Pier 43 Ferry Arch: A Gateway to San Francisco's Maritime Past
Step back in time at Pier 43 Ferry Arch, a historic landmark in Fisherman's Wharf, offering stunning views and a glimpse into San Francisco's maritime past, before the iconic bridges.
Pier 43 Ferry Arch, a historical landmark in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, stands as a reminder of the city's bustling maritime past. Built in 1914, this decorated hoisting tower once served as a crucial link for loading and unloading rail cars onto ferries, connecting San Francisco to the North Bay before the iconic bridges were built. Today, the arch offers stunning views of Alcatraz and the Bay Bridge, inviting visitors to step back in time and imagine the pier's vibrant history. Located amidst the lively atmosphere of Fisherman's Wharf, Pier 43 provides a picturesque spot for photography and a glimpse into San Francisco's rich maritime heritage. Explore nearby attractions like Pier 39's sea lions, Ghirardelli Square, and the Maritime National Historical Park, all within easy walking distance. Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a scenic stroll, Pier 43 Ferry Arch offers a unique and memorable experience.
A brief summary to Pier 43 Ferry Arch
- San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf, California, 94133, US
Local tips
- Visit during sunset for breathtaking views of Alcatraz and the Bay Bridge framed by the historic arch.
- Take the historic F-line streetcar for a scenic and convenient ride to Pier 43.
- Explore the nearby Pier 39 to see the famous sea lions and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Fisherman's Wharf.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From the Ferry Building, take the MUNI F-Line streetcar towards Fisherman's Wharf. The closest stop to Pier 43 is Fisherman's Wharf, Pier 43 1/2. The ride takes approximately 15 minutes. A single ride fare on MUNI is $3.00. Alternatively, several bus lines serve the area, including the 8, 8BX, 39, and 114. Check the SFMTA website or app for real-time schedules and routes.
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Cable Car
From Union Square, take the Powell-Hyde or Powell-Mason cable car line towards Fisherman's Wharf. The Powell-Hyde line drops you off near Ghirardelli Square, a short walk to Pier 43. The Powell-Mason line terminates closer to Pier 45, about a 10-minute walk to Pier 43. A single ride on the cable car is $8.00.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From anywhere in downtown San Francisco, a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) to Pier 43 is a convenient option. The ride typically takes 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around $15-$25, depending on the distance and surge pricing.
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Walking
If you're already in the Fisherman's Wharf area, walking to Pier 43 is easy. From Pier 39, head west along the Embarcadero, passing by several restaurants and shops. Pier 43 will be on your left, just before Pier 45. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes.
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Driving
Driving to Pier 43 is possible, but parking in Fisherman's Wharf can be challenging and expensive. Several parking garages are nearby, including the 2552 Taylor St Garage and the 350 Bay St Garage. Expect to pay $30-$40 for a few hours of parking. Consider using a parking app like SpotHero or ParkWhiz to reserve a spot in advance.
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