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Hyde Street Pier: A Gateway to San Francisco's Maritime Past

Explore historic ships and experience San Francisco's maritime heritage at Hyde Street Pier, a floating museum on Fisherman's Wharf.

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Hyde Street Pier, located at Fisherman's Wharf, is a historic pier and part of the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. It offers visitors a chance to explore a collection of preserved ships and learn about the city's rich maritime history.

A brief summary to Hyde Street Pier

  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing on the ships.
  • Check the schedule for ranger-led tours and demonstrations to enhance your visit.
  • Bring a jacket, as it can be chilly on the pier, especially in the afternoon.
  • Purchase tickets online in advance to save time and guarantee entry.
  • Take valuables with you and don't leave anything visible in your car due to the risk of car break-ins in the area.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Francisco, the Powell/Hyde cable car line provides direct access to Hyde Street Pier. The cable car stops at Hyde and Beach Streets, a short walk from the pier entrance. Alternatively, several MUNI bus lines (19, 28, 30, 49) stop at Beach and Hyde streets. A single ride on MUNI costs $3, or $8 for the cable car. Consider a day pass for unlimited rides on MUNI.

  • Walking

    If you're already in the Fisherman's Wharf area, Hyde Street Pier is easily accessible on foot. From Pier 39, walk west along the Embarcadero towards Hyde Street. The walk is approximately 0.7 miles and takes about 15 minutes. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the waterfront as you make your way to the pier. Access to Hyde Street Pier itself is free.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient way to reach Hyde Street Pier. A ride from downtown San Francisco to Hyde Street Pier typically costs between $13 and $17 and takes about 5 minutes, depending on traffic. Be sure to specify 'Hyde Street Pier' or '2905 Hyde Street' as your destination.

  • Parking

    There is no dedicated parking for Hyde Street Pier. However, several parking garages and lots are located nearby. The closest options include the garage at 655 Beach Street and the Ghirardelli Square Garage. Parking rates vary, but you can expect to pay around $15-$25 for 2 hours. Street parking is also available, but it can be difficult to find and is metered, costing around $12 for 2 hours. Be aware of parking restrictions and time limits. Car break-ins are common in the area, so take valuables with you.

Unlock the Best of Hyde Street Pier

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Discover more about Hyde Street Pier

Hyde Street Pier is more than just a pier; it's a floating museum that transports you back to San Francisco's nautical past. Situated at the western end of Fisherman's Wharf, this historic pier is home to a remarkable collection of preserved ships, each with its own unique story to tell. Built in 1922, Hyde Street Pier initially served as a vital ferry terminal, connecting San Francisco to Marin County and the East Bay before the construction of the Golden Gate and San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridges. Today, it's part of the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives of sailors and passengers from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Moored at the pier are several historic ships, including the Balclutha, an 1886 square-rigged sailing vessel that sailed around Cape Horn 17 times. You can also explore the Eureka, an 1890 ferryboat that once transported passengers and cars across the bay. Other notable vessels include the C.A. Thayer, a lumber schooner, the Hercules, a steam-powered tugboat, and the Alma, a scow schooner. Visitors can board many of these ships, explore their decks and cargo holds, and imagine what life was like for the sailors who once called them home. Ranger-led tours and interactive exhibits further enhance the experience, providing insights into the maritime history of the West Coast.

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