San Francisco’s Ferry Building has long been one of the city’s most recognizable food destinations, but its recurring outdoor farmers market might be one of its biggest draws.
Foodwise’s Ferry Plaza Farmers Market was just named one of the best farmers markets in the country by Travel + Leisure, a fitting distinction for a community event that’s been running for more than three decades.
The market operates year-round on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at the Ferry Building, offering much more than just a place to shop for groceries. Visitors can browse farm stands with views of the San Francisco Bay, grab breakfast or lunch from a local vendor, and wander into the historic Ferry Building to make a day of it.
The Saturday market is the main event, with more than 100 farmers and vendors setting up all along the Embarcadero and around the Ferry Building to the rear plaza. The city’s top chefs and restaurant professionals are known to stock up on fresh ingredients every week here.
The Tuesday and Thursday markets have more of a grab-and-go feel with 10-20 vendors selling produce, lunch, and street food.
Foodwise, the nonprofit behind the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market, operates the event as part of a broader mission centered on sustainable farms, local food, and community education.
Foodwise Ferry Plaza Farmers Market at a glance
📍 Location: Ferry Building, 1 Ferry Building, San Francisco, CA 94111, along the Embarcadero waterfront.
📅 When to go: Year-round, rain or shine, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
⏰ Hours: Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
🚗 Parking: The market promotes validated parking at Golden Gateway Garage, located at 250 Clay Street
🌐 Learn more: Foodwise.org