San Francisco Ferry Building: A Waterfront Landmark
Explore San Francisco's iconic Ferry Building: a historic landmark, transportation hub, and gourmet marketplace offering artisan foods, stunning views, and a taste of local culture.
The San Francisco Ferry Building, a celebrated landmark on the Embarcadero, seamlessly blends history, transportation, and gourmet delights. Originally opened in 1898 as the city's primary transportation hub, welcoming up to 50,000 commuters daily, its iconic clock tower and Beaux-Arts architecture evoke a sense of timeless elegance. Today, it still functions as a ferry terminal, but it is also a vibrant marketplace offering artisan foods, restaurants, and local crafts. Whether you're a foodie, a history buff, or simply seeking stunning waterfront views, the Ferry Building offers a unique San Francisco experience. Explore its diverse culinary offerings, browse local produce at the farmers market, or simply soak in the bustling atmosphere of this iconic landmark. Its central location and easy accessibility make it a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike, providing a taste of San Francisco's rich history and vibrant present.
A brief summary to Ferry Building
- 1 Ferry Building, San Francisco, Embarcadero, CA, 94105, US
- +1415-983-8000
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit on a Saturday to experience the bustling Ferry Plaza Farmers Market, offering a wide array of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local crafts.
- Take a stroll along the Embarcadero after your visit to enjoy stunning views of the Bay Bridge and other waterfront attractions.
- Explore the diverse culinary offerings inside the Ferry Building, from fresh oysters to artisanal chocolates, and sample the flavors of the Bay Area.
- Check the Ferry Building's event calendar for live music, cooking demonstrations, and other special events that may be happening during your visit.
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, to avoid crowds and secure parking, or consider taking public transportation for easy access.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
The Ferry Building is easily accessible via public transport. From anywhere in San Francisco, take BART or Muni to the Embarcadero Station. Exit the station and walk one block north towards the waterfront. The Ferry Building will be directly in front of you. A single ride on BART within San Francisco costs between $1.95 and $3.00, depending on the distance. A single Muni ride costs $3.00, or $2.50 if using the MuniMobile app or a Clipper Card. The F-Line historic streetcar also stops directly in front of the Ferry Building; a single ride costs the same as a Muni ride.
-
Ferry
If arriving from Marin County, Alameda or Oakland, take the Golden Gate Ferry or San Francisco Bay Ferry to the Ferry Building terminal. Upon arrival, you are already at your destination. Ferry fares vary depending on the origin; for example, a one-way adult fare from Larkspur on Golden Gate Ferry costs around $14.00, while a one-way adult fare from Alameda on San Francisco Bay Ferry costs around $9.30.
-
Taxi/Ride-Share
If arriving by taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft), simply provide '1 Ferry Building, San Francisco' as your destination. Expect to pay between $15 and $30 for a ride from most central locations in San Francisco, depending on traffic and distance.
-
Driving
If driving, navigate to the Embarcadero. Several parking garages are located within a few blocks of the Ferry Building. The Golden Gateway Garage (250 Clay Street) offers a flat rate of $8 on weekends. During the week, rates are $7 per hour. The Propark Parking Lot at Embarcadero & Washington offers validated rates of $4 for the first hour and $8 for the second hour. Street parking is also available, but metered and often limited.
Discover more about Ferry Building
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Matson Building and Annex
0.4 km
Explore San Francisco's maritime past at the historic Matson Building and Annex, a Renaissance Revival masterpiece that once served as the headquarters for the Matson Navigation Company.
Klamath (Historic Ship)
0.6 km
Discover the Klamath, a historic ship in San Francisco, where maritime history meets stunning bay views and engaging exhibits for all ages.
Mechanics Monument
0.7 km
Discover the Mechanics Monument in San Francisco's Financial District – a stunning sculpture celebrating the city's engineering heritage and vibrant history.
California Historical Landmark 83: Two Shoreline Markers
0.7 km
Discover the historical significance of the Two Shoreline Markers in San Francisco's Financial District, a must-see for maritime history enthusiasts.
Salesforce Tower
0.7 km
Discover Salesforce Tower: Experience breathtaking views and modern architecture in San Francisco's iconic skyline.
Flatiron Building
0.8 km
Explore the iconic Flatiron Building in San Francisco, a stunning architectural marvel that beautifully captures the city's historical essence and vibrant atmosphere.
Hills Bros. Coffee Trademark
0.8 km
Explore the Hills Bros. Coffee Trademark, a stunning sculpture celebrating San Francisco's coffee culture and history, perfect for art and coffee lovers alike.
Shortest Street in California
0.8 km
Experience the whimsy of Balance Street in San Francisco, California's shortest street, where history and charm intertwine in a unique urban adventure.
Transamerica Pyramid
0.8 km
Discover the iconic Transamerica Pyramid, a symbol of San Francisco's skyline and a testament to its rich architectural heritage.
