San Francisco, a city renowned for its iconic landmarks, vibrant culture, and breathtaking views, is also infamous for its challenging parking situation. Whether you’re a local navigating daily commutes or a visitor eager to explore its many attractions, finding a reliable and convenient parking spot can make all the difference. This comprehensive guide highlights some of San Francisco’s best parking lots, focusing on highly-rated facilities that promise ease of access, security, and proximity to key destinations. Say goodbye to endless circling and hello to stress-free exploration with our top picks for parking in the Golden City.
SFMTA – Union Square Garage
Located beneath the iconic Union Square, the SFMTA Union Square Garage offers unparalleled convenience for shoppers, tourists, and business visitors to downtown San Francisco. This expansive underground facility boasts a high rating and thousands of reviews, attesting to its reliability and strategic location. The garage provides direct access to the vibrant retail heart of the city, including major department stores, luxury boutiques, and a plethora of dining options. Its well-maintained, secure environment ensures peace of mind, making it a preferred choice for those exploring the area’s many attractions. With easy accessibility and a focus on customer experience, it stands out as a prime parking solution in a bustling urban landscape. [1]
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
Payment options
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
- ❌ Cash Only
- ✔ NFC
SFMTA – Sutter Stockton Garage
Nestled between the lively districts of Union Square and Chinatown, the SFMTA Sutter Stockton Garage is a practical and highly-rated parking solution for visitors aiming to explore these diverse areas. Open 24 hours, it offers maximum flexibility for early birds and late-night revelers alike. The garage is known for its relatively straightforward access and secure premises, providing a hassle-free experience in a typically challenging parking environment. Its proximity to world-class hotels, unique eateries, and cultural landmarks makes it an ideal starting point for a day of sightseeing or an evening out, combining convenience with reliable service. [3]
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Payment options
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
- ❌ Cash Only
- ✔ NFC
SFMTA Ellis-O’Farrell Parking Garage
The SFMTA Ellis-O’Farrell Parking Garage provides a solid and reliable option for those navigating the busy Union Square area of San Francisco. With a good rating and hundreds of reviews, this garage is a trusted choice for both locals and visitors. Its location offers excellent access to major shopping destinations like Macy’s and Nordstrom, as well as a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues. While its operating hours cater to daytime and early evening activities, the garage is consistently praised for its ease of use and central placement, ensuring that your vehicle is securely housed while you enjoy all that downtown San Francisco has to offer. [4]
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Payment options
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
- ❌ Cash Only
- ✔ NFC
Mason O’Farrell Garage
Positioned strategically near Union Square and the theater district, the Mason O’Farrell Garage is a highly convenient 24-hour parking facility in the heart of San Francisco. With a strong rating and a substantial number of reviews, it’s a popular choice for those attending shows, staying in nearby hotels, or simply exploring the bustling downtown core. The garage offers straightforward access and a well-lit environment, contributing to a sense of security and ease. Its round-the-clock availability is a significant advantage in a city where parking can be a challenge, making it a go-to option for flexible urban adventures. [5]
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Payment options
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
- ❌ Cash Only
- ✔ NFC
Portsmouth Square Garage
Located beneath the historic Portsmouth Square Park, this garage offers an excellent parking solution for visitors to San Francisco’s vibrant Chinatown and Financial District. With a respectable rating and numerous positive reviews, it’s particularly valued for its central location and accessibility to cultural landmarks and bustling markets. The garage is well-integrated into the urban fabric, providing easy access to pedestrian-friendly areas. Its secure environment and clear signage make for a smooth parking experience, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the rich history and unique charm of Chinatown without the stress of searching for street parking. [2]
Parking options
- ✔ Paid parking lot
- ✔ Paid garage parking
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
Payment options
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
- ❌ Cash Only
- ✔ NFC
SFMTA – North Beach Garage
The SFMTA North Beach Garage is a highly-rated and well-regarded parking facility perfectly situated for exploring San Francisco’s eclectic North Beach neighborhood and the nearby Russian Hill. Open 24 hours, it provides round-the-clock convenience for those wishing to immerse themselves in the area’s vibrant nightlife, renowned Italian restaurants, and charming cafes. The garage is praised for its cleanliness, security, and straightforward parking process, a welcome relief in a district known for its narrow streets and limited street parking. It serves as an ideal base for experiencing the unique character and bohemian spirit of North Beach. [0]
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Payment options
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
- ❌ Cash Only
- ✔ NFC
Pier 39 Garage – LAZ Parking
For visitors heading to San Francisco’s iconic Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39, the Pier 39 Garage operated by LAZ Parking offers an exceptionally convenient and highly-rated solution. Its prime location places you just steps away from world-famous attractions, bustling seafood restaurants, and the adorable sea lions. The multi-story garage is designed to accommodate a high volume of vehicles, providing a relatively stress-free start to your coastal adventure. While it can get busy, its systematic approach to parking ensures efficiency, making it the go-to choice for tourists eager to dive into the unique atmosphere of this beloved waterfront destination. [11]
Parking options
- ✔ Paid parking lot
- ✔ Paid garage parking
Accessibility
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
- ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
Payment options
- ✔ Credit Card
- ✔ Debit Card
- ❌ Cash Only
- ✔ NFC
Securing a convenient parking spot in San Francisco doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By utilizing these highly-rated and strategically located parking facilities, you can enhance your visit or daily routine, ensuring more time for what truly matters: enjoying the unparalleled charm of San Francisco. From the bustling heart of Union Square to the vibrant waterfront of Fisherman’s Wharf, these parking lots offer the peace of mind and accessibility you need to make your experience in the city truly Golden.