San Francisco Maritime Visitor Center
Address: 499 Jefferson Street, San Francisco, CA 94109
At the Hyde Street Pier, a fleet of real historic ships, the 1886 square-rigger Balclutha, the 1890 steam ferry Eureka, the schooner Alma, and more, brings San Francisco's seafaring century back to life, from Gold Rush ships to lumber schooners. The maritime museum fills the streamline-modern 1939 Aquatic Park bathhouse.
Board and explore the tall ship Balclutha and the rest of the pier fleet, then visit the maritime museum; young kids can earn a Junior Ranger badge. For a challenge, tour the full fleet, the museum's maritime art, and the library's deep collections in one long visit.
Coordinates: 37.80748, -122.42058