Ghirardelli Square in San Francisco: Top Shops, Restaurants, and Other Fun Activities

Located on the western side of Fisherman's Wharf, Ghirardelli Square in San Francisco is a popular attraction for those who love to dine and shop.

As this square was the original home of the first Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory, the main draw is the famous SF chocolate treats, which make the perfect pick-me-up on a day of sightseeing. You can stop into one of the three chocolate shops on the square to enjoy a specialty coffee drink, ice cream, or another delectable sweet. 

Apart from reveling in chocolate consumption, there are many other fun things to do, eating at one of its amazing restaurants, boutique shopping, a free walking tour, and several large annual events.

Located near the bayfront on Beach Street, Ghirardelli Square is easy to find. The famous white letters comprising the sign sit high on top of the building and can be seen from many blocks away, as well as from the water if you happen to take a boat out on the bay.

Read on to learn more about this famous attraction's past and the top things to see and do here today!

History of Ghirardelli Square San Francisco

Ghirardelli Chocolate is the oldest continuously operating chocolate maker in the U.S. 

It was started by a man named Domingo Ghirardelli, an Italian immigrant. Growing up in Italy, his family introduced him to sugar-based treats early on in his life. He always had a fascination with them and later set out to start his own chocolate and candy company.

He first tried his skills in Peru in South America, and later relocated to California during the height of the Gold Rush. He originally sold sweet treats and drinks to the gold miners.

A few years later he decided he wanted to open up a shop. In 1852, his dreams came true and he opened the first chocolate business in San Francisco. This business would later become known as the Ghirardelli Chocolate company we know today.

In 1893, his business continued to expand. To keep up with demand he moved his chocolate factory to the buildings in what is now known as Ghirardelli Square.

Over the years, the company added buildings. They added and sold portions of the business. At one time, they also produced mustard (this is evident by signs on one of the buildings in the courtyard today).

The company added the famous 15-foot high "Ghirardelli Square San Francisco" sign in 1923. Finally, in 1967, they moved the factory to San Leandro in the East Bay. It's an important piece of San Francisco history.

Ghirardelli Square San Francisco is just one square city block in size. Investors purchased and updated the original buildings of the factory shortly after Ghirardelli moved out, and turned it into a small retail area, making it what is considered the first successful adaptive reuse project in the country.

Disclaimer: I receive a small commission from some of the links on this page.

Ghirardelli Chocolate Shops

Most people come here to buy chocolates and see what is under the famous white Ghirardelli sign that lights up the San Francisco skyline.

There are three places to buy Ghirardelli chocolates within this small complex. Here is where you will find them:

• The Original Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop: The first one, the Original Chocolate Manufactory, is the main shop located on the eastern side of the square. Here, you can indulge in some hot fudge sundaes and see some of the original chocolate factory equipment. Don't fall into the trap of standing in line waiting for hours just to buy some chocolates at the main store. Unless the line is short, I recommend heading over to one of the other two shops, so you don't end up spending an hour or more in line.
• Larger Shop on the Main Level: The first chocolate shop alternative (and my current favorite) is the "Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience," tucked into the West Plaza of Ghirardelli Square. You can access it from the main courtyard. This space is larger than the original shop with views out across the SF Bay. In addition to shopping, you can also grab a sweet treat and sit at one of the windows with sweeping views of the SF Bay, Alcatraz, and beyond.
• Ghirardelli-On-The-Go on Beach Street: The second additional shop is the smallest and newest addition on Beach Street, called Ghirardelli-On-the-Go, where you can quickly duck in for some of their famous hot chocolate or other chocolate goodies. This location is petite, but perfect if the lines at the other two are too long.

>> More places to find ice cream around San Francisco

More Shops in Ghirardelli Square

There are several small boutique shops in the square that offer great souvenirs. Here is the current list of Ghirardelli stores:

• Compass: Real estate agency for San Francisco and the Bay Area
• elizabeth W: Bath and body, fragrance, and other home and body products
  
• Gigi + Rosie: Fun gifts and items for kids
  
• Gigi Rose: Women's clothing
  
• Jackson & Polk: Souvenir store
• LOLA San Francisco: Gifts and accessories
• Mashka: Earnings, necklaces, and other fun jewelry
• vom Fass: Oils, vinegars, wines, spirits, gifts, and more
• Yap USA: Pet store with fun accessories for your four-legged friends
• 7th Avenue: Luxury furniture
• COL Gallery: Contemporary art (paintings and sculptures)

Fun Activities at Ghirardelli Square

You will also find two other fun activities on Ghirardelli Square.

