595 Market Street

Visiting 595 Market Street, San Francisco: Complete Guide to Hours, Tickets, and Tips

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

595 Market Street is a striking modernist skyscraper located at the nexus of Market and Second Streets in San Francisco’s Financial District. Completed in 1979 by the renowned firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), the building’s hexagonal design and reflective glass façade make it an architectural landmark. This guide offers everything you need to know about visiting 595 Market Street—from access and hours to nearby attractions, accessibility, and historical context. Whether you are an architecture fan, history buff, or an urban explorer, this resource will help you get the most out of your visit. For further architectural and transit information, see the Pacific Coast Architecture Database and San Francisco Travel.

Introduction
Location & Setting
Architectural & Historical Significance
Economic & Corporate Impact
Cultural & Social Relevance
Visiting Information
Visitor Experience
FAQ
Visuals & Multimedia
Additional Resources & Official Links
Conclusion

Location & Setting

595 Market Street occupies a prominent intersection in the Financial District, surrounded by a dynamic mix of historic and contemporary buildings. Market Street itself is one of San Francisco’s most storied thoroughfares, connecting the Embarcadero waterfront to the Castro District and serving as both a transportation artery and a showcase of the city’s architectural evolution (Attractions of America).

Architectural & Historical Significance

Designed by SOM and completed in 1979, the 30-story, 410-foot (125-meter) tower exemplifies late 20th-century International Style. Its hexagonal footprint, ribbon windows, and glass curtain wall create a distinctive silhouette that stands out on the skyline. The steel-framed structure was built with seismic safety in mind—a necessity in San Francisco—and has achieved LEED Gold certification for sustainability (Skyscraper Center).

595 Market Street bridges the city’s historic masonry office blocks and its newer glass towers, reflecting San Francisco’s ongoing transformation from Gold Rush boomtown to global commercial center (Wikipedia).

Economic & Corporate Impact

595 Market Street has been a headquarters for major corporations, including the world headquarters of Visa International and, more recently, LendingClub, a leading fintech firm (Clay). The building also hosts the Consulate General of Sweden, reinforcing its international profile. Owned by Tishman Speyer, the building’s 429,600 square feet are considered Class A office space and remain in high demand, reflecting both the building’s prime location and the strength of San Francisco’s commercial real estate market (Griddig; SF Standard).

As an anchor in the Financial District, 595 Market Street is at the heart of San Francisco’s economic and cultural life. Its ground-level retail—including popular cafés—serves office workers and visitors alike. The building’s location on Market Street places it at the center of city events such as parades and festivals, and within walking distance of Union Square, the Ferry Building, and Yerba Buena Gardens (SF Travel; Secret San Francisco).

Visiting Information

Hours & Access

Lobby Access: The lobby is generally open to the public Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Entry beyond the lobby is restricted to tenants and authorized personnel.
Ground-Floor Retail: Cafés and shops typically operate 7:00 AM–7:00 PM on weekdays, with reduced weekend hours.
Exterior Viewing: The building’s façade can be admired and photographed from the street at any time.

Entry & Tickets

No Tickets Required: There are no admission fees or tickets needed for public areas. Upper office floors are not accessible to the general public.

Guided Tours

No Building-Specific Tours: There are no regular guided tours of 595 Market Street itself. However, broader architectural and history walking tours of the Financial District and Market Street may include the building as a notable stop (check San Francisco Travel or San Francisco Architecture Foundation).

Accessibility

ADA Compliance: Entrances, elevators, and restrooms are fully accessible. The adjacent Montgomery Street BART/MUNI station provides step-free access (Wheelchair Travel; Wheel the World).
Public Transit: Multiple Muni bus routes and streetcars serve Market Street. The building is ideally located for those using public transport.

Visitor Experience

Nearby Attractions

595 Market Street’s central position puts top attractions within easy reach:

Union Square: Shopping, dining, and entertainment (SFTourismTips)
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA): Renowned contemporary art collection
Yerba Buena Gardens: Public art, gardens, and family-friendly spaces
Ferry Building Marketplace: Historic terminal with artisan food and shops
Chinatown & The Embarcadero: Cultural and scenic highlights

Dining & Shopping

The surrounding area features everything from quick-service cafés to fine dining, along with boutique and flagship retail—especially near Union Square.

Photography Tips

Best Vantage Points: The intersection of Market and Second Streets offers the best views of the building’s hexagonal form and reflective glass.
Lighting: Sunrise and sunset provide dramatic lighting for exterior photography.

Safety & Practical Advice

Safety: The Financial District is generally safe, but standard urban precautions apply. The area is busiest and most vibrant during weekday business hours.
Restrooms: Available in nearby retail and public spaces. Accessibility apps can help locate suitable facilities.

Events & Seasonal Highlights

Parades & Festivals: Market Street is a route for major celebrations, including Pride Month and winter holidays with festive décor and activities (Attractions of America).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I enter the building as a tourist?
A: The lobby and ground-floor retail are open during business hours; upper floors are not accessible.

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: No, lobby and retail access are free.

Q: Are photos allowed?
A: Yes, exterior photography is welcome. Please respect posted signage regarding interior photography.

Q: Is the building wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, all public areas are ADA-compliant.

Q: How do I get there by public transit?
A: The building is directly above Montgomery Street BART/MUNI station; numerous bus and streetcar lines also serve Market Street.

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: No regular building-specific tours, but city walking tours frequently include Market Street architecture.

Visuals & Multimedia

Exterior of 595 Market Street showcasing its hexagonal design (Source: Wikimedia Commons)

View 595 Market Street on Google Maps

Additional Resources & Official Links

Conclusion

595 Market Street is a modernist icon and a vital component of San Francisco’s urban fabric. While access to upper floors is reserved for tenants, the open lobby and ground-level retail invite visitors to experience its architecture and atmosphere. Its central location, accessibility by public transit, and proximity to major attractions make it an excellent starting point for exploring the city’s Financial District. For the latest updates, events, and travel tips, download the Audiala app and connect with trusted local resources.