Located on the Embarcadero in downtown San Francisco, this modern market sprawls over three city blocks, giving visitors the option of shopping outdoors under tents, or indoors in the Ferry Building Marketplace.

The day we went was a sunny, breezy Saturday morning, and the sidewalks were crowded with equally enthusiastic shoppers, eager to spot a deal while supporting local vendors.

As we made our way around the building, we stopped on the deck encircling the back and took in the view of the bay. After some time, we made our way inside the building for some more foodie adventures.

The interior of the Ferry Building Marketplace has a mall feel to it, with gorgeous displays of food and floral items in lieu of shops.

We wound through the serpentine walkways and took in the atmosphere: the scent of freshly-baked raisin scones, stacks of hard cheese, the rich aroma of locally brewed coffee, explosions of color on the petal of every flower in sight, mountains of pastel cupcakes, mixing with the scent of rotisserie chicken wafting in the breeze.

A vendor selling all things mushroom and fungi-related:

Adorable displays of dessert:

Depending on the time of year, it can get chilly since the market is so close to the water, so it’s a good idea to dress in layers.

We go our local Farmers’ Market all the time, but this was on another level. It’s a fun, free, and child-friendly way to spend a sunny Saturday morning if you’re ever in the San Francisco Bay Area!