PIER 39 in San Francisco is considered a "tourist trap" by locals, but what would it take for locals to visit?

Question

As a SF native, I realize I never go to this international destination unless dragged by out-of-town friends or relatives so it's got me wondering what would make us locals interested in visiting.

Answer 1

Free Rice-a-Roni. It is the San Francisco treat afterall!

Answer 2

when others pay and drag you there...

I only go when out of towners visit, such as my friends from Chicago, New Jersey or my Mom. If you must go or get dragged there, beat the parking woes and park in the lot near Boudin bread. Your going to eat, someone usually wants to try the fish and chips or clam chowder bread bowls. This lot will validate, if you eat nearby. Also, it's only a short walk to the Pier. Or there's another lot on Bay and Embarcadero that's only $8 all day. Also, skip the weekends, too crowded.

I agree though, I do not like going to this tourist trap. It's not "real" San Francisco, good seafood though. Too crowded, too much cheap touristy-knick-knacks. Just because it's on a postcard, such as that big ship wheel near Jefferson and Mason (I think), that doesn't make it a symbol to represent the City.

Answer 3

it's the exact opposite of san francisco. why on earth would you go to stores that you can go to in any city in north america. you are on vacation! you can buy dumb stuff at home. for the first time in 20 years there are 53 Monet paintings (together) at the Legion of Honor, have you seen the observation deck at the De Young? Have you walked across the golden gate bridge and hiked the headlands? Did you have Cambodian seafood or Vietnamese Pho for lunch? Have you had a Balboa Burger? Watched the sunset from Ocean, China or Baker beach? Come on, you are on vacation don't go to Pier 39!!! Go to Mom and Pop stores and restaurants. Don't buy into the homogenized american way. The only way I would go to pier 39 was if I could throw the first match on it.

Answer 4

If Carlos Santana or Neil Young were performing a live free concert like they did for Brown's inaugural party years ago, I'd go to Pier 39.

Second to that, I would go down to that area to grab a banana split at Ghiradelli Square- and high tail out of there as fast as I can. Arguably, the wharf is the cheesiest part of San Francisco.

If I absolutely have to go down there because of friends from out of town, I'll meet up with them at the Buena Vista on the corner down from the Ana Madera tipping a couple of pints.

Answer 5

I would take about $35 for a few hours in the parking garage, for one thing. But once there, I have fun. Where else can you gaze at stinky sea lions, rub elbows with snooty Euros, get some decent sourdough bread and clam chowder, buy all sorts of crap that you don't need, and could probably find at the mall anyway, and have a completely obnoxious dinner at Bubba Gumps? I love the place, but I can only take it once every couple of years, though.

Answer 6

I in the same boat. My 6 year old made me do the tourist things. I found out that i actually like SF which i use to hate it, all the crappy parts, traffic, the cost of living...sheeeeesh. but its fun to pretend you are a tourist. I had a blast!!!

Answer 7

nothing, i just dont like to go to pier 39

Answer 8

Your precious time.