In true San Francisco fashion, this building was reviled by many when it was completed in 1972 as the headquarters for the Transamerica Corporation (they no longer occupy it). The purpose of its tapered design is to let light onto the street below. Back then, San Francisco Chronicle architectural critic Alan Temko called it "the biggest architectural dunce cap in the world." Now, it's one of the most beloved and recognizable buildings in the city.

A photo posted by Katerina Papadopoulou (@c_a_t_p_) on Dec 6, 2016 at 6:09pm PST

Construction on this flatiron building started in 1906. Luckily, it survived the earthquake and was finished in 1907. Today, it's known for its distinctive shape and copper cladding (which has turned green over the years). After he was released from San Quentin, San Francisco's famously corrupt political boss Abe Ruef made his office in the top floor. Today it's owned by film director Francis Ford Coppola, and he maintains an office in the building.

A photo posted by Lisa Raciti (@lisaraciti) on Dec 13, 2016 at 10:22am PST

Coit Tower stands at the top of Telegraph Hill like an exclamation point. The fluted concrete structure was erected in honor of Lillie Hitchcock Coit and built with money she left the city to add beauty to the place she said she always loved. It's known for the stunning, 360-degree views from the top and the murals painted by artists for the Public Works of Art Project (precursor to the WPA).

A photo posted by Kat (@katpapera) on Dec 8, 2016 at 10:07pm PST

The Palace of Fine Arts is in a state of flux, waiting for another tenant after the Exploratorium moved to a new building. It was created in 1915 for the Panama-Pacific Exhibition, and it is the only structure that was left standing after the event.

A photo posted by Shot On iPhone (@colorgamut) on Dec 16, 2016 at 7:20am PST

The de Young is located in Golden Gate Park. It exhibits American art from the 17th century to the present, international modern art, textiles, and tribal art. The modernist copper-clad building was created by Herzog & de Meuron and Fong + Chan. It opened in 2005.

A photo posted by Wes (@wes.ly) on Dec 12, 2016 at 5:34pm PST

The row of Victorian houses on Steiner Street along Alamo Park are known simply as the Painted Ladies. This scenic stretch of street has been the backdrop for many postcards, commercials, movies, and television shows, notably Full House.

A photo posted by Love Life & Travel Often (@gabrielle.lui) on Dec 11, 2016 at 7:05am PST

They don't build skyscrapers like this anymore. The Russ Building is marked by a distinctive Neo-Gothic facade. When the 32-floor edifice was finished in 1927, it was home to the city's first indoor parking garage.

A photo posted by WHISK (@whisk.sf) on May 20, 2016 at 6:04pm PDT

Locals sometimes call this modernist church "Our Lady of Maytag," due to a design that vaguely resembles a washing machine agitator. Its design history is more sophisticated, however. Its shape (when seen from above) is based on a cross. In 2007, the AIASF chose it as one of the city's top 25 buildings.

A photo posted by Elías Martínez Ojeda (@eliasmartinezojeda) on Dec 9, 2016 at 12:24pm PST

In a recent Curbed article, this apartment building was described as "one of the most prominent buildings in the city." It's located in Pacific Heights off Alta Plaza Park, and is home to many notable San Franciscans.

A photo posted by Steve MacDonald (@ramblinworker) on Dec 26, 2014 at 5:41pm PST

At this moment, the tall, brown building is arguably the most distinctive on the city's skyline. Until recently, it was known as the Bank of America Center. It's also partially owned by president-elect Donald Trump.

A photo posted by Ben Vickery (@bvickery) on May 9, 2015 at 9:30am PDT

The Art Deco building at 140 New Montgomery St. started life as the headquarters for Pacific Telephone when it was built in 1925. It was the first high-rise south of Market Street. Today, it's where Yelp is located.

A photo posted by Ben Vickery (@bvickery) on Jun 25, 2015 at 12:06am PDT

The InterContinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco is a luxury hotel sited on the top of Nob Hill. It recently celebrated 94 years. A stunning example of Nob Hill's stately luxury.

A photo posted by @madythebaddiee on Dec 15, 2016 at 9:24am PST

Grace Cathedral is an Episcopal church atop Nob Hill. It's known for its mosaics by Jan Henryk De Rosen, large stained glass windows, a Keith Haring altarpiece that acts as an AIDS memorial, and a pair of large labyrinths.

A photo posted by Dave (@juntaodave) on Dec 15, 2016 at 10:25am PST

The Neoclassical Hobart Building was finished in 1914 amid accusations of construction recklessness. Its design has stood the test of time, and it's a designated city landmark.

A photo posted by KJ Cartmell (@kjcartmell) on Aug 23, 2016 at 7:49pm PDT

Mission Dolores (Mission San Francisco de Asís), is the oldest structure in San Francisco. It was founded in 1776 by Lieutenant José Joaquin Moraga and Father Francisco Palóu for the purpose of bringing Spanish settlers to the area and ministering to the Native Americas who were already there (a ministry that's since been called into question).

A photo posted by Sarah M (@sarah_merra) on Nov 13, 2016 at 11:13am PST