Transamerica Pyramid Along Columbus Avenue Credit: @roadpoems

Everything You Need to Know About San Francisco's Transamerica Pyramid

By Boden Hammett

Standing proudly at the south end of Columbus Avenue, the Transamerica Pyramid is one of San Francisco’s most recognizable landmarks.

Rising 48 stories, it’s the second tallest building in the city and can be seen shimmering across the San Francisco skyline. Here's everything you need to know about San Francisco's Transamerica Pyramid.

History of the Transamerica Pyramid

Before the Transamerica Pyramid defined San Francisco’s skyline, its site was home to a four-story brick building constructed in 1854. This earlier structure housed offices, cafes, and bars—and became a gathering place for creative legends like Mark Twain, Jack London, and even Frida Kahlo. It stood for over a century before being demolished in 1959 to make way for a parking garage. By the late 1960s, the garage was cleared to begin construction on a bold new architectural vision.

Designed by architect William Pereira, the Transamerica Pyramid broke conventions with its distinctive silhouette and forward-thinking design. Its tapered shape wasn’t just aesthetic; it allowed more natural light to reach the street, a novel concept in skyscraper construction at the time. Completed in 1972, it became the first of its kind and sparked public debate before growing into a beloved icon. Today, it remains one of the most recognizable buildings in the world—and a lasting symbol of San Francisco’s innovation and resilience.

Things to Do at the Transamerica Pyramid

Unfortunately, the building does not feature an observation deck or a publicly accessible bar or upper floor. However, the Transamerica Pyramid remains a unique destination, home to multiple cultural exhibitions and a serene park, making it the perfect place to clear your mind. You can stroll among the towering redwoods that make up the park and enjoy a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle. Every Saturday from 12 to 2 p.m., the park comes alive with music, as local Bay Area artists perform under the swaying redwoods—making it a gathering point for both calm and creativity.

Step inside the Pyramid Annex and discover the contents of a 1974 time capsule, unearthed after 50 years. This thoughtful exhibition brings together historic newspaper front pages, protest flyers from the Pyramid's controversial construction, a taped message from then-Mayor Joseph Alioto, and even the original recipe for San Francisco’s legendary Pisco Punch. It offers a tangible glimpse into the city’s past and the cultural tensions of the time. The exhibition is scheduled to end on May 18, 2026.

Finally, explore a beautifully curated exhibition on furniture design by Ray and Charles Eames, focusing on their prolific years between 1968 and 1978. Through drawings, prototypes, and finished pieces, you'll gain insight into how their iconic designs evolved—and why their work still resonates in homes and offices today. The exhibition is scheduled to end on June 7, 2026.

Things to Do Around the Transamerica Pyramid

The Transamerica Pyramid stands at the crossroads of four of San Francisco’s most iconic districts and landmarks—North Beach, Chinatown, Jackson Square, and the Ferry Building—all within a 5- to 15-minute walk.

North Beach, San Francisco’s “Little Italy,” is one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods. With an array of delicious Italian restaurants, cozy cafes, and lively streets, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon—or an entire day.

Directly adjacent is Chinatown, the oldest and largest of its kind in the United States. With its lantern-strung alleys, bustling shops, and authentic eateries, Chinatown offers a completely different but equally captivating experience. Be sure to sample some of the best Chinese food and tea you’re likely to find anywhere.

Just across the street from the Pyramid is Jackson Square, a historic district that once served as the city’s business hub during the Gold Rush. Today, it’s filled with stylish restaurants, hidden bars, and a growing number of art and design galleries—a must-visit for history buffs and culture-seekers alike.

Head a few blocks toward the waterfront and you’ll reach the Ferry Building, nestled between the Embarcadero and the sparkling bay. This iconic structure is now a vibrant marketplace featuring artisanal food vendors and local shops. It’s also a transportation hub, with ferries ready to whisk you across the bay.

Where to Eat and Drink Near the Transamerica Pyramid

Sitting at the base of this magnificent skyscraper is the Pyramid Café. Here, you can sip a coffee brewed with their $10,000 La Victoria Arduino espresso machine and enjoy a pastry from one of San Francisco’s best bakeries, Tartine.

If you’re in the mood for more than a snack, you’re in luck. The Ferry Building, Chinatown, and North Beach are all nearby and offer fantastic meal options. The Ferry Building has everything from hamburgers and tacos to oysters and beyond. In Chinatown, incredible Chinese food is a given—but the Peking duck is non-negotiable. And in North Beach, known for its stellar Italian food, whatever you order, make sure to finish with gelato.

How to Get to the Transamerica Pyramid

Walking to the Pyramid is highly recommended—you’ll see much more of the city along the way—but it’s completely understandable if you prefer public transportation. Several Muni bus lines, including the 1, 8, 12, and 30X, will drop you off within a block of the building. No matter where you’re staying in the city, you’ll be able to use public transit to reach this iconic landmark.

Boden Hammett

Boden Hammett is a senior at Indiana University. Born and raised in San Francisco, he has a deep love for the city and a passion for sharing what makes it truly unique. Whether he’s running along Marina Green, catching a Giants game, or exploring the Presidio, Boden’s got the local scoop on all things San Francisco.