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  San Francisco Ferry Building
For More Information: www.sfvisitor.org
 
Not only is the Ferry Building the gateway to San Francisco's Financial District, it is also a jumping off point to many local destinations -- many within walking distance, others accessed by the famous Cable Cars that run through the streets of San Francisco.

With the recent renovation of the Ferry Building and the Ferry Building Marketplace, there's lots to do within steps of departing the Ferry Boat. The new Marketplace has shopping, dining, a year-round farmer's market (Sat/Sun/Tue/Thu), plus free tours of the Ferry Building on Saturdays, Sundays and Tuesdays at noon.

Another key place to visit is the Embarcadero Center . This center consists of five office towers, two hotels, a seven-story restored historic landmark building and over 100 shops and restaurants. The Center is home to an impressive outdoor art exhibit as well as many annual events, including the Kristi Yamaguchi Holiday Ice Rink, Total Wellness Fair and San Franciso's premiere culinary and spirits event, FallFest. The Embarcadero Center Cinema, which features foreign films, is also a short walk from the dock.

The famous Cable Cars offer routes to take you to Chinatown, downtown shopping areas, Nob Hill, Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39. The rates run from $2 per ride, one way to $6 for an all-day Muni pass, which is good for cable car lines, buses and streetcars.

Nearby is Chinatown, where history and culture blend with city life. It's a great area to sample the local fare, or check out markets offering fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables and teas. The area around Union Square is best known for its shopping, hotels and restaurants. Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus and Macy's border the square, and the streets surrounding Union Square are lined with boutiques and specialty shops where you can find absolutely anything your heart desires. Nob Hill is a beautiful area for sightseeing, combining fantastic views with historic estate homes and hotels well worth seeing. Finally, both Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39 can be reached by Cable Car, and offer waterfront shopping, dining and live entertainment. Both can also be reached by staying on the Ferry and disembarking at Pier 41.

Click here for Ferry schedules to and from the SF Ferry Building, and for fare and ticket information .