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Fort Mason was a nice place to visit. I've been coming here for several years, as the Festival Pavilion has been used for the race expo venue for the San Francisco Marathon. Besides the pavilion, I saw that there were theatre, art and other cultural offerings. If you're hungry or thirsty, there were also restaurants and a beerhall. There's also a park if you want to do a little walking to get in some steps. Off in the distance was also the famous Golden Gate Bridge.
About 2-3 miles into my walk from the Financial District to the Golden Gate and back, I hit Fort Mason... and it was at this point that I realized my theory-- that if I stay close to the water, there should be no hills-- Well, that was very, very wrong. You see, dear reader, there is quite a little hill near Fort Mason, and I walked every step of it. It's not a particularly long stretch of road, but it's well paved, and quite steep. The view of the Golden gate from the top, over the bay with Fort Mason buildings in the foreground is very picturesque. Aside: there's a Safeway supermarket near here, that many Redditor's referred to as "date way ." IYKYK. Put some bananas in your basket and wander around the produce section. Anyway, the Ft. Mason proper includes a park outside and a National Park-managed facility inside the walls. Self-guided tours reward visitors with a view into the military and immigration history of the City, California, and the US. I wouldn't call it exciting, but it's a peaceful place to pause and reflect on history.
Fort Mason has beautiful close-up views of the bay, Alcatraz, and the bridge. The meadow always has lots of people on the weekends socializing and setting up blankets and chairs on the grass. It's a popular viewing point for the Blue Angeles every year, don't even try to find parking around here at that time. Even if it's sunny out with no fog there always seems to be a cold breeze so I prefer to walk through rather than sit down with a blanket. For a hike there is a trail that goes through the meadow and behind the hostel where there is an old battery, canon, and lots of blackberry bushes. To walk from Laguna/Bay Street to the Municipal Pier behind Fort Mason is .5 miles and to Pier 39 is an extra mile walk. There is also a long staircase that goes to Fort Mason center which has a farmers market every Sunday.
We walked from the maritime National area through a park into fort mason. The fort mason area has great views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Right along the bay there are several warehouse buildings that have been repurposed for restaurant, shopping, and event space There even was a hostel on the top of the hill that looked to be in a great area.
This has to be one of the most popular spots in the city. It has great views of the G.G.Bridge. it's has trails to walk on. Dog friendly. But my only complaint is lack of parking. No matter what day or the time . The parking lot is always full. I know that most of the people that visit are locals who walk or use public transportation. Even with the lack of parking, I still will keep coming here
This is a good place which holds great events like off the grid and the annual SF Coffee Festival. They have good views by the water and a cool park to hang around or jog. This is one of my places to meditate in the city.
I love walking here from Ghirardelli Square - go by the water. There is a large hill to get to Fort Mason but it is so worth it. This weekend there was a boat parade and it was perfect to see the sailboats from the green. I give this spot 4 stars as it is normally windy. The Fort Mason Center is a great spot where lots of events are held, and there is a farmers market near Fort Mason Center on Sundays.
Fort Mason is a beautiful part of the National Golden Gate Park Conservancy that sits in the City's northern waterfront. The 1,200 acre park is bordered by Van Ness Ave, Bay and Laguna Sts and SF Bay and serves as the headquarters for the National Park Service and the Golden Gate Park Conservancy. Most people are familiar with the Fort Mason Center for Arts and Culture center for the events and the parking lot that's the site for the Farmers Market and Off the Grid food trucks and the movies held during the pandemic. Probably the most popular section is the Great Meadow. It's a large, open green space sitting on a high point that offers a great view of the Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. On the top is a large statue of Congressman Phillip Burton, who sponsored legislation that created the Golden Gate National Parks in 1972. On sunny warm weekends, it can get crowded here, with people gathering picnicking, eating, drinking, playing music and games. We were here on a recent weekend afternoon with a friend and her new baby. It was a close walk from here house and we put a large picnic blanket on the grass and had a nice picnic and it was nice catching up after all these months of sheltering in place. It was overcast and a little windy, but we had a good time as the area was not crowded as we talked and enjoyed the views and people watched. A beautiful scenic place to relax and take in the scenery of the Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge.
A really nice place to visit! It has lot of area to explore and is perfect place for a little date trip or family trip. Lots of different things to see and lots of different ocean and Golden Gate Bridge views.
