Nimitz House: A Glimpse into Naval History
Explore the historic Nimitz House on Yerba Buena Island, a Classical Revival landmark with stunning bay views, once home to Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz.
The Nimitz House, also known as Quarters One, stands proudly on Yerba Buena Island, a testament to the island's rich naval history. Built around 1900, this Classical Revival residence served as the Commandant's Quarters for the Naval Training Station, offering stunning views of the San Francisco Bay. Later, it became the cherished home of Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, Commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet during World War II, from 1963 until his death in 1966. Today, the Nimitz House remains a captivating landmark, a reminder of Yerba Buena Island's strategic importance and the distinguished figures who once resided within its walls. While not always open for tours, its exterior offers a glimpse into a bygone era, inviting visitors to reflect on the island's pivotal role in shaping naval history and honoring the legacy of Admiral Nimitz.
A brief summary to Naval Quarters 1 Nimitz House
- Nimitz House, 1 Whiting Way, San Francisco, Yerba Buena Island, California, 94130, US
- +1510-415-5914
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check for public access: As Nimitz House is not always open, verify accessibility beforehand through the National Park Service or local sources.
- Explore Yerba Buena Island's parks: Enjoy panoramic views from Panorama Park and Signal Point, offering unique perspectives of the Bay Area.
- Consider transportation options: Utilize public transport like the Muni 25 bus or the Treasure Island Ferry to avoid parking challenges.
Getting There
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Driving
From San Francisco, take the Bay Bridge (I-80 East) towards Oakland. Take the Treasure Island/Yerba Buena Island exit in the middle of the bridge. Follow the signs to Yerba Buena Island. Once on the island, follow Whiting Way. Nimitz House (Quarters 1) will be on your left. Parking is available near Panorama Park, a short walk from the house. Note that a toll is required when traveling eastbound on the Bay Bridge from San Francisco; the toll is approximately $7.75 during peak hours, $6.25 during off-peak hours, and $7.00 on weekends. Parking near Panorama Park is free.
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Public Transport
From the San Francisco Ferry Building, transfer to the Transbay Terminal and catch the Muni 25 bus towards Treasure Island. The bus will drop you off on Treasure Island. From there, you can take the free on-island shuttle, or walk across the causeway to Yerba Buena Island (approximately 15-20 minutes). Follow the signs towards Panorama Park and Nimitz House. The Muni 25 bus fare is $3.00. The Treasure Island Ferry is another option. Take the ferry from the Ferry Building (Gate B) to the Treasure Island Ferry Terminal. From there, you can take the free on-island shuttle or walk to Yerba Buena Island. The one-way ferry fare is $5.00.
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Walking
While technically possible to walk from San Francisco, it's a very long distance (over 17 miles) and not recommended. The pedestrian path is only accessible from the East Bay side of the bridge. It is much more practical to use public transportation or a combination of public transport and walking once you are on Yerba Buena Island.
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