Pier 39

The focal point of Pier 39 (pier39.com; free) on Fisherman's Wharf isn't the waning fishing fleet, but the beach bums that took over a yacht marina: the legendary Sea Lions at Pier 39 of Pier 39. Families flock to see them, and for the amusement-park atmosphere without prohibitive entry fees. Developed in the 1970s to revitalize tourism, Pier 39 offers family-friendly attractions including the San Francisco San Francisco Carousel, Aquarium of the Bay, souvenir shops and fast-food joints. The outdoor mall scene is weirdly un-San Francisco, but the plus side, its visitors center rents strollers, stores luggage and has free phone-charging stations.