Background

The Sentinel Building: A Historical Gem in San Francisco

Explore the Sentinel Building, a stunning historical landmark in San Francisco's North Beach, blending architectural beauty with rich cultural heritage.

4.8

Nestled in the vibrant North Beach district, the Sentinel Building is a captivating historical landmark that draws visitors with its stunning architecture and rich cultural significance. A true icon of San Francisco, this building is a must-see for anyone exploring the city.

A brief summary to Sentinel Building

  • 916 Kearny St, San Francisco, North Beach, California, 94133, US

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and get the best photographs.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through North Beach, known for its Italian restaurants and cafes.
  • Check out nearby landmarks such as Coit Tower and the iconic Transamerica Pyramid for a fuller experience.
  • Bring a camera to capture the unique architectural details and vibrant surroundings.
  • Look for guided walking tours in the area to learn more about the building's history and significance.
widget icon

Getting There

  • BART Train

    From any location in Oakland, make your way to the nearest BART station, such as the 12th Street/Oakland City Center station. Purchase a ticket to San Francisco, making sure to select the direction towards the 'Daly City' or 'Millbrae' lines. Board the train and enjoy the ride across the Bay. Disembark at the 'Embarcadero' station. Once you exit the station, head towards the Market Street exit and follow signs for the Ferry Building. Walk along Market Street until you reach the intersection with Kearny Street. Turn left on Kearny Street and walk about five blocks. The Sentinel Building will be on your right at 916 Kearny St.

  • Bus

    Locate the nearest AC Transit bus stop in Oakland. You can take the 1 or 40 bus towards San Francisco. Board the bus and enjoy the scenic ride. After crossing the Bay Bridge, get off at the 'Kearny St & California St' stop. From there, walk one block east on California Street until you reach Kearny Street. Turn right and walk south for about two blocks. The Sentinel Building will be on your left at 916 Kearny St.

  • Ferry

    Head to the Jack London Square Ferry Terminal in Oakland. Purchase a ticket for the San Francisco Ferry. Once aboard, enjoy the beautiful ferry ride across the Bay. Arrive at the Ferry Building in San Francisco. From the Ferry Building, walk north along the Embarcadero until you reach Market Street. Turn left onto Market Street, and then take a right onto Kearny Street. Walk about four blocks, and you will find the Sentinel Building on your right at 916 Kearny St.

  • Walking

    If you are staying in downtown Oakland, you can walk to the nearest BART station, such as 12th Street/Oakland City Center. From there, you can follow the BART Train option outlined above. Alternatively, if your accommodations are in San Francisco, you can simply make your way towards North Beach by walking. From the Fisherman’s Wharf area, head east along Beach Street, then turn left onto Stockton Street, which becomes Kearny Street. Walk north until you reach the Sentinel Building at 916 Kearny St.

Unlock the Best of Sentinel Building

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Sentinel Building

The Sentinel Building, an architectural marvel located in the heart of San Francisco’s North Beach district, stands as a testament to the city’s rich history and artistic spirit. Completed in 1907, this striking structure showcases a unique blend of Italian Renaissance and Beaux-Arts styles, characterized by its vibrant green and gold-tiled dome and intricate façade. Originally built as a warehouse, the building has undergone several transformations, ultimately becoming a celebrated historical landmark and a fixture of the local landscape. As you approach the Sentinel Building, take a moment to appreciate its ornate details and the way it beautifully complements the surrounding neighborhood, known for its charming cafes and bustling streets. Inside the Sentinel Building, visitors can immerse themselves in the artistic legacy of its past, as it houses the renowned Italian-American filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola's production company. The building is not only an architectural delight but also a cultural hub that has been pivotal in the film industry. While you may not be able to enter the building itself, the exterior is a popular spot for photography, making it a perfect backdrop for your travel memories. Make sure to explore the nearby streets of North Beach, where you can indulge in authentic Italian cuisine, visit quaint bookstores, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic neighborhood. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a film buff, or a casual traveler, the Sentinel Building offers a glimpse into the artistic and historical fabric that makes San Francisco so unique.

Popular Experiences near Sentinel Building

Popular Hotels near Sentinel Building

Select Currency