SkyStar Wheel: A Coastal Observation
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of San Francisco Bay and iconic landmarks from atop the SkyStar Wheel at Fisherman's Wharf.
The SkyStar Wheel, a towering Ferris wheel located in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, offers riders panoramic views of the city, the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the Bay. Standing 150 feet tall, it features 36 enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas, providing a comfortable and breathtaking experience for all ages.
A brief summary to SkyStar Wheel
- 2860 Taylor St, San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf, California, 94111, US
- +1833-269-7827
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-10 pm
- Thursday 10 am-10 pm
- Friday 10 am-10 pm
- Saturday 10 am-10 pm
- Sunday 10 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Purchase tickets online in advance to guarantee entry and skip potential lines.
- Visit in the evening for stunning sunset views and to see the city lights sparkle.
- Dress in layers, as the temperature can be cooler at the top of the wheel.
- Take advantage of the photo opportunities to capture memorable moments with the city skyline as your backdrop.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure the best possible viewing conditions.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown San Francisco, take the F Line streetcar to the Jefferson & Powell stop, which is a short walk to the SkyStar Wheel. Alternatively, ride the Powell-Mason cable car to its final stop at Taylor and Bay streets, then walk four blocks. The 8, 8x, and 39 Muni buses also serve the area. A single ride on Muni costs $3, or a day pass can be purchased for $5, which includes cable car rides.
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Walking
If you are already in Fisherman's Wharf, the SkyStar Wheel is easily accessible on foot. It is located on Jefferson Street, between Powell and Mason streets, near Pier 39 and other popular attractions. From Pier 39, walk west along Jefferson Street for a few blocks to reach the wheel.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout San Francisco. A short ride from downtown or nearby neighborhoods to the SkyStar Wheel at Fisherman's Wharf typically costs between $14 and $17. Be sure to confirm the fare before you start your trip. Drop-off is easily accessible at 2860 Taylor St, San Francisco.
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Driving
If driving, several parking garages are available in the Fisherman's Wharf area. The Pier 39 Garage, located across the street from Pier 39, charges $10 per hour on weekdays and $12 per hour on weekends, with daily maximum rates of $50 and $60, respectively. The Wharf Garage at 450 Beach St offers rates starting at $6 for 30 minutes, with a daily maximum of $40-$50. Parking rates in Fisherman's Wharf can vary, so check current prices upon arrival. Expect to pay between $36 and $60 for all day parking.
Discover more about SkyStar Wheel
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fisherman's Wharf
0.1 km
Experience San Francisco's iconic waterfront: fresh seafood, playful sea lions, historic ships, and stunning bay views await at Fisherman's Wharf.
Fisherman’s Wharf Sign
0.1 km
Discover the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf Sign, a historical landmark in San Francisco that captures the essence of the city’s vibrant waterfront culture.
Sea Lion Viewing Area
0.3 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.
Sea Lions
0.4 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
0.4 km
Experience the best of San Francisco at PIER 39, where shopping, dining, and stunning views come together in a vibrant waterfront setting.
1890 San Francisco Bay Ark
0.6 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.
2905 Hyde St
0.6 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.
Hyde Street Pier
0.6 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
0.6 km
Explore the historic Eureka Steamboat in San Francisco, a symbol of maritime heritage and a fascinating tourist attraction on the Bay.
C.A. Thayer
0.7 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.
California Historical Landmark 236: First Ship into San Francisco Bay
0.8 km
Explore the historical significance of California Historical Landmark 236, the first ship's entry point to San Francisco Bay, with stunning scenic views.
Muir Woods Shuttles and Tours
0.8 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.
Lombard St & Kearny St
0.9 km
Discover the beauty of Lombard Street, the world's crookedest street, boasting stunning views and vibrant floral scenery in San Francisco.
Lombard St
0.9 km
Discover the beauty of Lombard Street, San Francisco's iconic crooked street, adorned with stunning gardens and breathtaking views.
San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
0.9 km
Discover the maritime heritage of San Francisco at the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, featuring historic ships, stunning views, and educational exhibits.
Unmissable attractions to see
Big Bus Tours San Francisco
0.1 km
Discover San Francisco's iconic sights and hidden gems with Big Bus Tours, the perfect hop-on, hop-off experience for every traveler.
Skyline Sightseeing
0.1 km
Explore San Francisco's iconic landmarks and breathtaking views with Skyline Sightseeing Tours, a must-do experience for every traveler.
The Escape Game San Francisco (Fisherman's Wharf)
0.1 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.
Madame Tussauds San Francisco
0.1 km
Explore the world of fame at Madame Tussauds San Francisco, where lifelike wax figures and interactive exhibits bring your favorite stars to life.
Great Big Game Show
0.1 km
Dive into a world of fun at the Great Big Game Show in San Francisco, where laughter, excitement, and unforgettable moments await visitors of all ages.
