Sometimes travel happens right in your backyard. As much as I may love to explore beaches in Costa Rica or cobblestone streets in Florence, Italy– living in San Francisco gives me access to countless great meals, neighborhoods to explore and chances to play tourist. This week we’re touring one of my favorite places to wander when I’m downtown, with a visit to the Ferry Building.

Great Photo Opps

The first reason is pretty obvious as soon as you arrive- from the beautiful 200 foot clock tower to the sweeping views of the Bay- your visit to the Ferry Building is a great opportunity to take some awesome pictures.

Whether you’re a local stopping through for an afternoon, or a tourist exploring San Francisco, be sure to take a few minutes outside capturing the beautiful surroundings of this historic building.

Fancy Samples

Let’s be honest- the Ferry Building marketplace is not particularly cheap. The good news is you can sample all types of things, from olive oil and high end chocolate, to honey and even body cremes and oils. Take advantage of the opportunity to window shop- even if you have no desire to purchase an $8 bar of chocolate or a $30 candle.

Wine and Cheese Tastings

Ever since my trip to Paris, any place where wine and cheese are the stars has a special place in my heart. The Ferry Building has both, with weekly wine tasting at Ferry Plaza Wine Merchant and a cheese-centric happy hour every weekday at Sidekick Cafe. Meet wine producers from around the world, chat up a cheesemonger… feel fancy. Repeat.

Local, Farm Fresh Food

Organic cheese, fresh baked bread, raw honey- the marketplace is overflowing with tasty farm fresh food, all from local farms in the area. On my last visit, I picked up a sandwich from Acme Bread Company, complete with Mt Tam cheese from right next door at Cowgirl Creamery. Fresh baked bread and fresh cheese… a little slice of heaven.

Burgers and Oysters and Soul Food, Oh My!

Eating at a marketplace like the one at the Ferry Building is great for groups and indecisive individuals (like me). From burgers at Gott’s and oysters at Hog Island Oyster Bar to the much anticipated recent opening of Brown Sugar Kitchen, there’s a little something for everyone.

Perfect Sweet Bites

It’s no secret- I’m a foodie with a serious sweet tooth. The Ferry Building marketplace is a wonderfully dangerous place if you like sweet treats. Ice cream, cookies, cupcakes, small batch chocolate, even sweet empanadas- you’ll probably need to pace yourself so you don’t go into a sugar coma. And there are plenty of gluten free and vegan options, so none of us are safe from temptation.

Brown Lady Travel Tips

The Ferry Building marketplace can get really busy around lunchtime. If you’re visiting the marketplace on a weekday, wait for the noon lunch rush to clear so you have more space to wander, shop and enjoy the restaurant of your choice without lines.

Making a visit to the Ferry Building on public transportation is extremely easy, with several buses and trains that will drop you off within one block of Market Street and The Embarcadero. Parking in the area is scarce and expensive, so public transportation or ride sharing is the way to go for your visit.

Do you have a favorite marketplace in your city?