Best attractions and places to see around Emeryville offer a blend of historical significance, artistic expression, and natural beauty in the East Bay. Situated on the San Francisco Bay, the area provides bay views and features like the Emeryville Crescent Wildlife Refuge. The city integrates cultural sites, public art installations, and green spaces such as the Emeryville Greenway. This region presents a variety of unique attractions for visitors.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
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These artistic hearts in Union Square help raise money for a local hospital. They rotate regularly and find new, permanent homes all over San Francisco.
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A work by Lawrence Noble "There is No Try" from 2011.
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At the center of Union Square stands the Dewey Monument, a 85-foot-tall (26 m) column topped by a 9-foot (2.7 m) statue of Nike, the ancient Greek goddess of victory. The monument is dedicated to Admiral George Dewey, a hero of the Spanish–American War for his victory in the Battle of Manila Bay in 1898. The monument was unveiled in 1903.
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You have to see it...and drive it.
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Even outside of the Christmas season, a visit to Union Square is worthwhile. Pure life and hustle and bustle...
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Entrance/Exit to Chinatown San Francisco
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A ride on the cable car is something special. Where else in America, which is otherwise so safety-conscious, are you allowed to lean out of a moving vehicle and take pictures? There is a stop in the middle of the route near Chinatown and Dragons Gate.
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Pier 39 is of course not just about the famous sea lions. You can really spend a day hanging out here. Preferably with small children, because then you'll quickly become poor. ;-) Best combined with a trip to Alcatraz. Very exciting!
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Emeryville offers several natural attractions and viewpoints. Point Emery provides breathtaking panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline, the Bay Bridge, and Mount Tamalpais. You can also enjoy the tranquil setting of Safe Harbor Emeryville on the San Francisco Bay. The Emeryville Crescent Wildlife Refuge is a vital area for birdwatching along the Pacific Flyway, and the multi-use Bay Trail offers scenic views along the waterfront.
Yes, Emeryville features several excellent options for walking and running. The Emeryville Greenway is a sustainably landscaped pedestrian corridor built on a former rail line, connecting parks and offering views of the East Bay hills. The Bay Trail also provides a scenic paved path along the San Francisco Bay. For more extensive running routes, you can explore options like the running trails around Emeryville, which include loops around Aquatic Park and the Richmond Bay Trail.
Emeryville has a rich history reflected in several landmarks. The Emeryville Shellmound is a California Historical Landmark, once a sacred site for the Ohlone people. Other historical points include the Oaks Card Club, established in the 1890s, and the site of the Emeryville Post Office & Emery's Station, pivotal in the city's founding. The California & Nevada Railroad also recalls the city's growth and past connections.
Emeryville is known for its vibrant arts scene. The Rotten City - Emeryville Cultural Arts District is dedicated to modern art forms, including animation and digital compositions. The city also boasts numerous Public Art Installations such as "Neighborhood Convergence," "Commuting," and "Aquatic Circus." Additionally, J-Sei is a Japanese cultural center that hosts free community events featuring art, music, and food.
While the guide highlights attractions like Pier 39 & Sea Lions, San Francisco and Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco which are family-friendly, Emeryville itself offers local spots. Huchiun Park features a basketball court and community gardens. The Emeryville Greenway is great for family strolls, and the various City Parks provide open fields and walking paths for outdoor enjoyment.
Yes, some areas in and around Emeryville are wheelchair accessible. For example, Union Square and Chinatown (Dragon Gate entrance) in nearby San Francisco are noted as wheelchair accessible. Within Emeryville, the paved sections of the Bay Trail and the Emeryville Greenway are generally accessible, offering pleasant routes for all visitors.
Beyond its natural beauty and historical sites, Emeryville is home to Pixar Animation Studios, a world-renowned animation powerhouse. The Public Market Emeryville offers a diverse range of shopping, dining, and entertainment. The city's commitment to public art also makes many of its sculptures and installations, like the "Equilibre" sculpture, unique points of interest.
Yes, the Emeryville Crescent Wildlife Refuge is an excellent location for wildlife observation. This 1000-acre area of marsh and mudflats along the shoreline is a crucial feeding, nesting, and resting ground for millions of birds migrating along the Pacific Flyway. It's a prime spot for birdwatching and experiencing the local ecosystem.
Emeryville is a great base for various outdoor activities. For cycling, you can explore gravel biking routes around Emeryville, including challenging loops like the East Bay Skyline. Mountain biking enthusiasts can find MTB trails around Emeryville, with moderate routes such as the Wildcat Creek Trail loops. The Bay Trail also offers paved paths suitable for casual cycling.
Visitors appreciate Emeryville's unique blend of urban amenities, artistic expression, and access to natural beauty. The panoramic views from Point Emery, the historical significance of the Emeryville Shellmound, and the vibrant public art scene are frequently highlighted. The proximity to the San Francisco Bay and its associated outdoor activities, like those along the Bay Trail, also contribute to a memorable experience.
Emeryville is well-known for its public art. You can discover various installations throughout the city, including "Neighborhood Convergence," "Commuting," "Aquatic Circus," and "Pathways." The "Rock spine fountain" and a ceramic sculpture fountain at Heritage Square are also notable. The "Equilibre" sculpture in Downtown Emeryville is another significant piece to look out for.
Yes, Emeryville offers numerous city parks for relaxation and recreation. Examples include Huchiun Park, which has a basketball court and community gardens, and Marina Park. Many parks provide amenities like beach/shoreline access, walking paths, and open fields, such as 61st Street Mini-Park, Christie Avenue Park, Davenport Park, Doyle Hollis Park, Horton Landing Park, Joseph Emery Skate Park, and Peladeau Park.


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