Mills Building

Mills Building Visiting Hours, Tickets, and San Francisco Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Mills Building, located at 220 Montgomery Street in San Francisco’s Financial District, stands as a remarkable testament to the city’s architectural innovation and historical resilience. Completed between 1890 and 1892 by the renowned Chicago firm Burnham and Root, it is celebrated for its survival of the 1906 earthquake and fire due to its pioneering steel-frame construction. Its iconic Romanesque Revival and Chicago School architectural details—including a grand two-story archway, Corinthian columns, and ornate marble interiors—offer visitors a unique window into San Francisco’s Gilded Age. The Mills Building remains a functional commercial office space, but its lobby and historic façade are accessible to the public during weekday business hours, making it an essential stop for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike. For up-to-date visitor information, events, and accessibility details, consult the official Mills Building website, San Francisco Travel – Historic Sites, and NoeHill – SF Landmarks.

Introduction
Visiting Hours and Entry
Guided Tours and Special Events
Architectural and Historical Highlights
Visitor Experience and Amenities
Getting There and Nearby Attractions
Preservation and Landmark Status
Safety, Accessibility, and Practical Tips
Local Etiquette and Cultural Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References

Visiting Hours and Entry

Lobby Access: Open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Weekends and Holidays: Closed to the public.
Admission: Free. There are no tickets or entry fees for public lobby and façade visits.
Security: Visitors may need to sign in or present ID at the lobby security desk.
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and ADA-compliant restrooms.

(The Mills Building – Official Website)

Guided Tours and Special Events

Regular Tours: No regularly scheduled public tours are offered within the Mills Building.
Special Events: The lobby may be accessible during citywide open house days or architecture festivals. Check with local tour operators or the official Mills Building website for event updates.
Walking Tours: Many San Francisco architecture and history walking tours include the Mills Building’s exterior as a highlight.

(San Francisco Travel – Historic Sites)

Architectural and Historical Highlights

Origins and Significance

Commissioned by financier Darius Ogden Mills, the Mills Building replaced Platt’s Hall and was the tallest structure in San Francisco upon completion. Its steel-frame engineering was advanced for its time and enabled the building to withstand the 1906 earthquake and fire with minimal damage, making it a rare survivor. The structure is regarded as the finest example of the Chicago School of architecture on the West Coast.

(NoeHill – SF Landmarks)

Facade and Decorative Features

The exterior showcases white marble, Romanesque arches, and classical motifs—including acanthus leaves, egg-and-dart moldings, and a striking two-story archway entrance on Montgomery Street. The entrance’s intricate carved faces and original brass-and-glass doors are popular subjects for photography.

(The Mills Building – Facts and Features)

Expansion and Adaptation

After the 1906 disaster, the Mills Building underwent restoration and expansion. The 22-story Mills Tower, completed in 1932 and designed by George W. Kelham and Lewis Parsons Hobart, adjoins the original structure, complementing its historic design.

(Wikipedia – Mills Building and Tower)

Visitor Experience and Amenities

Photography: Permitted in the lobby and exterior. Please respect tenant privacy.
Amenities for Tenants: Includes secure bike storage, wellness facilities, showers, lockers, and a conference center.
Sustainability: The building features energy-efficient upgrades, all-electric utilities, operable windows, and HVAC systems that have reduced carbon emissions by over 20%. It is LEED Platinum and WELL Health-Safety certified.

(Gensler Press Release, CityDays – The Mills Building)

Getting There and Nearby Attractions

Transportation and Directions

Public Transit:
- Montgomery Street BART and Muni Metro stations are within two blocks, offering regional and citywide access.
- Numerous Muni bus lines and the historic F Market & Wharves streetcar serve the area.
- The California Street cable car stops at California and Montgomery.
Driving & Parking: Public garages (e.g., Sutter-Stockton, Portsmouth Square) are nearby. Street parking is scarce and enforced.
Biking & Walking: The area is highly walkable and bike-friendly, with dedicated lanes and storage facilities.

(SFMTA: Getting Around San Francisco, SFTourismTips)

Nearby Attractions

Union Square: Shopping and culture hub.
Ferry Building Marketplace: Gourmet food and farmers’ markets.
Chinatown: Historic and vibrant neighborhood.
Salesforce Park: Rooftop green space.
Embarcadero: Waterfront promenade.
Transamerica Pyramid: Iconic skyscraper.
Old St. Mary’s Cathedral: Historic church.

(Timeout – Ferry Building, SF Tourism Tips – Union Square, Secret San Francisco – Salesforce Park)

Preservation and Landmark Status

National Register of Historic Places: The Mills Building is listed as a protected national landmark and as San Francisco Designated Landmark #76.
Seismic Safety: Its steel-frame construction and subsequent retrofitting have ensured continued resilience against earthquakes.
Historic Interiors: The lobby features original Jaune Fleuri marble, black Belgian marble, Roman travertine, and inlaid marble flooring.

(SEAONC: Mills Building History)

Safety, Accessibility, and Practical Tips

Neighborhood Safety: The Financial District is safe during business hours. Remain vigilant for pickpockets in busy areas. At night, stick to well-lit streets.
Health & Hygiene: Public restrooms are limited; most are in nearby cafes and hotels. Carry hand sanitizer, as stations are common.
Weather: San Francisco weather is variable; dress in layers and bring a light jacket or umbrella.
Wi-Fi: Free public Wi-Fi is available in many surrounding areas.
Business Hours: The district is quieter on weekends and holidays; most eateries and shops close early outside of business hours.

(California Crossroads)

Local Etiquette and Cultural Tips

Locals refer to the city as “SF” or “The City,” not “San Fran.”
Be polite and patient in queues.
Tipping: 15–20% at restaurants, $1–$2 at cafes, 10–15% for taxis/rideshares.
Business casual attire is common; tourists should wear comfortable shoes for walking hills.
Always ask permission before photographing private spaces or people.

(Travels With Elle)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Mills Building visiting hours?
A: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Closed weekends and holidays.

Q: Is there an entry fee or ticket required?
A: No, entry to public areas is free.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: No regular public tours, but the Mills Building is included in some walking tours.

Q: Is the building wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, and ADA-compliant restrooms.

Q: Can I take photographs inside the building?
A: Yes, in public areas. Avoid disrupting tenants or photographing private offices.

Q: What is the best way to get there from SFO?
A: Take BART to Montgomery Street Station, a short walk to the building.

Conclusion

The Mills Building is a living symbol of San Francisco’s enduring spirit, blending historic grandeur with modern sustainability and innovation. Its accessible location, free entry, and proximity to other landmarks make it a rewarding destination for travelers eager to experience the city’s architectural legacy. Whether you’re photographing the iconic Montgomery Street arch, exploring nearby attractions, or simply absorbing the Financial District’s energy, a visit to the Mills Building is a must for anyone interested in San Francisco’s past and present.