City Lights Booksellers & Publishers: A Literary Landmark
Explore a literary landmark in San Francisco's North Beach: City Lights Booksellers & Publishers, a historic haven for the Beat Generation and a champion of independent voices.
City Lights Booksellers & Publishers, a beacon of literary culture in San Francisco's North Beach, is more than just a bookstore; it's a historic landmark and a gathering place for writers, artists, and intellectuals. Founded in 1953 by poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti and Peter D. Martin, City Lights quickly became a haven for the Beat Generation, championing counter-cultural voices and challenging societal norms. The intimate space, filled with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, invites exploration and discovery, offering a curated selection of poetry, fiction, and non-fiction. City Lights remains a vital hub for literary events, readings, and discussions, fostering a vibrant community and continuing its legacy as a champion of free expression and independent thought. A visit here is an immersion into the heart of San Francisco's literary history and a celebration of the power of words.
A brief summary to City Lights Booksellers & Publishers
- 261 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, Chinatown, California, 94133, US
- +1415-362-8193
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-10 pm
- Thursday 10 am-10 pm
- Friday 10 am-10 pm
- Saturday 10 am-10 pm
- Sunday 10 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit during off-peak hours (weekdays, mornings) for a more relaxed browsing experience, as it can get crowded, especially on weekends.
- Check the City Lights website for upcoming events, readings, and book signings to enhance your visit.
- Explore the basement level for a curated selection of discounted and rare books.
- Take some time to browse the poetry section, a City Lights specialty and a nod to its Beat Generation roots.
- Consider purchasing a City Lights tote bag or book as a souvenir to support this independent bookstore.
Getting There
-
Walking
City Lights is centrally located in North Beach, easily accessible on foot from many nearby attractions. From Washington Square Park, walk one block north on Columbus Avenue. From the Transamerica Pyramid, walk northeast on Columbus Avenue for about 10 minutes. The bookstore is located on the east side of Columbus Avenue, easily identifiable by its iconic facade.
-
Public Transport
The closest public transportation options include the Muni bus lines that run along Columbus Avenue. Several bus lines stop within a block or two of City Lights. Check the Muni website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single ride on Muni costs $3.00, payable with a Clipper card or the MuniMobile app.
-
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in San Francisco. A short ride from Fisherman's Wharf or Union Square to City Lights will typically cost between $15 and $25, depending on traffic and demand.
Discover more about City Lights Booksellers & Publishers
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Jazz Mural
0.1 km
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.
Chinatown Hero's Mural
0.2 km
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.
Sentinel Building
0.2 km
Discover the Sentinel Building, a historic landmark in San Francisco's North Beach, blending architectural beauty with rich cultural history.
Jackson Square Historic District
0.3 km
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.
743 Washington St
0.3 km
Explore the unique architectural beauty and cultural richness of 743 Washington St in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown district.
Jackson Square
0.3 km
Discover the historic charm of Jackson Square in San Francisco, a vibrant neighborhood of art galleries, boutique shops, and delightful dining experiences.
Chinatown Flags Street
0.3 km
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.
California Historical Landmark 192: Site of the Jenny Lind Theatre and San Francisco City Hall
0.3 km
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.
Shortest Street in California
0.4 km
Experience the whimsy of Balance Street in San Francisco, California's shortest street, where history and charm intertwine in a unique urban adventure.
Stockton St
0.4 km
Discover the cultural richness and culinary delights of Stockton Street in San Francisco, a vibrant thoroughfare that captures the city's diverse spirit.
Chinatown San Francisco
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant heart of Chinese culture in North America's oldest Chinatown: a historic San Francisco neighborhood brimming with authentic cuisine, traditions, and hidden gems.
Transamerica Pyramid
0.4 km
Discover the iconic Transamerica Pyramid, a symbol of San Francisco's skyline and a testament to its rich architectural heritage.
751 Commercial St
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant culture and rich history of San Francisco's Chinatown at 751 Commercial Street, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
California Historical Landmark 81: Landing Place of Captain J. B. Montgomery
0.5 km
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.
Chinese Historical Society of America Museum
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant history and cultural legacy of Chinese Americans at the Chinese Historical Society of America Museum in San Francisco.
