Pier 35
Historic pier offering stunning bay views, the WWII Liberty ship SS Jeremiah O'Brien, and a charming market.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Pier 35
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic pier offering stunning bay views, the WWII Liberty ship SS Jeremiah O'Brien, and a charming market.
"A beautiful experience with a market that took me to an old era and mesmerizing sunset views."
🌅 Capture the Sunset
The sunset views from Pier 35 are absolutely mesmerizing. Don't miss this magical time of day!
🚢 Visit the Liberty Ship
The SS Jeremiah O'Brien is a must-see! It's a fascinating piece of history right on the pier.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Alcatraz & Bay Views
Waterfront promenade
Breathtaking panoramic views of Alcatraz Island, the Bay Bridge, and the San Francisco skyline. Perfect for photos!
Historic SS Jeremiah O'Brien
Docked at Pier 35
Explore a meticulously preserved World War II Liberty ship, a floating museum offering a glimpse into maritime history.
Waterfront Market & Eateries
Inside Pier 35
Discover a charming market with unique shops, fresh hummus, and delicious ice cream. A delightful sensory experience.
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Event Space & History
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🌅 Capture the Sunset
The sunset views from Pier 35 are absolutely mesmerizing. Don't miss this magical time of day!
🚢 Visit the Liberty Ship
The SS Jeremiah O'Brien is a must-see! It's a fascinating piece of history right on the pier.
🍦 Sweet Treats Await
Indulge in delicious ice cream and other treats from the shops inside the pier.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Embarcadero
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Embarcadero for stunning city and bay views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Capture the Sunset
The sunset views from Pier 35 are absolutely mesmerizing. Don't miss this magical time of day!
🚢 Visit the Liberty Ship
The SS Jeremiah O'Brien is a must-see! It's a fascinating piece of history right on the pier.
🍦 Sweet Treats Await
Indulge in delicious ice cream and other treats from the shops inside the pier.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Embarcadero
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Embarcadero for stunning city and bay views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Pier 35 for its beautiful waterfront views, especially during sunset, and the unique historical experience offered by the SS Jeremiah O'Brien. The market inside is noted for its charming atmosphere and tasty treats, making it a delightful stop along the Embarcadero. While it's a secondary cruise terminal, its current uses offer distinct appeal.
"It's a beautiful experience,the market inside was amazing 🤩 it took me to Old Era carrying cane baskets for shopping 🛍️,The fresh Hummus shop , ice-cream shops were too yummy 😋,it's a different experience altogether,I highly recommend.The Sunset from there was mesmerising."
BLESSINGS FOREVER
"Pier 35, located along San Francisco's Embarcadero, has played a significant role in the city's maritime history since its construction in the early 20th century.
Historical Background:
Construction and Early Use: The pier's foundational structures were completed in 1914, with the bulkhead building and transit shed finalized between 1915 and 1916. Initially, Pier 35 served as a terminal for various shipping lines, including the Grace Line, Matson Navigation Company, and States Steamship Lines.
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Renovations: In 1933, the pier underwent significant renovations to enhance its capacity for passenger and cargo services. Further modifications in 1981 included the addition of offices, waiting areas, and improved passenger facilities.
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Role as a Cruise Terminal:
For over eight decades, Pier 35 functioned as San Francisco's primary cruise ship terminal, accommodating vessels from operators such as the Grace Line, Matson Line, Pacific Far East Line, and Princess Cruises. Notable ships like the Star Princess, Sapphire Princess, and Sea Princess frequently docked at this pier.
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Transition and Current Use:
With the inauguration of the James R. Herman Cruise Terminal at Pier 27 in 2014, Pier 35 transitioned to a secondary role, serving as a backup facility for cruise operations. The transit shed has since been repurposed as a rentable event space, offering views of Alcatraz, Treasure Island, and the Bay Bridge.
METRO EVENTS
Recent Developments:
In 2020, following a fire at Pier 45, the historic Liberty ship SS Jeremiah O'Brien was relocated to Pier 35. This move became permanent in 2023 when the National Liberty Ship Memorial, Inc. secured a long-term lease with the Port of San Francisco.
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Today, Pier 35 stands as a testament to San Francisco's rich maritime heritage, adapting over the years to meet the evolving needs of the city's waterfront."
Thành Nguyễn
"I guess it's a place you can normally see the air show that happens once a year you can also see the sea lions there's a great entertainment for kids and lots of restaurants with gooooood food"
Kiefer S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pier 35 is located on the Embarcadero. You can reach it by public transportation, including Muni buses and streetcars. Driving is also an option, with parking available nearby, though it can be pricey.
Yes, Pier 35 is well-served by San Francisco's public transit system. Several Muni bus lines and the F-Market & Wharves streetcar line stop along the Embarcadero, making it easy to access.
Pier 35 is a short walk from Fisherman's Wharf, or you can take a quick ride on the F-Market & Wharves streetcar.
Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options in the vicinity of Pier 35, but be prepared for potentially high rates, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Absolutely! The Embarcadero has dedicated bike lanes, making it a pleasant ride to Pier 35. Bike parking is also available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no admission fee to walk around the public areas of Pier 35 and enjoy the views. However, specific attractions or events held at Pier 35 may require tickets.
