San Francisco Visitors Planning Guide - 2025 VPG

From captains of the high seas to captains of industry, the Embarcadero has often been where people first began their San Francisco journey.

SEE & DO

Start yours by hopping on the historic F Line streetcar, which stops at several attractions on the waterfront. The Exploratorium, a hands-on science museum, is one of the best destinations for families. Nearby, the iconic Ferry Building Marketplace is a foodie’s paradise, stocked with wine bars, innovative restaurants and a farmers market. You also can catch a ferry to Treasure Island or Sausalito here. Look for some of the city’s iconic public art, including “Cupid’s Span,” a giant bow and arrow stuck in the ground of Rincon Park.

EAT & DRINK

Inside the Ferry Building, Señor Sisig taps into Filipino dishes, like slow-roasted sweet pork and adobo rice, packed into a burrito or taco. A James Beard America’s Classics winner, Gott’s Roadside elevates dishes like burgers and fish tacos with local ingredients. Hog Island Oyster Co. sources their raw bar from a nearby sustainable farm; watch shuckers work their magic on a bushel while you wait. Outside the Ferry Building, facing the Bay Bridge, Angler’s views are topped only by its MICHELIN-starred seafood. At the venerable Sam’s Grill & Seafood Restaurant, you’ll find a menu of fresh catches ranging from crab to bay shrimp cocktail.

WHERE TO STAY

Many hotels offer gorgeous morning views of the bay. The Hyatt Regency, The Clancy, Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at Embarcadero and Hilton San Francisco Financial District all deliver if you book things just right.