Explore the Maritime Heritage at the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park Visitor Center
Discover San Francisco's maritime heritage at the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park Visitor Center, a hub of nautical history and engaging exhibits.
Nestled in the bustling Fisherman's Wharf, the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park Visitor Center serves as a gateway to the city's rich nautical history. This visitor center is more than just a starting point for your adventure; it is a treasure trove of maritime exhibits that draw attention to San Francisco's vibrant relationship with the sea. Visitors can explore a variety of engaging displays, including intricate models of historic vessels and informative panels that narrate the evolution of maritime life in the area. The center beautifully encapsulates the spirit of the old whaling days while intertwining the stories of the immigrants who sailed into these waters seeking new opportunities. In addition to its captivating exhibits, the visitor center offers a wealth of resources to enhance your experience. Knowledgeable staff members are available to provide insights and answer questions, ensuring that you can delve deeper into the history and significance of the maritime artifacts on display. The center also serves as a launching point for various guided tours of the historic ships docked nearby, inviting you to step aboard and experience life at sea firsthand. The picturesque surroundings and the nearby waterfront create a perfect backdrop for soaking in the maritime atmosphere, making it an excellent stop for families, history buffs, and casual visitors. Whether you are planning a full day of exploration or just a brief visit, the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park Visitor Center invites you to immerse yourself in the rich seafaring legacy of the Bay Area. With its engaging displays and knowledgeable staff, it is an essential destination for anyone wishing to understand the profound impact of the maritime world on San Francisco's history and culture.
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and have more time to explore the exhibits.
- Don't miss the opportunity to tour the historic ships docked nearby for a complete maritime experience.
- Check the visitor center's schedule for special events or guided tours that enhance your visit.
- Take advantage of the knowledgeable staff; they can provide fascinating insights about the exhibits.
A brief summary to San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park Visitor Center
- 499 Jefferson St, San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf, California, 94109, US
- +1415-447-5000
- Visit website
- Monday 1 pm-5 pm
- Tuesday 1 pm-5 pm
- Wednesday 1 pm-5 pm
- Thursday 1 pm-5 pm
- Friday 1 pm-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving to the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park Visitor Center, start on US-101 N. From US-101, take the exit toward Lombard St. Continue on Lombard St until you reach the intersection with Van Ness Ave. Turn right onto Van Ness Ave. Follow Van Ness Ave until you reach Jefferson St. Turn left on Jefferson St and continue to 499 Jefferson St. There is limited street parking available, and parking meters may require payment. Expect to pay around $2.00 per hour.
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Public Transportation - Muni
If you are using public transportation, take the Muni Metro to the Embarcadero Station. From there, transfer to the F-Market & Wharves streetcar line. Board the streetcar heading towards Fisherman’s Wharf and ride until you reach the stop at Jefferson St. Walk a short distance to 499 Jefferson St. A one-way fare on Muni is $3.00.
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Public Transportation - BART and Muni
First, take BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) to the Montgomery St. Station. Once you arrive, follow the signs to exit towards 2nd St. Walk to the Embarcadero and then catch the Muni F-Market & Wharves streetcar towards Fisherman’s Wharf. Get off at the Jefferson St stop and walk to 499 Jefferson St. The BART fare varies by distance but is typically between $3.00 to $5.00, and the Muni fare is an additional $3.00.
Attractions Nearby to San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park Visitor Center
- Hyde Street Pier
- Umbrella Alley San Francisco
- Cartoon Art Museum
- San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
- Fisherman’s Wharf Sign
- Fisherman's Wharf
- Musée Mécanique
- Ripley's Believe It or Not!
- USS Pampanito Museum and Memorial
- Ripley's Marvelous Mirror Maze
- Madame Tussauds San Francisco
- The Escape Game San Francisco (Fisherman's Wharf)
- Fishermans Wharf
- Museum of 3D Illusions
- Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy
Landmarks nearby to San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park Visitor Center
- 1890 San Francisco Bay Ark
- California Historical Landmark 236: First Ship into San Francisco Bay
- C.A. Thayer
- Eureka Steamboat
- Maritime Museum
- Black Point Historic Gardens
- Site of John C Frémont and Jessie Benton Frémont home
- Pier 43 Ferry Arch
- Black Point
- Muir Woods Shuttles and Tours
- Russian Hill-Macondray Lane Historic District
- California Historical Landmark 1024: Briones Rancho Site
- McElroy Octagon House
- Burr Mansion
- Pier 31 (1917)