Jackson Square: San Francisco's Historic Gem
Explore San Francisco's Jackson Square: A historic district with Gold Rush-era architecture, unique shops, and fine dining in a vibrant setting.
Nestled between North Beach and the Financial District, Jackson Square is a charming historic district dating back to San Francisco's Gold Rush era. Known for its well-preserved 1850s and 1860s commercial buildings in Classical Revival and Italianate styles, it offers a glimpse into the city's past. Today, it's a vibrant neighborhood with boutique shops, restaurants, art galleries, and a unique atmosphere.
A brief summary to Jackson Square
- San Francisco, Jackson Square, California, US
Local tips
- Explore the charming cobblestone alleyways and discover hidden boutiques and art galleries tucked away in the historic buildings.
- Visit the Transamerica Redwood Park, located near Jackson Square, to see a grove of towering redwood trees and unique animal sculptures.
- Take a guided walking tour to learn about the history and architecture of Jackson Square and its significance during the Gold Rush era.
Getting There
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Walking
Jackson Square is easily accessible on foot from many downtown locations. From the Transamerica Pyramid, walk north on Montgomery Street for two blocks. The district is roughly bounded by Broadway to the north, Washington Street to the south, Columbus Avenue to the west, and Sansome Street to the east.
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Public Transport
Several Muni bus lines serve the Jackson Square area. The 8 Bayshore and 12 Stockton lines have stops within walking distance of the district. A single ride on Muni costs $3.00 cash, or $2.85 with a Clipper card or the MuniMobile app, and is valid for 120 minutes including transfers. A day pass costs $5.70 and provides unlimited rides on Muni buses, trains, and historic streetcars.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in San Francisco. A short taxi ride from Union Square to Jackson Square will likely cost between $10 and $15, depending on traffic. Taxi fares include a $4.15 flag drop, $0.65 for each additional one-fifth mile, and $0.65 for each minute of waiting time.
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Driving
If driving, be aware that parking in Jackson Square can be limited and expensive. Several parking garages are located in the area. Hourly rates typically range from $14 to $25. Monthly parking is also available in some garages, with prices ranging from $375 to $475. Be sure to check for parking restrictions and time limits.
Discover more about Jackson Square
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Jackson Square Historic District
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Explore San Francisco's Gold Rush past in Jackson Square, a historic district blending upscale boutiques, art galleries, and culinary delights amidst cobblestone streets and brick buildings.
Shortest Street in California
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Experience the whimsy of Balance Street in San Francisco, California's shortest street, where history and charm intertwine in a unique urban adventure.
Sentinel Building
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Discover the Sentinel Building, a historic landmark in San Francisco's North Beach, blending architectural beauty with rich cultural history.
Transamerica Pyramid
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Discover the iconic Transamerica Pyramid, a symbol of San Francisco's skyline and a testament to its rich architectural heritage.
California Historical Landmark 192: Site of the Jenny Lind Theatre and San Francisco City Hall
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Discover the site of San Francisco's first grand theatre and early City Hall, a landmark that echoes the city's Gold Rush ambition and resilience in the heart of the Financial District.
California Historical Landmark 81: Landing Place of Captain J. B. Montgomery
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Discover the historic landing site of Captain J. B. Montgomery in San Francisco, a key location in the Gold Rush narrative at California Historical Landmark 81.
San Francisco Historical Society
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Explore San Francisco's captivating past at the San Francisco Historical Society: exhibits, walking tours, and publications bring the city's rich history to life in the heart of downtown.
California Historical Landmark 819: Hudson's Bay Company
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Discover the rich history of Hudson's Bay Company, a pivotal landmark in San Francisco's Chinatown, reflecting the city's vibrant past and cultural diversity.
California Historical Landmark 87: Site of First United States Mint in California
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Northeast Waterfront Historic District
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Discover the rich maritime history and scenic beauty of the Northeast Waterfront Historic District in San Francisco, a must-visit for every traveler.
Chinatown Hero's Mural
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Discover the Chinatown Hero's Mural in San Francisco, a vibrant tribute to Asian American leaders and a powerful symbol of community resilience and advocacy in historic Chinatown.
743 Washington St
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Jazz Mural
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Discover the Jazz Mural in San Francisco, a vibrant tribute to jazz culture that celebrates the city’s rich musical heritage amidst the charm of North Beach.
751 Commercial St
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Explore the vibrant culture and rich history of San Francisco's Chinatown at 751 Commercial Street, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
Chinatown Flags Street
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Discover the soul of San Francisco's Chinatown on Waverly Place, the 'Street of Painted Balconies,' a vibrant alleyway steeped in history, culture, and the enduring spirit of its community.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Purple Onion at Kells
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Discover San Francisco's vibrant performing arts scene at The Purple Onion at Kells, a historic venue offering captivating live performances.
Comstock Saloon
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Discover the charm of Comstock Saloon, a historic cocktail bar and restaurant in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown, offering classic drinks and delectable cuisine.
Specs' Twelve Adler Museum Cafe
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The Devil's Acre
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The Beat Museum
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Discover the essence of the Beat Generation at The Beat Museum in San Francisco, a literary haven celebrating the lives and works of iconic writers.
