City Hall, San Francisco (must see)

San Francisco's City Hall is a remarkable edifice that exudes magnificence and splendor within the city. It stands proudly as one of the most exceptional structures in the area, boasting the captivating beauty of a Beaux-Arts masterpiece. Renowned architect and designer Arthur Brown drew inspiration from Paris' iconic Dôme des Invalides ("House of Invalids") when creating this architectural gem.

Beyond its captivating design, City Hall holds a special place in history, having weathered numerous challenges and natural calamities. Its journey began in 1899, when the original City Hall, constructed over 27 years, finally opened its doors to the public. Tragically, a mere seven years later, the devastating earthquake of 1906 reduced the building to rubble. The current City Hall stands as a replacement for its predecessor.

This magnificent structure encountered another significant trial in 1989 when it suffered severe damage from a powerful seismic tremor. As a result, it became structurally unstable. In response, City Hall underwent an extensive ten-year renovation, not only restoring it to its former glory but also fortifying it against earthquakes. Today, it proudly holds the distinction of being the largest base-isolated building in the world.

Why You Should Visit:
Compared to other city halls across the country, this one is very classy!
As well, there's always something going in Civic Center Plaza.

Tip:
Be sure to take the free 1h tour led by a knowledgeable docent. Learn about the building's history and architecture.