San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park: Rangers in the City

Balclutha at Hyde Street Pier

NPS Gallery *Images credited to NPS without any copyright symbol are public domain.

When people think of the United States' National Parks, they typically envision open landscapes, miles away from skyscrapers and busy highways. That may be the case for many, but one National Park sits in the middle of California’s fourth most populated city. The San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park is located just a few miles east of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco’s Fort Mason district. The park contains a maritime museum, a research center, and a fleet of historic ships that seek to teach people about the 19th century maritime history that helped shape San Francisco into the city it is today.

Walk the windy Hyde Street Pier and stop along the way to read informational plaques and participate in interactive exhibits. Both kids and adults enjoy trying out the block and tackle system, learning to tie reef knots, and pushing on steel capstan bars. Hands-on activities like this help the past feel more real and less removed from where we are today. You can take on the role of a sailor from the 1800s, for a brief moment, even if you are prone to seasickness or afraid of the open ocean.

Take a break from the salty sea air and step inside the museum to learn about boat building and coal power fuel systems. You will be greeted by rangers along the way, and possibly be given a demonstration on wood bending or navigation. Come on the right day and you may find yourself in the audience of a traditional nautical music or dance performance. Captains and crews had to entertain themselves while out at sea for weeks, even months, at a time. This too, is part of the history. Your visit will hopefully be just as much entertaining as it is educational.

Visitors Holding Capstan Bars, Turn the Capstan

NPS Gallery *Images credited to NPS without any copyright symbol are public domain

Boats have been used for centuries in the Pacific Ocean for cargo transport, fishing, and even yacht racing. The San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park is the perfect sightseeing stop to learn more about the marine infrastructure and culture behind San Francisco’s rapid industrialization and delicious seafood.

Click here to discover more about San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park and plan your trip!

Article written by Jadyn Pando
for "A Day in the Life of a Fellow" Article Series
National Park Service - Workforce Management Fellow
in Partnership with Northwest Youth Corps (NYC)