Sentinel Building: A San Francisco Icon
A historic flatiron building in San Francisco's North Beach, home to Francis Ford Coppola's American Zoetrope and a landmark at the crossroads of culture and cinema.
The Sentinel Building, a striking flatiron structure also known as Columbus Tower, stands proudly at the intersection of North Beach, Chinatown, and the Financial District. Completed in 1907, its copper-green facade and unique shape make it one of San Francisco's most recognizable landmarks. Originally commissioned by political boss Abe Ruef, it has since housed a Prohibition-era speakeasy, the legendary Hungry i nightclub, and currently serves as the headquarters for Francis Ford Coppola's American Zoetrope. A true architectural gem, the Sentinel Building embodies San Francisco's rich history and artistic spirit, drawing visitors with its captivating presence and storied past. Its location makes it a perfect starting point to explore the surrounding vibrant neighborhoods.
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 Italian cuisine and a glimpse into Francis Ford Coppola's world.
- Explore the surrounding neighborhoods of North Beach, Chinatown, and the Financial District for a diverse cultural experience.
- Admire the building's unique copper-green facade and architectural details from the intersection of Columbus Avenue, Kearny Street, and Jackson Street.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From anywhere in downtown San Francisco, the Sentinel Building is easily accessible by Muni. Several bus lines stop within a few blocks, including the 8, 8BX, 30, and 45. Check the SFMTA website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single adult fare is $3.00, or $2.50 if paying with a Clipper card or the MuniMobile app.
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Walking
The Sentinel Building is located at the intersection of Columbus Avenue, Kearny Street, and Jackson Street. From Fisherman's Wharf, walk south along Columbus Avenue for approximately 15-20 minutes. From Union Square, walk north along Kearny Street for approximately 20-25 minutes. The building's distinctive shape and copper-green facade make it easily recognizable.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout San Francisco. A ride from Union Square to the Sentinel Building typically costs between $15 and $25, depending on traffic and demand.
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Driving
Driving to the Sentinel Building is possible, but parking in the immediate area can be challenging and expensive. Street parking is limited and metered. Several parking garages are located within a few blocks, with hourly rates ranging from $4 to $8. Consider using a parking app like SpotHero or ParkWhiz to find and reserve a spot in advance. Some nearby options include the garage at 1250 Columbus Avenue and the lot at 2552 Taylor Street.
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