I was born, raised, and continue to live an hour north of San Francisco. I've visited Pier 39 and other attractions all throughout my life, especially as my kids were younger,and am intimately familiar with the area. My wife an I actually had our wedding reception at a (historic) restaurant in the area after a ceremony at city hall (which is gorgeous).

I probably couldn't point out one interesting historic part of my own city if put on the spot, though I know they exist (while not as old or as large as SF, it's been around a while too).