USS Pampanito: A Submarine Time Capsule
Step aboard a WWII submarine and explore the history of the Silent Service at San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf.
Explore the meticulously restored USS Pampanito, a WWII Balao-class submarine docked at Pier 45 in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf. This historic vessel offers a glimpse into the lives of the sailors who served in the Pacific during the war, and serves as a memorial to the 'Silent Service'.
A brief summary to USS Pampanito Museum and Memorial
- 45 Pier, San Francisco, California, 94133, US
- +1415-775-1943
- Visit website
- Monday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Purchase tickets in advance online or at the Pier 45 box office to avoid potential lines.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be navigating narrow passageways and steep stairs inside the submarine.
- Allow at least 1.5-2 hours for a thorough visit, including the audio tour.
- Check the USS Pampanito website for updated hours and any weather-related closures, especially during inclement weather.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From downtown San Francisco, take the F line light rail to the Jefferson St & Taylor St stop, which is a 5-minute walk to Pier 45. Alternatively, several bus lines (28, 8BX, 39, 114, 132) stop near Pier 45. A single ride on Muni (bus, light rail) costs $3.00.
-
Walking
From Pier 39, walk west along the Embarcadero towards Pier 45 (approximately 15-20 minutes). Enjoy the views of the waterfront and the sea lions along the way.
-
Ride Share/Taxi
Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) are readily available throughout San Francisco. A short ride from Union Square to Pier 45 will typically cost $15-25, depending on traffic.
Discover more about USS Pampanito Museum and Memorial
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pier 43 Ferry Arch
0.3 km
Explore the historic Pier 43 Ferry Arch in San Francisco, a captivating landmark where stunning bay views meet rich maritime history.
1890 San Francisco Bay Ark
0.4 km
Discover the San Francisco Bay Ark at Fisherman's Wharf: Step back in time and explore a unique piece of maritime history, showcasing early 20th-century houseboat living.
Hyde Street Pier
0.4 km
Explore San Francisco's seafaring past at Hyde Street Pier, home to a remarkable fleet of historic ships and offering stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman's Wharf.
Eureka Steamboat
0.4 km
Explore the historic Eureka Steamboat in San Francisco, a symbol of maritime heritage and a fascinating tourist attraction on the Bay.
2905 Hyde St
0.5 km
Experience the historic charm of 2905 Hyde St in San Francisco's iconic Fisherman's Wharf, where stunning views and rich maritime history await.
Sea Lion Viewing Area
0.5 km
Discover the playful sea lions basking in the sun at Pier 39, an iconic San Francisco attraction offering stunning bay views and family-friendly fun.
C.A. Thayer
0.5 km
Discover the C.A. Thayer, a historic wooden schooner in San Francisco, offering a deep dive into maritime history and the legacy of seafaring.
Sea Lions
0.5 km
Experience the playful chaos of San Francisco's famous sea lions at Pier 39, where these charismatic marine mammals bask in the sun and charm visitors from around the world.
PIER 39
0.6 km
Experience the best of San Francisco at PIER 39, where shopping, dining, and stunning views come together in a vibrant waterfront setting.
California Historical Landmark 236: First Ship into San Francisco Bay
0.7 km
Explore the historical significance of California Historical Landmark 236, the first ship's entry point to San Francisco Bay, with stunning scenic views.
San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
0.8 km
Discover the maritime heritage of San Francisco at the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, featuring historic ships, stunning views, and educational exhibits.
Maritime Museum
0.8 km
Discover San Francisco's maritime heritage at the Maritime Museum, a fascinating journey through nautical history with stunning bay views.
Lombard St
0.9 km
Discover the beauty of Lombard Street, San Francisco's iconic crooked street, adorned with stunning gardens and breathtaking views.
Black Point Historic Gardens
1.0 km
Discover a hidden oasis in San Francisco's Fort Mason: Black Point Historic Gardens, where stunning bay views meet a rich tapestry of history and natural beauty.
Muir Woods Shuttles and Tours
1.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Muir Woods with seamless tours from Muir Woods Shuttles and Tours, your gateway to towering redwoods and lush landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Musée Mécanique
0.1 km
Explore the whimsical Musée Mécanique at Pier 45, where vintage arcade games and mechanical wonders await in San Francisco's Fisherman’s Wharf.
Red and White Fleet San Francisco Bay Cruises
0.2 km
Discover the beauty of San Francisco Bay with Red and White Fleet Cruises, an unforgettable journey showcasing iconic landmarks and stunning views.
