The stately brick buildings in San Francisco’s impressive 1895 Ghirardelli Square, the original site of the Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory, are now the home of a stylish collection of shops, restaurants, and a luxe hotel. One of the most pleasant places to stroll and shop in the city, the factory site—which was a woolen mill before that—also has the distinction of being the first successful adaptive reuse project of its kind in the country.
Ghirardelli Square Shopping
Wind through passageways and across plazas to visit an assortment of boutiques and stores. Shop luxurious bath and body products and scents at elizabethw, and find unique gifts at Gigi Rose, Jackson & Polk, Mashka, and Lola.
Ghirardelli Square Restaurants
After exploring the boutiques, relax with bay views while dining at one of Ghirardelli Sqyare’s restaurants. The Cheese School of San Francisco offers a wine and cheese bar, café, and a cheese shop (and, given the name, they also offer cheese classes); if you’re looking for a unique gift for someone at home, pick up one of the premium wine and cheese gift baskets. For a more formal dining experience, head to McCormick & Kuleto’s Seafood & Steaks, where you can also enjoy views of the San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz, Angel Island, and the marina. If you’re just looking for a relaxed spot for pub food and beer, take a seat at the San Francisco Brewing Co, which has both an onsite brewery and an outdoor beer garden.
The Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop
If you have kids with you, you probably have one destination in mind more than any other: the original Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop. The line can be out the door but don’t worry—it moves fast. Soon you’ll be facing the staggering menu of sundae choices: Will it be the family-size “Earthquake”? (Eight scoops, eight toppings, bananas, whipped cream, almonds, chocolate chips, and cherries.) Or maybe have a “Gold Rush” (vanilla ice cream with hot fudge and peanut butter throughout).
More Ghirardelli Square Fun
After treat time, get in a round of mini golf at Subpar Miniature Golf, where the holes all feature miniature San Francisco landmarks.Before you arrive, check out the schedule of upcoming events—there are always family-friendly festivities on the calendar.
Fairmont Heritage Place Hotel
The only hotel in Ghirardelli Square, the Fairmont Heritage Place Ghirardelli Square provides luxurious accommodations for visitors looking for a little extra space. The hotel offers roomy one-, two-, and three-bedroom suites; the contemporary decor stands out against the exposed brick that nods to the building’s long history.
Ghirardelli Square Parking and Hours
Ghirardelli Square is located at 900 North Point Street at the corner of Beach & Larkin Streets. Business hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day; there is a parking garage on Larkin St. between North Point and Beach St.