CALL US! 1-415-766-2722
Fun@SanFranciscoJeepTours.com
Welcome to one of the most dazzling highlights along San Francisco’s waterfront — the SkyStar Observation Wheel at Fisherman’s Wharf. Whether you’re wrapping up a San Francisco private tour or just kicking off your evening adventures, this towering wheel offers jaw-dropping views, comfy climate-controlled gondolas, and a picture-perfect way to experience the city from new heights.
Let’s dive into what makes the SkyStar a must-see, must-ride, and must-Instagram kind of spot.
Whether you’ve just explored Lombard Street’s wild curves or rolled through North Beach with your Jeep guide, there’s no better finale (or scenic intermission) than a smooth spin on the SkyStar Wheel. Located right at the edge of Fisherman’s Wharf, this attraction adds a wow-worthy moment to any small-group sightseeing in San Francisco.
Perfect stop after daytime city tours or early evening Jeep sunset/night tours
Just steps from other attractions like PIER 39, Musée Mécanique, and Umbrella Alley
Walkable from your Jeep tour drop-off point at Taylor & Jefferson
Let’s clear this up — this isn’t a creaky fairground ride. The SkyStar is a state-of-the-art observation wheel, offering:
Fully enclosed, air-conditioned gondolas (no windblown selfies here)
12-minute rides with four full rotations
Views that stretch from the Golden Gate Bridge to Alcatraz to the East Bay
From the top, you’ll soak in a 360-degree panorama of the Bay Area like never before:
North: Alcatraz Island & Angel Island
West: Golden Gate Bridge, Marin Headlands
East: Bay Bridge, Treasure Island, Oakland skyline
South: Coit Tower, Telegraph Hill, and downtown SF
It’s a dream come true for photographers and sightseers alike.
San Francisco has a history with wheels — observation wheels, that is. The very first made its debut in 1894 at the Midwinter International Exposition in Golden Gate Park. Fast forward over a century and the SkyStar continues that tradition of sky-high sightseeing with a modern twist.
The current SkyStar Wheel:
Was built in 2020
Previously popped up in Louisville, Norfolk, and Cincinnati
Found its forever home at Fisherman’s Wharf, making it one of the waterfront’s newest icons
See San Francisco Up Close – Private Jeep Tours!Explore San Francisco’s top attractions with a private guide, enjoy a thrilling Golden Gate Bridge drive, and stop at the best scenic spots.
Spots fill fast—Book your Jeep adventure today!
Looking to time your visit just right? Here’s what you need to know:
Open daily: 10 AM – 10 PM
Golden Hour (6–8 PM) and Evening (8–10 PM) are most popular for sunset and night cityscape views
Book your Jeep tour for the afternoon, and plan your SkyStar ride around sunset for the ultimate back-to-back experience. That golden glow over the bay is pure magic.
Already on a personalized SF city tour? Your guide can drop you off just steps away. If you’re visiting another time, here’s how to find it:
Location: 2860 Taylor Street (at the corner of Jefferson & Taylor)
Transit Options:
F-Line Streetcar (Castro to Fisherman’s Wharf)
Powell-Hyde & Powell-Mason Cable Cars
Muni Bus Lines 8, 30, 39, 49
Ferries from Sausalito or Alameda/Oakland
Here’s what to know before you hop aboard:
Ride Duration: 9–12 minutes standard, 20 minutes for VIP
Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly gondolas available
Instagram Factor: Extremely high
Planning a proposal, birthday surprise, or anniversary spin? The SkyStar is surprisingly romantic and endlessly scenic — especially at night when the city sparkles below.
VIP packages and private gondolas available
Ideal for photographers, couples, and small celebrations
Gondolas are enclosed for year-round comfort — no fog, no wind chill
The ride gives you about four full rotations for plenty of photo ops
Fisherman’s Wharf got its name from Italian fishermen who settled here during the Gold Rush — they introduced Dungeness crab, which you can still find on menus nearby
Hungry after your ride? Don’t miss:
Sourdough bread bowls with clam chowder
Fresh crab stands along Jefferson Street
Local sweets from Ghirardelli Square just down the street
Tickets vary by age and experience (standard or VIP). Visit SkyStarWheel.com for the latest pricing and promotions.
Absolutely. It’s family-friendly, fully enclosed, and gentle — no stomach-dropping moments.
Yes — the wheel is fully accessible, with gondolas designed for safe and easy boarding.
Yes. Private bookings are available for special occasions. Check the official site for reservations.
Whether you’re ending your San Francisco private tour with a bang or seeking the perfect sunset spot after dinner at the Wharf, the SkyStar Observation Wheel promises an unforgettable ride. It’s a perfect mix of sightseeing, storytelling, and skyline magic.
Book your Jeep tour and pair it with a spin on the SkyStar for the ultimate San Francisco sightseeing experience.
