San Francisco Historic Literary Walking Tour

New To The Site! San Francisco, USA

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2 hours 30 minutes (Approx.)
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Overview

As an author and award-winning broadcast journalist, I give you the inside scoop on the neighborhood I've called home for more than 30 years. History, culture, and personal stories about the great writers who have worked and lived here.

Our tour is the only comprehensive historic literary tour in San Francisco. We experience the Beat generation as well as travel back in time to the Gold Rush and Barbary Coast days when writers like Mark Twain, Bret Harte, Jack London, and Ina Coolbrith called San Francisco home. Also, we talk about the unique opportunities women and writers of color have had in this open city including Maya Angelou, Amy Tan, and Bob Kaufman.

Enchanting, colorful, and oh so fascinating. Please join me on this magical trip though the wonderous city on the end of the continent.

What's Included

  • Free admission to the Beat Museum
  • Gratuity
  • Hotel pickup not offered

Meeting Location

Meeting point

Jack Kerouac Alley, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA

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In the alley between City Lights Bookstore and Vesuvio Bar

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

City Lights Booksellers

We'll meet outside the historic bookstore and discuss the book trial that changed the course of American history. I'll also give some insights into my friend, store owner, and poet, the recently deceased, Lawrence Ferlinghetti, and how he took on the powers that be while publishing the counterculture Beat poets and writers.
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10 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

The Beat Museum

We'll enter the wonderworld of the counterculture Beat movement. Artifacts from the 50s and 60s on display including first edition Beat poetry and prose books, the car used in the movie, On The Road, original artwork by legendary poet and book store owner, Lawrence Ferlinghetti.
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15 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Jazz mural

Wonderfully vibrant painting in the heart of North Beach depicting the arts and Jazz scene in 50s San Francisco.
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10 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Language of the Birds

Outdoor art installation representing the great writers of San Francisco and their works.
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10 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Li Po Cocktail Lounge

Old-time San Francisco dive bar where writers and artists have been drinking since the 1930s!
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20 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Show 3 more stops

Additional Info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

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Activity code: C-322427P1

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