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San Francisco, California / Landmarks

Embarcadero Center

A massive mixed-use commercial complex in San Francisco's Financial District, featuring four office towers, two hotels, and a shopping center spanning four city blocks.

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Embarcadero Center
www.embarcaderocenter.com, og_image_www.embarcaderocenter.com

What is the Embarcadero Center known for?

Embarcadero Center is one of the largest mixed-use complexes in the Western United States, consisting of four office towers, two hotels, and a shopping center. It serves as a destination for shopping, dining, and services, and provides headquarters space for major companies.

How do I get to Embarcadero Center?

The center is accessible by walking, BART, bike, driving, or taking a ferry.

Are there any seasonal activities at Embarcadero Center?

Yes, an outdoor ice skating rink operates in the center during the winter months.

What are the hours for the conference center?

The conference center, located on the Lobby Level of Three Embarcadero Center, is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Where is Embarcadero Center located?

It is located in San Francisco's Financial District on a 9.8-acre site bounded roughly by Clay Street, Sacramento Street, Battery Street, and the Embarcadero.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Embarcadero Center is one of the largest mixed-use complexes in the Western United States, spanning four city blocks in downtown San Francisco. The development was built in phases over 15 years, with construction beginning in 1968 and concluding in 1983. The four office towers that comprise the complex were completed over a ten-year span between 1971 and 1981, creating a massive 4.8-million-square-foot commercial hub. Now owned and operated by Boston Properties, the center serves as corporate headquarters for major companies and a destination for retail, dining, and cinema functions. The complex sits on a 9.8-acre site bounded by Clay Street, Sacramento Street, Battery Street, and the Embarcadero. It accommodates offices for 14,000 people and welcomes more than 16,000 visitors each day. Beyond its corporate nature, the center incorporates the Embarcadero Plaza, a landmark for over 50 years. This open-air space is located at the end of Market Street, across from the Ferry Building. During the winter holiday season, the plaza transforms into a festive festive atmosphere with holiday lights illuminating the surrounding buildings and an outdoor ice skating rink for families and friends to enjoy.

Visitor tips

  • Visit the Embarcadero Plaza during the winter months to experience the outdoor ice skating rink.
  • The complex is easily accessible via BART, bike, ferry, or walking.
  • If visiting the conference center in Three Embarcadero Center, note that it is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Nearby context

Located in the heart of the Financial District, the Embarcadero Center is positioned at the end of Market Street and sits directly across from the iconic Ferry Building.

Sources

Evidence and links