By Justin Goldman

Copyright thrillist

As cool as it is to see world-class art in a modern museum, there’s something even more rewarding about seeing it in situ. Coit Tower, the 210-foot-tall Art Deco landmark that stands sentinel at the top of Telegraph Hill, is a piece of art in and of itself, but it’s just as impressive on the inside. In 1934, the Public Works of Art Project commissioned more than 20 artists to paint Social Realist murals on the tower’s interior walls. These colorful works give a glimpse into what life in San Francisco was like during the Great Depression.

Walk down the hill and fast-forward a couple of decades to the 1950s, when the Beats ruled San Francisco. North Beach was the hub of their literary renaissance, thanks to City Lights, so start your tour by stopping in and buying a copy of Howl and Other Poems, then cross Jack Kerouac Alley and have a Bohemian Coffee — doses of brandy and amaretto are what make it bohemian — at Vesuvio Cafe, a favorite haunt of Kerouac and Neal Cassady. Next, pop across Broadway to The Beat Museum and pick up a “Howl for Ginsberg” coffee mug, then head up Columbus Avenue to Washington Square. Take a seat on the grass and enjoy the same lovely (and lively) green space that inspired Beat authors such as Richard Brautigan.

Still feeling poetic? Stroll back down Columbus and quench your thirst for both words and wine at Golden Sardine. This new wine bar doubles as a poetry bookstore and publisher, and it often hosts readings and book release parties. Grab a book by a local author and read a few stanzas while enjoying some tinned fish and cheese and a glass from the expertly curated list, which has a notably strong riesling selection.