Ghirardelli Square
Indulge in the sweet history and iconic sundaes at Ghirardelli Square, a San Francisco landmark since 1852.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Ghirardelli Square
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Indulge in the sweet history and iconic sundaes at Ghirardelli Square, a San Francisco landmark since 1852.
"WOW Chocolate heaven. I could become addicted to this if I lived nearer as touring SF and California."
🎯 Sundaes are the Star
The ice cream itself is often Dreyer's, but the Ghirardelli hot fudge makes the sundaes legendary!
💰 Buy Chocolate Elsewhere
Walgreens or CVS often have Ghirardelli squares cheaper than the main shop.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
World Famous Hot Fudge Sundae
Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience Store
Indulge in the iconic, rich hot fudge sundae that's a San Francisco classic. A truly decadent treat!
Chocolate Tasting & Samples
Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience Store
Explore a vast array of Ghirardelli chocolates, from classic squares to specialty bars. Samples are often available!
Historic Chocolate Factory Ambiance
Ghirardelli Square
Soak in the history of America's oldest chocolate factory and enjoy the charming waterfront views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Sweet Treats
Sundaes vs. Chocolate Purchases
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Sundaes are the Star
The ice cream itself is often Dreyer's, but the Ghirardelli hot fudge makes the sundaes legendary!
💰 Buy Chocolate Elsewhere
Walgreens or CVS often have Ghirardelli squares cheaper than the main shop.
🚶♀️ Explore Outposts
For a quicker ice cream fix, try smaller Ghirardelli shops if the main square is swamped.
📸 Capture the Views
Enjoy beautiful Bay views while you indulge in your sweet treats.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Sundaes are the Star
The ice cream itself is often Dreyer's, but the Ghirardelli hot fudge makes the sundaes legendary!
💰 Buy Chocolate Elsewhere
Walgreens or CVS often have Ghirardelli squares cheaper than the main shop.
🚶♀️ Explore Outposts
For a quicker ice cream fix, try smaller Ghirardelli shops if the main square is swamped.
📸 Capture the Views
Enjoy beautiful Bay views while you indulge in your sweet treats.
❄️ Chocolate Travel Tip
Be mindful of temperature when traveling with chocolate; it can react to heat.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ghirardelli Square is a beloved San Francisco landmark, celebrated for its iconic chocolate sundaes and historic charm. Visitors rave about the delicious treats and the immersive chocolate experience, though some note that the ice cream base is not house-made and prices can be high. Despite potential crowds and costs, it's considered a must-visit for chocolate lovers seeking a sweet memory.
"The Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience at Ghirardelli Square is a delightful stop for anyone visiting San Francisco. We visited as a family and were impressed by the immersive setup—chocolate-making displays, samples, and a rich variety of treats from classic squares to handcrafted sundaes.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and everything smells amazing. Tip: The line can be long at peak hours, so go early or late in the day for a better experience. While prices are high, the quality and nostalgic charm make it worth it. A must-visit for chocolate lovers looking for a true San Francisco treat!"
Pezhman Raeisian
"I remember coming here back in high school and things looked so different then. We used to stock up on their mini square chocolates, but this time, we skipped the retail shop and headed straight to the café for ice cream and drinks.
The line exploded as we were leaving (massive swarm of summer camp kids), so if you're just here for the ice cream or drinks, I’d recommend visiting one of their smaller outposts in the city instead.
World Famous Sundae – A classic and indulgent sundae. Impossible to finish solo tho. The “famous” chocolate topping was basically their peanut butter square, but their chocolate syrup was really good.
Frozen Mocha – The perfect companion to the sundae. After a few bites of all that chocolate and peanut butter, this was an ideal palate cleanser (it’s probably sweet on its own, but relatively more refreshing)."
Jea Kim
"I visited Ghirardelli in California last year with my family, and we had such a delightful time! The variety of ice creams and sundaes was amazing rich, creamy, and full of flavor. Each one was beautifully presented, and the portions were generous. The ambiance had that classic Ghirardelli charm, and the staff were friendly and helpful. A sweet treat and a sweet memory definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area."
Anita purandare
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ghirardelli Square is easily accessible via public transportation. The historic F Market & Wharves streetcar line stops right at the square. Several Muni bus lines also serve the Fisherman's Wharf area. If driving, there are parking garages nearby, but they can be expensive. Many visitors arrive on foot after exploring Fisherman's Wharf.
Yes, Ghirardelli Square is located at the western end of Fisherman's Wharf, making it a convenient stop when exploring the popular waterfront area.
Depending on your starting point, walking is possible but can be a significant distance. It's a pleasant walk along the waterfront from Pier 39, but consider public transport or ride-sharing for longer distances.
