San Francisco Waterfront History and Tasting Tour

Come visit some of SF's top attractions with a local while discovering the hidden gems along the waterfront. We'll visit iconic landmarks and hear incredible stories about the origins of this boom-and-bust city. Learn about our famous fog and the gold rush. Or how we invented the cable car and survived multiple earthquakes! There's so much history here. You'll get to visit places, and taste samples, from our famous food scene such as Ghirardelli Chocolate and Boudin's Sourdough. We'll walk a portion of the historic Barbary Coast trail while I tell you about its colorful past on the way to check out the colony of sea lions that reign over Pier 39. We will also visit 3 museums during this tour. The Maritime Museum and Musee de Mecanique will be guided and we will conclude the tour with a ride on the historic streetcar to our final destination, The Exploratorium. I'll give you an intro of the highlights to help optimize your time there and explore the 600+ interactive exhibits!

Meeting Point

Ghirardelli On-The-Go

801 Beach St, San Francisco, CA 94109, USA

Meet your guide in front of the Ghirardelli Cafe at the corner of Beach and Larkin

What's included:

• The Exploratorium Museum Entry
• English Speaking Tour Guide

Not included:

• Guide Gratuities
• Parking

What to expect:

Duration: 2 hours, 30 minutes

Fisherman’s Wharf

San Francisco, California

Explore this busy neighborhood with a local. Get to know the origin story of San Francisco with this immersive experience as you walk, talk and taste your way along the waterfront. Finish with an entry ticket to our most popular museum, The Exploratorium!

Pass by without stopping

Ghirardelli Square

900 North Point St, At Polk Street, San Francisco, 94109-1192, California

Tour Ghirardelli Square, a historic landmark known for its charming mix of old-world charm and modern attractions. Once home to the Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory, the square now features unique shops, restaurants, and galleries. Its iconic red-brick buildings and delightful chocolate aroma create a picturesque and inviting atmosphere for visitors.

15 minutes

San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park

499 Jefferson St, San Francisco, 94109-1314, California

The Maritime Museum and National Park offer a captivating glimpse into the city’s seafaring past. Nestled along the waterfront, this park features a collection of historic ships and engaging museums that highlight the region's maritime heritage. With scenic views of the Golden Gate Bridge it's a great photo op and local gem!

15 minutes

Hyde Street Pier

2905 Hyde St, San Francisco, 94109-1225, California

Hyde Street Pier is a historic waterfront location where visitors can explore a collection of preserved ships and learn about maritime history.

Pass by without stopping

Musee Mecanique

Pier 45, Fishermen's Wharf, foot of Taylor Street, San Francisco, 94133, California

Discover and interact with an impressive collection of vintage arcade games, mechanical amusements, and coin-operated devices. It offers a nostalgic journey through early 20th-century entertainment and is a hidden gem!

15 minutes

Boudin at the Wharf

160 Jefferson St, Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco, 94133-1202, California

Boudin's Sourdough, established in 1849, is a local icon. Famous for its unique, naturally fermented sourdough starter, the bakery combines time-honored techniques with a rich history to produce its signature bread. Visitors can watch the bread-making process at this flagship location and enjoy a range of sourdough-based dishes, and savor a true taste of San Francisco's culinary heritage.

15 minutes

Sea Lion Center

203 Pier 39 Concourse, The Embarcadero at Beach Street, San Francisco, 94133, California

Come see the sea lions at Pier 39, they are known for their playful antics and distinctive barking, so much fun to watch!

15 minutes

Pier 39

Beach Street & The Embarcadero, San Francisco, 94133, California

Explore Pier 39 with us - a vibrant waterfront spot offering a lively mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Snack break here before the museum.

15 minutes

Exploratorium

Pier 15, Embarcadero at Green Street, San Francisco, 94111, California

The Exploratorium is an interactive museum that invites visitors of all ages to engage with hands-on science and art exhibits. Featuring over 600 exhibits and designed to spark curiosity and foster learning through experimentation and play. From exploring physics and biology to delving into sensory experiences and art installations, the museum provides a dynamic and educational experience that encourages discovery and creativity in a fun, engaging environment.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Included