Places

A “place” can be defined in a number of ways. It can be a spot on a map, a building, a structure, or anywhere that is filled with human meaning. History is written on the landscape through human structures and cultural landscapes. San Francisco Maritime is steward to a number of historical sites that preserve maritime history and tradition.

The Aquatic Park National Historic Landmark Historic District was envisioned in 1866 and built in the 1930s as a WPA project. It includes Aquatic Park Cove and beach, viewing stands, speaker towers, landscaped grounds, and the Aquatic Park Bathhouse. Originally designed for recreation, the district continues to allow an urban audience to enjoy a variety of scenic and recreational opportunities.

The Hyde Street Pier was an important link for travel across the San Francisco Bay before the Bay Bridge and Golden Gate Bridge were built. Since the creation of San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, it has housed the park's colleciton of historic ships.

The Haslett Warehouse was once part of the factories and indutries that dominated the waterfront around Black Point Cove. The building now houses the Visitor Center and Argonaut Hotel, and the exhibits inside provide context for understanding maritime heritage.