The Mission District in San Francisco is a lively and diverse neighborhood full of exciting things to do and delicious food to try. My sister and I had an amazing day exploring this vibrant area, admiring beautiful murals, and capturing memorable moments. Here are the best places to see in San Francisco’s Mission District.
Best places to see in San Francisco’s Mission District – Our Experience
Farmhouse Restaurant
We started our day with a lunch at Farmhouse, a cozy restaurant known for using fresh ingredients from local farms. The place had a rustic feel, and the food was delicious. Farmhouse Restaurant is a popular place to eat in San Francisco. It’s located in the Mission District and focuses on using fresh ingredients from local farms. The restaurant changes the menu based on the seasons, so you can always expect to find dishes made with the freshest ingredients. They serve everything from delicious salads to hearty main courses with meat or seafood.
Have you every tried blue rise? Apparently it is a new social media trend. It looked really cool, and it tasted great too. They used a natural ingredient called butterfly pea flower to give the rice its unique blue color.
Mural on Harrison and 18th Street
After lunch we headed to Clarion Alley. On the way we saw a stunning mural on Harrison and 18th Street. The artwork was full of details and showed the neighborhood’s history and diverse culture.
St. Charles Church on Van Ness
As we walked along Van Ness Avenue, we came across a beautiful church called St. Charles.
Clarion Alley
We then headed to Clarion Alley, which is famous for its incredible murals. The artwork was so varied and meaningful, each mural telling its own story about important issues.
While exploring the alley, we discovered a fantastic thrift store. Inside, we found a wide range of vintage items, including a large collection of old vinyl records. It was a great place for music lovers and had a unique charm.
Street Market
Continuing our walk, we stopped by street market on 18th Street. We also found a stall selling beautiful plants and of course bought another succulent to bring home as a souvenir.
Women’s Building
The Women’s Building is a significant landmark located in San Francisco’s Mission District. It is a renowned center for empowering women and promoting gender equality. The building itself stands as a vibrant symbol of the neighborhood’s commitment to women’s rights and social justice.
The Women’s Building features a striking mural on its exterior, capturing the attention of visitors and passersby. The mural showcases diverse and powerful images representing women’s achievements, struggles, and contributions to society. It serves as a visual testament to the strength and resilience of women.
Inside the Women’s Building, you’ll find a hub of resources and organizations dedicated to supporting women. Various community programs and services are offered, including counseling, educational workshops, and advocacy for social change. The building acts as a safe space for women to gather, connect, and access the support they need.
More places to see in Mission District:
Visit Mission Dolores
Explore Mission Dolores, the oldest building in San Francisco. Take a guided tour of this historic Spanish mission, visit the beautiful Basilica, and learn about the area’s rich history.
Dolores Park
Spend some time in Dolores Park, a popular gathering spot for locals. Relax on the grassy slopes, have a picnic, or enjoy the view of the city skyline. It’s also a great place for people-watching.
Valencia Street
Take a walk along Valencia Street, which is lined with numerous shops, boutiques, and cafes. Browse through vintage stores, discover unique clothing boutiques, and indulge in local culinary delights.
San Francisco Armory
Explore the historic San Francisco Armory, a grand brick building that is now home to various businesses and event spaces. Take a guided tour to learn about its intriguing past and architecture.
Precita Eyes Mural Arts Center
Learn about the vibrant street art culture of the Mission District by visiting the Precita Eyes Mural Arts Center. Discover the stories behind the neighborhood’s murals and even participate in mural workshops.
24th Street
Walk along 24th Street, the heart of the Mission District’s Latino community. Explore the diverse range of shops, authentic taquerias, and Latin American markets. Immerse yourself in the neighborhood’s rich cultural heritage.
Garfield Square
Visit Garfield Square, a neighborhood park that offers recreational facilities, a playground, and open green spaces. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the local community atmosphere.
Brava Theater Center
Catch a live performance at the Brava Theater Center, a cultural hub that hosts a variety of theater, dance, music, and community events. Check their schedule for an exciting show to experience during your visit.