Visiting Embarcadero
Embarcadero photo uploaded by Taylar
There may be no other city that embraces its waterfront quite like San Francisco does, as parts of it are reminiscent of its seaside and fisherman roots. The Embarcadero, with its deep-water piers, ships from around the world, and expansive views of the bay, is a prime example of San Francisco’s love of the water. The area attracts joggers, strollers, street performers, and visitors captivated by the views and gorgeous architecture of city landmarks, such as the Ferry Buiding.
Here you can also get an impressive under-belly view of the beautiful, but less publicized, Bay Bridge, which connects San Francisco to the city of Oakland. The Embarcadero, with its wide, seven-mile promenade of sidewalks right along the water (within walking distance to the financial district), easy access to public transportation, and weekly farmer’s markets make it the perfect jumping off place for your San Francisco day.
This neighborhood revolves, as does most of the city, around food. The recently renovated, yet historical Ferry Building, acts as the city’s market place in a celebration of food and entertaining. You can pick up fresh, locally grown produce, stock up on cooking tools for gourmet chefs, or dine in one of the many restaurants and small cafes in the building. Every Saturday, a farmer’s market greets the passenger ferries that dock at this port, offering everything from wine to produce to a sense of community united in the love of food.
Located right on the water, the Embarcadero not only has some of the best views in the bay area, but the fog usually burns off here earlier in the day than other parts of the city, offering a respite from SF’s characteristic gray overhang. On a warm day, stroll down Pier 7, SF’s longest pier, after stocking up on Ferry Building goodies for a picnic and dazzling views of the bay and skyline.
For those of you looking for shopping, check out the Embarcadero Shopping center. With over 70 shops to choose from and the arts and crafts fairs that take to the street on the weekends, the Embarcadero is a shopper and stroller’s dream.
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