Fort Mason is nicely maintained, and have public bathrooms! They are dog friendly (on leashes at least), but tourists must know that every Saturday is known by the locals as "Frat Mason" where young adults gather on the green and play music, games, and drink. This park is large enough to separate yourselves from the noise, or put a blanket down and soak in the vibes. I'd absolutely return to this location, plenty of sun and good people. BYOB.
A short walk from home brings me to Fort Mason. This is one of my favorite places. Set upon a bluff, there are views of nearby Ghirardelli Square, Aquatic Park and Marina Green. Yet within it's boundaries are an assortment of points of interest. There is the marker indicating Fort Mason's history, the site that was originally settled by the Spanish, America's acquisition. Fort Mason existed prior to California being part of the USA. Some of the buildings were the homes of pioneers in this region (Fremont) and tent cities were erected in the meadow and open spaces after the 1906 earthquake. I recall so many delightful events I've experienced in the Festival Pavilion, Herbst Theater and the Golden Gate Room. Seeing the art pieces from CCSF classes held in Building B in their small gallery was delightful. The Fort Mason Center Farmers Market on Sundays are a huge draw for those who want to buy direct from the farmer or artisan maker. Nooks and crannies have discoveries you would not see if you don't slow down ti appreciate the space. Why not do so? Take the time to enjoy the rustling of leaves as the wind blows past the trees. Look at the artistic installation of fallen trees by the Great Meadow. Bring your dog. She will have plenty places to sniff. Enjoy the fresh air off the Bay.Finally marvel that this space has been preserved and everyone can enjoy the view of the Golden Gate Bridge. We as San Franciscan are enriched by having this historic space available to all of us.
If you love Walking/Jogging or just Simply enjoying SF water front ? This place is a good Starting Point..Simply Park your car and breeze away with the best view..Walk through marina green. Crissy Fields . Can make a Detour at Palace of Fine Arts too then all the way to Fort Point (Fortress Under Golden Gate Bridge. Id say give your self a good day to enjoy the area as you'll be seeing a lot of interesting place..Make sure you wear Rubber shoe..Its like a 3 mile walk( 1hr) But with the Stops? make a whole day...Enjoy San Francisco
The park around fort mason is great! It has a large grassy area to sit and picnic or play fetch with your dog! There were several dogs off leash here. There's also bike paths. The view of the Golden Gate Bridge is beautiful! Walk down by the water for a closer view. Parking was easy.
A lot of great businesses at fort Mason! Super nice on a sunny warm day, that's rare enough for SF, gets everyone in a good mood. Been to comedy show at Bats Improv (great night out!), off the grid food trucks at night, restaurants, bars, few shops. Also home to city college of SF classes. Parking can be hard on popular days. Better to take the bus if you're prepared to walk Event spaces can be rented read more
Fort Mason is a great place to spend the day, whether attending an event, dining in one of the several restaurants, or perusing the shops. Located on the water next to the Marina Green there is so much you can do here. Parking can be a challenge on a nice sunny day, but be patient and you will snag a spot. There are a couple coffee spots right there and even a Safeway grocery store just a block away. We like to pick up sandwiches and bring them to the marina section so we can sit on a bench and watch the boats out on the water as well as people watch. It's all good here. read more
I started my walk at Van Ness Avenue and Bay Street (Buses 19, 30, 49 and 29) and walked along Van Ness Avenue towards the water. Eventually you will end at the trail that leads into Fort Mason and exit where Safeway is (about .5 walk semi flat trail). Along the walk, there are markers that provide historical information of what you see and where you are at. This walk gives you an entire view of Fort Mason and its surrounding areas. The walk was tranquil and peaceful - an easy walk. Views of Ghirardelli Square, Golden Gate Bridge, Aquatic Cove, Pier 4 (original Alcatraz pier), Alcatraz Island, Fort Mason Park, Community Garden, and Aquatic Park can be seen on this walk. I saw two statues: Madonna and Philp Burton in Fort Mason Park. When you reach Safeway, turn right and you will be at Fort Mason Center (that is the aerial view you got from the walk). The Center doesn't have much except for the theatre and two restaurants. However, some buildings are occupied by businesses. Parking is not free - there are ticket machines to purchase a parking pass. Fort Mason Security (they work for the non-profit that manages this area) do patrol frequently so make sure you pay. Security tells me that that the parking lot isn't full even with large events. read more
Fort Mason was a nice place to visit. I've been coming here for several years, as the Festival Pavilion has been used for the race expo venue for the San Francisco Marathon. Besides the pavilion, I saw that there were theatre, art and other cultural offerings. If you're hungry or thirsty, there were also restaurants and a beerhall. There's also a park if you want to do a little walking to get in some steps. Off in the distance was also the famous Golden Gate Bridge. read more