California Historical Landmark 81: Landing Place of Captain J. B. Montgomery
0.8 km
Discover the historic landing site of Captain J. B. Montgomery in San Francisco, a key location in the Gold Rush narrative at California Historical Landmark 81.
Northeast Waterfront Historic District
0.8 km
Discover the rich maritime history and scenic beauty of the Northeast Waterfront Historic District in San Francisco, a must-visit for every traveler.
San Francisco Historical Society
0.9 km
Explore San Francisco's captivating past at the San Francisco Historical Society: exhibits, walking tours, and publications bring the city's rich history to life in the heart of downtown.
California Historical Landmark 819: Hudson's Bay Company
0.9 km
Discover the rich history of Hudson's Bay Company, a pivotal landmark in San Francisco's Chinatown, reflecting the city's vibrant past and cultural diversity.
Jackson Square
0.9 km
Discover the historic charm of Jackson Square in San Francisco, a vibrant neighborhood of art galleries, boutique shops, and delightful dining experiences.
California Historical Landmark 861: Site of First California State Fair
0.9 km
Explore California's rich agricultural history at the Site of the First California State Fair, a significant historical landmark in the heart of San Francisco.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ferry Plaza Farmers Market
0.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of San Francisco at the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market, where local produce and gourmet delights await.
Golden Gate Ferry Terminal Upper Level Public Viewing Area
0.1 km
Experience the stunning views of San Francisco from the Golden Gate Ferry Terminal Upper Level, your perfect vantage point for iconic sights.
Embarcadero Plaza
0.1 km
Experience the tranquility of Embarcadero Plaza, a scenic urban oasis in San Francisco's Financial District, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
Vaillancourt Fountain
0.2 km
Experience the artistic allure of the Vaillancourt Fountain in San Francisco's Financial District, a captivating blend of art, water, and urban life.
San Francisco Railway Museum
0.2 km
Discover the captivating history of San Francisco's railways at the Railway Museum, showcasing the evolution of public transit and streetcars.
Sue Bierman Park
0.2 km
Discover the tranquility of Sue Bierman Park in San Francisco's Financial District, a perfect blend of nature and urban charm.
City Cruises San Francisco
0.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of San Francisco Bay with City Cruises, offering unforgettable sightseeing, dining, and private event experiences on the water.
Pier 7
0.5 km
Discover the stunning views and serene atmosphere of Pier 7 in San Francisco, perfect for leisurely strolls and unforgettable sunsets over the Bay.
Sydney G. Walton Square
0.5 km
Explore the serene beauty of Sydney G. Walton Square, a lush urban park in San Francisco's Northern Waterfront, perfect for relaxation and family fun.
Rincon Park
0.5 km
Discover the beauty of Rincon Park, a scenic urban oasis in San Francisco, offering stunning Bay views and a peaceful escape amidst the city's bustle.
Essential places to dine
Boulevard
0.3 km
Experience unparalleled Californian-American cuisine at Boulevard, where every dish is a masterpiece crafted from local ingredients.
Prospect
0.7 km
Discover Prospect: A premier American restaurant in San Francisco offering organic cuisine and stunning skyline views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Waterbar Restaurant
0.7 km
Discover exquisite seafood dining at Waterbar Restaurant along San Francisco's iconic Embarcadero with stunning bay views.
Bix
0.8 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine paired with live jazz in San Francisco's elegant Bix restaurant - where fine dining meets vibrant nightlife.
Quince
0.9 km
Experience the pinnacle of Italian fine dining at Quince in San Francisco's historic Jackson Square with exquisite dishes and exceptional service.
Trestle Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience the best of American and Italian cuisine at Trestle Restaurant in the heart of San Francisco's iconic Chinatown.
House of Nanking
1.0 km
Discover authentic Chinese flavors at House of Nanking in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown—a family-friendly dining experience not to be missed!
Begoni Bistro
1.1 km
Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at Begoni Bistro in San Francisco's historic Chinatown - a delightful culinary journey awaits!
Great Eastern Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at Great Eastern Restaurant in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown—home to exquisite dim sum and fresh seafood delights.
City View Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience authentic Cantonese cuisine at City View Restaurant in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown with stunning city views.
Bund Shanghai Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience authentic Shanghainese cuisine in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown at Bund Shanghai Restaurant.
Z & Y Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience authentic Chinese flavors at Z & Y Restaurant in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown—delicious dishes await every food lover.
FUSION DUMPLING
1.1 km
Discover authentic flavors at Fusion Dumpling in San Francisco's Chinatown—your destination for exquisite dim sum, hot pot, and noodle dishes.
Tosca Cafe
1.1 km
Experience the rich flavors of Italy at Tosca Cafe in San Francisco's historic North Beach district—where tradition meets modern dining.
Mourad
1.1 km
Experience exquisite Californian cuisine with Moroccan flair at Mourad, San Francisco's premier fine dining destination.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bowerbird
0.3 km
Explore Bowerbird, a unique gift shop in San Francisco's Financial District, featuring local artisan crafts and distinctive home goods.
