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Jazz Mural: A North Beach Landmark

A vibrant tribute to jazz and San Francisco's cultural crossroads, the Jazz Mural in North Beach celebrates music legends and the city's diverse heritage.

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The Jazz Mural, created by Bay Area artist Bill Weber, stands as a vibrant tribute to jazz music and the cultural crossroads of San Francisco's North Beach, Chinatown, and Barbary Coast neighborhoods. Painted in 1987 and restored in 2007, this large-scale mural features iconic jazz musicians like Teddy Wilson, Gene Krupa, and Benny Goodman, alongside historical figures and former mayors of the city. Its location at the junction of Broadway and Columbus Avenue symbolizes the dynamic heritage and experience galvanized by jazz. The mural serves as a visual representation of the city's rich musical history and diverse cultural influences, making it a must-see for art and music enthusiasts exploring North Beach.

A brief summary to Jazz Mural

  • San Francisco, North Beach, California, 94133, US
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Visit during the day to fully appreciate the mural's vibrant colors and details.
  • Explore the surrounding North Beach neighborhood, known for its historic Italian roots and Beat Generation history.
  • Combine your visit with a meal at one of North Beach's many authentic Italian restaurants.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Fisherman's Wharf, take the F Market & Wharves streetcar towards downtown. Get off at the Stockton St & Beach St stop. Walk south on Stockton Street for one block, then turn left onto Columbus Avenue. The Jazz Mural will be on your left, above the New Sun Hong Kong Restaurant, at the corner of Broadway and Columbus. A single ride on the Muni streetcar costs $3.

  • Walking

    From City Lights Bookstore on Columbus Avenue, walk north on Columbus Avenue for a few blocks. The Jazz Mural will be on your right, above the New Sun Hong Kong Restaurant, at the corner of Broadway and Columbus. The walk is relatively flat and takes about 5-10 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Union Square, a taxi or ride-share to the Jazz Mural will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between $15 and $25. Ask the driver to take you to the corner of Broadway and Columbus Avenue in North Beach.

  • Driving

    Driving directly to the Jazz Mural is possible, but parking in North Beach can be challenging, especially during peak hours. Several parking garages are located within a few blocks of the mural, including the North Beach Parking Garage at 451 North Point St and the garage at 721 Filbert St. Expect to pay between $20 and $40 for a few hours of parking. Consider using a parking app like SpotHero to reserve a spot in advance.

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Discover more about Jazz Mural

The Jazz Mural, a monumental work of art by Bay Area muralist Bill Weber, graces the corner of Broadway and Columbus Avenue in San Francisco's historic North Beach. This vibrant mural, first painted in 1987 and lovingly restored and updated in 2007, serves as a powerful visual representation of the city's rich musical heritage and the unique confluence of cultures that define this iconic neighborhood. The mural's location is particularly significant. Situated at the intersection of North Beach, Chinatown, and the former Barbary Coast, it embodies the dynamic interplay of diverse influences that have shaped San Francisco's identity. Weber's design cleverly incorporates elements representing each of these distinct areas, including a Chinese dragon, scenes from the Barbary Coast's lively past, and, of course, a celebration of jazz music. The Jazz Mural pays homage to some of the most influential figures in jazz history. Prominent among them are Teddy Wilson, whose masterful piano playing is immortalized in the mural; Gene Krupa, the dynamic drummer whose energy leaps from the wall; and Benny Goodman, the "King of Swing," depicted with his signature clarinet. These musical giants, along with other notable figures, represent the evolution and enduring appeal of jazz as a uniquely American art form. Beyond its musical tributes, the mural also incorporates historical figures and local legends who have left their mark on San Francisco. Emperor Norton, the city's beloved eccentric, is featured, as are a succession of former mayors, stretching back to Joseph Alioto. These inclusions ground the mural in the specific history and character of San Francisco, making it a truly local landmark. Bill Weber, the artist behind the Jazz Mural, has deep roots in the Bay Area. His ancestors were among the founders of San Francisco, arriving with Juan Bautista de Anza in 1775 and helping to build the Presidio and Mission Dolores. Weber's connection to the city is evident in his commitment to creating murals that reflect the history and spirit of the neighborhoods they inhabit. His work can be found throughout North Beach, Fisherman's Wharf, the Haight, and the Castro, but the Jazz Mural remains one of his most iconic and diligently maintained pieces. The Jazz Mural not only celebrates the past but also continues to evolve with the city. The 2007 restoration saw the addition of new figures, including musician Gene Krupa and former mayors Willie Brown and Gavin Newsom, ensuring that the mural remains relevant and reflective of contemporary San Francisco. The mural also includes a yellow 1935 Mercedes Convertible with the license plate bearing the number "110". Visiting the Jazz Mural is more than just a visual experience; it's an immersion into the heart and soul of North Beach. Standing before this vibrant artwork, one can almost hear the echoes of jazz music drifting from the neighborhood's legendary clubs and feel the pulse of a city that has always embraced creativity, diversity, and innovation. It's a testament to the power of art to capture the essence of a place and its people, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring San Francisco's cultural landscape. North Beach itself is a treasure trove of attractions, offering a blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. Just steps from the Jazz Mural, you'll find City Lights Bookstore, a legendary independent bookstore that played a pivotal role in the Beat Generation. Nearby Vesuvio Café, a historic bar, once served as a gathering place for artists, writers, and dreamers. Washington Square Park, a central gathering spot in North Beach, provides a relaxing green space surrounded by historic landmarks such as Saints Peter and Paul Church. For breathtaking panoramic views of the city and bay, a visit to Coit Tower is a must. And, of course, no trip to North Beach would be complete without indulging in the neighborhood's authentic Italian cuisine, from classic pasta dishes to award-winning pizza. The Jazz Mural stands as a testament to the enduring power of art to reflect and shape a community's identity. It is a vibrant landmark that encapsulates the spirit of North Beach, celebrating its musical heritage, cultural diversity, and the unique blend of past and present that makes San Francisco such a captivating destination.

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