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Activities in San Francisco

The Castro & Mission District Free Tour

  • 113 reviews | 1,987 travellers
    The tour was very pleasant and with very interesting information.
    10 Patricia

Activism, street art & fascinating stories star in this free tour of The Castro and the Mission District. Two of San Francisco's most important neighborhoods await!

Activism, street art & fascinating stories star in this free tour of The Castro and the Mission District. Two of San Francisco's most important neighborhoods await!

The Castro & Mission District Free Tour

At the designated time, we'll meet in front of the Mission Dolores Basilica to begin this free tour of The Castro and Mission District, two of the most historic and artsy neighborhoods in San Francisco!

We'll start by exploring the Mission District, a trendy area known for its many Latinx-owned restaurants and vibrant art scene. We'll first stroll down Clarion Alley, an alley filled with beautiful murals that have become the hallmark of these streets. We'll also see art displays outside the Women's Building, a women-run non-profit arts and education community center.

As we stroll, we'll discuss the Spanish missions through California and explain their ties to the name of this neighborhood. From the park, we'll enjoy the picture-perfect view of San Francisco's skyline and see the famous Golden Fire Hydrant. It's said that thanks to this hydrant, the Mission District was saved from the flames after the 1906 earthquake.

Gradually we'll make our way into The Castro, a district very famous for its open spirit and defense of minority rights. In fact, it's home to the largest LGBTQ+ community in San Francisco!

During the tour, we'll explore the most important places in the Castro and remember the thousands of soldiers who were discharged from the U.S. Army in World War II because of their sexuality. Of course, we'll also talk about Councilman Harvey Milk, a key historical figure in understanding the activist character of the neighborhood, and check out the façade of the Castro's most iconic bar, Twin Peaks Tavern.

After 2 - 2.5 hours, the free tour will conclude at Harvey Milk Plaza, next to the Castro Theater.

More Free Tours in San Francisco

If you want to discover other areas of the city, check out our free tour of San Francisco or our free night tour of Chinatown and Little Italy.

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More Information

Duration

2h - 2h 30m.

Language The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

Included

English–speaking guide

Not included

Tips

When to book?

You can book up until 1 hour before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible. This must be indicated in the reservation.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.

Sustainability Code

Our providers commit to:

  • Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
  • Reduce, reuse, recycle.
  • Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
  • Uphold fair employment standards.
  • Foster the growth of local communities.
  • Preserve the integrity of local culture.
  • Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
  • Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
  • Operate with honesty and transparency.
  • Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

  • Printed material is avoided.
  • No single-use plastics are used.
  • The activity helps vulnerable groups.
  • The activity helps to promote peace.
  • No printing of documentation required.
  • Promotes local employment.
  • Has a gender equality policy.
  • Has a carbon footprint offset policy.

Provider

Free Sf Tour Show more

  • Free Sf Tour

    Corporate name: Filip Lazarevski DBA Free SF Tour

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Pets

Not permitted.

Frequently asked questions

  • Q - How many miles will we walk during the free tour?

    A - The route will be approximately 1.8 miles (3 kilometers) long.

  • Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

    A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.

  • Q - How to book?

    A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

  • Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?

    A - This activity requires a minimum of 7 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Meeting point

Where does the activity end?

Mision Dolores Basilica

Harvey Milk Plaza

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Where does the activity end?

Harvey Milk Plaza