Explore the Moscone Convention Center: a Central Hub in San Francisco

The Moscone Center is a can’t-miss sight while you’re visiting San Francisco! This 37-foot complex stands as a cornerstone of the convention and tradeshow environment within San Francisco. Stretching over two million square feet, the Moscone Convention Center offers a dynamic venue point for first-time visitors, locals, or seasoned convention-goers.

Today we will be exploring what the Moscone Center in SF is, and how to make the most of your time in the convention complex.

What is the Moscone Convention Center?

The Moscone Convention Center is the largest convention and exhibit complex in San Francisco, California. It consists of three main halls, each spreading throughout the South of Market (SoMa) district. It was named after George Moscone, who was the 37th Mayor of San Francisco. George Moscone was remembered for his stance on civil rights, as well as his contributions to the overall city development. 

Moscone Center is owned by the city of San Francisco and consists of three components:

• The Moscone South was created in 1981; this served as the first part of the building
• The second piece, the Esplanade Ballroom and Moscone North, was created in 1991 and 1992. 
• The third piece, the Moscone West, opened in 2003. 

The intent behind the convention center was to provide a location of choice for meeting planners, exhibitors, and employees. This was accomplished through state-of-the-art guest experiences, while educating the skills and experience of San Francisco’s best.

Key Events and Conferences

One of the main highlights of the center is the extensive calendar of events. Below are some of the largest conventions held in the center:

• Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC): This event includes Apple’s unveiling of new products, including phones, tablets, watches and more.
• Game Developers Conference (GDC): One of the main major events in the gaming industry, this conference features panels, workshops and networking events.
• Dreamforce: This conference is the annual held conference for the company Salesforce, which attracts a large crowd interested in the new technology provided by the company.

Things to Do

Although the conferences held inside in the Moscone Convention Center are the main attractions, the complex also offers amenities for you and your group. They include the following:

• Dining Options: A variety of food choices, from sit-down restaurants to quick snacks are offered. Depending on the event, personalized food courts and catering services are available. 
  
• Networking Lounges: While you attend the conferences, you can utilize the designated networking areas to connect with other attendees. Build lasting relationships within these walls!
• Artwork: The Moscone Center in SF has some impressive art installations. Decorated throughout the immense complex, these pieces are sure to wow you!
• Virtual Tours: At any given time, from any given place, you can take a virtual tour of the complex. Their virtual tours offer an immersive experience into the heart of the convention center.
  

Attractions in San Francisco, CA

After your stop at the Moscone Convention Center, check out all that San Francisco has to offer! The complex is situated right next to some hot spots for entertainment, as listed below:

Yerba Buena Gardens

A short walk from the Moscone Center, these gardens offer stunning views, waterfalls, and various public artworks. Whether you are strolling through, or taking a picnic, this oasis is sure to be a good time. 

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)

The SFMOMA has one of the largest modern art museums in the United States! It showcases a diverse collection of contemporary artwork, as well as intriguing exhibits. We recommend reading the SFMOMA article on our website that explores this topic further, as it is an experience that will leave you breathless!

Union Square

Known as the “most well known commercial area in San Francisco”, UMnion Square provides a shopping scene for groups of all ages. Check out the luxury retailer, department stores, and a variety of dining options within this neighborhood. Additionally, it is a great place to people-watch, witnessing firsthand the hustle and bustle of California.

Chinatown

As the largest Chinatown outside of Asia, the San Francisco Chinatown offers unique and delicious meals. Learn more about the culture through this unique hands-on experience. Whether it is the unique shops, fine dining, or the overall vibrancy of the streets, Chinatown has something to offer for everyone.