San Francisco’s North Beach is a hidden treasure of great literary and political history. It’s probably best known to tourists looking for great food as it is best known as San Francisco’s Little Italy. Dozens of checkered-clothed sidewalk tables tucked away on narrow streets with old world charm. Besides great Italian food, North Beach is the home to literary legends Jack Kerouac and Alan Ginsberg, the founders of the Beat Generation literary movement.

1. Washington Square
Washington Square is one of the first parks designated in San Francisco. It was established in 1847 and is bordered by the world-famous Mama’s restaurant, the Liquria Bakery and Saint Peter and Paul’s Church.

2. City Lights Booksellers
City Lights is still one of the most best-known bookstores worldwide. Founder Laurence Ferlinghetti was the original publisher of Allen Ginsberg’s controversial poem, “Howl” when no one else would. The store still resides at 261 Columbus Avenue. Ferlinghetti opened the store in 1953 as an all-paperback bookstore and stocked many of modern and controversial progressive political views.