The F Market streetcar is a fun and scenic option for families. It offers great views and is an adventure in itself.
Yes, there are parking garages available near Ghirardelli Square, but they can be quite costly. Street parking is very limited.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Ghirardelli Square is a public area and does not require an entrance ticket. You can wander freely.
The shops and cafes within Ghirardelli Square typically have hours that vary, but most are open daily from morning until evening. The Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience Store usually opens around 10 AM and closes around 9 PM. It's best to check their specific hours online before your visit.
There is no admission fee to enter the Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience Store. You only pay for any chocolates or treats you wish to purchase.
Yes, Ghirardelli offers a wide selection of chocolates for purchase on their official website, including custom boxes and gifts.
While there isn't a formal factory tour anymore, the Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience Store offers an immersive experience with chocolate-making displays and samples. 
🎫 🍦 Onsite Experience
It's a vibrant store filled with the aroma of chocolate. You can find a vast selection of Ghirardelli products, from individual squares to gift baskets, and enjoy their famous ice cream sundaes.
Many visitors find the sundaes delicious due to the famous hot fudge, though some reviews mention they use Dreyer's ice cream as a base. It's considered a classic San Francisco treat.
The World Famous Hot Fudge Sundae is a top pick. Ghirardelli chocolate squares, especially varieties like Peppermint Bark and Sea Salt Caramel, are also very popular.
Yes, Ghirardelli offers a Non-Dairy Hot Fudge Sundae featuring non-dairy fudge, coconut ice cream, and almond milk whipped topping.
Ghirardelli Square also features unique local shops selling stationery, San Francisco-inspired gifts, and body care products. You can also enjoy views of the Bay.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The main culinary draw is the Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience Store, offering ice cream sundaes, hot chocolate, and other chocolate-based treats. The historic McCormick and Kuleto's restaurant is also located here, offering dining with bay views.
Yes, the sundaes are quite generous and often described as impossible to finish solo. They are a substantial dessert.
The 'World Famous Sundae' and 'Gold Rush' are highly recommended. The 'Lands End' sundae is also praised for its flavor combinations. +1
Prices for sundaes and treats are considered high, reflecting the tourist location and brand name. However, many feel the quality and experience justify the cost.
Yes, the Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience Store offers various drinks, including frozen mochas, which can be a refreshing accompaniment to a rich sundae.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the iconic Ghirardelli sign, the historic buildings, and the beautiful views of the San Francisco Bay. The waterfront promenade offers great photo opportunities.
Yes, the waterfront location provides lovely sunset views over the bay, making it a picturesque spot for evening photography.
Yes, you can take photos inside the store, but be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing staff or the flow of customers.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. For wider Bay views, a wide-angle lens can be useful. For close-ups of chocolates, a macro lens can be fun.
Consider capturing the contrast between the historic architecture and the modern city skyline, or the vibrant colors of the ice cream sundaes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Consider getting sundaes to share, as they are quite large. If the main store is too crowded, look for smaller Ghirardelli kiosks or even consider purchasing chocolate squares from a nearby drugstore for a more budget-friendly treat.
💰 Budget Travelers
For chocolate souvenirs, bypass the main retail shop and head to nearby Walgreens or CVS. You'll find the same Ghirardelli chocolate squares at a fraction of the price.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
It's a classic, charming San Francisco experience. Consider visiting during the evening for a more romantic ambiance, or explore the unique shops for a thoughtful gift. The historic setting adds a touch of nostalgia to your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sweet History of Ghirardelli Square
Visitors can still experience the historic ambiance of the original factory. The Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience Store is designed to immerse you in the world of chocolate, showcasing its production and offering a wide variety of treats. It's a place where you can taste the history and enjoy the sweet fruits of decades of craftsmanship.
It's important to note that the manufacturing process has evolved. While the spirit of Ghirardelli remains, the large-scale production is no longer housed within the square itself. However, the square continues to be a vibrant hub for chocolate lovers, offering a unique blend of history, delicious treats, and beautiful waterfront views.
Navigating the Ghirardelli Experience: Tips for the Best Visit
For those solely interested in the ice cream sundaes, the experience is largely about the famous hot fudge and the classic presentation. While the ice cream itself might be a standard brand like Dreyer's, the combination with Ghirardelli's signature toppings creates a nostalgic and indulgent treat. If you're looking for artisanal ice cream flavors, other San Francisco parlors might be a better choice.
When it comes to purchasing chocolate to take home, Reddit users suggest comparing prices. While the Ghirardelli Square shop offers a vast selection and a pleasant shopping environment, local drugstores like Walgreens or CVS often sell the same Ghirardelli chocolate squares at a lower price. This can be a significant saving if you're buying in bulk.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit