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San Francisco Ferry Building: A Foodie Paradise and Historic Landmark

Experience San Francisco's culinary heart at the historic Ferry Building Marketplace, a vibrant hub of artisan food, shops, and stunning architecture.

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The San Francisco Ferry Building is a historic landmark and bustling marketplace located on the Embarcadero at the foot of Market Street. Originally opened in 1898 as the city's primary transportation hub, it now houses a wide array of artisan food vendors, restaurants, and shops, as well as a popular farmers market.

A brief summary to Ferry Building

  • Monday 7 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-8 pm
  • Friday 7 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market on Tuesdays, Thursdays, or Saturdays for fresh, local produce and artisanal goods.
  • Explore the diverse culinary offerings, from oysters at Hog Island to burgers at Gott's Roadside.
  • Take a stroll along the Embarcadero and enjoy the waterfront views.
  • Check the individual merchant listings for specific hours, as they may vary.
  • Consider taking public transportation, as parking can be limited and expensive.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Ferry Building is easily accessible via public transportation. From the Embarcadero BART station, walk one block towards the waterfront. Several Muni lines, including buses, streetcars, and the F-Line historic streetcar, stop at or near the building. The F-Line streetcar runs directly in front of the Ferry Building. Single ride fares for Muni are typically around $3. BART fares vary depending on the distance traveled.

  • Ferry

    Several ferry lines connect to the Ferry Building from various points around the Bay Area, including Alameda, Oakland, Sausalito, and Larkspur. Golden Gate Ferry and San Francisco Bay Ferry both operate services to the Ferry Building. Check the schedules and fares for each ferry line, as they vary depending on the destination. For example, a one-way ticket from Larkspur on Golden Gate Ferry costs $14 for adults, or $9.25 with a Clipper card. San Francisco Bay Ferry tickets from Oakland or Alameda range from $4.90 to $7.40, depending on the specific terminal.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the downtown area or along the Embarcadero, walking to the Ferry Building is a pleasant option. From Market Street, simply head east towards the waterfront. The Ferry Building is located at the foot of Market Street, where it meets the Embarcadero. Look for the iconic clock tower, which is visible from a distance.

  • Driving

    Driving to the Ferry Building is possible, but parking can be limited and expensive. There are several parking garages in the vicinity, including the Golden Gateway Garage and the ProPark Parking Lot at Embarcadero and Washington. Hourly rates typically range from $7 to $12, with daily maximums ranging from $20 to $64. Metered street parking is also available, but it can be difficult to find and may have time restrictions. Be aware of potential tolls on bridges if driving from outside of San Francisco.

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Discover more about Ferry Building

The San Francisco Ferry Building is more than just a building; it's a vibrant hub where history, food, and community converge. Opened in 1898, it quickly became the city's primary transportation terminal, serving as the arrival point for ferries and trains. Up to 50,000 commuters passed through its doors each day, making it the second-busiest transit terminal in the world at its peak. The building's architecture, designed by A. Page Brown in the Beaux-Arts style, is a sight to behold. The iconic 245-foot clock tower, modeled after the Giralda bell tower in Seville, Spain, is a prominent feature of the San Francisco skyline. The 660-foot-long Great Nave, with its restored skylight, provides a grand and airy space for the marketplace. While the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge and Bay Bridge led to a decline in ferry traffic in the mid-20th century, the Ferry Building has experienced a resurgence in recent years. Today, it's a popular destination for both locals and tourists, drawn to its diverse culinary offerings and lively atmosphere. The Ferry Building Marketplace is home to over 30 shops and restaurants, showcasing the best of Northern California's artisan food and wine producers. Visitors can find everything from fresh oysters and artisanal bread to gourmet cheeses and handcrafted chocolates. The Ferry Plaza Farmers Market, held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, adds to the building's appeal, attracting thousands of shoppers seeking fresh, local produce and artisanal goods. The Ferry Building is easily accessible by public transportation, including BART, Muni, and ferry. It stands as a testament to San Francisco's rich history and its vibrant present, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for all who visit.

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