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San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park

, California

NPCA REGION: Pacific Regional Office

Acreage: 49.86

Category: National Historical Park

Date Established: 06/27/1988

More Info: http://www.nps.gov/safr/

Like Salem Maritime National Historic Site, its counterpart in the East, San Francisco Maritime National Historic Site celebrates the history of America’s relationship with the sea—in this case, with the Pacific Ocean and the Golden Gate.

The site—a short walk from popular tourist destinations Pier 39 and Ghirardelli Square—is comprised of two main sections: the Visitors’ Center and Museum, and Hyde Street Pier. The Maritime Museum is currently closed for renovations (it’s expected to re-open in 2010), but it’s possible to view some of the museum’s exhibits—including some fascinating San Francisco history and a beautiful Fresnel lighthouse lens–at the Visitors’ Center.

The best part of the site, however, is the Hyde Street Pier. On the pier, visitors can explore a working boatbuilders’ shop and several restored 19th and early 20th century ships, including a ferry steamboat, sailing vessels, and a fishing dory. The end of the pier offers wonderful views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz. Rangers offer tours of some of the ships, and its even possible to take boat building and woodworking classes here!

—Laura Connors

If You Go > >

Make sure to wander through adjacent Fort Mason, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, and don’t miss the WWII submarine located on a nearby pier, but still part of the Historic Site.

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Comments

I have visited this park twice now and each time I walk away with a better appreciation for maritime culture and boats. Hyde Street Pier is a gem. It gets you out on the water with great views out to Alcatraz, views back to the city and Coit Tower and, of course, up-close looks (and tours) of the historic ships now moored there. It's hard to beat being out on the pier, but perusing the Maritime Museum sure is a great way to learn more while you're at the park. (It's still closed for renovation at the moment, but it will re-open in 2010!) In some ways, it's best to start a visit to the park here, as an introduction before heading over to the pier. Great exhibits, informative films, and park staff give you a wonderful sense of San Francisco's rich maritime culture. I highly recommend visiting this park. It's the perfect "national park experience" if you are restricted to the city and have limited time. Street cars, cable cars and buses will take you there easily.

Submitted by Shane at: May 4, 2009

Growing up in the city (San Francisco) the Maritime was always a wonderful place to go to listen to street musicians and have lunch. When the park was established you preserved a huge part of the Cities heritage. I do have to laugh though because I found ferries I had ridden across the bay on before all the bridges were built in a museum. Some how I still find it hard to imagine there are no more car ferries that run regularly across the Bay as they were such a fun and important part of my childhood. Thank you for preserving them as a part of history.

Submitted by The maritime at: February 28, 2009

Terrific location, direct involvement in the city, and exceptional heritage served by taltented, dedicated NPS staff, docents and volunteers. The SFMNHP reminds me of what a National Park should be, and the NPS staff what a dedicated public servant should look like to inspire and be a model. Please pay them a visit: you won't regret it!

Submitted by Dominick G. at: February 27, 2009