SS Jeremiah O'Brien
0.2 km
Discover the SS Jeremiah O'Brien, a historic Liberty Ship in San Francisco, offering a unique glimpse into maritime history and World War II.
Fishermans Wharf
0.2 km
Experience San Francisco's vibrant waterfront at Fisherman's Wharf: seafood, sea lions, and stunning bay views await!
Fisherman's Wharf
0.2 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious seafood at Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco's iconic waterfront destination filled with culture and history.
Fisherman’s Wharf Sign
0.2 km
Iconic sign at San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, a historic fishing hub turned vibrant tourist destination with seafood, sea lions, and bay views.
Scoma's Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience San Francisco's maritime history at Scoma's, a Fisherman's Wharf landmark since 1965, serving fresh, sustainable seafood with stunning waterfront views and a commitment to community.
Ripley's Believe It or Not!
0.2 km
Discover the extraordinary at Ripley's Believe It or Not! in San Francisco – a must-visit attraction filled with bizarre exhibits and interactive experiences.
Ripley's Marvelous Mirror Maze
0.2 km
Discover the enchanting world of reflection at Ripley's Marvelous Mirror Maze in San Francisco's iconic Fisherman's Wharf.
SkyStar Wheel
0.2 km
Discover breathtaking views of San Francisco from the SkyStar Wheel, the iconic Ferris wheel at Fisherman's Wharf, a must-visit for every traveler.
Madame Tussauds San Francisco
0.2 km
Explore the world of fame at Madame Tussauds San Francisco, where lifelike wax figures and interactive exhibits bring your favorite stars to life.
The Escape Game San Francisco (Fisherman's Wharf)
0.2 km
Dive into an immersive adventure at The Escape Game San Francisco, where thrilling puzzles and teamwork await in the heart of Fisherman's Wharf.
Essential places to dine
Franciscan Crab Restaurant
0.2 km
Discover exquisite seafood dining with breathtaking bay views at Franciscan Crab Restaurant in Fisherman's Wharf.
The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House
0.2 km
Experience exquisite garlic-infused seafood at The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf.
Cioppino's
0.3 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Cioppino's - A family-friendly Italian restaurant located at Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco.
Surisan
0.4 km
Discover Surisan: Where Korean flavors meet brunch classics in San Francisco's scenic Fisherman's Wharf.
Capurro's Restaurant
0.4 km
Discover Capurro's Restaurant at Fisherman's Wharf - where fresh seafood meets Italian flair in an unforgettable dining experience.
Pier Market Seafood Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience fresh seafood delights with stunning bay views at Pier Market Seafood Restaurant in San Francisco's iconic Fisherman's Wharf.
Crab House at Pier 39
0.5 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Crab House at Pier 39 in San Francisco's iconic Fisherman's Wharf with stunning bay views.
Fog Harbor Fish House
0.6 km
Experience the freshest seafood with stunning views at Fog Harbor Fish House in Fisherman's Wharf.
Eagle Cafe
0.6 km
Experience delightful seafood and breakfast dishes at Eagle Cafe in San Francisco's iconic Pier 39 with stunning bay views.
Wipeout Bar & Grill
0.6 km
Experience Californian flavors at Wipeout Bar & Grill on Pier 39—delicious food, stunning views, and unforgettable moments await you.
Gary Danko
0.6 km
Discover the culinary masterpiece of Gary Danko in San Francisco - where exquisite flavors meet unparalleled service.
Fior d'Italia
0.7 km
Discover Fior d'Italia: A historic Italian restaurant in San Francisco's North Beach offering authentic cuisine and an inviting atmosphere.
Original Joe's
1.3 km
Discover authentic Italian-American cuisine at Original Joe's in North Beach – where history meets flavor in every dish.
Red Window
1.3 km
Discover Red Window: A delightful European-inspired bar in San Francisco's North Beach offering tapas, cocktails, and a charming beer garden.
Sotto Mare
1.3 km
Discover Sotto Mare: Where Fresh Seafood Meets Authentic Italian Flavors in San Francisco's North Beach.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ess Eff Gift Shop (Inside)
0.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Ess Eff Gift Shop, a charming destination in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf.
Safe Harbor
0.3 km
Explore Safe Harbor, a charming souvenir store in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, offering unique treasures and local art to celebrate your visit.
Frank's Fisherman
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and antiques at Frank's Fisherman, a charming shop in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, perfect for souvenirs and stylish finds.
Route 66
0.4 km
Discover Route 66: A charming general store in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, offering unique souvenirs and local treasures that capture the spirit of the city.
Enlightenment
0.5 km
Explore Enlightenment Gift Shop at Pier 39 for unique South Asian treasures and memorable souvenirs in San Francisco.
I Love SF
0.5 km
Discover unique San Francisco souvenirs at I Love SF, a vibrant gift shop showcasing the spirit of the city in every treasure.
Solve It! Think out of the box
0.5 km
Discover the ultimate game store in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, offering a brilliant selection of puzzles, toys, and family-friendly activities.
Fairy Tales
0.5 km
Explore the whimsical world of Fairy Tales Gift Shop at Pier 39, San Francisco, where magic and creativity come to life in enchanting souvenirs.
The Cable Car Store
0.6 km
Explore San Francisco's charm at The Cable Car Store, your go-to destination for unique souvenirs and gifts celebrating the city's iconic culture.
Only In San Francisco
0.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local artisan crafts at Only In San Francisco, the perfect gift shop to capture your travel memories.
Under the Golden Gate
0.6 km
Explore Under the Golden Gate, a vibrant gift shop at Pier 39 offering unique souvenirs and local crafts in the heart of San Francisco.
Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience
0.7 km
Discover the sweet legacy of Ghirardelli at the Chocolate Experience, where every bite takes you on a delicious journey through San Francisco's rich chocolate heritage.
Lola of North Beach
0.7 km
Explore Lola of North Beach, a charming gift shop in San Francisco, offering unique souvenirs and treasures that embody the spirit of the city.
Missing Audrey Vintage
1.1 km
Explore the eclectic world of fashion at Missing Audrey Vintage, where unique vintage clothing and accessories await in vibrant North Beach, San Francisco.
Vacation
1.3 km
Explore San Francisco's retro charm at a vintage clothing store filled with unique fashion finds and timeless treasures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Socialite Crafthouse & Kitchen
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of San Francisco at The Socialite Crafthouse & Kitchen, a brewpub where craft beer meets delicious cuisine.
Northpoint Craft Cocktails - Local Brews
0.4 km
Experience the best of San Francisco's cocktail culture at Northpoint Craft Cocktails, featuring local brews and inventive mixology in a cozy setting.
Luau Lounge
0.5 km
Savor tropical flavors and stunning views at Luau Lounge, a vibrant restaurant at Pier 39, San Francisco.
Players Sports Grill & Arcade
0.5 km
Experience the ultimate blend of food, drinks, and arcade fun at Players Sports Grill & Arcade in Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco.
Hard Rock Cafe
0.6 km
Savor classic American cuisine amidst iconic rock music memorabilia at Hard Rock Cafe San Francisco, a vibrant dining experience at Fisherman’s Wharf.
Sweetie's Art Bar
0.7 km
Experience the artistic vibe and creative cocktails at Sweetie's Art Bar, a beloved local bar in the heart of San Francisco's North Beach.
Red Jack Saloon
0.7 km
Discover the lively bar scene at Red Jack Saloon, a Fisherman's Wharf gem offering great drinks and a vibrant atmosphere in San Francisco.
Bodega North Beach
1.1 km
Discover Bodega North Beach, your go-to wine bar in San Francisco's North Beach, offering a curated selection of wines and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Tony Nik's CAFE
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Tony Nik's CAFE, a beloved bar in San Francisco's North Beach, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
Gino & Carlo
1.4 km
Experience the lively spirit of San Francisco at Gino & Carlo, a sports bar in North Beach known for its friendly atmosphere and diverse drink selection.
Bar Iris
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant fusion of cocktails and Japanese cuisine at Bar Iris, a must-visit culinary gem in San Francisco's Polk Gulch.
Maggie McGarry's
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of Irish culture at Maggie McGarry's, a beloved pub in San Francisco's North Beach, offering delicious food and lively entertainment.
The Interval at Long Now
1.4 km
Discover The Interval at Long Now: a San Francisco cocktail bar that fuses mixology with thought-provoking exhibits, perfect for curious travelers.
The Showdown
1.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Showdown, a perfect blend of beer hall and casual dive bar in San Francisco’s North Beach.
The Saloon
1.5 km
Experience the lively spirit of San Francisco at The Saloon, North Beach's oldest bar, featuring live music and a welcoming atmosphere.
