St Mary's Square
St. Mary's Square: A Gem in the Heart of San Francisco
Discover Tranquility at St. Mary's Square
Explore the serene beauty and cultural richness of St. Mary's Square, a hidden gem in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown.
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Chinatown, St. Mary's Square is a serene city park that combines natural beauty with cultural significance, making it a perfect stop for tourists seeking relaxation and exploration.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to St Mary's Square
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
651 California St, San Francisco, Chinatown, California, 94108, US
Monday
6 am-10 pm
Tuesday
6 am-10 pm
Wednesday
6 am-10 pm
Thursday
6 am-10 pm
Friday
6 am-10 pm
Saturday
6 am-10 pm
Sunday
6 am-10 pm
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Getting There
Walking
From downtown Berkeley, start at the intersection of Shattuck Ave and University Ave. Head south on Shattuck Ave for about 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with Addison St. Turn right onto Addison St and continue for about 0.2 miles until you reach the Berkeley BART station. Take the BART train towards San Francisco/Daly City. After approximately 20 minutes, get off at the Montgomery St station in San Francisco. Exit the station and walk east on Montgomery St for two blocks until you reach California St. Turn left onto California St and walk for 2 more blocks. St Mary's Square will be on your right at 651 California St.
Public Transit
From downtown Berkeley, walk to the nearest AC Transit bus stop located at Shattuck Ave and University Ave. Take the AC Transit bus line 51 towards San Francisco. After about 30 minutes, get off at the stop at Market St and 2nd St in San Francisco. From there, walk north on 2nd St, then turn left onto California St. Continue walking for about 4 blocks, and you will find St Mary's Square on your left at 651 California St.
Biking
If you prefer to bike, you can rent a bike from a local bike-sharing program in Berkeley. Start from downtown Berkeley and head south on Shattuck Ave for about 0.5 miles. Continue through the bike-friendly streets until you reach the Berkeley BART station. From there, secure your bike and take BART towards San Francisco. Once you arrive at Montgomery St station, exit and head east on Montgomery St, then turn left on California St. St Mary's Square will be on your right after walking a few blocks.
Local tips
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Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful lighting for photography.
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Don't miss the park's art installations that reflect the unique culture of Chinatown.
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Pack a light picnic to enjoy in one of the shaded seating areas.
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Check local listings for any community events or performances scheduled during your visit.
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Explore nearby attractions like the Chinatown Gate and local shops after your visit to the park.
Discover more about St Mary's Square
St. Mary's Square, located in the bustling Chinatown district of San Francisco, is an urban oasis that invites visitors to unwind amidst beautifully landscaped gardens and rich cultural heritage. This charming city park features a blend of greenery, walking paths, and ornamental features, creating a tranquil environment perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment away from the urban hustle. The park is adorned with sculptures and art installations that reflect the area's vibrant community and history, making it an engaging place for tourists looking to immerse themselves in local culture.
As you explore St. Mary's Square, you will find plenty of shaded seating areas ideal for relaxing with a book or enjoying a picnic. The park is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, providing a welcoming space for gatherings, art performances, and community events. Its central location makes it easily accessible, allowing visitors to seamlessly incorporate a visit into their exploration of Chinatown and nearby attractions. St. Mary's Square is not just a park; it’s a celebration of the neighborhood's spirit and a perfect backdrop for capturing memorable photographs.
Conveniently, the park is open daily from 6 AM to 10 PM, giving ample opportunity to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Whether you seek a brief respite or a deeper connection to the cultural fabric of San Francisco, St. Mary's Square offers a unique experience that should not be missed during your travels.
A brief summary to St Mary's Square
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