San Francisco | City Lights Bookstore: A Beacon of Counterculture šāØ
A must-visit cultural landmark in SF, this iconic bookstore was the epicenter of the Beat Generation, hosting literary giants like Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, and even Bob Dylan. š Highlights Poetry Room (2nd Floor): Shelves overflow with international poetry, including works by Chinese poet Gu Cheng 15. Beat Memorabilia: Grab a $1 commemorative postcard (plus a few cents tax!) featuring Ginsbergās Howl or Kerouacās On the Road 2. Literary History: In 1956, City Lights defied censorship to publish Ginsbergās Howl, sparking a free speech revolution 47. ā Across the Street: Vesuvio Cafe Still thriving since the 1950s! Sip espresso where the Beats debated art, jazz, and rebellion 39. Pro Tip: Order the "Jack Kerouac" cocktailāa nod to the On the Road author. #CityLightsBookstore #BeatGeneration #LiteraryLandmark #SanFrancisco #BookLovers
