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Fisherman's Wharf Sign: A San Francisco Icon

Iconic sign at San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, a historic fishing hub turned vibrant tourist destination with seafood, sea lions, and bay views.

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The Fisherman's Wharf Sign, featuring a giant crab on a ship's helm, has welcomed visitors to this bustling San Francisco neighborhood since 1968. It symbolizes the area's rich fishing history and transformation into a top tourist destination.

A brief summary to Fisherman’s Wharf Sign

  • 2820 Taylor St, San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf, California, 94133, US
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit the Fisherman's Wharf Sign for a classic photo opportunity to commemorate your trip to San Francisco.
  • Explore the Bayside History Walk to learn about the area's rich maritime past and the lives of the fishermen who shaped it.
  • Check out the nearby sea lions at Pier 39, a popular and free attraction.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Pier 39, walk west along the Embarcadero, then turn left onto Jefferson Street. Continue for several blocks until you reach Taylor Street. The Fisherman's Wharf Sign will be on your left at the intersection. The walk is approximately 0.5 miles and should take about 10-15 minutes. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    From the Ferry Building, take the F-Line streetcar towards Fisherman's Wharf. The streetcar runs along the Embarcadero and turns west onto Jefferson Street. Get off at the Taylor Street stop, and the Fisherman's Wharf Sign will be directly in front of you. A single ride on Muni costs $3. You can pay using the MuniMobile app or a Clipper card.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From Union Square, a taxi or ride-share to the Fisherman's Wharf Sign will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is $14-$17. Ask your driver to take you to the corner of Jefferson and Taylor Streets.

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Discover more about Fisherman’s Wharf Sign

The Fisherman's Wharf Sign stands proudly at the corner of Jefferson and Taylor Streets, marking the entrance to one of San Francisco's most iconic and visited neighborhoods. First erected in 1968, the sign features a distinctive design: a giant, bright red Dungeness crab emblazoned on a ship's helm. This image immediately evokes the area's historical roots as a thriving fishing hub. Fisherman's Wharf emerged during the California Gold Rush, when Italian immigrant fishermen recognized an opportunity to provide fresh seafood to the burgeoning population. They plied the waters in colorful, lateen-rigged sailboats, establishing a vibrant fishing industry that would define the area for decades. Over time, the introduction of gasoline engines and the iconic Monterey Hull boats expanded the fishermen's reach and capabilities. While still home to a working fishing fleet, Fisherman's Wharf has evolved into a major tourist attraction. Today, visitors flock to experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of this lively waterfront. From freshly caught seafood served in steaming pots to the entertaining antics of the sea lions at Pier 39, Fisherman's Wharf offers a quintessential San Francisco experience. The Fisherman's Wharf Sign serves as a reminder of the neighborhood's colorful past and a welcoming beacon for those seeking to explore its many attractions.

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