Find these historical buildings, theaters and landmarks near BART

The Paramount Theatre in Oakland. Photo courtesy of Paramount Theatre. 

The Bay Area is a region rich in history. Whether you fancy ornate architecture, nostalgic theaters or iconic landmarks, there are plenty of BARTable spots offering a glimpse into the past. From Grace Cathedral and Mission Dolores to towers, gardens and even a 165-foot-long boat, the best historical sites below can be found just steps from BART.  

Use BART's Trip Planner for detailed routes and transit options.

Enjoy a fantastic afternoon at the Ferry Building. Photo courtesy of Ferry Building Marketplace.

The Ferry Building | Embarcadero

The San Francisco Ferry Building opened in 1898, over 125 years ago. It served as a transportation focal point from the Gold Rush to the 1930s, when boats were the primary way for travelers to reach the city. Over the years, ferry commuting diminished as cars became more popular. In the 1950s, the San Francisco Ferry Building was used mostly as an office space. Today, the building is both an iconic landmark and a fun gathering space. It’s the perfect place to shop at independently owned stores, dine on local cuisine and admire stunning waterfront views. Take BART to Embarcadero to eat, shop and sightsee 0.3 miles away at 1 Ferry Building. 
 

Grace Cathedral atop Nob Hill in San Francisco. Photo courtesy of Grace Cathedral. 

Grace Cathedral | Powell St 

Construction of the Neo-Gothic Grace Cathedral atop Nob Hill began in 1927 and lasted 37 years. Today, it's famous for being a beloved working cathedral and a unique event space. Guests can take yoga classes on Tuesday and Saturday mornings, attend a monthly organ recital or enjoy art celebrations. Grace Cathedral is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. Guided tours are also available. Take BART to Powell St for a cathedral service and much more 0.7 miles away at 1100 California St. 
 

City Hall at sunset. Photo courtesy of San Francisco Travel. 

San Francisco City Hall | Civic Center/UN Plaza

Originally built in 1915 and restored and renovated after the 1989 earthquake, City Hall in San Francisco is a beautiful example of Beaux Arts style with merged elements of French, Roman and Greek design. The iconic dome has a 23.5 karat gold leaf finish. The interior Rotunda is made out of Tennessee pink marble and the walls are decorated with meaningful medallions. Pop in for a look or join a tour. San Francisco City Hall Docents provide one-hour guided tours on Fridays at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Take BART to Civic Center/UN Plaza to visit this historic building 0.2 miles away at 335 McAllister St. 
 

Mission Dolores. Photo courtesy of San Francisco Travel. 

Mission Dolores | 16th St Mission 

The history of Mission Dolores dates back to San Francisco’s original settlers. Established in 1776, it’s the city’s oldest building, formally named Mission San Francisco de Asís, after Saint Francis of Assisi. Visitors are welcome for Catholic masses and to enjoy the Basilica Choir every Sunday at the 10 a.m. and on major church holidays. Mission Dolores is also known for its gorgeous rose garden and a secret mural painted by Native Americans in the 18th century. Take BART to 16th St Mission for mass, gardens and public art 0.2 miles away at 3321 16th St.
 

The Roxie in San Francisco. Photo courtesy of San Francisco Travel. 

The Roxie | 16th St Mission

The Roxie is one of the oldest continuously running cinemas in the country. The theater originally opened in 1912 but wasn’t officially named The Roxie until 1933. Here, visitors can watch everything from documentaries and old classics to independent films. The Roxie also hosts film festivals and events where they invite filmmakers, curators, entertainers and educators to interact with audiences. Filmgoers will enjoy Ritual Coffee, Golden State Cider, Fort Point beer and classic candy while taking in a show. Take BART to 16th St Mission to catch a show 0.1 mile away at 3117 16th St. 
 

The colorful interior of the Paramount Theatre. Photo courtesy of the Paramount Theatre. 

Paramount Theater | 19th St/Oakland

Oakland’s Paramount Theater is an Art Deco marvel with fully upgraded modern technical standards. Built in 1931 and authentically remodeled in 1973, this National Historic Landmark is a multi-purpose theater seating over 3,000. Whether you catch a show or take a tour of this iconic building, the Paramount Theater is definitely worth a visit. Take BART to 19th St/Oakland for historic entertainment 341 feet away at 2025 Broadway.
 

Tribune Tower in the Oakland skyline. Photo courtesy of Northstar Meeting Group.

Tribune Tower | 12th St/Oakland City Center

The 11th tallest building in Oakland is the former base for the Oakland Tribune and one of the most famous landmarks in the East Bay skyline. Located in downtown Oakland, the Tribune Tower was built in 1906; the tower was erected in 1923. The exterior consists of fragments from famous buildings from around the world, including the Taj Mahal. Take BART to 12th St/Oakland City Center to see an iconic landmark 322 feet away at 409 13th St. 
 

The USS Potomac in the San Francisco Bay. Photo courtesy of USS Potomac. 

USS Potomac | 12th St/Oakland City Center

The USS Potomac is the retired presidential yacht of Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Built in 1934, the vessel originally used by the US Coast Guard (Electra) was recommissioned by the U.S. Navy in 1936 and renamed USS Potomac. The National Historic Landmark docked near Jack London Square is open for two to three-hour live narrated cruises on the San Francisco Bay, dockside tours and private events. Take BART to 12th St/Oakland City Center for boat rides and tours 0.7 miles away at 540 Water St.
 

Orinda Theatre. Photo courtesy of San Francisco Comedy Competition. 

Orinda Theatre | Orinda

The Orinda Theatre opened on December 27, 1941 with “Texas” starring William Holden, Glen Ford and Claire Trevor. The neon tower and bright marquee are a cool, nostalgic sight for locals and visitors alike in the East Bay. Today, you can catch first-run movies, old classics and special happenings, like free movie nights and film festivals. Take BART to Orinda Station and spend the evening in front of the big screen 0.3 miles away at 4 Orinda Theatre Square.
 

Shinn Historical Park and Arboretum. Photo courtesy of Tripadvisor. 

Shinn Historical Park and Arboretum | Fremont

James and Lucy Shinn moved from Texas to the south bank of Alameda Creek in 1856. The remaining four acres of their ranch are now Shinn Historical Park & Arboretum. Here, visitors can tour the Shinn House, visit the Shinn House Museum, explore the gorgeous gardens and more. Take BART to Fremont to step back in time 0.9 miles away at 1251 Peralta Blvd.

What is your favorite BARTable Historical Site?

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