The city of San Francisco is comprised of 36 completely unique neighborhoods and districts. Learn more about some of the most popular, influential, and beautiful neighborhoods below.
Mission District
The Mission District is home to San Francisco’s oldest standing building: Mission San Francisco de Asis. It is also the location of Dolores Park, one of the most popular parks in the whole city. Numerous fairs, festivals, and parades make their way through the Mission District throughout the year. Learn more about the Mission District.
Chinatown
San Francisco’s Chinatown is the largest Chinese community outside of China, itself. It is also the oldest Chinatown in the United States, attracting immigrants and tourists alike. Established in 1848, this neighborhood provides visitors a great insight into the culture and customs of China. Learn more about Chinatown.
SoMa
South of Market (SoMa) is a large neighborhood in the city of San Francisco. Currently, the neighborhood houses many major technology companies, such as Yelp, Twitter, and Sony Entertainment Network. It also features many loft apartments, condominiums, and art spaces. SoMa StrEat Food Park, a rotating group of food trucks, draws foodies from all over to this district. Learn more about the SoMa district.
Fisherman’s Wharf
The neighborhood of Fisherman’s Wharf is a popular destination within San Francisco. It is the location of many of San Francisco’s best known tourist attractions. These include Pier 39, Ghirardelli Square, the Aquarium of the Bay, and the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. It is a great spot for seafood and sea lion watching. Learn more about Fisherman’s Wharf.
Financial District
The Financial District is San Francisco’s main business district. It is home to a large number of law firms, banks, and corporate headquarters. Some of the district’s high-rise towers house Fortune 500 companies such as Wells Fargo, Gap, and Charles Schwab. San Francisco’s New Year’s celebration takes place in the financial district. Learn more about the Financial District.
Union Square
Union Square is a popular shopping, hotel, and theater district in San Francisco. The center of the district is a public square with plenty of upscale shopping options. It is considered by many to be the “heart” of San Francisco, as the location for the annual Christmas Tree and Menorah lightings. Learn more about Union Square.
Haight-Ashbury
The Haight-Ashbury district in San Francisco is located near Golden Gate Park. It was named after the intersection of Haight and Ashbury streets. It is well known for its hippie culture and its comedy scene. Additionally, the neighborhood is home to many authentic Victorian houses, built between 1849 and 1915. Learn more about Haight-Ashbury.
Nob Hill
Nob Hill is a neighborhood located on a hill (one of 44 hills) in San Francisco. Most of the mansions in the neighborhood were destroyed in the 1906 earthquake and fire, with the exception of a few partial structures. Since then, beautiful mansions and hotels have been built or rebuilt. This affluent district is located in close proximity to Union Square, North Beach, and Fisherman’s Wharf. Learn more about Nob Hill.
Sunset
The Sunset District is the biggest and most populated neighborhood in San Francisco. Bordered by Golden Gate Park and the Pacific Ocean, this neighborhood is a suburban-type area. The San Francisco Zoo, which features close to 200 animal species, is located in the southwest corner of the district. Learn more about the Sunset District.
Castro District
Since the 1960s/1970s, the Castro District has been known as one of the first and most prominent gay communities in the US. Located on Castro Street (from Market St. to 19th St.), this district is a hotspot for tourists and LGBT individuals. The infamous Castro Theatre, built in 1922, still hosts film festivals throughout the year. Learn more about the Castro District.
