Balance Street: San Francisco's Petite Path
Discover California's Shortest Street in San Francisco's Historic Jackson Square: A charming lane steeped in Gold Rush history, surrounded by art galleries and unique boutiques.
Balance Street, nestled in San Francisco's historic Jackson Square, holds the distinction of being California's shortest street, stretching approximately 90 feet. Named after the storeship 'The Balance' that served as a supply vessel during the Gold Rush era, this charming lane offers a glimpse into the city's vibrant past. Surrounded by historic brick buildings, art galleries, and boutique shops, Balance Street provides a delightful detour from the bustling city streets. Visitors often flock to capture photos of this unique landmark, immersing themselves in the artistic and historical atmosphere of Jackson Square. While a quick visit is all it takes to traverse its length, the experience offers a memorable highlight to any San Francisco adventure, embodying the city's quirky charm and rich heritage. It's a testament to San Francisco's ability to blend history, art, and urban life into a captivating experience.
A brief summary to Shortest Street in California
- Balance St, San Francisco, Jackson Square, California, 94133, US
Local tips
- Visit during the day to fully appreciate the historic architecture and charming atmosphere of Jackson Square.
- Explore the nearby art galleries and boutique shops for a taste of San Francisco's vibrant culture.
- Take a stroll along the Barbary Coast Trail to learn about the area's colorful and sometimes scandalous past.
Getting There
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Walking
Balance Street is located in the Jackson Square neighborhood, easily accessible on foot from many points in the Financial District, North Beach, and Embarcadero. From the intersection of Columbus Avenue and Jackson Street, walk east on Jackson Street for two blocks. Turn right onto Gold Street, then immediately left onto Balance Street. The street is a short walk from the Transamerica Pyramid and other Financial District landmarks.
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Public Transport
The closest Muni bus lines are the 8, 12, and 82X, which have stops within a few blocks of Balance Street. From the bus stops, walk towards Jackson Square and follow the walking directions above. A single ride on Muni costs $3.00, or $2.50 if paid via the MuniMobile app.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) from Fisherman's Wharf or Union Square to Balance Street will typically cost between $15 and $25, depending on traffic and demand. Ask your driver to drop you off at the corner of Jackson and Gold Street, from where Balance Street is a short walk.
Discover more about Shortest Street in California
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Shortest Street in California
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Jackson Square Historic District
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Transamerica Pyramid
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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 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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Northeast Waterfront Historic District
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0 Jack Kerouac Alley
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Jazz Mural
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Purple Onion at Kells
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Comstock Saloon
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Pacific Heritage Museum
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Sydney G. Walton Square
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Specs' Twelve Adler Museum Cafe
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Chinatown
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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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Essential places to dine
Bix
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Quince
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Trestle Restaurant
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House of Nanking
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Begoni Bistro
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Tosca Cafe
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FUSION DUMPLING
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Z & Y Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Providence Night Club
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Club Six
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Monarch
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The Grand
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