Visiting Fisherman’s Wharf?
Parking Tips & Insider’s Guide
San Francisco is the jewel of California, with so much to offer. If you’re visiting Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39, you’re in for a real treat. This is one of the most visited areas of SF and for good reason. However, parking in Fisherman’s Wharf can be quite tricky. Read on for tips to safely park in Fisherman’s Wharf and enjoy a beautiful, cultural experience for the whole family.
From the fresh seafood, sourdough bread bowl clam chowder, stunning views, shopping, Embarcadero, and vivacious nightlife, there’s plenty to do in Fisherman’s Wharf. If you’re with your family, there are historic points of interest and plenty to do, see, and eat! Not to mention the iconic chocolate factory Ghirardelli is located in Fisherman’s Wharf!
Fisherman’s Wharf was established during the Gold Rush days when it was a bustling port with many Chinese immigrants coming to the United States through San Francisco. Culturally rich, this area thrived with the constant influx of people.
Fishing was done just offshore and the bounty was sold along the beach. This humble start was the beginning of what we now enjoy as the thriving Fisherman’s Wharf.
Whether you’re a CA native or visiting and renting a car, driving around the city is the best way to experience all it has to offer. Riding a trolley is surely exciting as well, but the freedom a car affords is unbeatable in a city like San Francisco.
Fisherman’s Wharf parking is not as exciting, however, but with these insider tips and tricks to Pier 39 and the surrounding area, you’ll park for cheap and have a great time.
Fisherman’s Wharf Attractions
Now that your car is safely tucked away, it’s time to enjoy all that the Fisherman’s Wharf has to offer, and it’s a lot.
Drive The Embarcadero
Built in 1918, The Embarcadero is an iconic section of eastern shoreline in San Francisco. Now a bustling and beautiful shopping and dining area, this roadway was constructed along the piers and heads north from Pier 39 to Pier 45.
It was named because of its access to the piers, with the Spanish word “embarcar” which means to embark. The Embarcadero literally translates to “the place to embark” and now it’s also a place to have fun.
Eat, Eat, Eat
Just west of Pier 39 are incredible seafood restaurants, food stalls, and a market that will make your mouth water. Likely the most iconic of the area are the sourdough bread bowls filled to the brim with crab and clam chowder. A nice cold beer and a dozen oysters are also a fan favorite.
If you love seafood, Fisherman’s Wharf is heaven. There is also a great farmer’s market at The Embarcadero where you can buy flowers, fresh bread, apothecary items, produce, and so much more. This is a great option if you’re visiting SF for a few days and want to have some snacks in your hotel.
Museums, Tours, Shopping, and More
The Fisherman’s Wharf area has been developed over the years and boasts various restaurants, shopping, museums, tours, and even a ferry to Alcatraz Island.
The Ghirardelli factory on the banks of San Francisco Bay is one of the most recognized and iconic buildings in the area. This delicious, world-famous chocolate brand was founded in 1817 in Italy and planted its roots in the United States in 1849.
Before you do anything, however, be sure to get the best parking in Fisherman’s Wharf.