50 California Street

Visiting 50 California Street, San Francisco: Tickets, Hours, and Tips

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Located in the heart of San Francisco’s Financial District, 50 California Street stands as a striking example of mid-20th-century International Style architecture. Completed in 1972 and also known as the Union Bank Building, this 37-story skyscraper embodies San Francisco’s postwar economic expansion and architectural innovation. While primarily a commercial office property, the building and its immediate surroundings offer visitors a unique vantage point to explore the city’s dynamic urban landscape, rich history, and nearby cultural attractions. This guide presents detailed information on the building’s history, architecture, visiting hours, accessibility, and practical tips, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this iconic San Francisco address. (Wikipedia; OpenSFHistory)

Overview of 50 California Street

Historical and Architectural Significance

50 California Street is a testament to San Francisco’s postwar commercial boom and the International Style’s influence on the city’s skyline. Its sleek glass-and-steel façade and minimalist design are characteristic of the era’s modernist architectural philosophy. The building’s position at the foot of California Street places it at a crossroads of historical San Francisco—connecting the legacy of the city’s elite Nob Hill neighborhood with the commercial vigor of the Financial District. The area’s development was shaped by the “Big Four” railroad magnates and the introduction of the California Street Cable Railroad in 1878, both pivotal in shaping the city’s growth and accessibility. (OpenSFHistory; World History Journal)

Nearby, architectural landmarks such as the Transamerica Pyramid, Embarcadero Center, and the Ferry Building Marketplace further illustrate San Francisco’s evolution from a Gold Rush boomtown to a global metropolis. 50 California Street’s understated elegance and strategic location make it a visual anchor within the cityscape. (San Francisco Architects)

Essential Visitor Information

Location and Access

50 California Street is situated at the intersection of California and Davis Streets in the Financial District. The building is easily accessible via public transportation:

BART and Muni Metro: The Embarcadero station is a 2-minute walk away, providing direct connections throughout the Bay Area.
Cable Car: The California Street line terminates nearby, offering a scenic route from Nob Hill.
Bus and Streetcar: Multiple Muni lines serve the area, making it convenient for visitors without a car. (SF Travel; California Crossings)

Parking is limited and expensive; public transport or rideshare is strongly recommended.

Visiting Hours and Admission

Hours: Open to the public Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Admission: There is no fee to enter the lobby or public plaza.
Access: Public access is limited to the lobby and ground-floor businesses. There are no public tours or observation decks. Security may require check-in, especially outside standard business hours. (Wikipedia)

Accessibility

50 California Street is ADA-compliant, with step-free access, elevators, and accessible restrooms in the lobby. The sidewalks around the building are wide and well-maintained. (Shorenstein Properties)

Photography

Photography is allowed in public areas such as the building’s exterior and lobby. Always ask for permission before photographing private offices or individuals.

Exploring the Area: Nearby Attractions

The central location of 50 California Street places you within walking distance of many of San Francisco’s most celebrated sites:

Ferry Building Marketplace: Historic waterfront landmark with gourmet food stalls, shops, and farmers’ markets. (SFTourismTips)
Transamerica Pyramid: Iconic skyscraper and symbol of the San Francisco skyline.
Embarcadero Center: 1970s-era complex featuring shops, restaurants, and public art.
Chinatown: The oldest Chinatown in North America, filled with vibrant culture, shops, and restaurants.
North Beach and Coit Tower: San Francisco’s “Little Italy” and a hilltop Art Deco tower with panoramic city views.
Union Square: The city’s shopping, theater, and events hub.
Exploratorium: Interactive science museum located at Pier 15 on the Embarcadero.
Historic Streetcars and Cable Cars: Enjoy scenic rides on the F-Market & Wharves streetcar or California Street cable car.
SoMa and Museum Row: SFMOMA, Contemporary Jewish Museum, and Yerba Buena Gardens are a short walk or transit ride away.

Tips for Visitors

Dress and Weather

San Francisco weather is famously unpredictable. Even in summer, expect cool mornings (as low as 55°F/13°C), fog, and strong winds. Dress in layers and carry a light jacket or sweater. (Sarowly)

Safety and Urban Awareness

The Financial District is generally safe during business hours, but exercise common-sense precautions against petty theft—keep valuables secure and avoid leaving items visible in parked cars. Respect the presence of the city’s unhoused residents; if inclined, donate to local charities rather than giving money directly. (Lonely Planet)

Amenities and Restrooms

Public restrooms are limited; you may need to make a purchase in a nearby café to access facilities. All-gender restrooms are increasingly common, identified by a triangle symbol. (Lonely Planet)

Food and Refreshments

The Financial District offers a wide range of dining options, from quick-service cafes to high-end restaurants. For a unique experience, visit the Ferry Building for artisanal foods and local specialties. Food trucks and pop-up vendors appear frequently during summer. (Lonely Planet)

Transportation

Transit: BART, Muni Metro, and buses provide extensive service. The California Street cable car is a classic way to explore Nob Hill and beyond. (California Crossings)
Biking: Bike lanes and bike-share stations are available downtown, and the Embarcadero is a scenic cycling route.
Walking: The district is highly walkable, with most attractions within 15–20 minutes on foot.
Rideshare: Uber and Lyft are widely available but anticipate traffic delays during rush hours.

Events and Seasonal Highlights

While 50 California Street itself does not host public events, its location makes it a perfect base for city festivals and activities, especially in July:

Stern Grove Festival: Free summer concerts.
Fillmore Jazz Festival: Weekend celebration of jazz, food, and art.
San Francisco Marathon: Race route passes nearby—excellent for spectators. (Experism)

The Building Today: Office Space, Amenities, and Sustainability

50 California Street continues to serve as a premier office address in San Francisco, managed by Shorenstein Properties, and home to an array of finance, law, and tech firms. The building features:

Flexible Office Solutions: Traditional offices and coworking spaces (including Regus).
Modern Amenities: High-speed elevators, conference facilities, secure bike storage, and wellness amenities such as showers and a landscaped plaza.
Sustainability: LEED Platinum certification for energy efficiency and environmental stewardship. (Shorenstein Properties; LEED Certification Information)
Retail and Services: On-site café, restaurant, bank, and nearby Embarcadero shopping center.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I tour 50 California Street or visit an observation deck?
A: No public tours or observation decks are available. Access is limited to the lobby and public areas during business hours.

Q: Is 50 California Street wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the building is fully ADA-compliant.

Q: Are there any admission fees?
A: No, the lobby and plaza are free to access.

Q: What are must-see attractions nearby?
A: The Ferry Building, Transamerica Pyramid, Chinatown, North Beach, and Union Square are all within easy walking distance.

Q: How do I get there by public transit?
A: Take BART or Muni Metro to Embarcadero station, or ride the California Street cable car.

Final Tips and Summary

50 California Street is more than just a commercial office tower—it’s a gateway to San Francisco’s history, architecture, and vibrant urban life. Its central location, accessibility, and proximity to key attractions make it an excellent starting point for exploring the city. While you won’t find tours or observation decks here, you’ll experience San Francisco’s architectural evolution firsthand and enjoy convenient access to some of its best cultural and culinary offerings.

For the latest events, updates, and guided tours, download the Audiala app and follow us on social media. Make the most of your San Francisco visit by combining a stop at 50 California Street with a full day exploring the Financial District and beyond.