Embarcadero Plaza

Where Urban San Francisco Meets the Bay

Perched at the eastern end of Market Street in San Francisco's Financial District, Embarcadero Plaza unfolds across 1.23 acres of prime urban real estate. Since its 1972 debut as part of the city's ambitious urban renewal vision, this brick-paved gathering space has continuously evolved while maintaining its essential character. The creative minds behind this Italian piazza-inspired space include architects Mario Ciampi and John Bolles, with landscape design by the renowned Lawrence Halprin.

Dominating the plaza's expanse is the unmistakable Québec Libre! fountain - a towering 40-foot concrete sculpture that makes quite the statement against the city skyline.

What Makes It Special

Love it or hate it, the Québec Libre! fountain commands attention with its angular steel and concrete extensions that create fascinating negative spaces. There's something uniquely engaging about ducking beneath and wandering through its almost cave-like interior - it's interactive art on a massive scale.

The plaza offers excellent views of the Bay Bridge while sitting just steps from the historic Ferry Building. On weekends, you'll likely encounter a variety of vendors throughout the space.

You'll find several restaurants bordering the plaza that have embraced outdoor seating, well-suited for people-watching while enjoying a meal. The scattered palm trees add a touch of California character and provide welcome patches of shade.

What's Happening Here

There's rarely a dull moment at Embarcadero Plaza. Year-round, the space transforms to host markets, free concerts, and seasonal attractions - including a charming ice skating rink during winter months. The plaza also is ground zero for community events like the MS Walk and the Bay to Breakers Race Expo.

Skateboarders might appreciate knowing they're rolling across hallowed ground - back in the late '80s and early '90s, this was one of the city's premier skating spots. Despite various attempts to discourage skateboarding over the years, the plaza maintains its legendary status in skating culture, and you'll still spot determined skaters testing their skills here today.

A Fresh Identity

In 2017, the space shed its former name of Justin Herman Plaza to become simply Embarcadero Plaza. This thoughtful change reflected growing community concern about Herman's controversial urban renewal legacy while highlighting the plaza's geographic connection to the waterfront.

Good to Know

While you won't find permanent playground equipment here, the plaza occasionally features temporary play areas during special events. Dogs are welcome to join you, but keep them leashed for everyone's comfort.

Need a restroom? You won't find one in the plaza itself, but you can easily access facilities in the nearby Embarcadero Center or across the street at the Ferry Building.