Background

San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park: A Voyage Through Time

Explore San Francisco's seafaring past with historic ships, exhibits, and waterfront views at this vibrant national park.

4.6

Experience San Francisco's rich seafaring history at the Maritime National Historical Park. Explore historic ships, a maritime museum, and a visitor center, all located in the vibrant Fisherman's Wharf neighborhood. Discover the stories of sailors, fishermen, and immigrants who shaped the city's maritime legacy.

A brief summary to San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Check the National Park Service website for updates on Hyde Street Pier's reopening and ship accessibility.
  • Take advantage of the free, four-hour parking spaces on Jefferson Street and Van Ness Avenue.
  • Consider using public transportation to avoid traffic and parking challenges in the Fisherman's Wharf area.
  • Visit the Maritime Museum to see the newly reopened third floor and its brilliantly restored murals.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Francisco, several Muni bus lines (e.g., 49, 28, 19) provide service to the Fisherman's Wharf area near the park. A single ride costs $3.00 cash, or $2.50 with a Clipper card or the MuniMobile app. A day pass, valid for unlimited rides on Muni buses and streetcars (excluding cable cars), is available for $5.70 via the MuniMobile app. The Hyde Street cable car turnaround is also located within the park, at the corner of Hyde and Beach Streets, but note that a separate fare of $8 per ride applies.

  • Walking

    From Pier 39, walk west along the Embarcadero, then turn left onto Jefferson Street. Continue on Jefferson Street until you reach Hyde Street. The park's visitor center is located at the corner of Hyde and Jefferson Streets. This is approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Note that the terrain is mostly flat and paved.

  • Ride Share

    From Union Square, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft) to the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park will typically cost between $15 and $25, depending on traffic and demand. The destination address is near 499 Jefferson Street. Be aware that traffic in the Fisherman's Wharf area can be heavy, especially during peak tourist season.

Unlock the Best of San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park

San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, established in 1988, offers a captivating journey into the city's nautical past. Situated in the Fisherman's Wharf area, the park encompasses a 50-acre expanse around Aquatic Park Cove. Visitors can immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and stories of Pacific Coast maritime history. The park features a remarkable collection of historic vessels, including the Balclutha (an 1886 square-rigged sailing ship), the C.A. Thayer (an 1895 schooner), and the Eureka (an 1890 steam ferryboat). These ships, moored at Hyde Street Pier, offer a glimpse into the lives of those who sailed the world's oceans. Note that Hyde Street Pier is currently closed for renovation, and the ships are temporarily located at Mare Island Naval Shipyard, where they can be viewed from land. The Maritime Museum, housed in a Streamline Moderne building that once served as a bathhouse, showcases exhibits on West Coast seafaring, the California Gold Rush, and maritime communication. The visitor center, located in a historic waterfront warehouse, provides orientation information and exhibits on the men and women who worked on the waterfront. Aquatic Park, a National Historic Landmark, offers a scenic waterfront stroll. Visitors can also explore the Maritime Research Center, which houses a vast collection of maritime-related artifacts, documents, and photographs. The park also presents the opportunity to see a steam donkey engine and watch boats being mended.

Popular Experiences near San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park

Popular Hotels near San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park

Select Currency