Ferry Plaza
Rate this placeNearby: Harry Bridges Plaza Sue Bierman Park
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Ferry Plaza, located in San Francisco, California, is a vibrant destination that's known for its bustling farmer's markets, artisanal food shops, and scenic views of the Bay Bridge.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
There are several good reasons to visit the plaza, including its diverse culinary scene, unique shopping experiences, and proximity to other popular San Francisco attractions.
One of the most popular attractions at Ferry Plaza is the weekly farmers' market, which takes place every Saturday from 8 am to 2 pm. This market features over 100 vendors selling locally grown produce, artisanal cheeses, handmade chocolates, and other gourmet delights. Visitors can also sample a range of international cuisines at the plaza's many food stalls and restaurants, which offer everything from Vietnamese pho to Neapolitan-style pizza.
In addition to its food offerings, Ferry Plaza is also home to a number of high-end retail shops, including artisanal cheese and wine stores, specialty coffee roasters, and boutique clothing shops. Visitors can also take a stroll along the waterfront, which offers stunning views of the Bay Bridge and the surrounding skyline.
Interesting facts about the area include that the Ferry Building was originally built in 1898 and was the city's primary transportation hub until the construction of the Golden Gate and Bay Bridges. Following a major renovation in the early 2000s, the building was transformed into a mixed-use space featuring offices, restaurants, and retail shops.
The best time of year to visit Ferry Plaza is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the weekly farmers' market is in full swing. However, the plaza is open year-round and offers a range of activities and events throughout the year, including holiday markets and special food festivals.
Overall, Ferry Plaza is a must-visit destination for foodies, shoppers, and anyone looking to experience the vibrant culture of San Francisco.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Aquatic Park Cove
|
||
Rob Hill Campground
|
||
Sunrise Sites - Pre Booking Required
|
||
Ridge Sites
|
||
East Bay Sites
|
||
Site 10 - Pre Booking Required
|
Harry Bridges Plaza
Sue Bierman Park
Rincon Park
Sydney Walton Park
Portsmouth Square Park