Sue Bierman Park

History and Location

Located in San Francisco's bustling Financial District, Sue Bierman Park (sometimes called Ferry Park) offers 5.3 acres of much-needed green space. Sitting right next to the Embarcadero and just a stone's throw from the San Francisco Ferry Building, it's a breath of fresh air amid the urban landscape.

It's funny to think that this peaceful spot once hosted roaring freeway off-ramps. After the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake damaged the Embarcadero Freeway, the city saw an opportunity for transformation. By 2003, after years of community input and planning, what was once concrete was transformed into green space.

Park Namesake

The park honors Sue Bierman, a passionate San Francisco activist and Supervisor who championed the removal of the freeway in favor of public green space. Another local hero, Ernestine Weiss, poured her energy into making the park a reality through her dedicated community activism.

The park's design balances sustainability with accessibility - from landscaped gardens to winding paths that encourage visitors to take a moment to appreciate the surroundings.

Features and Amenities

Sprawling, well-kept lawns invite you to kick off your shoes, spread out a blanket, or crack open that book you've been meaning to finish. Benches scattered throughout provide perfect perches for people-watching, and you'll find some tables near the fountain area when you're ready for a snack.

The views here are nothing short of spectacular - the San Francisco Bay, Bay Bridge, and city skyline create a postcard-worthy backdrop to your visit. And if hunger strikes, the nearby Ferry Building means delicious treats are just minutes away.

Vaillancourt Fountain's geometric concrete tubes create a modernist sculpture

Photo: Sharon Mollerus (CC BY 2.0)

Children's Playground

The heart of the park for families is undoubtedly the pirate-themed playground, a gated 5,000 square-foot wonderland that seamlessly blends with the surrounding landscape. Designed for kids from toddlers to pre-teens, it's a hit with the younger crowd.

Little adventurers can conquer the impressive climbing dome, zoom down slides, tackle rope ladders and monkey bars, or take a spin in the spinning cup. The baby swings and teeter-totter keep the smallest visitors entertained, while the boat-shaped fort perfectly complements the pirate theme.

Instead of typical rubber surfacing, the playground features soft turf that's ideal for running, tumbling, and cartwheeling without worry. It's an ideal spot for kids to burn off energy during a downtown excursion.

Recreation and Activities

The park is suitable for relaxing with friends, enjoying a casual picnic, or simply finding a moment of calm in the city.

Keep an eye out for community events that occasionally transform the park, like Shakespeare in the Park performances where you can enjoy theater with the Ferry Building framing the scene. The open lawns provide plenty of room to stretch out, toss a frisbee, or just lie back and cloud-watch.

Practical Information

Bring a hat on sunny days - shade is limited here, and morning visits might be more comfortable during hot weather. While there are self-cleaning public restrooms nearby, you might prefer the facilities at the Ferry Building, just a five-minute walk away.

You're welcome to bring your four-legged friends, but remember to clean up after them. Getting here is a breeze with public transportation, but if you're driving, be prepared for the typical downtown parking challenges that come with the Embarcadero location.