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Steinhart Aquarium isn’t just an exhibit—it’s a portal to the deep. Dive into a world where sharks glide silently past glass, seahorses dance like underwater ballerinas, and mysterious deep-sea creatures glow under dim lights. That moment when a massive white shark passes right before your eyes? Pure awe. Bring the kids here, and watch their wonder grow—one shimmering fish at a time.
Everything you need to know about Steinhart Aquarium
Stay at Marriott San Francisco Fisherman's Wharf, just a 5-minute walk from Steinhart Aquarium. The hotel features bay-view rooms with panoramic sights of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay. Family amenities include a children’s pool, ocean-themed activities, and proximity to museums and restaurants. Easy access via light rail or on foot makes it ideal for exploring the waterfront district seamlessly.
After your visit, head to Pier 39’s Sea Lion Plaza to witness wild sea lions lounging on rocks—a favorite local spectacle. Then take a Bay Ferry ride from the pier across the bay, offering stunning views of Lombard Street, Angel Island, and migrating seabirds. This journey blends urban charm with natural beauty, perfect for travelers seeking both history and ecological wonder.
Staying at Hyatt Regency San Francisco or The West Coast Inn gives you quick access to the Muni Metro at Embarcadero Station, connecting directly to Union Square, Chinatown, and Palace of Fine Arts. Free sightseeing shuttles also run daily to major sites like Golden Gate Park and Lombard Street. Use a Clipper Card for seamless transfers and discounts across transit systems, ensuring hassle-free travel throughout the city.
Beyond the aquarium’s underwater tunnel and coral reef exhibit, visit Pier 39’s Blue Houses and colorful sailboat sculptures—popular Instagram backdrops created by local artists. For a breathtaking shot, stand at the northern overlook point near the bridge entrance, capturing the aquarium and Golden Gate Bridge in one frame. Bring a tripod and visit during golden hour for dreamy lighting, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Try The Fisherman’s Wharf Restaurant at Pier 39, featuring outdoor seating with views of the bay and moored sailboats, serving fresh seafood and Californian cuisine. For a more upscale evening, visit Bar None on Montgomery Street, known for inventive cocktails and a glass-domed rooftop lounge with harbor views. It’s one of San Francisco’s most stylish nightspots, blending fine drinks with vibrant ambiance.
Yes, Steinhart Aquarium provides guided educational tours, including marine biology lectures and touch tank experiences, ideal for families and school groups. The immersive 360-degree underwater projection simulates deep-sea environments, making visitors feel surrounded by whales and jellyfish. Weekly night explorations feature nocturnal animals like octopuses and starfish, plus conservation workshops—offering both fun and meaningful learning opportunities.
See what other travelers say about Steinhart Aquarium
I booked this place thinking the rate was around $78 per night, but ended up being over $220—way higher than expected. I couldn’t cancel after booking through the platform, so I had no choice but to stay. The room was outdated, with chipped paint and visible stains on the walls. No ice was provided, and the shower water was only lukewarm—never got hot. The location is solid in downtown San Francisco, and having a parking lot was a plus. But for that price, there are definitely better options available. I wouldn’t come back, especially when you can find much more comfortable and reasonably priced stays nearby.
Staying at this Motel 6 right on Great Highway in San Francisco was a surprisingly pleasant experience. The location is unbeatable—just steps away from the Pacific Ocean, with a gentle dune line blocking most of the waves’ noise, so it’s quiet and peaceful, especially at night. The rooms are basic but clean and well-maintained. One thing to note: the heating system isn’t very strong, so it can feel chilly during cooler evenings—bringing a sweater or extra blanket is a good idea. What stood out was the payment process—no deposit required, just pay your initial amount directly toward the room rate, which made everything smooth and hassle-free. No hidden fees, no surprises. For travelers who value simplicity, affordability, and proximity to the ocean, this is a solid choice. I’d definitely stay here again if I’m back in San Francisco.
Absolutely loved my stay at Cathedral Hill Hotel! The location is perfect—just a short walk from downtown San Francisco, with easy access to public transit and plenty of great dining options nearby. The hotel itself is clean, well-maintained, and has a welcoming atmosphere. Staff were friendly and helpful throughout my visit. My room was spacious, comfortable, and quiet—great for a good night's sleep. I especially appreciated the delicious breakfast spread with fresh local treats like homemade pancakes and freshly squeezed juice. It’s rare to find such a high-quality experience at this price point. I’ll definitely be returning next time I’m in town.
I stayed at Motel 6 San Francisco – Civic Center and was pleasantly surprised by the convenient location—just a short walk from the civic center and easily accessible via public transit. The room was clean, basic, and perfectly adequate for a quick overnight stay. I appreciated the straightforward, no-frills approach, which fits well with the budget-friendly vibe. However, I did notice a small discrepancy: I booked with breakfast included, but it wasn’t available upon arrival. The front desk staff were very understanding and apologized sincerely, even offering to help with recommendations nearby. While the lack of breakfast was disappointing, their professionalism helped ease the frustration. Overall, if you're looking for a simple, affordable place to stay close to downtown San Francisco, this motel delivers solid value—especially if you’re not counting on a free morning meal.
I was generally satisfied with my stay, though I did encounter a minor issue upon arrival. My first room had a strong smell of smoke, which was disappointing since the hotel claims all rooms are non-smoking. When I brought this up to the front desk staff, they initially denied it was possible—until I insisted on either a room change or a refund. They quickly accommodated me and moved me to a different room, which smelled perfectly fine. While the initial experience wasn’t ideal, I appreciate that the team responded promptly and made things right. A little more attention to checking room conditions before check-in could prevent such issues in the future. Overall, the motel offers good value for money, and its location near Lombard Street makes it convenient for exploring downtown San Francisco—especially if you're using public transit.
The Lombard Inn is a solid choice if you're looking for a no-frills stay in San Francisco. The rooms are clean and the beds are surprisingly comfortable—perfect for a good night's rest. While the decor and furnishings feel a bit dated, they’re still functional and adequately maintained. One thing worth mentioning is that the hallways had a slight musty odor, likely due to the carpets needing a deep clean. That said, it’s an easy fix and doesn’t detract much from the overall experience. I’d recommend this hotel for travelers who prioritize comfort and convenience over modern design. It’s a reliable option with great value, especially if you're on a budget.
We stayed in Glasgow for a few days and stopped by this hotel for breakfast—had no expectations going in, but was pleasantly surprised. The menu options were somewhat limited, but the warm welcome and excellent service from Thomas made all the difference. He went above and beyond to make our morning special. It’s a hidden gem with a welcoming vibe, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone passing through.
On Friday, April 21st at 10:15 AM, a guest from another building at the hotel climbed over the fence between units 179 and 173, entered our private driveway area, then climbed over our fence and left toward Wiese Street, heading toward 16th Street. We immediately called 911. The situation was alarming and unsettling. While police responded promptly, the incident raised serious concerns about property security and safety protocols. It's important to note that making assumptions based on someone's background is not only inappropriate but also harmful. As guests, we expect the hotel to maintain a secure environment for all. We hope management will take immediate action to improve fencing, surveillance, and overall safety measures to prevent future incidents.
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