With my senior pass, all the ships - quite a variety - were available without cost. Good variety of vessels from the ferry boat which used to be a part of US 101 to the ocean-going tug and large ship, the exhibits were well cared for and explained.

Interesting is the best way to describe the experience. Do not expect too much and you will not be disappointed.

If you love sailing and old boats this is the place. This is a working preservation yard with lots of excellent exhibits. Specific ship tours are for pay, and probably worth it, but we passed on that and just enjoyed the day on the pier.

Most reviews about the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park focus on the Hyde Street pier and the ships on display. This review focuses on the Museum across Jefferson Street from the pier. (The pier and boats are great too, see what others say). This is a free museum - not often found in SF. I give it 4 out... More

I focused my tour of the Hyde Street Pier mainly on the Balclutha, but did stop to look at the other vessels as well. Normally, admission is $5, which would be a great value for what is available. On the day I visited, there was no admission charge, so you never know when you will get this lucky break. The... More

This was fun and educational. You can go on several old ships and learn about their history. It is super inexpensive and an unusual experience. The kids can get a Jr. Ranger book and answer questions to earn a badge. Mine had a great time doing that. It was kind of like a treasure hunt.

This was quite fun. For $5 for adults and free for children, you got access to at least 5 ships. The Balclutha was really cool. My 7-year old loved it. It was a great educational experience.

The Waterfront Exhibit just opened and is located in a building at the foot of the Hyde Street Pier. It shows the history of SF waterfront in a multimedia fashion that is informative and downright entertaining. We were very pleased with the quality of it. (There is much more to the SF Maritime National Historical Park, including several restored ships... More

We head to the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park every time we visit San Francisco. It's such a laid back, fun experience (the kids won't even realize they're learning something)! You can take as much or as little time here as you like. So if time is short, just take a walk. The pier is free. If you have... More