Is San Francisco's Ferry Building Marketplace the Best of the West?

Any trip to San Francisco would be incomplete without at least one stop at the Ferry Building Marketplace. This spot offers a friendly community feel in an otherwise business-centered metropolis.

But what sets the destination apart from other markets?

Join us for a deep dive into this iconic location you won’t want to skip out on.

Let’s jump right in!

The Ferry Building is an imposing figure in the City by the Bay.

What’s So Special About Ferry Building Marketplace?

San Francisco’s Ferry Building was once the largest structure in the city. It opened just before the turn of the 20th century and served as a hub for the local ferry fleet, which carried passengers to Oakland and Sausalito. At its peak, these vessels hosted over 50,000 passengers each day.

The iconic establishment underwent major renovations after the 1989 earthquake. In fact, city leaders chose to revitalize the former industrial area to draw public foot traffic. In the early 2000s, the Ferry Building Marketplace opened on the structure’s main floor.

Today, the facility serves as a community gathering place, especially for folks in the San Francisco food scene. Farmers, chefs, vintners, and other foodies gather here to share their knowledge and tasty treats with visitors. It’s open seven days a week and features dozens of restaurants, artisan shops, and other regional retailers.

The focus here is on local, sustainable goods. A stroll through the space will certainly give you an idea of how to live and eat like a San Franciscan.

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The Best Attractions at Ferry Building Marketplace

When you visit the Ferry Building Marketplace, it’s best to arrive with a plan. Here are some of the best attractions at this unbeatable San Francisco destination.

Year-Round Farmers Market

Foodwise, previously known as the Center for Urban Education and Sustainable Agriculture, operates a massive produce market at the Ferry Building. Throughout the year, sustainably-minded farmers, bakers, chefs, and other purveyors flock to the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market to hawk their wares.

You can grab small bites and freshly grown food along the Embarcadero on Tuesdays and Thursdays. However, Saturdays are when the real party happens. Over 100 vendors show up each weekend to sell edible delights and hand-crafted goods. You can even watch cooking demonstrations at the Foodwise Classroom.

And there’s no need to worry about hauling around all your swag. The market offers a unique Veggie Valet service, where you can drop your purchases for safekeeping while you take in the rest of the sights, sounds, and smells.

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World-Class Eateries

Even with no outdoor market, there’s still plenty of food to enjoy at the Ferry Building Marketplace. You can hit the Hog Island Oyster Company for some fresh-shucked goodness, taste farm-to-table fish eggs at Tsar Nicoulai Caviar, or sample Middle Eastern confections at Reem’s Arab bakery.

One spot, Obour Foods, even specializes in hummus and tahini inspired by global flavors.

Then, there are all the grocery options! Olive oil vendors, charcuterie shops, and epicurean traders cater to those with the most discerning palates. Browse for seasonal mushrooms, freshly cut flowers, and bread right out of the oven.

Fog City Flea Trading Post

Fog City Flea Trading Post began as a weekly pop-up, but it’s now one of the main attractions at the Ferry Building Marketplace. This 5,000-square-foot department store has a permanent spot at the south end of the facility. It features some of the Bay Area’s most highly acclaimed crafters, jewelers, and vintage merchants.

Whether you’re looking for the next style trend or authentic old-school threads, Fog City Flea is the place to be. You can score head-to-toe clothing, hand-crafted hats, and high-end jewelry for every occasion.

You’ll also find plenty of housewares throughout the store, including pillows, artwork, and candles.

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Best Places to Stay Near the Ferry Building Marketplace

We suggest sticking around the San Francisco area to make the most of your trip to the Ferry Building Marketplace. Here are three great places to stay while you’re here.

Marin RV Park

About 15 miles north of the Ferry Building Marketplace is a comfortable spot to park your rig. Marin RV Park offers full hookups, free WiFi, and cable TV. You’ll also have access to laundry facilities, modern restrooms, and a dump station. There’s even an on-site swimming pool where you can lounge or burn some calories.

Marin RV Park can accommodate campers up to 45 feet, so big rigs should feel right at home.

Noe’s Nest Bed & Breakfast

Noe’s Nest B&B is a highly-rated spot near the Mission District of San Francisco. The gorgeous Victorian mansion offers a colorful garden patio, views of the city, and an extensive daily breakfast buffet.

Each room is tastefully decorated in its own unique style. Most include a private bathroom. You’ll enjoy ultimate comfort with thoughtful touches like blackout curtains and white noise machines, no matter which spot you book.

A produce stand at the weekly farmers market at the iconic Bay Area building.

Hotel Zephyr San Francisco

For a more traditional hotel stay, consider reserving a room at Hotel Zephyr. This modern destination across the street from Fisherman’s Wharf overlooks the boat traffic and the sights of the harbor. Waterfront rooms include a balcony perfect for soaking up the scenery.

You’ll have all the amenities of any high-end hotel, as well as added perks like s’mores kits. You can burn off food from the Ferry Building Marketplace in the 24/7 fitness center or indulge even more with discounts at restaurants along Pier 39.

Snag a San Francisco Tote Bag to haul all your goodies from the Ferry Building Marketplace!

Is a Trip to the Ferry Building Marketplace Worth It?

A trip to San Francisco is sure to inspire your taste buds, especially when you throw in a stop at the Ferry Building Marketplace. From locally sourced caviar to hand-churned ice cream, there’s something for every taste here.

Of course, you’ll want to spend as much time as possible enjoying the city’s flavors, so book a room and get comfortable. You might stick around longer than you intended!