Sentinel Building: A San Francisco Icon
Discover the Sentinel Building in San Francisco's North Beach: a historic flatiron landmark, home to Coppola's Zoetrope, and a symbol of the city's resilience and artistic spirit.
The Sentinel Building, also known as Columbus Tower, is a distinctive flatiron-style building located in San Francisco's North Beach neighborhood, straddling Chinatown and the Financial District. Completed in 1907, it's a designated landmark known for its copper-green facade and unique architectural design. The building survived the 1906 earthquake and fire, adding to its historical significance. It has housed various tenants, including the headquarters of a political boss, a popular nightclub called the hungry i, and currently serves as the headquarters for Francis Ford Coppola's American Zoetrope film studio. Cafe Zoetrope, a bistro and wine shop, occupies the ground floor, offering a taste of Coppola's Napa Valley winery. Its location near other attractions makes it a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and those exploring San Francisco's rich history.
A brief summary to Sentinel Building
- 916 Kearny St, San Francisco, North Beach, California, 94133, US
Local tips
- Visit Cafe Zoetrope on the ground floor for a taste of Francis Ford Coppola's Napa Valley wines and Italian-inspired cuisine.
- Explore the surrounding North Beach neighborhood, known for its Italian heritage, historic landmarks, and vibrant atmosphere.
- Take photos of the building from different angles to capture its unique flatiron shape and copper-green facade.
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Sentinel Building is easily accessible via public transportation. Several bus lines stop near the intersection of Columbus Avenue and Broadway, a short walk from the building. Check the SFMTA (Muni) website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single ride on Muni costs around $3, or consider purchasing a day pass for unlimited rides for approximately $5 if you don't plan to ride the cable car. If you do plan to ride the cable car, a visitor passport ($13 for 1 day) will cover everything in the Muni (SFMTA) system.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout San Francisco. A short ride from Fisherman's Wharf or Union Square to the Sentinel Building will typically cost between $15 and $25, depending on traffic and demand.
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Walking
If you're already in North Beach, Chinatown, or the Financial District, walking to the Sentinel Building is a great option. It's located at the intersection of Columbus Avenue, Kearny Street, and Jackson Street. Be prepared for some hills, as San Francisco is known for its steep streets.
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Driving
Driving to the Sentinel Building is possible, but parking in the area can be challenging and expensive. Street parking is limited, and parking garages nearby can charge between $20 and $40 for a few hours. Consider using a parking app like SpotHero to find and reserve a spot in advance. Several parking garages are located within a few blocks of the Sentinel Building, including those near Columbus Avenue.
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