Unmissable attractions to see
0 Jack Kerouac Alley
0.0 km
Explore Jack Kerouac Alley, a vibrant tribute to the Beat Generation in San Francisco's Chinatown, rich in art and literary history.
Vesuvio Cafe
0.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and rich history of Vesuvio Cafe, a beloved cocktail bar and lounge in San Francisco's Chinatown.
The Devil's Acre
0.0 km
Discover The Devil's Acre in North Beach, San Francisco: a cocktail bar blending history with innovative mixology in a unique atmosphere.
Language of the Birds
0.0 km
Explore the captivating Language of the Birds in San Francisco's North Beach, where art meets nature in a serene urban oasis.
Specs' Twelve Adler Museum Cafe
0.1 km
Discover Specs' Twelve Adler Museum Cafe, where eclectic decor meets a vibrant bar scene in the heart of San Francisco's North Beach.
The Beat Museum
0.1 km
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.
The Saloon
0.1 km
Experience the rich history and vibrant nightlife at The Saloon, one of San Francisco's oldest bars, renowned for live blues music and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Speakeasy
0.1 km
Experience the Roaring Twenties at The Speakeasy, an immersive theater that blends captivating performances and classic cocktails in San Francisco.
Comstock Saloon
0.1 km
Discover the charm of Comstock Saloon, a historic cocktail bar and restaurant in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown, offering classic drinks and delectable cuisine.
Molinari Delicatessen
0.1 km
Experience a taste of Italy in San Francisco's oldest deli. Molinari Delicatessen: Handcrafted salami, authentic Italian groceries, and legendary sandwiches since 1896 in historic North Beach.
National Shrine of St. Francis of Assisi
0.2 km
Discover tranquility and beauty at the National Shrine of St. Francis of Assisi, a serene retreat in the heart of San Francisco's North Beach.
Essential places to dine
Tosca Cafe
0.1 km
Experience the rich flavors of Italy at Tosca Cafe in San Francisco's historic North Beach district—where tradition meets modern dining.
Betty Lou's Seafood & Grill
0.1 km
Experience culinary delight at Betty Lou's Seafood & Grill - where fresh seafood meets Italian flair in San Francisco’s North Beach.
Mona Lisa Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Mona Lisa Restaurant in San Francisco's historic North Beach—where every dish tells a story.
FUSION DUMPLING
0.2 km
Discover authentic flavors at Fusion Dumpling in San Francisco's Chinatown—your destination for exquisite dim sum, hot pot, and noodle dishes.
New Lun Ting Cafe
0.2 km
Discover New Lun Ting Cafe: A Hidden Gem in San Francisco's Chinatown Offering Authentic Chinese Cuisine at Affordable Prices.
Bund Shanghai Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic Shanghainese cuisine in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown at Bund Shanghai Restaurant.
House of Nanking
0.2 km
Discover authentic Chinese flavors at House of Nanking in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown—a family-friendly dining experience not to be missed!
Portofino
0.2 km
Discover Portofino: A Seafood Haven Offering Fresh Coastal Flavors in San Francisco's North Beach.
Z & Y Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic Chinese flavors at Z & Y Restaurant in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown—delicious dishes await every food lover.
Cassava
0.2 km
Discover Cassava: A charming French-Californian restaurant offering exquisite brunch and dinner experiences in San Francisco's North Beach.
Great Eastern Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at Great Eastern Restaurant in San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown—home to exquisite dim sum and fresh seafood delights.
Begoni Bistro
0.2 km
Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at Begoni Bistro in San Francisco's historic Chinatown - a delightful culinary journey awaits!
The Stinking Rose
0.2 km
Experience the irresistible flavors of Italian cuisine at The Stinking Rose, where garlic takes center stage in every dish.
Trestle Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience the best of American and Italian cuisine at Trestle Restaurant in the heart of San Francisco's iconic Chinatown.
Sotto Mare
0.3 km
Discover Sotto Mare: Where Fresh Seafood Meets Authentic Italian Flavors in San Francisco's North Beach.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Up & Up Gift Shop
0.1 km
Explore Up & Up Gift Shop in San Francisco's Chinatown for unique gifts and souvenirs that embody the city's rich culture and charm.