About 2-3 miles into my walk from the Financial District to the Golden Gate and back, I hit Fort Mason... and it was at this point that I realized my theory-- that if I stay close to the water, there should be no hills-- Well, that was very, very wrong. You see, dear reader, there is quite a little hill near Fort Mason, and I walked every step of it. It's not a particularly long stretch of road, but it's well paved, and quite steep. The view of the Golden gate from the top, over the bay with Fort Mason buildings in the foreground is very picturesque. Aside: there's a Safeway supermarket near here, that many Redditor's referred to as "date way ." IYKYK. Put some bananas in your basket and wander around the produce section. Anyway, the Ft. Mason proper includes a park outside and a National Park-managed facility inside the walls. Self-guided tours reward visitors with a view into the military and immigration history of the City, California, and the US. I wouldn't call it exciting, but it's a peaceful place to pause and reflect on history. read more
Fort Mason has beautiful close-up views of the bay, Alcatraz, and the bridge. The meadow always has lots of people on the weekends socializing and setting up blankets and chairs on the grass. It's a popular viewing point for the Blue Angeles every year, don't even try to find parking around here at that time. Even if it's sunny out with no fog there always seems to be a cold breeze so I prefer to walk through rather than sit down with a blanket. For a hike there is a trail that goes through the meadow and behind the hostel where there is an old battery, canon, and lots of blackberry bushes. To walk from Laguna/Bay Street to the Municipal Pier behind Fort Mason is .5 miles and to Pier 39 is an extra mile walk. There is also a long staircase that goes to Fort Mason center which has a farmers market every Sunday. read more
We walked from the maritime National area through a park into fort mason. The fort mason area has great views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Right along the bay there are several warehouse buildings that have been repurposed for restaurant, shopping, and event space There even was a hostel on the top of the hill that looked to be in a great area. read more
2 years ago
This has to be one of the most popular spots in the city. It has great views of the G.G.Bridge. it's has trails to walk on. Dog friendly. But my only complaint is lack of parking. No matter what day or the time . The parking lot is always full. I know that most of the people that visit are locals who walk or use public transportation. Even with the lack of parking, I still will keep coming here read more
This is a good place which holds great events like off the grid and the annual SF Coffee Festival. They have good views by the water and a cool park to hang around or jog. This is one of my places to meditate in the city. read more
2 years ago
I love walking here from Ghirardelli Square - go by the water. There is a large hill to get to Fort Mason but it is so worth it. This weekend there was a boat parade and it was perfect to see the sailboats from the green. I give this spot 4 stars as it is normally windy. The Fort Mason Center is a great spot where lots of events are held, and there is a farmers market near Fort Mason Center on Sundays. read more
Fort Mason is a beautiful part of the National Golden Gate Park Conservancy that sits in the City's northern waterfront. The 1,200 acre park is bordered by Van Ness Ave, Bay and Laguna Sts and SF Bay and serves as the headquarters for the National Park Service and the Golden Gate Park Conservancy. Most people are familiar with the Fort Mason Center for Arts and Culture center for the events and the parking lot that's the site for the Farmers Market and Off the Grid food trucks and the movies held during the pandemic. Probably the most popular section is the Great Meadow. It's a large, open green space sitting on a high point that offers a great view of the Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. On the top is a large statue of Congressman Phillip Burton, who sponsored legislation that created the Golden Gate National Parks in 1972. On sunny warm weekends, it can get crowded here, with people gathering picnicking, eating, drinking, playing music and games. We were here on a recent weekend afternoon with a friend and her new baby. It was a close walk from here house and we put a large picnic blanket on the grass and had a nice picnic and it was nice catching up after all these months of sheltering in place. It was overcast and a little windy, but we had a good time as the area was not crowded as we talked and enjoyed the views and people watched. A beautiful scenic place to relax and take in the scenery of the Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. read more
5 years ago
A really nice place to visit! It has lot of area to explore and is perfect place for a little date trip or family trip. Lots of different things to see and lots of different ocean and Golden Gate Bridge views. read more
Fort Mason is nicely maintained, and have public bathrooms! They are dog friendly (on leashes at least), but tourists must know that every Saturday is known by the locals as "Frat Mason" where young adults gather on the green and play music, games, and drink. This park is large enough to separate yourselves from the noise, or put a blanket down and soak in the vibes. I'd absolutely return to this location, plenty of sun and good people. BYOB. read more