Exploratorium Store
0.8 km
Explore the Exploratorium Store - a vibrant gift shop at Pier 15 offering science-inspired toys, books, and gadgets for curious minds.
Canton Bazaar
1.1 km
Discover unique treasures at Canton Bazaar, a vibrant gift shop in San Francisco's Chinatown, perfect for authentic souvenirs and cultural finds.
Shangri La Gifts
1.1 km
Explore Shangri La Gifts in San Francisco's Chinatown for unique treasures and a taste of local craftsmanship that captures the city's vibrant culture.
Peking Bazaar
1.1 km
Explore the charm of Chinatown with unique gifts and authentic souvenirs at Peking Bazaar, a must-visit destination in San Francisco.
Jing Ying Gift Shop inc
1.1 km
Explore Jing Ying Gift Shop in San Francisco's Chinatown for unique gifts and authentic souvenirs that capture the essence of Chinese culture.
Oriental Treasures San Francisco
1.1 km
Explore a treasure trove of Asian artifacts and unique gifts at Oriental Treasures in San Francisco's enchanting Chinatown.
Old Shanghai
1.1 km
Explore Old Shanghai in San Francisco's Chinatown for unique gifts and authentic decor that capture the essence of the exotic Orient.
Souvenir Shop
1.1 km
Discover unique treasures in Chinatown's Souvenir Shop, offering a blend of traditional and modern keepsakes for every traveler.
Up & Up Gift Shop
1.1 km
Explore Up & Up Gift Shop in San Francisco's Chinatown for unique gifts and souvenirs that embody the city's rich culture and charm.
Fashion House & Gifts
1.2 km
Explore the vibrant treasures of Fashion House & Gifts in San Francisco's Chinatown—unique gifts and souvenirs that celebrate the city's culture.
China Station
1.2 km
Explore the authentic treasures of Chinatown at China Station, your go-to gift shop for traditional crafts and unique home goods.
Butterfly's Gift Shop Inc
1.2 km
Explore Butterfly's Gift Shop Inc in San Francisco's Chinatown for unique gifts and unforgettable souvenirs that reflect the city's vibrant culture.
Yat On Gift Shop
1.2 km
Explore the vibrant Yat On Gift Shop in San Francisco's Chinatown for unique gifts and authentic Asian treasures that celebrate the city's rich cultural heritage.
Angelic Pretty San Francisco
1.2 km
Discover whimsical women's fashion at Angelic Pretty San Francisco, where chic elegance meets unique Japanese-inspired designs in the heart of the city.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
83 Proof
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of San Francisco at 83 Proof, a bar offering innovative cocktails and delicious food in the heart of the Financial District.
The House Of Shields
1.0 km
Experience the blend of history and vibrant nightlife at The House Of Shields, a must-visit bar in San Francisco's Financial District.
Rickhouse
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture of San Francisco at Rickhouse, where craft meets creativity in a chic bar ambiance.
Comstock Saloon
1.1 km
Comstock Saloon: Where Historic Charm Meets Craft Cocktails in San Francisco's Chinatown.
Mr Bing's
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture at Mr Bing's, a must-visit bar in the heart of San Francisco's Chinatown.
Lion's Den Lounge and Bar
1.1 km
Discover the pulse of San Francisco's nightlife at Lion's Den Lounge and Bar, where live music and DJ services create unforgettable evenings.
Li Po Cocktail Lounge
1.1 km
Discover the historic Li Po Cocktail Lounge in San Francisco's Chinatown, where exquisite cocktails and timeless charm await every visitor.
The Devil's Acre
1.1 km
Discover the charm of The Devil's Acre, a cocktail bar in North Beach, San Francisco, where exquisite drinks meet a vintage-inspired atmosphere.
Red's Place
1.1 km
Discover Red's Place in San Francisco's Chinatown - a cocktail bar with a welcoming vibe and innovative drinks to elevate your nightlife experience.
Buddha Lounge
1.1 km
Discover the serene ambiance of Buddha Lounge in San Francisco's Chinatown, where eclectic decor meets a diverse drink selection.
Harlan Records
1.2 km
Discover Harlan Records, the ultimate cocktail bar in San Francisco's Union Square, where exquisite drinks meet an unforgettable vinyl experience.
718
1.2 km
Discover the unique flavors and vibrant atmosphere at 718 Lounge in San Francisco's historic Chinatown, where craft cocktails and Asian cuisine meet.
Moongate Lounge
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Moongate Lounge in San Francisco's Chinatown, where cocktails and Chinese cuisine blend seamlessly for a unique experience.
CHI Lounge
1.2 km
Discover CHI Lounge in San Francisco's Chinatown for an unforgettable night of live music, dancing, and vibrant cocktails.
15 Romolo
1.2 km
Experience the best of San Francisco's cocktail culture at 15 Romolo, a cozy bar offering innovative drinks and delicious tapas in North Beach.
