San Francisco’s Embarcadero is a fantastic starting point when visiting the City by the Bay. Start your way at the Ferry Building and work your way along the waterfront in San Francisco. Head south towards the Bay Bridge and AT&T Park or west towards Fisherman’s Wharf.
Ferry Building and Ferry Building Marketplace
Standing proudly since 1898, through two major earthquakes, no less, San Francisco’s iconic Ferry Building has welcomed visitors and residents for over one hundred years. Originally a central transportation hub, the Ferry Building now serves as a significant attraction and features daily ferry service and numerous retail stores and food eateries. Pictured here, the Ferry Building was illuminated for the 100th anniversary of the Pan-Pacific Expedition in 2015.
Address: One Ferry Building, San Francisco, CA 94111
Hours: Daily – 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. (Shop hours vary)
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Ferry Building Farmer’s Market
The Ferry Plaza Farmers Market is a triweekly California Certified Farmers Market operated by Foodwise at the San Francisco Ferry Building on Saturday, Tuesday, and Thursday, year-round. Since 1993, the market has served as a crucial link between urban dwellers and local farmers, renowned for its diverse offering of delicious, high-quality products from California’s cutting-edge sustainable growers, food makers, and chefs, as well as education programs to connect eaters of all ages with our local foodshed. Nearly 40,000 people visit the farmer’s market each week.
Address: One Ferry Building, San Francisco, CA 94111
Hours: Tuesday & Thursday – 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., Saturday – 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
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The Exploratorium
San Francisco’s Exploratorium is a science, art, and human perception museum. Originally the brainchild of Frank Oppenheimer, the Exploratorium opened in 1969 at the Palace of Fine Arts. When the new Exploratorium opened on Pier 15 in 2014, the museum introduced 150 new exhibits for 600 indoors and out, including many beloved classics, a Bay Observatory, a more significant focus on tinkering and social science, and more.
Address: Pier 15 (Embarcadero at Green St), San Francisco, CA 94111
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday – 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Sunday – 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday – Closed (Hours may vary, Thursdays 18+ 6:00-10:00 p.m.)
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Take in the Bay by Foot
The Embarcadero offers a fantastic opportunity to stretch your legs. Whether you’re out for an afternoon stroll or your morning run, this is a great place to take it all in.
Starting at AT&T Park and reaching up towards Pier 39, the path is about 2.7 miles. Join others along the route to take in the views of the San Francisco skyline, Treasure Island, and the Bay Bridge. Stop by Rincon Park and grab a picture of Cupid’s Span, or grab your headphones and favorite playlist to power through an energetic run. The options are endless along The Embarcadero.
Sights and Transportation
These are just a few places you can visit along the Embarcadero. If you head further south, you’ll run into AT&T Park, home of the Giants. If you continue heading west towards the Golden Gate Bridge, you’ll arrive at Pier 39, followed by the Marina District, Crissy Field, and the famous Presidio and Fort Mason.
Muni’s F-Line, featuring historic rail cars and the E-Line, offers convenient service along the Embarcadero from Pier 39, stopping in front of the Ferry Building and heading through downtown along Market Street with the final destination in the Castro neighborhood. Visit sfmta.com for details.
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Whether you are heading to the Ferry Building for fresh vegetables, a bite to eat, or perhaps in for a bigger adventure, San Francisco’s Embarcadero is a great route to explore.
Images: Ferry Building and Farmer’s Market – Unsplash; Exploratorium building – The Exploratorium (Zum LLC)
Updated: December 2024
