Jackson Square Historic District: A Glimpse into San Francisco's Past
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.
Step back in time as you explore San Francisco's Jackson Square Historic District, a captivating neighborhood that whispers tales of the city's Gold Rush origins. This well-preserved area, dating back to the mid-19th century, boasts brick buildings and cobblestone streets reminiscent of San Francisco's early commercial boom. Once the city's bustling waterfront and central business district, Jackson Square is now a vibrant mix of upscale boutiques, art galleries, antique shops, and acclaimed restaurants. Wander through its charming alleyways, discover hidden architectural gems, and soak in the atmosphere of a bygone era. With its unique blend of history and modern sophistication, Jackson Square offers a delightful escape from the city's hustle and bustle, inviting visitors to experience a slice of San Francisco's rich heritage.
A brief summary to Jackson Square Historic District
- 900 Montgomery St, San Francisco, Jackson Square, California, 94133, US
Local tips
- Explore Hotaling Place, San Francisco's oldest alley, to see the original waterline marked on the sidewalk and discover hidden boutiques.
- Visit the Transamerica Redwood Park for a tranquil escape under towering redwood trees amidst the urban landscape.
- Take a guided walking tour to delve deeper into Jackson Square's history and learn about its transformation from the Barbary Coast to a refined commercial district.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From the Montgomery Street BART station, walk north on Montgomery Street for approximately 5 blocks. Jackson Square Historic District will be on your left. Alternatively, take the Muni bus lines 8, 12, or 30 and disembark at the Columbus Avenue & Jackson Street stop, which is directly within the district. A Muni single ride fare is $3.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From Union Square, a taxi or ride-share to Jackson Square will cost approximately $15-$20 and take about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Direct your driver to the intersection of Jackson Street and Montgomery Street.
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Driving
Driving to Jackson Square can be challenging due to limited street parking. Several parking garages are available in the vicinity, including the 635 Sansome St Lot and the 170 Columbus Parking Garage. Expect to pay around $3-$5 per hour for parking at these garages. Street parking, if available, is metered and typically costs $2-$4 per hour.
Discover more about Jackson Square Historic District
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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Explore the fascinating charm of Balance Street, California's shortest street, nestled in the artistic heart of San Francisco's Jackson Square.
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.
Chinatown Hero's Mural
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Jazz Mural
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San Francisco Historical Society
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743 Washington St
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Northeast Waterfront Historic District
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California Historical Landmark 819: Hudson's Bay Company
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California Historical Landmark 87: Site of First United States Mint in California
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Chinatown Flags Street
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751 Commercial St
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Purple Onion at Kells
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Comstock Saloon
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Specs' Twelve Adler Museum Cafe
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The Devil's Acre
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The Beat Museum
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Vesuvio Cafe
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City Lights Booksellers & Publishers
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0 Jack Kerouac Alley
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Portsmouth Square
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Language of the Birds
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Essential places to dine
Quince
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Bix
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Trestle Restaurant
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House of Nanking
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Tosca Cafe
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Begoni Bistro
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Bund Shanghai Restaurant
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FUSION DUMPLING
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Great Eastern Restaurant
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Z & Y Restaurant
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New Lun Ting Cafe
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Betty Lou's Seafood & Grill
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City View Restaurant
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Empress by Boon
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Portofino
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Up & Up Gift Shop
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Souvenir Shop
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SFOG North Beach
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Peking Bazaar
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Shangri La Gifts
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Yat On Gift Shop
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Good View Trading Co
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Jing Ying Gift Shop inc
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Happy House
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Vigi Boutique
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WORK
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Via Margutta Vintage
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Vacation
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Canton Bazaar
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Old Shanghai
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mr Bing's
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15 Romolo
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Red's Place
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Lion's Den Lounge and Bar
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Bow Bow Cocktail Lounge
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Li Po Cocktail Lounge
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The Saloon
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The Showdown
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Buddha Lounge
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CHI Lounge
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Cold Drinks Bar
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Maggie McGarry's
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Moongate Lounge
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Gino & Carlo
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Tony Nik's CAFE
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