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San Francisco Carousel: A Whimsical Ride with a View

Experience a whimsical ride on a hand-painted carousel featuring San Francisco landmarks at PIER 39. Fun for all ages!

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The San Francisco Carousel at Pier 39 is a two-story Venetian carousel featuring hand-painted depictions of San Francisco landmarks. A vibrant and nostalgic attraction, it offers a fun experience for all ages with its unique animal figures and stunning bay views.

A brief summary to San Francisco Carousel at Pier 39

  • 39 Pier 39, San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf, California, 94133, US
  • Visit website
  • Monday 11 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 11 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-8 pm
  • Friday 11 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during off-peak hours (morning or late afternoon) to avoid long lines.
  • Bring your camera to capture the colorful animals and waterfront views.
  • Check the schedule for special events or themed rides.
  • Combine your visit with other Pier 39 attractions like the sea lions.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you're near Fisherman's Wharf or Ghirardelli Square, walking to Pier 39 is easy. From Ghirardelli Square, head south along Beach Street for about 15 minutes, following the coastline with its scenic views until you reach Pier 39. The carousel is located on the pier itself.

  • Public Transport

    From anywhere in San Francisco, take MUNI's historic F-Line trolley or bus lines 8-Bayshore, 30-Stockton, or 39-Coit to Pier 39. The F-Line and buses cost $3 per ride. From the Embarcadero BART station, transfer to the F-Line streetcar at the Ferry Building. The streetcar will drop you off a short walk from Pier 39.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off at the passenger loading zone at the entrance to Pier 39. A taxi from downtown San Francisco to Pier 39 typically costs $16-$20 and takes about 6 minutes.

  • Driving

    If driving, use a GPS navigation system and input the address: 39 Pier 39, San Francisco, CA 94133. Pier 39 has a 24/7 parking garage located directly across from the entrance. Parking rates vary, but you can expect to pay around $22-$50 for a few hours. Special daily rates are available Monday - Thursday for vehicles entering after 3:00 PM and exiting before 10:00 AM.

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Discover more about San Francisco Carousel at Pier 39

Located at the heart of Pier 39, the San Francisco Carousel is a vibrant and nostalgic attraction for visitors of all ages. This meticulously crafted, two-story Venetian carousel is more than just a ride; it's a work of art that embodies the spirit of San Francisco. Hand-painted in Italy, the carousel features detailed depictions of famous city landmarks, providing a whimsical tour of the city's iconic sights. Originally installed in December 2008, the carousel quickly became a beloved attraction on Pier 39. Its unique design incorporates over 30 different animals, moving beyond the traditional horses to include sea dragons, dolphins, sea lions, pandas, and other fantastical creatures. Two stationary chariots and spinning tubs offer varied riding experiences, catering to both the cautious and the adventurous. The carousel's artistry extends beyond its animal figures. Each panel is adorned with hand-painted scenes of San Francisco landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Coit Tower, Chinatown, Lombard Street, and Alcatraz Island. This attention to detail immerses riders in the city's rich culture and history, making it a memorable experience for tourists and locals alike. Located towards the end of Pier 39, the carousel is strategically positioned to offer stunning views of the San Francisco Bay. As riders ascend and descend, they can catch glimpses of Alcatraz Island, Angel Island, and the Bay Bridge, adding to the overall enchantment of the experience. Pier 39 itself has a rich history, evolving from a cargo pier in 1905 to a bustling tourist destination in 1978. The pier's transformation reflects San Francisco's dynamic spirit, blending its maritime heritage with modern entertainment and attractions. The arrival of the California sea lions in 1990 further cemented Pier 39's status as a must-visit destination.

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