The Ferry Building has long been a part of the San Francisco skyline. It was opened to the public in 1898, when getting around the bay area via ferry was the only way. The Italian looking clock tower and long building sitting on the bay was an impressive sight. It survived earthquakes and the decline of ferry service in the bay area. Today it's been reborn and is once again the gem it was in years past.
I have always loved this building and have been so thrilled to see it reopen in 2003 in its present state. Today it has been reopened (it had been offices with narrow halls and rooms). The skylights provide a soft light inside the hall. Food stalls and shops fill the walls today.
The shops are all high end, and currently they are not overrun with knick-knack or T-shirt shops like other places in the city. You will find cheeses, breads, Italian ice cream, caviar bars, chocolates, wines, flowers, mushrooms and teas and coffees. There are wonderful floral shops, kitchen stores, bookstores and much more. It is full of rare and unusual finds, a perfect place to find a one-of-a-kind gift.
On Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, the area in the back of the Ferry Building hosts one of the BEST Farmer's Markets in California. Farmers from Napa and Sonoma bring in their produce to sell. You will find flowers, fruits and vegetables that are the top of the line. Everything has just come off the farm or out of the bay. Even if you are only here for a visit, stop by and take a look. I suggest getting some bread, fruit and cheese and sit by the water and enjoy a great snack with a world-class view.
There is so much to see and eat here. If I can give you one suggestion, it would be to have an ice cream at CIAO BELLA.
They have some of the best ice cream on the planet and wild offerings like tomato and wasabi. They are always happy to give you a sample. It's the best, I can never go by without getting a scoop.
Yes, ferries still run from the Ferry Building. Not like the old days when the pier was lined with boats. But you can still grab a ferry and head for Marin or Oakland. Commuters who hate our traffic find this the most civilized way to get to work! Tourists enjoy grabbing a ferry for an up-close view of our bay.
If you are visiting the city, plan to spend a few hours in the Ferry Building. It has history, a wonderful view and one of the best places to grab a tasty lunch. The Ferry Building is just one of the many reasons why San Francisco is my favorite city.