A short walk from home brings me to Fort Mason. This is one of my favorite places. Set upon a bluff, there are views of nearby Ghirardelli Square, Aquatic Park and Marina Green. Yet within it's boundaries are an assortment of points of interest. There is the marker indicating Fort Mason's history, the site that was originally settled by the Spanish, America's acquisition. Fort Mason existed prior to California being part of the USA. Some of the buildings were the homes of pioneers in this region (Fremont) and tent cities were erected in the meadow and open spaces after the 1906 earthquake. I recall so many delightful events I've experienced in the Festival Pavilion, Herbst Theater and the Golden Gate Room. Seeing the art pieces from CCSF classes held in Building B in their small gallery was delightful. The Fort Mason Center Farmers Market on Sundays are a huge draw for those who want to buy direct from the farmer or artisan maker. Nooks and crannies have discoveries you would not see if you don't slow down ti appreciate the space. Why not do so? Take the time to enjoy the rustling of leaves as the wind blows past the trees. Look at the artistic installation of fallen trees by the Great Meadow. Bring your dog. She will have plenty places to sniff. Enjoy the fresh air off the Bay.Finally marvel that this space has been preserved and everyone can enjoy the view of the Golden Gate Bridge. We as San Franciscan are enriched by having this historic space available to all of us. read more
6 years ago
If you love Walking/Jogging or just Simply enjoying SF water front ? This place is a good Starting Point..Simply Park your car and breeze away with the best view..Walk through marina green. Crissy Fields . Can make a Detour at Palace of Fine Arts too then all the way to Fort Point (Fortress Under Golden Gate Bridge. Id say give your self a good day to enjoy the area as you'll be seeing a lot of interesting place..Make sure you wear Rubber shoe..Its like a 3 mile walk( 1hr) But with the Stops? make a whole day...Enjoy San Francisco read more
The park around fort mason is great! It has a large grassy area to sit and picnic or play fetch with your dog! There were several dogs off leash here. There's also bike paths. The view of the Golden Gate Bridge is beautiful! Walk down by the water for a closer view. Parking was easy. read more
6 years ago
5 years ago
I know little to nothing about the history of Fort Mason, except that the area was once an old army base. The barracks and other official buildings have been divided into a large public venue with shops, places to eat, pavilion and even a hostel. The Fort Mason Park is located on a hill above the Fort's property. I became aware of this park only recently when my boyfriend and I were attending the "Eat Drink SF" yearly festival. We walked upward onto the long, steep driveway to enter the a lush grove of trees and other foliage to enter the park itself. Many locals and tourists alike milled about the park hiking on foot or bicycles. Dogs were allowed as they ran about enjoying the expansive lawn areas. We also saw people flying kites, sitting on park benches, and just resting in the grass. We were tired from trekking up the hill and decided to take a short rest before proceeding to the festival. The view was very panoramic as I looked across the horizon at all the San Francisco buildings and high rises including the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco Bay, and sail boats crossing the water. The view was beautiful and even humbling! From our upper position at the park, there is a steep stairway that leads you down to the Fort Mason buildings (or up, depending on which direction you are taking). This is where we traveled to get to the Festival Pavilions destination. Not only was the view breathtaking, but so was our hike, but well worth taking the path, and definitely a good work out for those who are older and out of shape like we are. A nice park to relax, people watch and enjoy the scenery..... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SuL2EgdCXio https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IU6O94PstRw read more
Took the kids here over the weekend as we made our way to Crissy Field. Coming here brought back great memories... it was not only crowded but packed like sardines. Most came to hold a spot to watch America's Cup. I caught a few glimpse but I mainly walked by and aimed towards the open grass area where people were playing football and volleyball. It was a beautiful day to just let go. I refrained from fully being myself for the longest time. A guy asked me to join in on the game. I had the kids w/ me but managed to serve a few before heading to Safeway across the street for some milk. The guy offered to walk me.. refer to my photo I uploaded for Safeway (he's tall and handsome, haha). I'm not interested in dating at the time but it was very nice for a guy to pay attention to me. Lots of people out enjoying the weather, picnicking, reading, playing ball and other activities, or simply sleeping. It was busy yet peaceful at the same time. The trail consist of a lot of bikers so when you walk, be aware and be considerate. Fort Mason is a great place to hold gatherings and to simply enjoy the city's beauty. This is where Off The Grid hold their functions, too. Now that I know how easy it is to come here, I'll be making my rounds here often but that is because I told him I will visit again :) read more
