Fort Mason Center 2 Marina Boulevard, Landmark Building C, Room 260 • San Francisco • California 94123-1382

Fort Mason Center embodies what most people love about San Francisco—a nearness to nature (especially the bay), novel architecture and a sense of the past. Located on some of the most prime real estate in the city, the center's historic buildings sit adjacent to the Marina Green, right on the water, with postcard-worthy vistas of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the Marin Headlands. Its well-preserved structures and piers recall its military past, but in the 1970s the site was re-purposed as an urban national park and Fort Mason Center was established. It's since become a hub for nonprofit arts organizations, and also houses galleries, bookstores and restaurants. In addition, the center has many unique venues that host events of all types and sizes.

Among the most popular sites for intimate weddings is the Firehouse, a lovely freestanding hall tucked away in the far northeast corner of the complex. Considered a hidden gem thanks to its near complete privacy and divine views, it edges right up to the bay on one side and a pine-covered hill on the other. Inside, high-ceilinged rooms dress up nicely for seated dinners, buffets and dancing.

For larger festivities, the recently renovated Gallery 308 represents the height of industrial chic. Its open floor plan, with polished concrete floors and vaulted ceilings, becomes a blank canvas for your own creative event styling. Windows not only bring in natural light during the day, but capture spectacular seascape panoramas, including the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. At night, the view becomes a galaxy of twinkling lights from the city, yachts and bridge.

The General's Residence—which has entertained luminaries such as General MacArthur and two presidents—has been restored to its former splendor. A sprawling lawn behind the building hosts ceremonies with sweeping bay views, while floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the interior bring those legendary vistas indoors. The residence is an intriguing blend of past and present: The Foyer evokes nostalgic grandeur with its fireplace and magnificent crystal chandelier, yet the Dining Room and Ballroom both have a breezy, contemporary simplicity.

The grandest of galas are easily accommodated in the fully customizable Festival Pavilion. Outfitted with hi-tech amenities and convenient annexes for storage, catering prep or VIP retreats, the spacious Pavilion is a flexible option for both corporate conferences and mega celebrations. The historic waterfront structure also commands classic views of Alcatraz and the San Francisco Bay.

Though Fort Mason Center effortlessly accommodates those tying the knot, it also has a strong mission to serve the local community. Booking an event here helps ensure that this landmark—and its affiliated arts organizations—remains for future generations to enjoy. This added benefit is not lost on socially conscious couples who realize that it's possible to get married in high style and support a nonprofit in the process.