• GamedayVR: This is a fun, immersive gaming experience. It features 4D technology for games, escape rooms, and motion chair experiences. They feature more than 20 virtual reality games, 4 position voyager experience chairs, and 8 VR stations. They are open Wednesday - Sunday. 
• Subpar Miniature Golf: One of the other fun things to do in Ghirardelli Square is miniature golf. Located on the lower plaza, this 18-hole indoor course allows you to explore the best of SF in just a few hours. The holes are based on SF's top attractions and it's a fun experience. They also have an arcade and a Glow in the Dark Golf experience. They are open daily.

Ghirardelli Square Restaurants

When you're ready to take a break from walking and shopping, there are a handful of delightful restaurants and cafes on the square, apart from the Ghirardelli ice cream shops and cafes.

Here is what is currently open at Ghirardelli Square:

• Barrio Tacos & Tequila
• Culinary Artistas
  
• Ghirardelli Chocolate
• McCormick & Kuleto's Seafood and Steaks
• Palette Tea House
• San Francisco Brewing Co. & Restaurant: I love their outdoor beer garden. Their beers are tasty too!
• Square Pie Guys 
• Tea Square
• Broad Street Oyster Co.
• Cultivar Wine & Kitchen

>> More great places to eat around Fisherman's Wharf

>> Additional outdoor dining options in SF

Ruth Asawa Fountain in Ghirardelli Square

As you explore Ghirardelli Square, make sure to spend a little time checking out the wonderful fountain in the center of the plaza. 

The piece is by famed artist Ruth Asawa and is titled Andrea Fountain.

William Roth, the owner of Ghirardelli Square in the 1960s, commissioned the fountain from Asawa to serve as the centerpiece of the new square.

The piece was unveiled in 1968 and was a bit controversial at the time because it depicts a nursing mermaid. The controversy wore off quickly once everyone learned more about its meaning. 

After you photograph or video this amazing piece of work, make sure to stop by the plaque to read more about its history. 

You can also scan the QR code at the fountain to listen to the audio tour.

Tours of Ghirardelli Square

If you are a history buff, then you might enjoy a free guided tour of the area that meets in Ghirardelli Square, offered by San Francisco City Guides. 

It's called Fisherman's Wharf: A Hidden History. It runs most Monday and Friday mornings and starts at the Ruth Asawa Fountain in the main courtyard.

During the 1.5- to 2-hour tour, you'll learn more about the history of Ghirardelli Square. You'll also learn about the city's famous cable cars and visit the Hyde Street Pier (the largest in-water ship museum in the world).

You do need to register ahead of time on the SFCityGuides site. 

>> Find the current schedule and register for your tour here.  

Annual Events at Ghirardelli Square

Every year, Ghirardelli Square hosts the following events.

1. February - Lunar New Year: Ring in the Lunar New Year with traditional lion dancing around the square, dumpling-making demonstrations, fortune telling, and more at Palette Tea House. Make additional Lunar New Year pans in San Francisco.

2. April - Earth Month: Celebrate Earth Day at Ghirardelli Square. Take the entire family to enjoy these reflections with artists about the value of our planet and our human role in it.

3. May - June - Live Music: For several days during the summer months, come to the square to relax and enjoy live music from 3 to 6 pm or from 6 to 8 pm. 

4. September - Oktoberfest: Head over to the SF Brewing Co. at Ghirardelli Square, grab your boot, and start drinking! Throughout the afternoon, you'll also have good German fun with polka, pretzels, and a yodeling competition. 

5. October - Fleet Week: This large week-long SF event features an airshow by the Blue Angels, ship tours, and more. Every year, Ghirardelli Square provides live music and other fun activities around the square for spectators to gather and take in the views. Read more about Fleet Week.

6. October - Ghirardelli's Spooky Square: This is another great family-friendly event at Ghirardelli Square San Francisco, an annual Halloween celebration that includes fun activities like magic shows for the kids, a dog costume contest, and, of course, sweet treats. Check out other Halloween festivities around the city.