My friends and I watched the air show during Fleet Week here. Nice green area but away from the larger crowds. Also converted barracks with boutiques, offices and restaurants. Dog on leash friendly. Secret tip: walk down by the water at sunset for a great view of Alcatraz and Golden Gate Bridge. Hidden gem! read more
Between Fisherman's Wharf and Golden Gate Park you'll find this park, an old military base. Go to the Maritime Museum if you can, or just walk along the bay and see the sights. Alcatraz and the piers are right there; the bridge is a bit farther but visible from the top of the hill. There are historical markers, paths, etc. Only thing missing is public restrooms- the map shows several, but the ones near us weren't open anymore, and the sign showing businesses with bathrooms let us know they weren't open Sunday evenings. We still had a great time walking and exploring. Plenty of walkers, bikers, and dogs joined us. read more
3 years ago
Beautiful place to get nice views and and pics. We took our fur babies out and they loved it! There always seems to be plenty of parking which is nice. We didn't too much exploring. For the most part our children just laid In the grass and enjoyed the view. This has been my second time here and I think it's a kids little place to unwind. I even saw people sunbathing...a little odd since it was a bit gloomy that day, lol. All in all, a cute spot with lots of grassy areas! Remember to clean up after your dog! read more
5 years ago
13 years ago
Came here today for the Walk to End Alzheimer's Disease today. What a fun and exciting day for acknowledging awareness. Took the shuttle from the Bill Graham Center to get here which was nice. It is a free ride for all those attending the walk today. The ride was short but much appreciated. Got to Fort Mason fairly early. There were not a lot of people there around 8:00 am but that made getting checked in and situated a lot easier for ME though! Firs thing, check in was easy because it is designated by last name. While checking in a made a donation as well. You cannot help but want to. After checking I then went over to get my shirt for the walk. I did not have any purple shirts because I am not a big purple wearing clothes kind of person but the situation got figured out. Luckily, someone in my team had raised over $100 bucks so I was able to get a shirt. After that, it was time to get hydrated. Everyone was given water bottles for the walk so it made since to fill up early at the stations. Once the bottles were filled my team headed over to the refreshment table. I was hungry so I grabbed a chocolate chip muffin and a bagel. Once I had food we all proceeded to go around to all the booths setup and inquire with all the sponsors and vendors present. After thirty minutes of mingling with other walkers the festivities began. There were a couple of testimonies followed by a flower ceremony. The flower ceremony was BEAUTIFUL. Let me go back a bit to enlighten everyone on this topic. Once you have checked in here you go over to the promise flower area. There are 4 different flowers that you can choose from. Blue represents someone with Alzheimer's or dementia. Purple is for someone who has lost a loved one to the disease. Yellow represents someone who is currently supporting or caring for someone with Alzheimer's. Orange is for everyone who supports the cause and vision of a world without Alzheimer's. I received an orange one which I came to find out later that I should have gotten a purple one, my grandfather passed away from Alzheimer's. Now, back to the ceremony. It was an experience that really touches your heart in a way that is just amazing. To see the support and the people that took the time to be present was just AMAZING. After the ceremony there was 5 minutes remaining till walk time. Everyone began to walk over to the start line. My team was in the back so we were not in any hurry to be first. Once the whistled sounded that the walk had begun everyone was in full walk, trot, and speed walk mode. It was cool to see all the teams with their team signs. It just made this whole experience very personal and fun. Usually when talking about diseases and personal loss it can become very painful but an event like this truly does raise awareness and promotes continued research and support around the disease. The walk was great and all the volunteers here were HYPED. The constant encouragement along the trail was cool. From the teenagers to the adults, the support was GREAT! The weather was also perfect for today. The sun was out and the people were abundant throughout the walk. So much SUPPORT. Even the drivers on the street were honking in SUPPORT. HOW COOL IS THAT!!! The walk was just a great event for me to attend. I am happy for all the people that came out today to support this event and this cause. I wish they had more events like this. The location of the event, FORT MASON, was just PERFECT. The open area and all the green really created a warm atmosphere. I commend the staff and the volunteered that helped make today such an incredible experience not only for me but for everyone that it exceptional. read more
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