Sentinel Building: A San Francisco Icon
Discover the Sentinel Building, a historic San Francisco landmark where film, history, and culture converge in the heart of North Beach, offering a unique glimpse into the city's soul.
The Sentinel Building, also known as Columbus Tower, is a distinctive flatiron-style building that stands proudly at the intersection of North Beach, Chinatown, and the Financial District in San Francisco. 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, surviving the 1906 earthquake and fire and later housing the headquarters of Francis Ford Coppola's American Zoetrope film studio. Today, it remains a vibrant hub, home to a cafe and offices, embodying San Francisco's blend of history, culture, and artistic spirit. Its location near other attractions makes it a must-see for any visitor exploring the city's diverse neighborhoods.
A brief summary to Sentinel Building
- 916 Kearny St, San Francisco, North Beach, California, 94133, US
Local tips
- Explore North Beach's literary history by visiting nearby City Lights Bookstore, a haven for Beat Generation writers.
- Enjoy a meal at Cafe Zoetrope, owned by Francis Ford Coppola, for a taste of Italian cuisine and a glimpse into the world of filmmaking.
- Take a walk around Washington Square Park, a central gathering spot in North Beach, and soak in the neighborhood's vibrant atmosphere.
Getting There
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Public Transport
For those arriving via public transport, several bus lines serve the area around the Sentinel Building. The 8, 8AX, 8BX, 12, and 30 lines all have stops within a short walking distance. From the bus stops, orient yourself towards the distinctive triangular shape of the building at the intersection of Columbus Avenue, Kearny Street, and Jackson Street. A single ride on Muni, San Francisco's public transportation system, costs $3.00 for adults paying with cash, or $2.75 if using a Clipper card or the MuniMobile app. A day pass, good for unlimited rides on Muni (excluding cable cars), is available for $5.00.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
If arriving by taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft), simply provide the address, 916 Kearny Street, San Francisco. Be aware that traffic can be heavy in this area, especially during peak hours. Expect to pay around $15-$25 for a ride from downtown San Francisco, depending on traffic and surge pricing.
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Walking
Walking to the Sentinel Building is a great option if you're already in the North Beach, Chinatown, or Financial District areas. From Washington Square Park in North Beach, walk south on Columbus Avenue. The Sentinel Building will be on your left at the intersection with Kearny and Jackson Streets. From Chinatown, walk north on Grant Avenue, then turn left onto Columbus Avenue. The building will be on your right. From the Financial District, walk north on Kearny Street. The Sentinel Building will be on your right at the intersection with Columbus Avenue and Jackson Street.
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Driving
Driving directly to the Sentinel Building can be challenging due to limited parking. Street parking is scarce and metered. Several parking garages are located within a few blocks, including North Beach Garage (735 Vallejo St) and Portsmouth Square Garage (733 Kearny St). Expect to pay $30-$45 for 2 hours of parking at these garages. Consider using a parking app like SpotHero to reserve a spot in advance. Be aware of the heavy traffic in the area, especially during peak hours.
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