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San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park: A Voyage Through Pacific Coast History

Explore San Francisco's seafaring past with historic ships, museum exhibits, and stunning waterfront views at Fisherman's Wharf.

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Explore San Francisco's rich maritime past at the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, located in the Fisherman's Wharf neighborhood. Discover historic ships, a maritime museum, and a research center, all dedicated to preserving the seafaring legacy of the Pacific Coast.

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 park's website for the most up-to-date information on closures and the availability of specific ships and exhibits.
  • Consider taking public transportation, as parking in the Fisherman's Wharf area can be limited and expensive.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the park and exploring the ships.
  • Take advantage of ranger-led programs and guided tours to learn more about the park's history and exhibits.
  • Bring a jacket, as the waterfront can be cool and windy.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Francisco, several Muni bus lines (including the 19, 28, 49) stop near the park. The F line streetcar also provides service to the Fisherman's Wharf area. A short walk from any of these stops will bring you to the park's visitor center. A single ride on Muni costs $3.00, or $2.50 if using the MuniMobile app. A day pass costs $5.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Fisherman's Wharf area, the park is easily accessible on foot. Simply follow the signs towards Hyde Street Pier. The visitor center is located at the corner of Hyde and Jefferson streets. From Pier 39, it's approximately a 15-20 minute walk west along the waterfront.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off directly at the park's visitor center. A typical ride from Union Square will cost between $15 and $25, depending on traffic. Be aware that traffic in the Fisherman's Wharf area can be heavy, especially during peak tourist season.

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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 and the Pacific Coast's maritime history. Situated in the vibrant Fisherman's Wharf area, the park encompasses a 50-acre expanse featuring a remarkable collection of historic ships, a visitor center, the Maritime Museum, the Maritime Research Center, and the Aquatic Park Historic District. The park's heart lies in its fleet of historic vessels, offering a tangible connection to the past. These include the Balclutha (an 1886 square-rigged sailing ship), the C.A. Thayer (an 1895 schooner), the Eureka (an 1890 steam ferryboat), the Alma (an 1891 scow schooner), and the Hercules (a 1907 steam tug). The Maritime Museum, housed in a Streamline Moderne building that was originally a bathhouse, showcases exhibits on West Coast seafaring, the California Gold Rush, and the Pacific whaling industry. The visitor center, located in a historic waterfront warehouse, provides orientation information and exhibits detailing the lives of those who worked at sea. The Maritime Research Center holds an extensive collection of artifacts, documents, and photographs for those seeking in-depth knowledge. Visitors can stroll along Aquatic Park Cove, taking in views of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge. Ranger-led programs, demonstrations, and storytelling events offer deeper insights into San Francisco's maritime heritage.

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