Top 10 Things To Do Along The Embarcadero, San Francisco

The Ferry Building is one of San Francisco’s most iconic buildings, and the anchor of the Embarcadero. This architectural landmark is located at the centre of a major transit hub where Bart, Muni, and the Ferry lines all come together. San Francisco’s historic Ferry Building is home to some of the Bay Area’s best local farmers, artisan producers, and independently owned restaurants, and is not to be missed by anyone who loves food and wine, much of which can be enjoyed while taking in gorgeous views. From burgers to biscuits, cheese to chocolate, doughnuts to dry rubs for meat, the Ferry Building is truly a culinary destination. Go on Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday when the Farmers Market is in full swing to discover fresh farm products and prepared foods. The Ferry Building is located along the Embarcadero at the foot of Market Street.

Discover just how much you take your sight for granted when you enter the total darkness of the Tactile Dome at the Exploratorium, San Francisco’s hands-on science museum. The sensory journey requires you to walk, crawl, climb, slide, and feel your way through the twists, turns, and textures of the interactive sculpture that was originally created in 1971. The wonderland of textures is an extraordinary way to reset your senses and possibly experience a sense of re-birthing (which was the artists original intention). Reservations are required. The Exploratorium is located on Pier 15 along the Embarcadero and is home to more than 650 interactive works of sound, color, and touch, which will challenge your perceptions and also leave you awestruck, inspired, and full of laughter.

Perched on a slab of rock in the middle of San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz was once known as one of America’s most notorious maximum security prisons. Today, tours operate both during the day and at night, with a ferry that shuttles visitors to and from the island. Ideal for a glimpse into San Francisco’s history and for photo-worthy views of the city, Alcatraz is a must-see experience.

The Aquarium of the Bay sits at the edge of Pier 39. The inhabitants of this aquarium are local animals from the San Francisco Bay. The aquarium is open seven days a week, with extended opening hours for the summer. The mission of this aquarium is to protect and restore the Bay, all while igniting a curiosity in those who visit these sea creatures.

Definitely one of the most popular tourist attractions in San Francisco, Pier 39 is almost always crowded, but it is also a great way to get a taste of the waterfront culture and see views of Angel Island, Alcatraz, and both the Golden Gate and Bay Bridges. This shopping area is packed with restaurants, food stands, street performers, and arcades.

If you want to add a little history to your walk along the Embarcadero, then look no further than the SS Jeremiah O’Brien cruises at Pier 45. This Liberty ship is one of only two fully functional remaining ships out of the 2,710 that were built and used during World War II. It has been restored to be historically accurate, and is a living museum and National Historic Landmark.

At night, the well-known sign glitters at the waterfront of San Francisco. A beautiful restoration of the chocolate factory established in the late 17th century, Ghirardelli Square is home to many unique boutiques and fine-dining experiences, including the premiere Ghirardelli Chocolate Shop.