7. November/December - Light the Menorah: For Hanukkah, head over to the square to light the first candle on the menorah with Rabbi Peretz Mochkin. After the ceremony, stick around for some kid-friendly events.

8. November/December - Santa Lights the Square: Watch the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony with a visit from Santa, live music, and other children's activities. Click here to find a full list of tree lighting ceremonies and other holiday events.

Where to Stay: the Fairmont in Ghirardelli Square

If you decide to stay in the area, consider staying right at this San Francisco landmark itself. This old chocolate factory is now home to one of the top hotels in San Francisco, the Fairmont Heritage Place.

This hotel offers over 51 two- and three-bedroom guest rooms and visitors love it! Find ratings and reviews for the Fairmont Heritage Place.

Other Places to Stay Near Ghirardelli Square

Even though the Fairmont is an amazing place to stay, it's one of the most expensive properties in San Francisco. However, you will find numerous other properties in the Fisherman's Wharf area that are more in line with most budgets. These are a few that are close to Ghirardelli Square.

• Argonaut: 4-star hotel just two blocks away
• Hotel Caza Fisherman's Wharf: 4-star hotel that is about two and a half blocks away
• Travelodge by Wyndham by Fisherman's Wharf: 2-star hotel that is about three blocks away

>> Find a full list of my top recommendations for Fisherman's Wharf hotels and accommodations here

Address & Hours

You will find Ghirardelli Square San Francisco on the western end of Fisherman's Wharf at 900 North Point Street. Shops are open from 11 am to 9 pm every day. Some businesses stay open a little later (mostly the restaurants and bars).

Holiday Hours

The holiday hours here vary by store and restaurant. On Thanksgiving, only a handful are open, and on Christmas, all shops and restaurants are closed.

All are open on New Year's Eve and only some will be open on New Year's Day.

Parking Near Ghirardelli Square San Francisco

You will find plenty of parking near Ghirardelli Square San Francisco. Here are some of the best options.

Ghirardelli Square Garage: The closest and easiest place to park is right in Ghirardelli Square. The lot is beneath the shops and is open from 6 am to midnight daily. You can either enter on Larkin Street between Beach and North Point or on Beach Street between Larkin and Polk. Parking here is $18 for the first three hours, another $10 for the fourth hour, and then $6 for each additional hour of parking, up to $52 for 24 hours. If you spend $25 or more at the shops and restaurants, parking is half-price, but ONLY from Monday to Thursday.

Anchorage Square Garage: You will also find parking just three blocks away at the Anchorage Square Mall on the corner of Beach and Jones. This parking garage is open 24 hours and charges $3 per 15 minutes. The maximum daily charge is $50. 

Fisherman's Wharf Parking: You will find two places to park just four blocks away in the heart of the Fisherman's Wharf district, both of which are valet only. One is the garage at 380 Beach Street. The rate is $10 per hour on weekdays with a daily maximum of $20, or $15 on weekends with a daily maximum of $30. This one closes at 8 pm on weekdays and 10 pm on weekends. The other is open 24 hours and is located at 550 North Point Street inside the Holiday Inn Express. Prices start at $10 per hour with a fee of $30 for up to 12 hours. The overnight or 24-hour rate is $75. 

>> Find additional parking around San Francisco

Getting Here

The easiest and cheapest way to get from Union Square or downtown San Francisco to Ghirardelli Square is by taking public transit.

Cable Car: One of the best ways to get here from Union Square is by taking a cable car. The best route is the Powell/Hyde line that ends about a block away at Hyde and Beach Streets. This ride takes about 20 to 25 minutes.

30-Stockton Bus: You can also take the bus. The 30-Stockton is your best best. You can pick it up on Stockton and Geary Streets. You will then take this to the stop at North Point and Larkin Streets, which is right across the street from Ghirardelli Square. The ride takes about 20 minutes.

Cab/Uber/Lyft: Another option is to take a cab or rideshare from Union Square. This will cost around $15 to $20 and take only about 10 minutes. This is a faster and probably more pleasant, way to get to Ghirardelli Square.

From Fisherman's Wharf, you can walk. Pier 39 is on the other side of the district from Ghirardelli Square and it's about a 15-minute walk (0.8 miles).

The square is on the western side of the neighborhood and a pretty quick walk. Walk all the way down Jefferson Street to Hyde Street, head up the hill, and then walk a block west on Beach Street.  You'll see its towering white letters on the top, so it will be easy to find. 

