Rincon Park is a two-acre waterfront park on The Embarcadero at Folsom Street in San Francisco‘s South Beach and Rincon Hill area, just south of the Ferry Building. It opened in 2003 on land freed up after the Embarcadero Freeway came down following the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake. Travelers come for its 60-foot Cupid’s Span bow-and-arrow sculpture, open lawns, and close views of the Bay Bridge.
What to Expect at Rincon Park
The park’s centerpiece is Cupid’s Span, installed in 2002 by pop artists Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen. The fiberglass and stainless-steel bow is half-buried in the grass, with its arrow angled into the ground. Behind it, the western span of the Bay Bridge rises over the water, and on clear days you can see Treasure Island and the East Bay hills.
Gently sloping lawns run toward a wide bayside promenade. Two restaurant pavilions sit along the park’s western edge, and benches face the water. After dark, The Bay Lights LED installation on the bridge cables adds a nighttime draw.
- Cupid’s Span: A 60-foot Oldenburg and van Bruggen sculpture and one of the city’s most photographed public artworks.
- Bay Bridge Views: An unobstructed sightline to the western span, about a block away.
- Embarcadero Promenade: A flat, wide path that suits walkers, joggers, and cyclists.
- Waterfront Dining: Restaurants in the bordering pavilions offer patio seating.
- The Bay Lights: Animated LED patterns on the bridge cables, best seen from the lawn after sunset.
Rincon Park at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | The Embarcadero & Folsom St, San Francisco, CA 94105 |
| Neighborhood / Area | South Beach / Rincon Hill, Embarcadero waterfront |
| Operating Hours | Open 24 hours daily |
| Admission / Price Range | Free |
| Recommended Visit Duration | 30 to 60 minutes |
| Nearest Transit / Parking | Muni E and F streetcars and N/T Muni Metro at Folsom & Embarcadero; BART/Muni Embarcadero Station is about 10 minutes away on foot; metered street parking and nearby garages |
| Official Website & Phone | SF Parks Alliance, +1 415-831-2700 |
Visiting Tips, Getting There & Nearby Pairings
Morning light suits photos of Cupid’s Span, while sunset and early evening bring warm skies and The Bay Lights. Afternoon wind can be strong, so bring a layer. Transit is the easiest way to arrive: Muni Metro N and T trains and the historic E and F streetcars stop at Folsom and The Embarcadero. Visit SFMTA for schedules.
The promenade and lawn edges are flat and paved, so wheelchairs and strollers move easily. The grass slopes are gentle but uneven. Walk about 10 minutes north to the Ferry Building Marketplace, pass under the bridge to South Beach Harbor and Oracle Park, or head inland to Salesforce Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Rincon Park open?
The park is open 24 hours a day. Morning is calmest, and dusk is best for bridge lights.
Does Rincon Park charge admission?
No, entry is free. You only pay if you dine at the adjacent restaurants, which are typically $$$.
How long should I spend at Rincon Park?
Plan 30 to 60 minutes for photos and a stroll. Allow more time if you’re pairing it with an Embarcadero walk.
Is Rincon Park accessible and family-friendly?
Yes. Flat paved paths serve wheelchairs and strollers, and kids enjoy running on the lawn around the giant bow.
When planning your San Francisco travel guide or comparing verified attractions and parks in San Francisco, pair this stop with standout local spots including San Francisco – Oakland Bay Bridge, Ina Coolbrith Park, The Battery, and Angler (0.3 km away).
