San Francisco's Seafaring Past
Explore San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, where historic ships, engaging museums, and stunning waterfront views bring America's seafaring past to life in Fisherman's Wharf.
Step back in time at the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, a captivating tribute to America's maritime legacy on the Pacific Coast. Nestled in the bustling Fisherman's Wharf area, this 50-acre park offers a unique blend of historic ships, engaging museums, and stunning waterfront views. Explore a remarkable collection of meticulously preserved vessels, from majestic sailing ships to powerful steam-driven tugs, each with its own story to tell. Delve into exhibits showcasing the lives of sailors, the challenges of transoceanic voyages, and the impact of maritime trade on the city's development. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a maritime buff, or simply seeking a memorable San Francisco experience, this park provides an immersive journey into the world of seafaring adventure and discovery. Don't miss the chance to wander along the waterfront, breathe in the salty air, and imagine the days when San Francisco was a thriving hub of global maritime activity.
A brief summary to San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
- San Francisco, Fort Mason, California, 94109, US
- +1415-447-5000
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the park's website for the schedule of ranger-led tours and demonstrations, which offer in-depth insights into the history and operation of the historic ships.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces, especially when exploring the historic ships.
- Bring a jacket or sweater, as the waterfront can be cool and breezy, even on sunny days.
- Consider purchasing a National Parks Pass for free entry if you plan to visit multiple national parks during your trip.
- Take advantage of the free, four-hour parking spaces on Jefferson Street and Van Ness Avenue, but be aware that these spots fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Fisherman's Wharf or Pier 39, the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park is easily accessible via a pleasant walk west along Jefferson Street. Alternatively, several Muni bus lines (including the 19, 28, 49) stop near the park. Check the SFMTA website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single Muni fare is $3.00, or $2.50 if using a Clipper card or the MuniMobile app. A day pass, valid on buses and streetcars (but not cable cars), is available for $5 via the MuniMobile app.
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Cable Car
The Hyde Street cable car line terminates at the corner of Hyde and Beach Streets, directly adjacent to the park's Maritime Museum and Hyde Street Pier. A one-way cable car fare is $8.00 per person. Consider purchasing a Muni Passport for unlimited rides on all Muni services, including cable cars, if you plan to use public transport extensively.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Fisherman's Wharf or Pier 39 to the park entrance is a quick option, typically costing between $10 and $15, depending on traffic and demand. Be sure to specify 'San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park' or 'Hyde Street Pier' as your destination.
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Driving
If driving, be aware that parking in the Fisherman's Wharf area can be challenging and expensive. There is no designated parking area for the park. Metered street parking is limited, and parking garages in the vicinity charge hourly rates that can range from $4 to $10 per hour. The park offers free, four-hour parking spaces for visitors on Jefferson Street and Van Ness Avenue. All other visitor parking options in the neighborhood are either metered or in paid parking lots. Consider parking further away and taking public transport or a ride-share to avoid parking hassles.
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 1861 landmark showcasing Colonial and Federal period decorative arts in an eight-sided 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
Visit the site where the Spanish ship San Carlos first sailed into San Francisco Bay in 1775, marking a new era of exploration and mapping.
Cartoon Art Museum
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant world of cartoons at the Cartoon Art Museum in San Francisco, showcasing creative art and iconic characters.
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
Experience the whimsical charm of Umbrella Alley in San Francisco, a colorful tourist attraction perfect for photography and exploration.
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 the beauty of San Francisco with Blazing Saddles Bike Rentals & Tours, your gateway to unforgettable cycling adventures in the city.
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
Explore San Francisco's Hyde Street Pier, a historical landmark filled with classic ships and rich maritime heritage, offering stunning bay views.
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
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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.
