Exploring San Francisco's Maritime History
Explore San Francisco's seafaring past at the Maritime National Historical Park: Discover historic ships, captivating museum exhibits, and stunning waterfront views in the heart of Fisherman's Wharf.
The San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park offers a captivating journey into the city's rich seafaring past. Located on the northern waterfront, the park encompasses a fleet of historic ships, a maritime museum, a research center, and a library, providing diverse avenues for exploration. Visitors can board meticulously preserved vessels, including a square-rigger, a steam ferryboat, and a paddlewheel tug, each telling unique stories of maritime life. The museum showcases artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays that illuminate the history of Pacific Coast maritime activities. Whether you're a maritime enthusiast or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, the park offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of seafaring and its impact on San Francisco's identity. The park's location within the vibrant Fisherman's Wharf area makes it easily accessible and a perfect addition to any San Francisco itinerary, offering a blend of education, adventure, and stunning waterfront views.
A brief summary to San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
- San Francisco, Fort Mason, California, 94109, US
- +1415-447-5000
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing on the historic ships.
- Check the park's website for the schedule of ranger-led tours and special events.
- Bring a jacket, as the waterfront can be windy and cool, even on sunny days.
- Allow at least 3-4 hours to fully explore the ships and museum.
- Consider purchasing a National Park Pass if you plan to visit multiple national parks during your trip.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Fisherman's Wharf, the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park is easily accessible by public transportation. Several Muni lines stop near the park, including the F-Market streetcar line, which provides a scenic ride along the Embarcadero. Get off at the Hyde Street stop, which is directly adjacent to the park's main entrance and the Hyde Street Pier. A single ride on Muni costs $3.00, or $2.50 if you use the MuniMobile app. Clipper cards are also accepted.
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Walking
If you're already in the Fisherman's Wharf area, walking to the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park is a pleasant option. From Pier 39, head west along Jefferson Street, following the waterfront. You'll pass by several shops and restaurants before reaching Hyde Street Pier, where the park is located. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes and offers beautiful views of the bay. There are no costs associated with walking.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout San Francisco. A ride from Union Square to the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park typically costs between $15 and $25, depending on traffic and demand. The drop-off point is usually near the corner of Jefferson and Hyde Streets, right by the park entrance. Be aware that traffic can be heavy in the Fisherman's Wharf area, especially during peak tourist season.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to the 499 Jefferson St, San Francisco, CA 94109. Parking near the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park can be challenging, especially during peak season. There are several parking garages in the Fisherman's Wharf area, but they can be expensive. Expect to pay around $8-$12 per hour, or $35-$50 for the entire day. Limited street parking is also available, but it's often difficult to find and may have time restrictions. Consider using a parking app to find and reserve a spot in advance. Be aware of the one-way streets in the area.
Discover more about San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Maritime Museum
0.0 km
Discover San Francisco's maritime heritage at the Maritime Museum, a fascinating journey through nautical history with stunning bay views.
Black Point Historic Gardens
0.3 km
Discover a hidden oasis in San Francisco's Fort Mason: Black Point Historic Gardens, where stunning bay views meet a rich tapestry of history and natural beauty.
2905 Hyde St
0.3 km
Experience the historic charm of 2905 Hyde St in San Francisco's iconic Fisherman's Wharf, where stunning views and rich maritime history await.
1890 San Francisco Bay Ark
0.3 km
Discover the San Francisco Bay Ark at Fisherman's Wharf: Step back in time and explore a unique piece of maritime history, showcasing early 20th-century houseboat living.
C.A. Thayer
0.4 km
Discover the C.A. Thayer, a historic wooden schooner in San Francisco, offering a deep dive into maritime history and the legacy of seafaring.
Site of John C Frémont and Jessie Benton Frémont home
0.4 km
Explore the former home site of John and Jessie Frémont within Fort Mason, offering stunning views and a glimpse into their influential lives during a pivotal era in American history.
Eureka Steamboat
0.4 km
Explore the historic Eureka Steamboat in San Francisco, a symbol of maritime heritage and a fascinating tourist attraction on the Bay.
Black Point
0.4 km
Experience the historical allure and stunning vistas of Black Point, a premier tourist attraction in San Francisco's Fort Mason.
Lombard St
0.6 km
Discover the beauty of Lombard Street, San Francisco's iconic crooked street, adorned with stunning gardens and breathtaking views.
Fisherman’s Wharf Sign
0.7 km
Discover the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf Sign, a historical landmark in San Francisco that captures the essence of the city’s vibrant waterfront culture.
Fisherman's Wharf
0.8 km
Experience San Francisco's iconic waterfront: fresh seafood, playful sea lions, historic ships, and stunning bay views await at Fisherman's Wharf.
