General:
* Crowd: This is a common and versatile option for a large group of people.
* Throng: This suggests a dense, tightly packed group.
* Mass: This implies a large, undifferentiated group.
* Gathering: This emphasizes the purpose of the people being together.
Specific to a particular activity:
* Audience: For people watching something (e.g., street performers).
* Spectators: For people watching an event (e.g., a parade).
* Congregation: For a group of people gathered for a religious purpose.
* Queue: For a line of people waiting for something.
* Mob: This suggests a large, unruly group, often with negative connotations.
Descriptive:
* A sea of faces: This is a poetic way to describe a large group of people.
* A bustling street: This emphasizes the activity and movement.
* The urban landscape: This focuses on the environment rather than the people themselves.
Ultimately, the best collective noun for people on the street will depend on your specific needs and the image you want to create.