They want to go to Fisherman's Wharf
Because I swim at the South End Rowing Club, I have been spending a bit of time in Fisherman's Wharf (i.e., Fishy Wharf) and thought I would reveal a few of its secrets. This information could come in handy if you have relatives visiting from the Midwest, and a trip to the tourist trap can not be avoided.
The sea lions at Pier 39 are well-known and fun to observe. If a docent is present on the pier, be sure and ask lots of questions: that is why they are there. Then head down the street towards Ghirardelli Square. Stop in at the Hyde Street pier, especially if you have kids, because the pier has lots of really cool ships you can explore. My friend B. and I learned what it means to "batten a hatch" the last time we were there. Next to the pier is the State Park Maritime store, which is the best souvenir shop in the area. It is full of cool books and nautical things, as opposed to dumb T-shirts and tacky trinkets.
You can also stroll out on the breakwater/pier past Aquatic Park. Of course, while passing Aquatic Park, look out at the buoys for swimmers. You will probably see a swimmer any time of year or in any type of weather. Look for the folks without wetsuits -- they are probably South Enders, or a lower-caste Dolphin.
If you insist on a tourist event, take the kids to the chocolate factory and get a hot fudge sundae. They are really tasty and worth the cost. Plus, you can see the old equipment and learn how chocolate is made. If the kids were left off somewhere near Lodi, take the adults to Buena Vista for an Irish Coffee. It is fun, even if it is touristed. You can also get a reasonably priced meal there. For pricier meals, skip Aliotos and such. Instead stop in at Pompeii's Grotto or the Blue Mermaid. Both are quite good for the price you pay, and you don't feel ripped off when you've finished your crab sandwich.
My pal A. recommends the Fiddler's Green if you really want to avoid the tourist traps and hunker down for a pint with the locals. I haven't been, but I trust her recommendation.
Finally, if you want to ignore my advice entirely, then I advise plunging right in and paying the money for the Wax Museum. If you are going to go tourist, then go all the way. Have fun!
The sea lions at Pier 39 are well-known and fun to observe. If a docent is present on the pier, be sure and ask lots of questions: that is why they are there. Then head down the street towards Ghirardelli Square. Stop in at the Hyde Street pier, especially if you have kids, because the pier has lots of really cool ships you can explore. My friend B. and I learned what it means to "batten a hatch" the last time we were there. Next to the pier is the State Park Maritime store, which is the best souvenir shop in the area. It is full of cool books and nautical things, as opposed to dumb T-shirts and tacky trinkets.
You can also stroll out on the breakwater/pier past Aquatic Park. Of course, while passing Aquatic Park, look out at the buoys for swimmers. You will probably see a swimmer any time of year or in any type of weather. Look for the folks without wetsuits -- they are probably South Enders, or a lower-caste Dolphin.
If you insist on a tourist event, take the kids to the chocolate factory and get a hot fudge sundae. They are really tasty and worth the cost. Plus, you can see the old equipment and learn how chocolate is made. If the kids were left off somewhere near Lodi, take the adults to Buena Vista for an Irish Coffee. It is fun, even if it is touristed. You can also get a reasonably priced meal there. For pricier meals, skip Aliotos and such. Instead stop in at Pompeii's Grotto or the Blue Mermaid. Both are quite good for the price you pay, and you don't feel ripped off when you've finished your crab sandwich.
My pal A. recommends the Fiddler's Green if you really want to avoid the tourist traps and hunker down for a pint with the locals. I haven't been, but I trust her recommendation.
Finally, if you want to ignore my advice entirely, then I advise plunging right in and paying the money for the Wax Museum. If you are going to go tourist, then go all the way. Have fun!
posted by Livvy in Tucson at 8:32 PM
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