Details on the Hop-On Hop-Off Tours

Another way to get to Ghirardelli Square and other top attractions around SF is on the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour. It's a great first-day activity in any city you are visiting. The San Francisco bus has more than 20 stops, taking you from one end of the city to the other.

With stops in Union Square, Fisherman's Wharf, and other popular neighborhoods, you will quickly make your way around San Francisco. You will also listen to recorded audio so you can learn more about the City by the Bay during the ride.

The first bus starts in Union Square at 9 am. The last bus leaves Fisherman's Wharf at 4 pm. This is a great option for getting over to Ghirardelli Square San Francisco for a few hours or to other parts of the city.

You can buy passes for one or two days. Find pricing and learn more about the San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Bus today!

More Fun Things to Do Nearby

Buena Vista Café: Just a short walk from Ghirardelli Square is one of our most famous restaurants, the Buena Vista Cafe. It's the first location in the US to serve up Irish coffee and people flock here for this tasty treat. This isn't the only reason to visit. They have an amazing selection of dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Here's more about what you can expect when you stop by.

Maritime Museum: The Maritime Museum is another great place to visit near Ghirardelli Square. You will find two locations. One is right across the street from Ghirardelli and is the original museum with murals and a handful of exhibits. The newer, interactive museum is on the first floor of the Argonaut Hotel on the corner of Jefferson and Beach Streets. Learn more about this fun local attraction. 

Bike to the Golden Gate Bridge: You can also rent a bike in Fisherman's Wharf and ride across the Golden Gate Bridge. It's a fun activity and a great way to spend a morning or afternoon in San Francisco. Most people ride over to the small waterfront town of Sausalito and then ferry back to Fisherman's Wharf. Learn more about this activity here.

More About Ghirardelli Sweet Treats

Okay, I'll admit it—I love chocolate and can't resist the famous Ghirardelli chocolate squares. My favorite is their milk chocolate squares filled with caramel. These yummy chocolate square treats were first introduced in 1999.

You can find some fun San Francisco-themed treats at all three of the Ghirardelli Square shops. If you want to replenish the stash of sweet treats you buy on your SF vacation, you can easily find a wide selection of Ghirardelli chocolates and gift baskets on Amazon.

Would you love to make your own Ghirardelli sweet treats? Wow your friends and family with recipes from the official Ghirardelli chocolate cookbook.

This cookbook is a chocolate lover's dream with over 80 recipes. Find everything from cookies, bars, and cakes, to some of their world-famous chocolate drinks.

Inside, you will find both simple recipes to extravagant desserts only found in the Ghirardelli shops. 25 full-color, mouth-watering pictures showcase the final results of some of the best recipes in the book.

Though this cookbook is my favorite, there are also a few other Ghirardelli cookbooks available. All have uncovered the secrets of these amazing sweet treats that you can find in Ghirardelli Square.

More Fun Things to Do in SF

Want to learn more about San Francisco? Here are some additional pages you might enjoy:

North Beach: Located to the north of Fisherman's Wharf is the Italian neighborhood of North Beach. This friendly San Francisco neighborhood is full of shops, bars, and of course, Italian restaurants.

Chinatown: Another popular, must-see neighborhood is Chinatown San Francisco. From the amazing food to the bustling inexpensive shops, you could spend an entire day just soaking in the liveliness of the culture here.

SF Things to Do: Find information on other great neighborhoods in the city. From the Marina to the Mission, this section has all the details on what to expect from each district.

Additional Tips to Plan Your Stay

Are you looking for additional tips to plan your trip? Check out these great sections to help with the planning process.

Lodging and Places to Stay: Union Square, downtown San Francisco, and Fisherman's Wharf are three of the most popular neighborhoods for hotels. Find recommendations for different types of hotels in each location. In this section, you can also look at hotel recommendations by budget. Whether you are looking for a top-of-the-line hotel or something a little more modest, you can find it all here.

Best SF Restaurants: San Francisco is home to a wide variety of restaurants, including some of the best in the world. Discover a list and descriptions of top restaurants by neighborhood or by cuisine.

San Francisco Nightlife: Where do the locals go to play at night? Find out some of the best places to go for dancing, drinks, or even theater. Are you looking for live music? You can find recommendations for that here too! Uncover some of the best places to spend your evenings during your trip to San Francisco.

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