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San Francisco, California / Landmarks

Embarcadero Plaza

A 4.1-acre Modernist landmark in the Financial District, serving as the eastern terminus of Market Street and a bustling public gathering space for commuters and tourists.

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Embarcadero Plaza
www.sfrecpark.org, website_hero_img_www.sfrecpark.org

Where is Embarcadero Plaza located?

Embarcadero Plaza is located in San Francisco's Financial District at the eastern end of Market Street, across from the Ferry Building on the waterfront.

What are the hours for Embarcadero Plaza?

The plaza is open 24/7/365, every day of the year, rain or shine.

What is Embarcadero Plaza known for?

It is a public gathering place known as a Modernist landmark of San Francisco design and culture, often serving as a starting point for marches and protests. It also hosts weekly farmers markets, various activities, and an open-air skating rink during the winter months.

Does Embarcadero Plaza have a history of name changes?

Yes, the plaza was originally named Justin Herman Plaza from its opening in 1972 until it was renamed Embarcadero Plaza in 2017.

Are there any upcoming changes to the plaza?

San Francisco officials are advancing a $40 million plan to transform the site into a 5-acre destination park, which is expected to open in late 2027 or early 2028.

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 Plaza is a 4.1-acre public space located in San Francisco's Financial District at the end of Market Street, directly across from the Ferry Building. Completed in 1972, the plaza was designed by landscape architect Lawrence Halprin, along with Mario Ciampi and Associates and John Bolles & Associates. It was originally named Justin Herman Plaza, but was renamed Embarcadero Plaza in 2017 to distance the site from its former namesake. The site is divided into Embarcadero Plaza North and Embarcadero Plaza South. Its brick construction is reminiscent of an Italian piazza, and Halprin conceived it as a participatory total environment. The plaza has a listed capacity of 7,000 people, and its history is marked by its role as a destination and starting point for numerous marches and protests along Market Street. For over 50 years, the plaza has served as a vibrant hub for local vendors, weekly farmers markets, and the bustle of commuters. It features a built-in stage for events and is conveniently located near the BART and Muni underground transit hubs. During the winter months, the site often hosts an open-air skating rink. Currently, the plaza is undergoing a significant transformation. San Francisco officials are implementing a $40 million plan to convert the site into a larger 5-acre destination park, with the redesigned park expected to open in late 2027 or early 2028.

Visitor tips

  • Visit during the week to see the bustle of the Financial District commuters.
  • Check for weekly farmers markets to sample local produce and goods.
  • Utilize the nearby BART and Muni underground transit for easy access.
  • Since the plaza is open 24/7/365, it is a great spot for early morning photography.

Nearby context

The plaza is situated in the heart of the heart of the Financial District, directly across from the iconic Ferry Building Marketplace and within the Port of San Francisco Embarcadero Historic District.

Sources

Evidence and links