Overview
Walk along the world-famous Fisherman's Wharf as your local tour guide shares some of the fascinating history about the area and how SF became the global destination it is today. This popular tour, with tickets for both Alcatraz and the new SkyStar Wheel included, offers plenty of opportunities to fill your camera roll and make memories.
We start at Aquatic Park, where you'll see stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. At Ghirardelli Square, your guide will share the origin story of the famous Italian chocolatier. You’ll also learn about the Gold Rush, the Barbary Coast Trail, and more.
Glimpse the oddities on display in the old-timey Musée Mécanique, and get your photo taken with the adorable sea lions of Pier 39.
But some of the best pictures you'll get are from 150 feet in the air on the SkyStar Wheel and while cruising to and exploring Alcatraz, the infamous island prison. An audio guide is included with your self-guided visit to Alcatraz Island.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Stops at Pier 39, Ghirardelli Square, the Barbary Coast Trail, and more
Professional SF guide who shares the history of the SF waterfront plus travel tips
Ticket for a private glass gondola in the 150-foot-tall SkyStar Wheel
Guided tour of Fisherman’s Wharf
Visit the vintage Musée Mécanique
Official Alcatraz ticket, including ferry ride to the island (Value $45.25)
Views of the bay and Golden Gate Bridge
Food or Drinks
Gratuities
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
Meet your ExperienceFirst guide on the corner across the street from the Buena Vista Cafe (2765 Hyde St)
End point
Concludes at Alcatraz Landing
Good to know
Please Provide Names of ALL Participants Attending - they will need to show matching ID
What to expect
-
Aquatic Park
10 min
On the northern waterfront, Aquatic Park offers a scenic viewpoint of Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, and more. Get ready for some picture-perfect photos.
-
Ghirardelli Square
10 min
Known for its iconic chocolate factory turned shopping and dining destination, Ghirardelli Square is scenic and inviting. Here, you'll learn how the popular chocolatier began in San Francisco.
-
Fisherman's Wharf
30 min
The lively Fisherman's Wharf Waterfront is full of seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and sometimes even street performers. Enjoy panoramic views of the bay as you walk with your guide.
-
Barbary Coast Trail
10 min
Walk part of this trail to travel through San Francisco's history. There are plaques along the way, but your guide brings the stories to life, explaining this area’s once notorious past.
-
Musee Mecanique
10 min
Walk inside this vintage museum filled with over 200 penny arcade games, automated instruments, and strange contraptions. Your guide may even show you some of them in action!
-
Pier 39
15 min
The pier is best known for the sea lions who enjoy basking in the sun on floating docks. Your guide will tell you why they’re here while you snap selfies with these adorable whiskered mammals.
-
Hyde Street Pier
10 min
Check out the historic ships at this pier to discover more of SF’s maritime history and see another side of this popular waterfront.
-
The Embarcadero
10 min
Running along the eastern waterfront, the Embarcadero might be San Francisco’s prettiest promenade. As you explore, enjoy spectacular waterfront views and look for local sights like the art deco streetcars.
-
Alcatraz Island
3 hours
Enjoy a quick cruise over to the infamous island to see this former fort turned prison turned national park. Your ticket includes a self-guided visit to all the exhibits, gardens, and the cellhouse with an audio guide to provide a richer context to your tour.
-
SkyStar Wheel Fisherman’s Wharf
10 min
Enjoy a ride in your glass-enclosed gondola for sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay and the surrounding city from 150 feet in the air. Your ticket is included with this tour.
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Times are local to the experience (America/Los Angeles).
Additional Information
- Your ticket to Alcatraz is included with this tour, but the boat's departure time may vary.
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about Alcatraz & Fisherman’s Wharf Tour + Cruise & Skystar Options
Can I cancel Alcatraz & Fisherman’s Wharf Tour + Cruise & Skystar Options for free?
No. All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
How long does it take?
It takes about 5 hours.
Where does it start?
Meet your ExperienceFirst guide on the corner across the street from the Buena Vista Cafe (2765 Hyde St)
What's included?
- Stops at Pier 39, Ghirardelli Square, the Barbary Coast Trail, and more
- Professional SF guide who shares the history of the SF waterfront plus travel tips
- Ticket for a private glass gondola in the 150-foot-tall SkyStar Wheel
- Guided tour of Fisherman’s Wharf
- Visit the vintage Musée Mécanique
- Official Alcatraz ticket, including ferry ride to the island (Value $45.25)
- Views of the bay and Golden Gate Bridge
What's not included?
- Food or Drinks
- Gratuities
Which places does it visit?
It visits Aquatic Park, Ghirardelli Square, Fisherman's Wharf, Barbary Coast Trail, Musee Mecanique, Pier 39, Hyde Street Pier, The Embarcadero.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by ExperienceFirst