The public areas of Pier 35 are typically accessible during daylight hours. For specific event hours or access to the SS Jeremiah O'Brien, it's best to check their respective schedules.
While the pier itself is free to access, there might be an admission fee or donation requested for tours of the historic SS Jeremiah O'Brien. It's advisable to check their official website for current pricing.
Yes, Pier 35 is a popular venue for events. You can inquire with the Port of San Francisco or event management companies for rental information.
Pier 35 occasionally hosts air shows and other public events. It's also a prime spot for viewing July 4th fireworks. Check local event listings for upcoming activities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy stunning views of Alcatraz and the Bay Bridge, explore the historic SS Jeremiah O'Brien, browse the market stalls, and sample delicious food and ice cream.
Absolutely! The waterfront promenade offers incredible backdrops for photos, especially during sunset. The historic ship also makes for unique shots.
Yes, Pier 35 offers entertainment for kids, with interesting sights like the historic ship and the market. The open space is also great for families to explore.
The market inside Pier 35 features various shops, including a fresh hummus stand and ice cream parlors, offering a unique shopping experience.
While sea lions are famously seen at Pier 39, they are sometimes spotted in the general vicinity of the Embarcadero, though Pier 35 is not their primary hangout.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Pier 35 itself has market stalls with treats like hummus and ice cream, nearby Fisherman's Wharf offers a wide array of seafood restaurants, including Crab House on Pier 39.
Inside Pier 35, you can find vendors selling fresh hummus, ice cream, and other snacks. For a full meal, you'll want to explore the restaurants at nearby Fisherman's Wharf.
Yes, the Fisherman's Wharf area, just a short walk from Pier 35, is renowned for its excellent seafood. Crab House on Pier 39 is a popular recommendation.
While specific coffee shops might vary, the market stalls often offer beverages. It's also a great spot to grab a coffee and enjoy the views, especially for July 4th fireworks.
While seafood is prevalent in the area, the market stalls at Pier 35 might offer some options. Exploring the wider Fisherman's Wharf area will likely provide more diverse choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfront promenade offers stunning views of Alcatraz, the Bay Bridge, and the city skyline. The historic SS Jeremiah O'Brien also provides unique photographic opportunities.
Golden hour, just before sunset, provides beautiful lighting for photography. Sunrise can also offer a serene and less crowded experience.
Yes, the SS Jeremiah O'Brien is a fantastic subject for photography, offering a glimpse into maritime history.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for commercial photography or filming, you may need to obtain permits from the Port of San Francisco.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive bay views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on Alcatraz or the city skyline. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions or sunset shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Inside the pier, the market stalls with ice cream and other treats are always a hit with younger visitors. While not a dedicated amusement park, the combination of scenic views, historical exploration, and tasty snacks makes Pier 35 a worthwhile stop for families visiting San Francisco.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Visiting during the golden hour before sunset is highly recommended for its dramatic lighting. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for expansive shots and a tripod for low-light conditions. The pier's accessibility and diverse subjects make it a rewarding location for photographers of all levels.
🚢 History Buffs & Maritime Enthusiasts
Exploring the SS Jeremiah O'Brien offers an immersive experience into naval history. You can learn about the ship's construction, its wartime service, and the lives of the crew. This tangible connection to the past makes Pier 35 a significant destination for understanding the city's seafaring legacy.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Maritime History
In 1933, the pier underwent significant renovations to bolster its capacity, and further modifications in 1981 enhanced passenger facilities. For over eighty years, Pier 35 was San Francisco's primary cruise ship terminal, welcoming vessels from renowned operators. This historical significance is palpable as you walk along its aged structures, imagining the bustling activity of yesteryear.
Today, while it has transitioned to a secondary role following the opening of the James R. Herman Cruise Terminal, Pier 35 continues to serve as a backup facility and has found new life as a rentable event space. The permanent docking of the historic Liberty ship SS Jeremiah O'Brien in 2023 further solidifies its role as a keeper of maritime history.
Experiencing the Waterfront Views
These panoramic vistas are particularly stunning during the 'golden hour' before sunset, when the sky is painted with vibrant colors and the city lights begin to twinkle. Many visitors find this to be the most magical time to be at Pier 35, offering a serene and picturesque backdrop for reflection or a romantic stroll.
For those looking to capture these views, a wide-angle lens is recommended to encompass the vastness of the bay. The open space also makes it an ideal spot for families to enjoy the scenery and for photographers to find unique angles of the San Francisco skyline.
The SS Jeremiah O'Brien: A Floating Museum
As a floating museum, the SS Jeremiah O'Brien offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time. You can explore its decks, engine room, and various compartments, gaining insight into the lives of the sailors and the operational realities of these vital cargo ships during the war.
Visiting the SS Jeremiah O'Brien provides a powerful educational experience, bringing history to life in a way that textbooks cannot. It's a chance to appreciate the engineering marvels of the era and the bravery of those who served aboard these ships.
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