Red and White Fleet San Francisco Bay Cruises
0.1 km
Discover the beauty of San Francisco Bay with Red and White Fleet Cruises, an unforgettable journey showcasing iconic landmarks and stunning views.
Museum of 3D Illusions
0.1 km
Experience mind-bending fun at San Francisco's Museum of 3D Illusions! Interactive exhibits, unforgettable photos, and a world of imagination await.
Pier 43 Ferry Arch
0.1 km
Discover the historical charm of Pier 43 Ferry Arch in San Francisco, a gateway to the city’s maritime history and breathtaking bay views.
Ripley's Marvelous Mirror Maze
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting world of reflection at Ripley's Marvelous Mirror Maze in San Francisco's iconic Fisherman's Wharf.
Ripley's Believe It or Not!
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Discover the extraordinary at Ripley's Believe It or Not! in San Francisco – a must-visit attraction filled with bizarre exhibits and interactive experiences.
Essential places to dine
The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House
0.0 km
Experience exquisite garlic-infused seafood at The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf.
Franciscan Crab Restaurant
0.0 km
Discover exquisite seafood dining with breathtaking bay views at Franciscan Crab Restaurant in Fisherman's Wharf.
Eagle Cafe
0.3 km
Experience delightful seafood and breakfast dishes at Eagle Cafe in San Francisco's iconic Pier 39 with stunning bay views.
Crab House at Pier 39
0.3 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
0.3 km
Experience the freshest seafood with stunning views at Fog Harbor Fish House in Fisherman's Wharf.
Pier Market Seafood Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience fresh seafood delights with stunning bay views at Pier Market Seafood Restaurant in San Francisco's iconic Fisherman's Wharf.
Wipeout Bar & Grill
0.3 km
Experience Californian flavors at Wipeout Bar & Grill on Pier 39—delicious food, stunning views, and unforgettable moments await you.
Surisan
0.4 km
Discover Surisan: Where Korean flavors meet brunch classics in San Francisco's scenic Fisherman's Wharf.
Cioppino's
0.5 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Cioppino's - A family-friendly Italian restaurant located at Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco.
Fior d'Italia
0.5 km
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Capurro's Restaurant
0.5 km
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Gary Danko
0.6 km
Discover the culinary masterpiece of Gary Danko in San Francisco - where exquisite flavors meet unparalleled service.
Original Joe's
1.0 km
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Red Window
1.1 km
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Sotto Mare
1.1 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ess Eff Gift Shop (Inside)
0.1 km
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Route 66
0.3 km
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Only In San Francisco
0.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local artisan crafts at Only In San Francisco, the perfect gift shop to capture your travel memories.
I Love SF
0.3 km
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Fairy Tales
0.4 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.
Solve It! Think out of the box
0.4 km
Discover the ultimate game store in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, offering a brilliant selection of puzzles, toys, and family-friendly activities.
Enlightenment
0.4 km
Explore Enlightenment Gift Shop at Pier 39 for unique South Asian treasures and memorable souvenirs in San Francisco.
Safe Harbor
0.4 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.
Under the Golden Gate
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The Cable Car Store
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Frank's Fisherman
0.4 km
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Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience
0.8 km
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Lola of North Beach
0.8 km
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Missing Audrey Vintage
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Vacation
1.1 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Socialite Crafthouse & Kitchen
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Northpoint Craft Cocktails - Local Brews
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Hard Rock Cafe
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Luau Lounge
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Players Sports Grill & Arcade
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Sweetie's Art Bar
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Red Jack Saloon
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Bodega North Beach
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Tony Nik's CAFE
1.1 km
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Gino & Carlo
1.1 km
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Maggie McGarry's
1.2 km
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The Showdown
1.3 km
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The Saloon
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Cold Drinks Bar
1.3 km
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15 Romolo
1.4 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Carbon
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Club Fugazi Experiences
1.1 km
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Monroe SF
1.5 km
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Vanity San Francisco
1.5 km
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Rouge Night Club
1.6 km
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Providence Night Club
2.2 km
Dive into San Francisco's nightlife at Providence Night Club, where live music meets vibrant energy for an unforgettable evening.
Hawthorn SF Nightclub and Lounge
2.5 km
Discover Hawthorn SF Nightclub and Lounge - the premier nightlife destination in Union Square, San Francisco, where unforgettable nights await.
Sam's Cable Car Lounge
2.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Sam's Cable Car Lounge - your perfect getaway in San Francisco's Union Square for drinks, food, and fun.
Harlot
2.6 km
Experience the chic ambiance of Harlot in SoMa, San Francisco's premier lounge and cocktail bar, perfect for any occasion.
Temple Nightclub San Francisco
2.8 km
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Club Six
3.1 km
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Pa'ina Restaurant & Lounge
3.1 km
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Monarch
3.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Monarch, San Francisco's premier night club and live music venue with electrifying performances and creative cocktails.
City Nights
3.3 km
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Club X
3.3 km
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