San Francisco's Mission district is home to the city's oldest building, the Mission Dolores. The area was the site of the Spanish Mission that gave San Francisco its name, and was incorporated into the larger city in the 1880s, after originally being a separate town. It is one of San Francisco's more diverse neighborhoods, with a mixture of Latin American immigrants, artists and hipsters living peacefully.
Local Food
Dolores Park is just a block away from the Bi-Rite Grocery, making it a good choice for gathering the contents of your picnic. You'll find fresh fruits, vegetables and Asian produce at the Alemany Farmers' Market in the Mission. For a healthy, filling sit-down meal, try Weird Fish, or sample the curry dishes at Osha Thai.
Biking
The Mission is one of the few areas of San Francisco that is almost totally flat, making it a biking paradise. Indeed, cycling is probably the best way to explore the neighborhood. Valencia Street--one of the Mission's trendiest stretches, filled with cool bars and restaurants---even has special lanes just for cyclists.
Sightseeing
The Mission Dolores is one of the oldest Spanish Missions in the United States. The building dates back to 1776. The nearby Bernal Heights neighborhood features some of the prettiest homes in San Francisco. In Balmy Alley, you can observe a series of well-executed public murals. On 24th Street, stop into the famous Galeria de la Raza, which has been showcasing the work of Latino artists since 1970.
Fitness and Yoga
A pair of siblings runs Bernal Yoga, which offers classes to yoga practitioners at all levels, to a clientele that is truly reflective of the Mission's diverse population. It is also the site of occasional literary readings, featuring nationally known writers. Maintain your fitness regimen at J+K Fitness Studio, right on Mission Street.
Places to Stay
Housed in a Victorian mansion dating from the late 19th century, the Inn San Francisco is one of the more interesting accommodation options that the Mission offers. Travelers on a budget can stay at Elements Hotel, which features both dormitory style accommodation and private rooms.
References
- "San Francisco"; Time Out; 2008
- "Lonely Planet San Francisco"; John Vlahides; 2010
- Osha Thai
- Bernal Yoga
- J+K Fitness Studio
Member Comments