family's experience:

Activities: We spent an afternoon at Pier 39, where we saw the sea lions, watched street performers, and rode the carousel. The kids had a blast. It's a great place to spend a few hours and enjoy the atmosphere

Highlights: The kids loved seeing the sea lions and watching the street performers. They also had fun riding the carousel. It was a lively and entertaining place ✨

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PIER 39

PIER 39
This family's experience:

Activities: We went to this mini village on the edge of San Francisco Bay. We strolled around, checked out the sea lions, and explored the shops. There were also street performers to listen to. We also visited the aquarium and the mirror maze

Highlights: The kids were impressed by the sea lions that live freely in the bay. "There are many shops, especially a small candy store that your children will love." We enjoyed the fun atmosphere and could easily spend the whole day there ✨

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5 Fun and Free Things to do in San Francisco with Kids

5 Fun and Free Things to do in San Francisco with Kids
This family's experience:

Activities: We passed by Boudin Bakery to see the workers shape the sourdough bread into various animals

Highlights: Watching the sea lions interact with each other and admiring their playful nature ✨