Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture: A Waterfront Hub
Explore arts, culture, and history at this vibrant waterfront hub in San Francisco, offering stunning views and diverse events.
Located on the northern waterfront of San Francisco, Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture is a vibrant gathering place with a rich history. Once a military port of embarkation, it now serves as a cultural and artistic hub, hosting events, performances, and exhibitions. With stunning views of the bay and Golden Gate Bridge, it's a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.
A brief summary to Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture
- 2 Marina Blvd, San Francisco, Fort Mason, California, 94123, US
- +1415-345-7500
- Visit website
- Monday 6:30 am-12 am
- Tuesday 6:30 am-12 am
- Wednesday 6:30 am-12 am
- Thursday 6:30 am-12 am
- Friday 6:30 am-12 am
- Saturday 6:30 am-12 am
- Sunday 6:30 am-12 am
Local tips
- Check the Fort Mason Center's event calendar for upcoming performances, exhibitions, and workshops, many of which are free to attend.
- Visit on a Friday evening for Off the Grid, a popular street food market with diverse culinary options and live music.
- Explore the Sunday farmers market for fresh produce, local food vendors, and beautiful views of the bay.
- Take public transportation or utilize ride-sharing services as parking can be limited, especially during peak hours and special events.
- Wander through the campus to discover art installations, galleries, and unique shops housed in the historic buildings.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown San Francisco, the 30-Stockton bus will take you to Fort Mason. Get off at Chestnut and Laguna streets, then either walk four blocks or transfer to the #28 or #43-Masonic bus, disembarking at Marina Blvd. and Laguna St. A single ride on Muni costs $3.00. Alternatively, the 28, 30, 30X, 43, 47 and 49 MUNI Lines serve Fort Mason. Most Golden Gate Transit buses from Marin County stop along Lombard Street at Fillmore, about five blocks from Fort Mason.
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Walking
From Fisherman's Wharf, Fort Mason is approximately a 1-mile walk. Head west along the waterfront, enjoying the views of the bay. The walk should take around 20 minutes.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Fisherman's Wharf to Fort Mason typically costs $9 - $12 and takes about 4 minutes. From SFO, a taxi to Fisherman's Wharf averages $50-$55 plus tip. From there to Fort Mason is $9-$12. Using a ride-share from the Ferry Building to Fisherman's Wharf, then on to Fort Mason is a viable option.
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Driving
From the East Bay, take the Bay Bridge to the Fremont Street Exit. Take Howard, then Embarcadero, and then Bay Street. Turn right on Buchanan to reach Fort Mason. From the North Bay, take the Golden Gate Bridge (US 101) to the Marina Exit. Turn left at Buchanan to reach Fort Mason. Parking at Fort Mason costs $5 per hour on weekdays and $6 per hour on weekends. Daily maximums are $25 on weekdays and $30 on weekends. Parking fees are in effect from 7:00 a.m. to midnight daily. Free parking is available outside of Fort Mason, but only until 10:30 p.m..
Discover more about Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Black Point
0.3 km
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Site of John C Frémont and Jessie Benton Frémont home
0.3 km
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Black Point Historic Gardens
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Maritime Museum
0.7 km
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Marina Airfield Historical Marker
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C.A. Thayer
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Eureka Steamboat
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Hyde Street Pier
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2905 Hyde St
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1890 San Francisco Bay Ark
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Chestnut St
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Union St
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McElroy Octagon House
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Lombard St
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Burr Mansion
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Unmissable attractions to see
Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy
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San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
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Bike & View San Francisco Bicycle Rentals & Tours
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Marina Green
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California Historical Landmark 236: First Ship into San Francisco Bay
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The Wave Organ
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Cartoon Art Museum
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San Francisco E-Scooter Rentals - Electric Tour Company
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Umbrella Alley San Francisco
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San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park Visitor Center
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Essential places to dine
Gary Danko
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Capurro's Restaurant
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Atelier Crenn
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Cioppino's
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Surisan
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Street Restaurant and Bar
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Franciscan Crab Restaurant
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The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House
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Fior d'Italia
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Eagle Cafe
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Pier Market Seafood Restaurant
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Crab House at Pier 39
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Fog Harbor Fish House
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Wipeout Bar & Grill
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Acquerello
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience
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Current
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Nikoniko Gifts
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Frank's Fisherman
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Safe Harbor
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Molte Cose
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Route 66
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Ess Eff Gift Shop (Inside)
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Stuff
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One Half
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Picnic
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I Love SF
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Enlightenment
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Only In San Francisco
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The Interval at Long Now
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Bar Iris
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The Socialite Crafthouse & Kitchen
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Northpoint Craft Cocktails - Local Brews
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Sweetie's Art Bar
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Bodega North Beach
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Luau Lounge
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Hard Rock Cafe
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Red Jack Saloon
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Players Sports Grill & Arcade
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Kozy Kar
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Tony Nik's CAFE
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Gino & Carlo
2.2 km
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The Majestic Butterfly Lounge
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Maggie McGarry's
2.2 km
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