Self-Guided Walking Tour to Mission District

Before you look at apartments in the Mission District, take time to get to know the area. The Mission District is unarguably one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in San Francisco and taking to its streets is the best way to experience this constantly evolving corner of the city up close. 

Delight in the variety of delicious food spots, vibrant street art, and the wealth of history and culture with this guide on where to go in the Mission District.

Tartine
600 Guerrero St.

Kickstart the day with a must-have breakfast at Tartine. Bite into a spectacular croissant, flaky and buttery with a soft pillowy interior. A James Beard Awardee for excellence in baking and pastry, Tartine is regularly on the “best of” lists in the Bay Area. There’s always a long line of patrons hoping to score freshly prepared sandwiches, desserts, and pastries. Be sure to arrive early, as popular items sell out quickly.

Clarion Alley

Walk down 18th Street and turn left onto Valencia, then right onto Clarion Alley, a street art destination established in 1992. You’re bound to find something fresh and edgy on every visit. Then walk to Cream nearby to pick up a perfect cookie ice cream sandwich to eat on the go. 

The Roxie

Move further down on Valencia and take a left onto 16th Street. Have a quick look-see at the Roxie, a non-profit community theater established in 1909. Catch a show if you have time. The oldest continuously operating movie theater in the United States, the Roxie shows a lot of independent films, documentaries, and other gems. 

Dolores Church and Cemetery

Further down 16th at the intersection of Dolores Street is Dolores Church and its famed cemetery. Once part of a much larger cemetery, the unmarked burial site of approximately 5,000 Ohlone natives is the oldest burial ground in the city of San Francisco. On the adjacent corner is the Mission Dolores Basilica Church. The smaller adobe Mission Church next door is the original mission building, founded in 1776. 

Victoria Theatre

Backtrack along 16th St to Victoria Theatre, another designated San Francisco landmark. Originally built in 1908, it is the oldest operational theatre in San Francisco.

Balmy Alley

Next, walk through Folsom Street down to Balmy Alley, home to the largest concentration of murals in the city. The murals range in subject from Hispanic culture to the struggles and the celebration of women. 

Taquería El Farolito

The next food stop, a mere 9 minutes away, is Taquería El Farolito, the place for amazing Mexican cuisine. This cash-only joint serves large, fresh, and tasty burritos. Patrons don’t let the long lines faze them, as service is pretty quick and efficient.

Liberty Street and the Golden Fire Hydrant

Stroll past beautiful stately Victorian homes on Liberty Street, making a quick stop at the Golden Fire Hydrant, which marks the spot where the great fire of 1906 was stopped. One side of the street is considerably older than the other.  

Valencia Street

Stroll down Valencia St to enjoy its hip and trendy vibe. There are a lot of cute shops and eateries for everyone.

Dolores Park

Then head towards the last stop for the day: 16-acre Dolores Park, formerly the site of a Jewish cemetery. Once there, take in the amazingly great views of the city skyline. Bask in the sun on a bench. Soak up the atmosphere of the San Francisco locals and laze the rest of the afternoon away.

Want to learn more about San Francisco real estate rentals? Call Ray Amouzandeh at 415.494.7009 or email [email protected].