THE CASTRO

Bold, Proud, and Unapologetically San Francisco

  • LGBTQ+ Cultural Hub: The Castro is one of the most iconic LGBTQ+ neighborhoods in the world. It has a rich history in LGBTQ+ activism and culture and remains a vibrant center for the community with its colorful streets, historic landmarks, and annual events like the Castro Street Fair.

  • Lively Atmosphere: Known for its vibrant energy, the Castro is filled with lively bars, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a popular area for both locals and visitors who come for the nightlife, boutique shopping, and unique entertainment options.

  • Historical Significance: The neighborhood has significant historical importance as the epicenter of the LGBTQ+ rights movement. It was here that Harvey Milk, one of the first openly gay elected officials in the U.S., lived and worked, and the neighborhood is home to the Harvey Milk Plaza.

  • Walkable and Transit-Friendly: The Castro is a highly walkable neighborhood with many amenities within walking distance, including the Castro Theatre, a landmark cinema. It is also well-connected by Muni buses and the underground Muni Metro system, providing easy access to other parts of the city.

  • Diverse Dining and Shopping: The Castro offers a range of dining options, from casual eateries to trendy restaurants. It’s also home to a variety of shops, from independent boutiques to larger stores, catering to both locals and tourists.

  • Residential Area with a Community Feel: While it’s known for its vibrant social scene, the Castro is also a primarily residential neighborhood. It offers a close-knit, welcoming community atmosphere, making it a popular place for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies to call home.

  • Proximity to Iconic Sites: The Castro is close to other key San Francisco landmarks, such as Dolores Park, offering a great spot for relaxation with views of the city skyline. It’s also just a short distance from the Mission District, another cultural and dining hub.

The Castro At a Glance

Landmarks & Attractions

  • Castro Theatre – A historic movie palace built in 1922, known for its ornate architecture and vibrant neon signage. Currently undergoing a renovation to transform it into a modern entertainment venue with expanded seating and updated audiovisual facilities.

  • Harvey Milk Plaza – A transit plaza commemorating Harvey Milk, California’s first openly gay elected official. The plaza features a rainbow flagpole and serves as a gathering place for the LGBTQ+ community.

  • Pink Triangle Park – A small memorial park dedicated to the thousands of LGBTQ+ individuals persecuted during the Holocaust. Located at the intersection of Market and 17th Streets, it features granite pylons and a central rock-filled triangle.

Parks

  • Mission Dolores Park – A popular park located nearby, offering expansive lawns, playgrounds, and stunning views of the city skyline.

Restaurants

  • Beit Rima – A lively restaurant offering Palestinian and Jordanian cuisine, known for its shareable mezze and grilled meats.

  • El Castillito – A beloved taqueria known for its burritos, particularly the cheese-melted carnitas variety.

  • Eiji – A Japanese restaurant offering a seasonal omakase menu in an intimate setting.

  • Anchor Oyster Bar – A cozy seafood spot known for its fresh oysters, clam chowder, and cioppino.

  • Zona Rosa – A casual Mexican eatery offering flavorful tacos and horchata in a laid-back atmosphere.

Nightlife

  • Queen Out – A queer rave series founded in 2025, focusing on inclusivity and representation for Gen Z and younger millennials. The event series has rapidly gained popularity, recently moving to larger venues to accommodate growing crowds.

  • Rikki’s – San Francisco’s first women’s sports bar, opened in June 2025. Named after LGBTQ+ trailblazer Rikki Streicher, the bar features vibrant decor and multiple TVs showcasing women’s sports.

  • Badlands – A historic gay bar and nightclub that reopened in 2023 after a three-year closure. Known for its lively dance floor and themed nights.

  • Twin Peaks Tavern – Opened in 1935, it’s one of the most famous bars in the Castro, featuring oversized windows that were unveiled in 1972, making it believed to be the first gay bar to reveal its customers to the outside.