Discover the Heart of San Francisco at the California Welcome Center
Explore San Francisco effortlessly at the California Welcome Center, your gateway to the best attractions and experiences in the city.
Nestled at the bustling Pier 39, the California Welcome Center serves as a pivotal hub for tourists eager to explore the vibrant city of San Francisco. As a visitor center, it offers a wealth of resources, including maps, brochures, and expert advice from knowledgeable staff members who are passionate about sharing the best of the Golden State. Whether you're looking for recommendations on must-see attractions, dining options, or local events, this center has you covered. It’s not just a place to gather information; it’s a welcoming environment designed to enhance your travel experience. Visitors will appreciate the center's focus on community and tourism, providing insights into local culture and activities that go beyond the typical tourist fare. The California Welcome Center also features displays that highlight California's diverse attractions, from stunning national parks to vibrant city life, offering inspiration for day trips and extended adventures throughout the state. Take a moment to relax in the center’s inviting atmosphere while planning your itinerary. Furthermore, the center's prime location at Pier 39 means you're already amidst one of San Francisco's most popular attractions, making it easy to combine your visit with a walk along the waterfront or a chance to see the famous sea lions. With its strategic position, friendly staff, and extensive materials, the California Welcome Center is an indispensable resource for anyone looking to make the most of their time in San Francisco.
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and get personalized recommendations.
- Don’t miss the special events and local guides available for unique tours.
- Check out the California souvenirs and local artisan crafts available for purchase.
- Ask about discounts on local attractions and transportation options.
- Utilize their free Wi-Fi to plan your next stops while you’re there.
A brief summary to California Welcome Center
- Pier 39, San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf, California, 94133, US
- +1415-981-1280
- Visit website
- Monday 11 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-5 pm
- Thursday 11 am-5 pm
- Friday 11 am-5 pm
- Saturday 11 am-5 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, take US-101 N from anywhere in the Bay Area. Follow the signs for San Francisco and take the exit toward I-80 E. Merge onto I-80 E and continue towards San Francisco. Take the exit for Embarcadero, and follow the signs to Pier 39. There is paid parking available at Pier 39, which typically costs around $10 to $20 depending on the duration of your stay.
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Public Transportation - BART
If you're using BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit), take any train heading towards San Francisco. Get off at the Embarcadero station. Once you exit, walk towards the Ferry Building, then continue to the waterfront until you reach Pier 39. This walk takes about 15-20 minutes. BART fares from various locations in the Bay Area range from $5 to $10 one-way, depending on your starting point.
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Public Transportation - Muni
For those in San Francisco, you can take Muni buses or streetcars. The F-Line streetcar runs directly to Fisherman's Wharf. Get off at the Pier 39 stop. A Muni fare is $3 for adults, and you can purchase tickets at vending machines located at Muni stations.
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Walking
If you are already in the Fisherman's Wharf area or near Pier 39, walking is a great way to enjoy the views. Just follow the waterfront promenade towards Pier 39, where the California Welcome Center is located. This area is pedestrian-friendly and offers plenty of sights along the way.
Attractions Nearby to California Welcome Center
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Magowan's Infinite Mirror Maze
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PIER 39
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Musical Stairs
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Aquarium of the Bay
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San Francisco Carousel at Pier 39
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Sea Lions
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Sea Lion Viewing Area
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The Escape Game San Francisco (Fisherman's Wharf)
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Madame Tussauds San Francisco
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Fishermans Wharf
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Ripley's Marvelous Mirror Maze
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Ripley's Believe It or Not!
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Fisherman’s Wharf Sign
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Musée Mécanique
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Pier 33
Landmarks nearby to California Welcome Center
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Pier 43 Ferry Arch
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Fisherman's Wharf
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Pier 31 (1917)
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Muir Woods Shuttles and Tours
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One Lombard Street
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California Historical Landmark 1024: Briones Rancho Site
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1890 San Francisco Bay Ark
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Eureka Steamboat
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C.A. Thayer
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California Historical Landmark 236: First Ship into San Francisco Bay
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Russian Hill-Macondray Lane Historic District
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Maritime Museum
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Northeast Waterfront Historic District
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Jackson Square Historic District
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Black Point Historic Gardens