Discover the Charm of California's Shortest Street
Explore Balance Street in San Francisco, California's shortest street, and immerse yourself in the city's historical charm and vibrant culture.
A brief summary to Shortest Street in California
- Balance St, San Francisco, Jackson Square, California, 94133, US
Balance Street, a charming little thoroughfare in San Francisco's Jackson Square, is famed for being the shortest street in California. Stretching a mere length, this historical landmark encapsulates the essence of San Francisco's rich architectural heritage and neighborhood charm. As you wander down this petite lane, you're enveloped by a sense of nostalgia and history, with well-preserved buildings on either side that tell the story of the city's past. While it may not take long to walk the length of Balance Street, the experience is enhanced by the surrounding sights and sounds of the vibrant Jackson Square neighborhood. Here, the art galleries, boutiques, and cafes that line the streets invite you to explore deeper into the local culture. Visitors often enjoy capturing the quaintness of the street through photographs, making it a delightful stop for both casual tourists and photography enthusiasts alike. Though it may be short in length, Balance Street serves as an important testament to San Francisco's historical narrative. It makes for a perfect pit stop during your city exploration, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of the city while taking in the sights of this unique landmark. Don’t forget to take a moment to soak in the atmosphere, as each visit offers a new story waiting to be discovered.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere before the crowds arrive.
- Bring your camera for unique photo opportunities along this historic street.
- Combine your visit with a stroll around nearby Jackson Square for a full cultural experience.
- Check local guides for any historical tours that may include Balance Street.
Getting There
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Walking
Starting from the heart of North Beach, head south on Columbus Avenue. Continue walking until you reach the intersection with Washington Street. Turn left onto Washington Street and walk until you reach Montgomery Street. At this point, turn right onto Montgomery Street and then take the first left onto Balance Street. Continue on Balance Street, and you will arrive at the Shortest Street in California, which is only a short walk away.
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Public Transport - Muni Bus
From North Beach, you can catch the Muni bus line 8X or 8. Head to the nearest bus stop on Columbus Avenue, at the corner of Columbus and Broadway. Board the bus going towards the Embarcadero. After a couple of stops, get off at the Montgomery St & Washington St stop. From there, walk to Balance Street by heading east on Washington Street, turning right onto Montgomery Street, and then left onto Balance Street to reach your destination. The bus fare is $3.00, and you can pay with a Clipper card or cash.
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Rideshare
If you prefer a more direct route, consider using a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft. Open the app and set your pickup location in North Beach. Enter 'Balance St, San Francisco, CA 94133' as your destination. The ride will take you directly to the location, and fares vary based on distance and demand. It's advisable to check the app for the estimated fare before confirming your ride.
Attractions Nearby to Shortest Street in California
Landmarks nearby to Shortest Street in California
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Shortest Street in California
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Sentinel Building
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California Historical Landmark 81: Landing Place of Captain J. B. Montgomery
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California Historical Landmark 192: Site of the Jenny Lind Theatre and San Francisco City Hall
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San Francisco Historical Society
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California Historical Landmark 87: Site of First United States Mint in California
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Northeast Waterfront Historic District
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Chinatown Hero's Mural
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Chinatown Flags Street
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Viewpoint
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Dr. Sun Yat Sen Statue
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California Historical Landmark 861: Site of First California State Fair
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Chinese Historical Society of America Museum
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Belden Place
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California Theatre