Visit Aquatic Park and Fort Mason
Aquatic Park and Fort Mason sit on the unceded ancestral lands of the Ramaytush Ohlone, the original peoples of the San Francisco Peninsula. The amazing views, fresh air, and culture of the City come together here. These National Parks are shaped by the many different people who call San Francisco home. Together, we can continue to make it an inspiring place by the Bay.
Right now we have the opportunity to improve and enhance these parks. Together, we can continue to make it an inspiring place by the Bay.
Visioning and planning efforts for Aquatic Park and Fort Mason are underway. You may have already visited the newly restored historic Black Point Gardens. We’re looking at improving Muni Pier, Hyde Street Pier, and circulation between the parks. There are things we haven’t thought about yet, and we need your ideas!
Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re a regular, we want to hear from you! Check out our free pocket map for fun activities, sights to see, and tips for your trip. Tell us about your experience and your ideas for how we can make these parks more enjoyable, welcoming, and useful to you. Please take a moment to share your ideas by completing this questionnaire. It will take ten minutes and you’ll have a chance to enter a giveaway to win a park gift bag! Thank you for your feedback!
A Day by the Bay
There's so much to see and do at the Aquatic Park and Fort Mason. Here are our tips to navigate the park, find new activities to try, and enjoy a day by the Bay!
- Bring the Essentials: Pack your mask, layers of clothing, sunscreen, water, and snacks.
- Plan Your Route: The parks are a bus, walk, or bike ride away from Chinatown, the Tenderloin, North Beach, Western Addition, and the Marina.
- Stay Healthy: Mask up (it’s required!) and maintain 6 feet of social distance.
- Check Ahead: Restrooms, cafes, and park info centers may have changes in hours.
With calm waters, and a sandy beach, Aquatic Park is the perfect place to dip your toes into the Bay. Bring your towel and enjoy a day of people watching and maritime stories.
- Fish or stroll along Muni Pier.
- Wade in the calm waters or play on the sandy beach.
- View foggy Alcatraz from the sun soaked steps.
- Visit the historic ships, Maritime Museum, or Visitor Center to learn about the City’s diverse seafaring history.
You’ll find sprawling lawns, vibrant gardens, and peaceful groves of trees at Fort Mason. Spread out a blanket and enjoy a relaxing day of sunbathing and picnicking with friends and family.
- Picnic on the Great Meadow with views of the Marina and the Golden Gate Bridge.
- Wander recently restored trails in the Black Point Gardens, and view the blooming Community Garden.
- Bike or walk down to the piers at Fort Mason Center or Aquatic Park.
Repurposed piers and warehouses meet the sparkling waterfront at the Fort Mason Center for Arts and Culture. Grab a bite and meet up with friends for an event!
- Watch sailboats and stroll the piers.
- Check the calendar at fortmason.org for events like drive-in movies, art exhibits, and the farmers market.
- Grab a snack or meal at the Center’s cafes, restaurants, or food truck evenings.
