The Castro

The Castro neighborhood sits along Market Street, covering fourteen city blocks between Mission Dolores Park and Corona Heights Park. The Castro neighborhood carries a significant piece of San Franciscan history as an area known for becoming a nationwide haven for LGBTQ communities in the 1960s and 1970s. When it comes to residential architecture, look no further than the brightly painted Queen Anne Victorian-style homes.

 

Market Street runs along the northern edge of the neighborhood’s city limits highlighting fitness studios, artisan cafes, casual and fine dining restaurants, and boutique clothing shops. It is also home to the iconic Castro Theatre. Visitors and residents adore the Castro because of its inclusive, welcoming atmosphere and the many fun things to do in the neighborhood. 

 

The Castro is not a sleepy neighborhood. People who love a memorable night out, live theatre, and musical performances love The Castro for consistently delivering in these areas. The Castro is not only for night owls. It is home to many fitness studios, local bookstores, and unique clothing stores.

 

Harveys, a bar named after famed politician and activist, Harvey Milk, serves cocktails and small bites as well as hosting fun evening events. Starbelly, a neighborhood favorite, dishes refreshing cocktails and California comfort food. Orphan Andy’s, a 24-hour diner located on 17th St serves traditional American fare and has your back into the wee hours of the early morning! Another local favorite for a delicious lunch is Tacorgasmico, a brightly decorated Mexican restaurant. It serves flavorful Mexican dishes with organic and sustainably sourced ingredients. The Castro has something for everyone when it comes to dining and entertainment. 

 

The Castro Theatre, which is housed in a beautiful Spanish Colonial Baroque building, presents musical theatre, standup comedy, drag performances, movie festivals, and iconic or old-time movie showings. The GLBT Historical Society Museum is a wonderful museum focusing on gay history, and SF MOMA is a 15-minute drive or bus ride away. The Castro Street Fair, started in 1974 by Harvey Milk, is a day of celebrating the neighborhood’s diversity with local vendors, artists, and organizations advocating for human rights and equity. This fair happens every Fall and is integral to the neighborhood’s sense of community.