With both contemporary and historic buildings standing side by side, the district rises up to create a beautiful skyline. From the distinctive Transamerica Pyramid to the 52-story Bank of America Building, the district offers a number of attractions within its very hub. A walking tour of the area should prove a nice afternoon, especially with the district's proximity to Chinatown, North Beach, and Market Street.
Not surprisingly, historical significance is associated with many of the Financial District's buildings, such as the Merchant Exchange Building, the Russ Building, and as noted above, the Bank of America Building. Located at 555 California Street, this building, with its thousands of bay windows, is a great place to visit for a view of the city and the district's other structures.
The tallest building west of the Mississippi River from 1969-1972 (until the Transamerica Pyramid came along), the Bank of America Building is a bold presence in the city's skyline, one that is recognized the world over. From here, you can take a comprehensive look at San Francisco's beauty from above. The building's top-floor restaurant, the Carnelian Room, boasts "San Francisco's best panoramic view". The menu prices also reflect the district's mix of wealth and power, and opens up to the public in the evening for dinner, drinks and that spectacular view.
The San Francisco Architure Walking Tour, led by Rick Evans, explores the historical landmarks of the Financial District, as well as some hidden gems of the neighborhood, like unexpected rooftop gardens.But if you'd prefer to simply walk the same sidewalks that the district's power brokers do, then that's an experience as well. Walking along the Financial District, you're sure to see the suits talking on their cells, making their way to meetings, closing deals as we speak. Chauffeurs and luxury cars are also a common sight, as is the trusty Starbucks or bagel shop.
The Financial District isn't very big, but there are definitely things to see and places to visit. The brokerage firms, banks, stock exchange, and major corporations all converge on this one area of the city, which has survived earthquakes and market crashes, remaining resilient and a symbol of the city's strength.
- Bordered by The Embarcadero and Market, Third, Kearny, and Washington Streets.
- Transamerica Pyramid: 600 Montgomery Street
- Bank of America Building: 555 California Street
- Merchant Exchange Building: 465 Calfirona Street
- Russ Building: 235 Montgomery Street
- Embarcadero Center: six blocks of stores, restaurants and office buildings.
- Near Chinatown, North Beach, and the art and antiques of Jackson Square.
- Transportation: any of the Market buses
