Lauren's Locales: A "Pier"-less Tourist Spot
By Lauren Bonney
Whether or not you are a native San Franciscan, frequent visitor or first-time tourist, a great place to spend an afternoon in the world-famous city is at Pier 39. The pier's collection of unique and fun shops is sure to be a fun diversion with friends and family.
But beware of "The Bush Man" during your walk to the Pier. This sneaky performance artist has a tendency to lay in wait and then jump at unsuspecting gawkers (much to the amusement of other onlookers).
The inner court of Pier 39 is a fantastic place to people watch. My favorite thing to do while visiting is to buy a scoop of Rocky Road ice cream from the Dreyer's shop nearby and settle down on one of the benches to take in the foreign languages and awesome accents.
But if eavesdropping on various foreign conversations is not your cup of tea, then settle down for one of the regular performances that occur nearly every hour.
A consistent crowd favorite is "Captain Jack Spareribs," a parody of Johnny Depp's Captain Jack Sparrow from the "Pirates of the Caribbean" franchise. This comedian/ magician could be Depp's doppelganger, complete with flailing hand gestures and slurred rum-induced words, and is guaranteed to entertain you and make you laugh. The show is free but donations are welcome as the "hat is passed."
Afterwards, make sure to stroll through more quirky shops, visit the arcade or wander along the pier.
Take in the picturesque view of Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge, and snap a photo or two of these amazing landmarks.
While on the pier, do not forget to visit Pier 39's famous sea lions. Located just to the west of the main buildings, the furry sea lions can be found lounging across the former boat docks soaking up the sun. The sea mammals are not all that active and emit a rather fishy odor, yet their impressive size and loud barking make them a "must-see" attraction. So plug your nose and gaze away at the simply lovely city by the bay.
Dress in layers and bring a windbreaker when you plan to visit Pier 39, as the area can be quite breezy and cool - even in the summer! As Mark Twain once said: "The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco."
Boudin Bakery
While at the wharf, be sure to stop in for lunch, dinner or a quick snack at the Boudin flagship bakery and restaurant. Enjoy a view of the Bay while eating fresh clam chowder from a bread bowl. Also, check out their museum and demonstration bakery on site.
Boudin Bakery
While at the wharf, be sure to stop in for lunch, dinner or a quick snack at the Boudin flagship bakery and restaurant. Enjoy a view of the Bay while eating fresh clam chowder from a bread bowl. Also, check out their museum and demonstration bakery on site.
160 Jefferson Street
San Franciso, CA 94133
(415) 928-1849
Bloomingdale's
This massive department store in the Westfield San Francisco Centre will leave even the most jaded shopper amazed at its sheer enormity: it's the second-largest Bloomie's in the country. Plus, it's really fun to check out the "sale rack" of $500 Jimmy Choos!
865 Market Street
San Francisco, CA
(415) 856-5720
Beard Papa
This tiny restaurant is located down in the Westfield Centre's Food Emporium and offers freshly baked cream puffs in various flavors. You can even get them dipped in chocolate! Consume your puff immediately after purchase in order to ensure maximum food bliss!
865 Market Street
San Francisco, CA
(415) 978-9975
Contact Lauren Bonney at lbonney@scu.edu.