Mission Dolores

Named for an enchanting white church that has defined the community since 1776, Mission Dolores is simultaneously one of San Francisco’s most historic and exciting neighborhoods. Combining Latin roots with a modern hipster vibe, the area commonly referred to as simply the Mission encapsulates much of what makes San Francisco unique.

 

The Mission Dolores church is San Francisco’s oldest structure, and the Mission is one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods. The Mission’s unique blend of historicity and modernity is reflected in its architecture, which ranges from elegant Victorians to modern condominiums. The most desirable older properties have often undergone recent renovation. These spacious homes exude quiet grandeur, with beautifully-designed interiors and attractively-landscaped yards and gardens.

 

As one of the city’s oldest residential neighborhoods, the Mission is home to a diverse mix of long-established communities. The excitement of its modern culture also ensures a constant stream of new arrivals, ranging from artists to young professionals.

 

The culinary scene ranges from authentic taquerias preserving the city’s Latino heritage to trend-setting chef-driven modern eateries that are among the city’s finest. There are literally hundreds of restaurants to choose from, spanning all manner of creating new dishes and delectable international cuisine.

 

The nightlife is equally eclectic, with clubs and bars catering to a wide range of clientele. 

 

Live music venues in the Mission were integral to the careers of artists including The Grateful Dead, Carlos Santana, Beck, and Faith No More, and they continue to foster exciting new acts. Local drinking spots include chic cocktail lounges, unfussy dive bars, and top-notch craft beer places.

 

The Roxie Theater has been in continuous operation since 1909, making it one of the nation’s oldest continuously operating movie theaters. Along with the adjacent Little Roxie, the Roxie specializes in screening offbeat independent cinema.

 

The Foreign Cinema combines the neighborhood’s reputation for arthouse film and exceptional international food, pairing exquisite meals with classic film screenings.

 

Shopping is similarly unpredictable, with scores of quirky stores selling wonderfully weird products, such as Valencia Street’s 826 Valencia pirate supply store.

 

16-acre Dolores Park is a cornerstone of the neighborhood and the best place to hang out when the weather’s good. The park has lots of open space for picnics and general relaxation, while also offering stunning views of the San Francisco skyline.

 

The historic Mission Dolores church is another must-visit. The original adobe is the city’s oldest structure, while the magnificently ornate 19th-Century basilica ranks high among San Francisco’s most attractive sights.

 

The neighborhood is a hub of the San Francisco art scene. Mesmerizing murals adorn the walls of Balmy Alley and  Clarion Alley. Galeria de la Raza has been showcasing local Latino artists since the 1970s.

 

The Mission’s vibrant multiculturalism drives some of the neighborhood’s biggest annual celebrations, including May’s Brazilian-style Carnival and November’s Day of the Dead.

 

Mission Dolores is zoned to the San Francisco Unified School District.