San Francisco architecture was radically changed by the horrendous earthquake and subsequent fires that destroyed over 80% of the city in 1906.
Today there is a real mix of Victorian and modern. I really like the eclecticism and enjoy just wandering around the various districts to see what’s there.
If you are looking for an architecture tour, there is a walking tour. I have never done it, but it is well reviewed.
The Financial District
View of the Financial District, San Francisco
The Financial District is the area within Market, Kearney and Jackson Streets, stretching down to The Embarcadero. The highlights here are the building at 555 California Street and the Transamerica Pyramid.
555 California Street was San Francisco’s first skyscraper and used to be the headquarters of the Bank of America. The massive brown granite structure is the second highest in the city, the Transamerica Pyramid being the highest. If you have heard about a restaurant with fabulous views on the 52nd (top) floor of 555 California, it closed quite a while back and I can find no reference to a new opening in that space which is a shame.
I think the Transamerica Pyramid is a fantastic building. It’s distinctive shape is visible from all over San Francisco and it is a great landmark. Like 555 California however, you can’t get in. They do have a visitor center and shop if you want to learn something about the history of the building or have a need for a souvenir.
When you reach The Embarcadero, you will see the Ferry Building which has now been converted into a covered market, with tons of stalls, shops, restaurants and cafes. This is a great place to get something to eat and drink.
Nob Hill
San Francisco Houses
Nob Hill is a fabulous place to amble around and look at the architecture. It was originally home to the San Francisco elite until their mansions were destroyed in the fire of 1906. The Pacific Union Club survives and as well worth a look (from the outside, members only) as are the historic hotels, The Fairmont Hotel and the Mark Hopkins Intercontinental. The restaurant and bar at the top of the Mark Hopkins, Top of the Mark, is an excellent place to stop and enjoy the views.
Nob Hill is also home to Grace Cathedral which, despite its Gothic appearances to the contrary, was only finished in 1964.
If the cable cars have grabbed your imagination, you can visit their powerhouse at the Cable Car Museum, also in Nob Hill.
Pacific Heights
This is where the San Francisco elite rebuilt following the 1906 fire. This area contains the only Victoria era house that is open to the public. You can go inside for a tour of the 1886 built, Haas-Lilienthal House. San Francisco Heritage who manage the house also do a Pacific Heights tour and have details of self guided walks in Pacific Heights and other areas, along with a downloadable app on their website.
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
This is a fantastic museum. I love the rooftop sculpture garden, the 20th Century American artists exhibition and the work of local San Francisco bay area artists. The building itself is really interesting, especially the view from the steel catwalk, high above the atrium floor with views into the sculpture garden. Their website has all the information regarding getting there and exhibitions.
Coit Tower
The 210 foot high art deco Coit Tower stands at the top of Telegraph Hill is a fascinating building. It is well worth visiting the Tower just to look at the murals which I think are fabulous. However, the main draw here is the fantastic view. Try and go on a clear day if you can. It is not far from Fishman’s Wharf to Coit Tower. I enjoy the walk via the Filbert Street stairs, but it is reasonably steep. If a bit of a workout is not for you, hop on the bus that goes from Fisherman’s Wharf.