Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
CIVIC CENTER
The administrative center of San Francisco
has as its focal point the Civic Center Plaza.
This includes some of the best architecture
in the city. Its grand government buildings
and palatial performing arts complex are
the source of a great deal of local pride.
The former City Hall was destroyed in the
earthquake of 1906
(see pp30-31)
, creating
an opportunity to build a civic center more
in keeping with San Francisco's fast-emerging
role as a major port. The challenge was taken
up by “Sunny Jim” Rolph
(see p31)
after he
became mayor in 1911. He made the
building of a new Civic Center a top
priority, and the funding for the project
was found in 1912. The buildings provide
an outstanding example of the Beaux Arts
style
(see p49)
, and in 1987 the whole area
was declared an historic site. It is perhaps
the most ambitious and elaborate city
center complex in the US and well worth
an extended visit. Fulton Street climbs
gently to nearby Alamo Square where there
are several fine late Victorian houses.
Sights at a Glance
Historic Streets and Buildings
2
Bill Graham Civic Auditorium
6
Veterans Building
7
City Hall
q
Cottage Row
e
Alamo Square
r
University of San Francisco
Shopping Area
w
Hayes Valley
Modern Architecture
0
Japan Center
Theaters and Concert Halls
4
Louise M. Davies Symphony Hall
5
War Memorial Opera House
8
Great American Music Hall
Museums and Galleries
1
Asian Art Museum
3
San Francisco Arts
Commission Gallery
Churches
9
St. Mary's Cathedral
Restaurants
see pp222-8
1
Absinthe Brasserie & Bar
2
Ananda Fuara
3
Asia SF
4
Dosa
5
Gussie's Chicken & Waffles
6
Herbivore
7
Jardiniere
8
Lers Roi Thai
9
Mifune
10
Nopa
11
Rassela's Jazz Club & Resteraunt
12
Saigon Sandwich Shop
13
Stacks
14
Tommy's Joynt
0 meters
0 yards
500
500
See also Street Finder
map 3-5, 9-11
A
Civic
Center
400 yards
Visitors climbing up the steps of City Hall
For keys to map symbols
see back flap
