Sentinel Building: A San Francisco Icon
Discover the Sentinel Building, a historic flatiron landmark in San Francisco's North Beach, home to Francis Ford Coppola's American Zoetrope and the charming Cafe Zoetrope.
The Sentinel Building, also known as Columbus Tower, is a distinctive flatiron-style building that stands at the nexus of San Francisco's North Beach, Chinatown, and Financial District. Completed in 1907, its copper-green facade and unique triangular shape make it one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. Originally commissioned by political boss Abe Ruef, the building has a rich history, having survived the 1906 earthquake and fire. Over the years, it has housed a variety of tenants, including the legendary hungry i nightclub and, currently, Francis Ford Coppola's American Zoetrope film studio. A visit to the Sentinel Building offers a glimpse into San Francisco's past and present, showcasing its architectural beauty and cultural significance. While you can admire it from the outside, be sure to grab a bite at Cafe Zoetrope on the ground floor, a bistro and wine shop that adds to the building's unique charm.
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 Italy and a glimpse into Francis Ford Coppola's world.
- Explore the surrounding North Beach neighborhood, known for its historic Italian-American culture and Beat Generation history.
- 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
From downtown San Francisco, several public transportation options will get you close to the Sentinel Building. The 8, 8AX, and 12 bus lines have stops near Columbus Avenue and Broadway, a short walk to the building. Alternatively, you can take the Powell-Mason or Powell-Hyde cable car lines to a stop near Columbus Avenue, though these can be crowded. A single ride on Muni (bus or cable car) is around $3, but a day pass for unlimited rides is approximately $5, or $13 if including cable cars. Clipper cards are also accepted.
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Walking
If you are already in the North Beach or Chinatown area, the Sentinel Building is easily accessible on foot. From Washington Square Park, walk south along Columbus Avenue for a few blocks. The building will be on your left at the intersection of Columbus, Kearny, and Jackson Streets. From Chinatown, walk north on Grant Avenue, then turn left onto Columbus Avenue. The walk is generally flat and takes about 10-15 minutes from most points in these neighborhoods.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout San Francisco. Simply request a ride to 916 Kearny Street, San Francisco. Be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours. A ride from Union Square will typically cost between $15-$25, depending on traffic.
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Driving
Driving to the Sentinel Building can be challenging due to limited parking in the immediate area. Street parking is scarce and metered. Several parking garages are located within walking distance, including those near 1250 Columbus Avenue. Parking rates typically range from $20-$40 for a few hours. Consider using a parking app like SpotHero to reserve a spot in advance. Be mindful of street cleaning schedules to avoid tickets.
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