San Francisco - A Morning Walk around Pier 39

Finally we were treated to another gorgeous day with bright blue skies -- our last day in San Francisco (February 25, 2008). From the historic Queen Anne Hotel we took the bus downtown to famous Union Square, location of all sorts of fancy retail stores. Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy's, Nordstrom and many other upscale stores and boutiques make this a magnet for the true shopoholics. So far we had had extensive exposure to San Francisco's public transport system, but we had left the real highlight for the last day: a ride on one of the famous San Francisco cable cars!

We hopped on at the corner of Powell and Geary Streets and started to enjoy the outdoor experience on this moving historic landmark. The cable car was so full I was literally hanging outside the vehicle and did not have enough space to turn my body around. I kept thinking to myself how ironic it was that in virtually every other kind of vehicle you have to stay seated and strapped into your safety belts. But here in San Francisco you can literally let it all hang out! What a great experience on this gorgeous day, it really brought out the kid in all of us.

Our charming driver Rufus kept the whole car entertained and compared his job to being a supervisor at an adult day care centre. How true! Riding the San Francisco cable cars definitely brings out the playful and adventurous spirit in everyone, regardless of age. He even let us off at the top of Lombard Street to give us a quick peak at "the world's crookedest street" before he rang his bell and we had to run to jump back onto the moving vehicle. The cable car ride was a definite highlight of our San Francisco experience!

Once arrived in the Fisherman's Wharf area we made our way south, past Pier 39 with its lazy sea lions and the various colourful flower beds of Tulipmania. Our destination was Pier 33 where we caught a boat across to another one of San Francisco's great destinations: Alcatraz Island!

Category:

Travel & Events

Tags:

• San
• Francisco
• California
• Alcatraz
• Golden
• Gate
• Pier
• 39

[TheBadkid1001]

I like that giant pirate near the doughnut store

[ruthbers]

I miss the bay area...last time I went to Pier 39 was 20 something years ago with a special someone from Vallejo

[MrCol2020]

We have a Pier  39 in Cleethorpes , England

[irw007]

San Fran great place, Bubba Gump's a favorite!!!!!!!

[solimiansky]

nick's restaurant is the best! #13 lobster thermidor!!!

[iluvmuzak]

omg! the 8th picture...chocolate heaven is where my brother used to work! its a really good place but a little expensive...