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Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience, Oakland Travel Guide

4.5 (27725)

San Francisco's iconic chocolate haven in historic Ghirardelli Square: fresh fudge sundaes, live chocolatier demos, and bay-view indulgence since 1852.

Nestled in the historic Ghirardelli Square at San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, the Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience offers an immersive celebration of premium chocolate since 1852. Watch chocolatiers craft fresh fudge, indulge in world-famous hot fudge sundaes made with handmade hot fudge, and explore the largest Pick & Mix station worldwide. Signature SQUARES, bars, baking goods, and gifts await, all rooted in San Francisco's rich chocolate heritage amid stunning bay views.

A brief summary to Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience

  • 900 North Point St F301, San Francisco, Fort Mason, California, 94109, US
  • Click to display
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  • Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Monday 9 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-10 pm
  • Friday 9 am-11 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-11 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-10 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience.

  • Opt for the hot fudge sundae during off-peak hours (before 11 AM or after 8 PM) to skip long lines; nearby Ghirardelli stores serve identical treats if crowded.
  • Build your own chocolate bag at the Pick & Mix station ($22 per pound) and customize labels for unique souvenirs.
  • Watch chocolatiers craft bars at the live station and sample fresh hazelnut varieties for an interactive treat.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    10-15 min walk from Fisherman's Wharf piers (free, scenic bay views).

  • Public Transit

    F-line streetcar or 30-Stockton bus to Ghirardelli Square stop (2-5 USD, 5-10 min from downtown).

  • Cable Car

    Powell-Hyde line terminates steps away (8 USD one-way, 15-20 min from Union Square, hilly).

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

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  • Seating Areas
  • Sheltered Areas

Discover more about Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience

History and Heritage

Founded by Italian immigrant Domingo Ghirardelli in 1852, this flagship store in Ghirardelli Square embodies San Francisco's Gold Rush-era legacy. Originally a woolen mill turned chocolate factory, the site preserves the brand's commitment to high-quality, sustainably sourced cocoa beans for rich, velvety flavors that make life sweeter.

The Chocolate Experience

Step into a vibrant space redesigned with modern nostalgia, featuring a wrap-around chocolatier station where skilled artisans roast hazelnuts in-house and craft chocolate hazelnut bars on-site. The air fills with aromas of melting chocolate and waffle cones, drawing visitors to the sundae station for decadent hot fudge sundaes layered with fresh ice cream, handmade fudge, and toppings.

Signature Offerings

Indulge in the world-famous hot fudge sundae or seasonal specials like the Dubai Chocolate Sundae with pistachio butter and gold leaf. The world's largest Pick & Mix station lets you create custom bags of chocolate SQUARES in various flavors, while a make-your-own-label station offers personalized tins—perfect for gifts near the Powell-Hyde cable car terminus.

Ghirardelli Square Setting

Located at 900 North Point St F301 in Fort Mason near Fisherman's Wharf, the store overlooks San Francisco Bay with waterfront views. Part of a historic complex, it neighbors other Ghirardelli outlets, brewing spots, and shops, making it a lively stop amid sea lions, street performers, and maritime charm.

Practical Details

Open daily from 9 AM, with extended hours on weekends (until 11 PM Friday-Saturday), the moderate-priced venue welcomes families with highchairs, wheelchair access, outdoor seating, and takeout. Lines form for sundaes, but nearby sister stores offer alternatives during peaks.

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