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Find the Best Things to Do in Embarcadero

By Tom Molanphy
San Francisco Local Expert

About Embarcadero

Photo courtesy of Tom Molanphy

This signature stretch of land on San Francisco Bay is experiencing a once-in-a-lifetime revival, such as a new cruise terminal and an arena for this year's America's Cup yacht race. The Embarcadero has the best view of the Bay Bridge Lights, a stunning drape of lights across this iconic bridge.

See & Do

The top attraction on the Embarcadero - some might argue the top attraction in all of San Francisco - is the unmissable Ferry Building. If you're looking for a truly unique and memorable San Francisco memento, duck inside this palacial, reconstructed building and sample some of California's - if not the world's - best chocolates, cheeses, wines, and other delights.

Eat

The name might not be remarkable, but the location of MarketBar Cafe can't be beat. Nestled between the lapping waters of the Bay and the hustle of the Ferry Building, The MarketBar Cafe is the best spot for people watching while enjoying their signature $7 specials until 7 pm, 7 days a week - which includes expertly made martinis.

Party

Pier 23 might not be the flashiest building on the Embarcadero, but it has the best nightlife spirit around. Locals crowd its small dance floor on a regular basis to hear live music, and the back patio offers gorgeous and relaxing views of the entire Bay, including idyllic Angel Island. If you want a break from touristy Fisherman's Wharf but don't need the fancy stuffiness of other nightclubs in the area, make it a Pier 23 night.

Stay

If you want a mid-range hotel whose location, location, location can't be beat, check out the Harbor Court Hotel on the Embarcardero. Right across from the Ferry Building and within easy walking distance of the Embarcadero BART/MUNI stop, this hotel is clean, efficient, and well run - but not so luxurious as to keep you from leaving it to walk up and down the beautiful Embarcadero.

Shop

Although the Ferry Building has unique gifts and knicks-knacks, for those shop-until-you-drop diehards out there, you can still swing through the sprawling Landmark Embarcadero Center to satisfy your shopping needs. Compared to the Ferry Building, more mainstream brands and items can be found here, as well as a movie theater featuring indy films. If your shopping needs still aren't satisfied, Union Square, the heart of San Francisco shopping, is a 20 minute walk or a quick MUNI ride away.