Vesuvio Cafe
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere and rich history of Vesuvio Cafe, a beloved cocktail bar and lounge in San Francisco's Chinatown.
Pacific Heritage Museum
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Explore the Pacific Heritage Museum in San Francisco, a cultural treasure showcasing the rich history and traditions of Pacific Islander communities.
Portsmouth Square
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Explore the historical charm of Portsmouth Square, a serene park nestled in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown.
City Lights Booksellers & Publishers
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Explore the iconic City Lights Booksellers & Publishers in San Francisco, a hub of literature, creativity, and the Beat Generation. A must-visit for book lovers!
0 Jack Kerouac Alley
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Explore Jack Kerouac Alley, a vibrant tribute to the Beat Generation in San Francisco's Chinatown, rich in art and literary history.
Chinatown
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Discover the rich culture, authentic cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere of San Francisco's historic Chinatown, a unique blend of tradition and modernity.
Essential places to dine
Bix
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Experience exquisite American cuisine paired with live jazz in San Francisco's elegant Bix restaurant - where fine dining meets vibrant nightlife.
Quince
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Experience the pinnacle of Italian fine dining at Quince in San Francisco's historic Jackson Square with exquisite dishes and exceptional service.
Trestle Restaurant
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Experience the best of American and Italian cuisine at Trestle Restaurant in the heart of San Francisco's iconic Chinatown.
House of Nanking
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Discover authentic Chinese flavors at House of Nanking in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown—a family-friendly dining experience not to be missed!
Begoni Bistro
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Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at Begoni Bistro in San Francisco's historic Chinatown - a delightful culinary journey awaits!
Tosca Cafe
0.3 km
Experience the rich flavors of Italy at Tosca Cafe in San Francisco's historic North Beach district—where tradition meets modern dining.
Bund Shanghai Restaurant
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Experience authentic Shanghainese cuisine in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown at Bund Shanghai Restaurant.
Great Eastern Restaurant
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Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at Great Eastern Restaurant in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown—home to exquisite dim sum and fresh seafood delights.
FUSION DUMPLING
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Discover authentic flavors at Fusion Dumpling in San Francisco's Chinatown—your destination for exquisite dim sum, hot pot, and noodle dishes.
Z & Y Restaurant
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New Lun Ting Cafe
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City View Restaurant
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Betty Lou's Seafood & Grill
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Empress by Boon
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Experience authentic Cantonese cuisine at Empress by Boon in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown—where tradition meets culinary excellence.
Portofino
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Up & Up Gift Shop
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Souvenir Shop
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Discover unique treasures in Chinatown's Souvenir Shop, offering a blend of traditional and modern keepsakes for every traveler.
Peking Bazaar
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Explore the charm of Chinatown with unique gifts and authentic souvenirs at Peking Bazaar, a must-visit destination in San Francisco.
Shangri La Gifts
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Explore Shangri La Gifts in San Francisco's Chinatown for unique treasures and a taste of local craftsmanship that captures the city's vibrant culture.
SFOG North Beach
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Explore SFOG North Beach for unique clothing styles that embody the vibrant culture of San Francisco's North Beach district.
Yat On Gift Shop
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Explore the vibrant Yat On Gift Shop in San Francisco's Chinatown for unique gifts and authentic Asian treasures that celebrate the city's rich cultural heritage.
Jing Ying Gift Shop inc
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Good View Trading Co
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Happy House
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Canton Bazaar
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Vigi Boutique
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Old Shanghai
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WORK
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Via Margutta Vintage
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Unique Variety
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mr Bing's
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Lion's Den Lounge and Bar
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Red's Place
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15 Romolo
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Li Po Cocktail Lounge
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Discover the historic Li Po Cocktail Lounge in San Francisco's Chinatown, where exquisite cocktails and timeless charm await every visitor.
Bow Bow Cocktail Lounge
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Discover Bow Bow Cocktail Lounge in Chinatown, where creative cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere for an unforgettable night out in San Francisco.
Buddha Lounge
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The Saloon
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Experience the lively spirit of San Francisco at The Saloon, North Beach's oldest bar, featuring live music and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Showdown
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Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Showdown, a perfect blend of beer hall and casual dive bar in San Francisco’s North Beach.
CHI Lounge
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Discover CHI Lounge in San Francisco's Chinatown for an unforgettable night of live music, dancing, and vibrant cocktails.
Cold Drinks Bar
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Experience the best cocktails in North Beach at Cold Drinks Bar, where creativity meets flavor in a stylish atmosphere.
Maggie McGarry's
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Discover the vibrant spirit of Irish culture at Maggie McGarry's, a beloved pub in San Francisco's North Beach, offering delicious food and lively entertainment.
Moongate Lounge
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Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Moongate Lounge in San Francisco's Chinatown, where cocktails and Chinese cuisine blend seamlessly for a unique experience.
Gino & Carlo
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Experience the lively spirit of San Francisco at Gino & Carlo, a sports bar in North Beach known for its friendly atmosphere and diverse drink selection.
718
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Discover the unique flavors and vibrant atmosphere at 718 Lounge in San Francisco's historic Chinatown, where craft cocktails and Asian cuisine meet.
