Fort Mason

Why go

Fort Mason is defined by the form, materials, and setting of Fort Mason. Another layer comes from the sightlines that connect Fort Mason with its surroundings. Plan Fort Mason by remembering to confirm public access to Fort Mason and local conditions. After Fort Mason, choose a geographic companion near Fort Mason; this keeps Fort Mason geographically coherent and avoids forcing Fort Mason into an unrelated crossing.

What to look for

• Look closely at the form, materials, and setting of Fort Mason.
• Notice the sightlines that connect Fort Mason with its surroundings.

The full story

Fort Mason, once known as San Francisco Port of Embarkation, US Army, in San Francisco, California, is a former United States Army post located in the northern Marina District, alongside San Francisco Bay. Fort Mason served as an Army post for more than 100 years, initially as a coastal defense site and subsequently as a military port facility. During World War II, it was the principal port for the Pacific campaign. Today it is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and the site of several cultural facilities. It is a National Historic Landmark District with over 49 buildings of historic significance, spread over 1,200 acres . Fort Mason can be split into two distinct areas. The upper area, sometimes called Fort Mason, is situated on a headland and was the site of the original coastal fortifications. The lower area, Fort Mason Center, is situated close to water level to the west of Upper Fort Mason, and is the site of the former military port, with its piers and warehouses. The Marina Green lies to the west of Fort Mason, while Aquatic Park is to the east.

Useful to know

• For Fort Mason, confirm public access to Fort Mason and local conditions.
• Pair Fort Mason with a geographic companion near Fort Mason when the route and opening conditions align.

Your next visit

Estimated · Declared scenario and planning estimates; no live opening, weather, queue or booking service.