The Old Ship Saloon

The Old Ship Saloon, established in 1851 during the California gold rush, is a historic bar located at 298 Pacific Avenue in San Francisco's Jackson Square. Originally a saloon inside the wreck of the ship Arkansas, it has a rich history tied to the city's rapid growth and maritime culture. The bar operated from the ship until it was partially buried as the city expanded, eventually becoming a popular venue for shanghaiing unsuspecting patrons. After surviving the 1906 earthquake, it was rebuilt and has changed ownership several times, with the current owner restoring its original name in 1992. Notably, remnants of the Arkansas were discovered during construction in 2016, highlighting the bar's unique connection to San Francisco's maritime past. The Old Ship Saloon is also a designated stop along the Barbary Coast Trail, making it a must-visit for tourists and researchers alike.