Good View Trading Co
0.1 km
Explore the eclectic and unique offerings at Good View Trading Co, an essential stop for tourists in San Francisco's North Beach.
SFOG North Beach
0.2 km
Explore SFOG North Beach for unique clothing styles that embody the vibrant culture of San Francisco's North Beach district.
Souvenir Shop
0.2 km
Discover unique treasures in Chinatown's Souvenir Shop, offering a blend of traditional and modern keepsakes for every traveler.
Vigi Boutique
0.2 km
Explore Vigi Boutique in San Francisco's North Beach for unique gifts and stylish apparel that capture the city's vibrant spirit.
Happy House
0.3 km
Explore Happy House Gift Shop in North Beach, San Francisco, for unique souvenirs and local treasures that capture the city's vibrant spirit.
Yat On Gift Shop
0.3 km
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.
WORK
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage fashion in the heart of North Beach, San Francisco. Curated collections await every fashion enthusiast.
Via Margutta Vintage
0.3 km
Explore the charm of vintage fashion at Via Margutta Vintage in San Francisco's iconic North Beach, where every piece has a story.
Vacation
0.3 km
Explore San Francisco's retro charm at a vintage clothing store filled with unique fashion finds and timeless treasures.
Peking Bazaar
0.3 km
Explore the charm of Chinatown with unique gifts and authentic souvenirs at Peking Bazaar, a must-visit destination in San Francisco.
Shangri La Gifts
0.3 km
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.
Jing Ying Gift Shop inc
0.4 km
Explore Jing Ying Gift Shop in San Francisco's Chinatown for unique gifts and authentic souvenirs that capture the essence of Chinese culture.
Unique Variety
0.5 km
Explore Unique Variety in San Francisco's Chinatown for authentic souvenirs and cultural treasures that embody the city's vibrant spirit.
Canton Bazaar
0.5 km
Discover unique treasures at Canton Bazaar, a vibrant gift shop in San Francisco's Chinatown, perfect for authentic souvenirs and cultural finds.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bow Bow Cocktail Lounge
0.0 km
Discover Bow Bow Cocktail Lounge in Chinatown, where creative cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere for an unforgettable night out in San Francisco.
15 Romolo
0.1 km
Experience the best of San Francisco's cocktail culture at 15 Romolo, a cozy bar offering innovative drinks and delicious tapas in North Beach.
Mr Bing's
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture at Mr Bing's, a must-visit bar in the heart of San Francisco's Chinatown.
Cold Drinks Bar
0.1 km
Experience the best cocktails in North Beach at Cold Drinks Bar, where creativity meets flavor in a stylish atmosphere.
The Showdown
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Showdown, a perfect blend of beer hall and casual dive bar in San Francisco’s North Beach.
Red's Place
0.2 km
Discover Red's Place in San Francisco's Chinatown - a cocktail bar with a welcoming vibe and innovative drinks to elevate your nightlife experience.
Lion's Den Lounge and Bar
0.2 km
Discover the pulse of San Francisco's nightlife at Lion's Den Lounge and Bar, where live music and DJ services create unforgettable evenings.
Maggie McGarry's
0.2 km
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.
Li Po Cocktail Lounge
0.2 km
Discover the historic Li Po Cocktail Lounge in San Francisco's Chinatown, where exquisite cocktails and timeless charm await every visitor.
Buddha Lounge
0.3 km
Discover the serene ambiance of Buddha Lounge in San Francisco's Chinatown, where eclectic decor meets a diverse drink selection.
Gino & Carlo
0.3 km
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.
CHI Lounge
0.3 km
Discover CHI Lounge in San Francisco's Chinatown for an unforgettable night of live music, dancing, and vibrant cocktails.
Tony Nik's CAFE
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Tony Nik's CAFE, a beloved bar in San Francisco's North Beach, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
Moongate Lounge
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Moongate Lounge in San Francisco's Chinatown, where cocktails and Chinese cuisine blend seamlessly for a unique experience.
718
0.6 km
Discover the unique flavors and vibrant atmosphere at 718 Lounge in San Francisco's historic Chinatown, where craft cocktails and Asian cuisine meet.
