Mission Bay is a vibrant neighborhood located on the eastern waterfront of San Francisco. Once an industrial area, it has undergone significant redevelopment and is now a thriving residential and commercial district. The neighborhood is known for its modern architecture, with sleek high-rise buildings, luxury apartments, and waterfront properties. The area is also home to several notable institutions, such as the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Medical Center and the Chase Center, where the Golden State Warriors basketball team plays. Here are the best places to see in Mission Bay.
History of Mission Bay
Originally, the area was a shallow body of water connected to the San Francisco Bay. In the mid-1800s, a project was undertaken to fill in the marshy land and create usable land for industrial and commercial purposes.
Mission Bay was named after the nearby Mission San Francisco de Asís (commonly known as Mission Dolores), which was established in 1776. The marshlands of Mission Bay provided an important source of food and resources for the mission community.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Mission Bay became an important industrial hub. Industries such as shipping, manufacturing, and transportation thrived in the area. Warehouses, factories, and rail yards were established along the waterfront, contributing to the growth of the neighborhood.
However, with the decline of maritime industries and the changing economic landscape in the mid-20th century, Mission Bay gradually fell into disuse and became an abandoned industrial area. The neighborhood faced environmental challenges and neglect for several decades.
In the late 1990s, a significant revitalization effort was initiated to transform Mission Bay into a modern mixed-use neighborhood. The project involved extensive land reclamation and redevelopment. Former industrial sites were repurposed into residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.
Best places to see in Mission Bay, San Francisco
Oracle Park
Home to the San Francisco Giants baseball team, Oracle Park is a must-visit for sports enthusiasts. Catch a game and experience the lively atmosphere of this iconic ballpark, or take a stadium tour to learn about its history and enjoy scenic views of the bay.
Mission Bay Park
Enjoy the outdoors at Mission Bay Park, a large waterfront park offering recreational activities and beautiful views. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, have a picnic on the grassy areas, or rent a bike to explore the park’s trails.
Mission Creek Park
Located along the Mission Creek waterfront, this park offers green spaces, picnic areas, and walking paths. Enjoy a peaceful retreat in the heart of Mission Bay and take in views of the surrounding water and skyline.
Koret Quad
Explore Koret Quad, a beautifully landscaped courtyard at UCSF Mission Bay. It provides a serene environment with benches, fountains, and lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for relaxation or a quiet study session.
Spark Social SF
This outdoor food truck park offers a diverse selection of culinary delights. Enjoy a range of delicious food options from different food trucks, along with live music and occasional entertainment.
Huffaker Park
Located in Mission Bay, Huffaker Park offers a green oasis amidst the urban surroundings. It features a playground, picnic areas, and open spaces, providing a tranquil spot to relax or have a leisurely outdoor gathering.
Chase Center
As the home of the Golden State Warriors basketball team, Chase Center is an impressive sports and entertainment arena. Catch a game or attend a concert at this state-of-the-art venue known for its modern design and vibrant atmosphere.
Bay View Boat Club
The Bay View Boat Club is a distinctive yellow building located in Mission Bay. It serves as a recreational boating club and offers stunning views of the bay. If you’re interested in boating or simply want to appreciate the scenic surroundings, the club is worth a visit.
Third Street Bridge
The opening bridge on Third Street is a unique architectural feature in Mission Bay. The bridge allows for boat traffic to pass through by opening and closing. It’s fascinating to watch this engineering marvel in action, providing access for vessels to navigate the waterway.
Mission Creek Harbor Boat Houses
Mission Creek Harbor is a marina located in the Mission Bay neighborhood of San Francisco. The marina is home to a community of boat houses, which are unique floating homes situated along the shores of Mission Creek. These boat houses offer a distinct living experience and contribute to the vibrant waterfront atmosphere of Mission Bay. Visitors can admire the charming boat houses as they walk along the marina, enjoying the picturesque views of the water and the surrounding area.
Best places to eat in Mission Bay, San Francisco
Best Boba places in Mission Bay San Francisco
Spark Social SF Food Trucks
Spark Social SF is a popular outdoor food truck park in Mission Bay. It offers a diverse selection of food options from various culinary vendors, making it a great place for food enthusiasts. From gourmet burgers to international cuisine, you’ll find a wide range of delicious dishes to satisfy your cravings. Operating hours vary, but it is generally open from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with extended hours on weekends.
Mission Rock Resort
A popular waterfront restaurant located in Mission Bay. Situated along the scenic San Francisco Bay, it offers breathtaking views of the water and the city skyline. The restaurant specializes in seafood and American cuisine, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From oysters and clam chowder to grilled fish and juicy burgers, Mission Rock Resort provides a diverse menu to cater to various tastes .The restaurant’s operating hours typically include lunch from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM and dinner from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Miller & Lux
Miller & Lux is a stylish restaurant in Mission Bay, known for its elevated American fare and elegant ambiance. The menu features a blend of classic and contemporary dishes, incorporating seasonal ingredients and innovative flavors. The restaurant is open for lunch from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM and dinner from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM.
