San Francisco: Mission District Walking Tour

The tour kicks off at Mission San Francisco de Asis, also known as Mission Dolores, one of the oldest buildings in San Francisco. This chapel houses exclusive religious art, and we'll delve into its rich history. You can enjoy its tranquil gardens and explore the only cemetery within the city limits.

Just a short two blocks away lies Mission Dolores Park, once a Jewish Cemetery and now one of the most popular and bustling parks in San Francisco. During the spring and summer months, the grass is adorned with blankets as locals come together for community and recreational activities. As we move through the park, we'll pass by Father Hidalgo's statue and head towards the "Golden Fire Hydrant" at Church St. & 20th. This fire hydrant was the sole functioning hydrant during the 1906 earthquake and fire, saving the Mission from destruction. Its elevated location offers a fantastic view of the city.

We depart Mission Dolores Park to explore the surrounding neighborhoods, where you'll encounter exceptional street art. You'll discover the hidden gems within the Mission, including the Mission Community pool, Bnai David's Synagogue, and the Women's Building, which hosts one of the most renowned murals in San Francisco.

Our next stop will be at Café de Olla in the heart of the Mission. Café de Olla Restaurant prepares everything from scratch, honoring Oaxacan-style cuisine. Here, you'll have the chance to savor typical Mexican dishes like Quesadillas, Tamales, Tlayudas, and Tortillas, along with traditional beverages such as Agua Fresca, Ice Caffe da Olla, and many other options. Be adventurous and try the "Chapulines"!

After indulging in a delicious meal, we'll continue our exploration of Mission Street, a vibrant and bustling community teeming with traditional shops and old theaters. The locals engage in daily commerce at a lively pace, and the district's unique architecture is a feast for the eyes. You'll encounter classic Victorian-style homes along the way, with a closer examination of some of the most popular ones on Lexington St & San Carlos St, showcasing different architectural styles and cultural influences within just a few blocks.

Finally, we'll arrive at the popular 24th Street, which links Mission Street with Potrero Street. Over this 8-block stretch, you'll be spoiled for choice, whether it's savoring tacos at La Taqueria, picking up pastries at La Reina Bakery, or enjoying coffee at the original Philz Coffee shop.