Embarcadero Plaza, Bay Area Travel Guide
A vibrant San Francisco hub where Market Street meets the Embarcadero, offering events, markets, and stunning waterfront views.
Embarcadero Plaza, located at the foot of Market Street in San Francisco, is a vibrant public space offering a mix of activities and stunning views of the waterfront. Formerly known as Justin Herman Plaza, this 1.23-acre plaza is a hub for commuters, tourists, and locals alike, hosting events, markets, and providing access to the iconic Ferry Building.
A brief summary to Embarcadero Plaza
- Market St &, Steuart St, San Francisco, Financial District, CA, 94105, US
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- Monday 12 pm-1:30 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-1:30 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-1:30 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-1:30 pm
- Friday 12 pm-1:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-9 pm
- Sunday 9 am-9 pm
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Embarcadero Plaza.
- Visit during the winter holidays to enjoy the festive lights and ice-skating rink.
- Check out the weekly farmers' markets for local produce and goods.
- Take a moment to appreciate the Vaillancourt Fountain, a unique and controversial piece of public art.
- The plaza is a transportation hub, providing easy access to BART, MUNI, and ferries.
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Getting There
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Public Transport
Embarcadero Plaza is directly above the Embarcadero BART and MUNI station, making it easily accessible from anywhere in the Bay Area. From the station, take the escalators or stairs up to the plaza level. MUNI's F Market & Wharves heritage streetcar line also stops at Market and Main (westbound) and Market and Drumm (eastbound), adjacent to the plaza. A single ride on BART costs between $2.15 and $12.80 depending on the distance. A single ride on MUNI costs $2.50.
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Walking
From the Ferry Building, cross the Embarcadero and walk west towards Market Street. The plaza is located at the foot of Market Street, directly across from the Ferry Building. The walk is approximately 2 minutes. From Union Square, walk east on Market Street for approximately 20 minutes. The plaza will be on your left.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off directly at Embarcadero Plaza. The most convenient drop-off location is on Steuart Street at Market Street, on the western edge of the plaza. A short taxi ride from Fisherman's Wharf to Embarcadero Plaza will typically cost $9-12.
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Parking
Several parking garages are located near Embarcadero Plaza, including the Embarcadero Center garages and Pier 39 Garage. Weekend rates at the Embarcadero Center garages are around $3 per hour, with a daily maximum of $35. Pier 3 Parking Lot offers limited public parking at $10 per hour, with flat rates on weekends. Street parking is also available, with meter rates ranging from $2 to $4 per hour. Be aware of the risk of car break-ins and avoid leaving valuables in your vehicle.
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