Russian Hill
0.8 km
Experience the stunning views, historic charm, and vibrant culture of Russian Hill in San Francisco, a neighborhood that defines the city's unique spirit.
Pier 43 Ferry Arch
1.0 km
Explore the historic Pier 43 Ferry Arch in San Francisco, a captivating landmark where stunning bay views meet rich maritime history.
McElroy Octagon House
1.0 km
Discover San Francisco's architectural heritage at the McElroy Octagon House, a unique museum showcasing Colonial and Federal period decorative arts in an eight-sided historic home.
Burr Mansion
1.1 km
Explore Burr Mansion, a splendid historical landmark in San Francisco's Pacific Heights, showcasing stunning 19th-century architecture and rich local history.
Unmissable attractions to see
California Historical Landmark 236: First Ship into San Francisco Bay
0.1 km
Explore the California Historical Landmark 236, where history and stunning views converge at San Francisco's first ship entry point into the bay.
Cartoon Art Museum
0.2 km
Discover the Cartoon Art Museum in San Francisco, where animation and artistry unite to create a vibrant cultural experience for all ages.
San Francisco E-Scooter Rentals - Electric Tour Company
0.2 km
Experience the best of San Francisco with Electric Tour Company’s e-scooter rentals, ideal for sightseeing and adventure.
Umbrella Alley San Francisco
0.2 km
Discover the colorful charm of Umbrella Alley in San Francisco, a delightful attraction for photo enthusiasts and art lovers alike.
San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park Visitor Center
0.3 km
Discover maritime history and breathtaking views at the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park Visitor Center in Fort Mason.
Blazing Saddles Bike Rentals & Tours
0.3 km
Discover San Francisco's iconic sights and breathtaking views on two wheels at Blazing Saddles Bike Rentals & Tours.
San Francisco Love Tours
0.3 km
Explore the best of San Francisco with personalized tours that uncover the city's beauty, culture, and hidden treasures.
Hyde Street Pier
0.3 km
Discover the rich maritime history at Hyde Street Pier, where historic ships and stunning views of San Francisco's bay await every visitor.
Truhlsen-Marmor Museum of the Eye
0.3 km
Explore the Truhlsen-Marmor Museum of the Eye: A unique museum in San Francisco dedicated to the science and history of vision.
Essential places to dine
Gary Danko
0.3 km
Discover the culinary masterpiece of Gary Danko in San Francisco - where exquisite flavors meet unparalleled service.
Capurro's Restaurant
0.4 km
Discover Capurro's Restaurant at Fisherman's Wharf - where fresh seafood meets Italian flair in an unforgettable dining experience.
Cioppino's
0.4 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Cioppino's - A family-friendly Italian restaurant located at Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco.
Surisan
0.6 km
Discover Surisan: Where Korean flavors meet brunch classics in San Francisco's scenic Fisherman's Wharf.
Franciscan Crab Restaurant
0.9 km
Discover exquisite seafood dining with breathtaking bay views at Franciscan Crab Restaurant in Fisherman's Wharf.
The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House
0.9 km
Experience exquisite garlic-infused seafood at The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf.
Fior d'Italia
0.9 km
Discover Fior d'Italia: A historic Italian restaurant in San Francisco's North Beach offering authentic cuisine and an inviting atmosphere.
Street Restaurant and Bar
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of New American cuisine at Street Restaurant and Bar in San Francisco's Polk Gulch—where every dish tells a story.
Eagle Cafe
1.2 km
Experience delightful seafood and breakfast dishes at Eagle Cafe in San Francisco's iconic Pier 39 with stunning bay views.
Fog Harbor Fish House
1.2 km
Experience the freshest seafood with stunning views at Fog Harbor Fish House in Fisherman's Wharf.
Wipeout Bar & Grill
1.2 km
Experience Californian flavors at Wipeout Bar & Grill on Pier 39—delicious food, stunning views, and unforgettable moments await you.
Crab House at Pier 39
1.2 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Crab House at Pier 39 in San Francisco's iconic Fisherman's Wharf with stunning bay views.
Pier Market Seafood Restaurant
1.2 km
Experience fresh seafood delights with stunning bay views at Pier Market Seafood Restaurant in San Francisco's iconic Fisherman's Wharf.
Atelier Crenn
1.4 km
Experience the artistry of French cuisine at Atelier Crenn, where each dish tells a unique story crafted by Chef Dominique Crenn.
Original Joe's
1.5 km
Discover authentic Italian-American cuisine at Original Joe's in North Beach – where history meets flavor in every dish.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lola of North Beach
0.1 km
Explore Lola of North Beach, a charming gift shop in San Francisco, offering unique souvenirs and treasures that embody the spirit of the city.
Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience
0.1 km
Discover the sweet legacy of Ghirardelli at the Chocolate Experience, where every bite takes you on a delicious journey through San Francisco's rich chocolate heritage.
Frank's Fisherman
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and antiques at Frank's Fisherman, a charming shop in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, perfect for souvenirs and stylish finds.
Safe Harbor
0.5 km
Explore Safe Harbor, a charming souvenir store in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, offering unique treasures and local art to celebrate your visit.
Route 66
0.7 km
Discover Route 66: A charming general store in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, offering unique souvenirs and local treasures that capture the spirit of the city.
Ess Eff Gift Shop (Inside)
0.8 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Ess Eff Gift Shop, a charming destination in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf.
Molte Cose
1.1 km
Discover unique gifts and clothing at Molte Cose, a charming shop in San Francisco's Polk Gulch, perfect for memorable souvenirs and local finds.
Only In San Francisco
1.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local artisan crafts at Only In San Francisco, the perfect gift shop to capture your travel memories.
I Love SF
1.2 km
Discover unique San Francisco souvenirs at I Love SF, a vibrant gift shop showcasing the spirit of the city in every treasure.
Fairy Tales
1.2 km
Explore the whimsical world of Fairy Tales Gift Shop at Pier 39, San Francisco, where magic and creativity come to life in enchanting souvenirs.
Solve It! Think out of the box
1.2 km
Discover the ultimate game store in San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf, offering a brilliant selection of puzzles, toys, and family-friendly activities.
Enlightenment
1.2 km
Explore Enlightenment Gift Shop at Pier 39 for unique South Asian treasures and memorable souvenirs in San Francisco.
Under the Golden Gate
1.3 km
Explore Under the Golden Gate, a vibrant gift shop at Pier 39 offering unique souvenirs and local crafts in the heart of San Francisco.
The Cable Car Store
1.3 km
Explore San Francisco's charm at The Cable Car Store, your go-to destination for unique souvenirs and gifts celebrating the city's iconic culture.
Stuff
1.3 km
Explore the eclectic charm of Stuff, an antique store in San Francisco's Polk Gulch, filled with vintage furniture, clothing, and unique decor.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Interval at Long Now
0.7 km
Discover The Interval at Long Now: a San Francisco cocktail bar that fuses mixology with thought-provoking exhibits, perfect for curious travelers.
The Socialite Crafthouse & Kitchen
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of San Francisco at The Socialite Crafthouse & Kitchen, a brewpub where craft beer meets delicious cuisine.
Bar Iris
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant fusion of cocktails and Japanese cuisine at Bar Iris, a must-visit culinary gem in San Francisco's Polk Gulch.
Northpoint Craft Cocktails - Local Brews
1.0 km
Experience the best of San Francisco's cocktail culture at Northpoint Craft Cocktails, featuring local brews and inventive mixology in a cozy setting.
Sweetie's Art Bar
1.0 km
Experience the artistic vibe and creative cocktails at Sweetie's Art Bar, a beloved local bar in the heart of San Francisco's North Beach.
Bodega North Beach
1.2 km
Discover Bodega North Beach, your go-to wine bar in San Francisco's North Beach, offering a curated selection of wines and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Red Jack Saloon
1.2 km
Discover the lively bar scene at Red Jack Saloon, a Fisherman's Wharf gem offering great drinks and a vibrant atmosphere in San Francisco.
Hard Rock Cafe
1.3 km
Savor classic American cuisine amidst iconic rock music memorabilia at Hard Rock Cafe San Francisco, a vibrant dining experience at Fisherman’s Wharf.
Luau Lounge
1.3 km
Savor tropical flavors and stunning views at Luau Lounge, a vibrant restaurant at Pier 39, San Francisco.
Players Sports Grill & Arcade
1.3 km
Experience the ultimate blend of food, drinks, and arcade fun at Players Sports Grill & Arcade in Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco.
Tony Nik's CAFE
1.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Tony Nik's CAFE, a beloved bar in San Francisco's North Beach, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
Gino & Carlo
1.6 km
Experience the lively spirit of San Francisco at Gino & Carlo, a sports bar in North Beach known for its friendly atmosphere and diverse drink selection.
Maggie McGarry's
1.6 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of Irish culture at Maggie McGarry's, a beloved pub in San Francisco's North Beach, offering delicious food and lively entertainment.
Kozy Kar
1.7 km
Experience the unique charm of Kozy Kar, a vibrant bar in San Francisco's Polk Gulch, known for its water mattresses and friendly atmosphere.
Cold Drinks Bar
1.7 km
Experience the best cocktails in North Beach at Cold Drinks Bar, where creativity meets flavor in a stylish atmosphere.
